The Philadelphia Phillies have secured a two-year contract with reliever Brad Keller, valued at $22 million, as confirmed by multiple sources on Wednesday. This agreement comes on the heels of Keller’s impressive performance during the 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season with the Chicago Cubs, where he demonstrated significant improvement and effectiveness as a late-inning option.
Keller, 29, began his professional career with the Kansas City Royals, where he made his MLB debut in 2018. Over the course of his first few seasons, he showcased potential as a reliable pitcher, but struggled with consistency and injuries, which hampered his performance. In 2025, however, Keller found a new lease on his career after signing with the Cubs, where he posted a 2.95 earned run average (ERA) over 60 innings, striking out 75 batters while walking just 20. His resurgence was marked by improved command and a more effective pitch repertoire, which included a fastball that averaged 95 mph and a slider that became a key strikeout pitch.
The Phillies, who have been actively seeking to bolster their bullpen, view Keller as a valuable addition to their pitching staff. The team has faced challenges in recent seasons, particularly in late-game situations, where they have struggled to secure leads. The acquisition of Keller is seen as a strategic move to enhance their bullpen depth and reliability, especially as they aim to compete in the highly competitive National League East division.
Keller’s signing is part of a broader trend in MLB, where teams are increasingly investing in relievers who can provide stability and effectiveness in high-leverage situations. The market for relief pitchers has seen significant growth, with teams willing to allocate substantial resources to secure top talent. Keller’s contract reflects this trend, as the $22 million deal underscores the value placed on proven relievers in today’s game.
The Phillies’ decision to invest in Keller also aligns with their long-term strategy of building a competitive roster. The team has made several moves in recent years to strengthen their pitching staff, including the acquisition of starting pitchers and other relievers. By adding Keller, the Phillies aim to create a more formidable bullpen that can support their starting rotation and improve their overall performance.
Keller’s arrival in Philadelphia is expected to have immediate implications for the team’s pitching dynamics. He is likely to assume a prominent role in the bullpen, potentially serving as a setup man or even a closer, depending on the team’s needs and the performance of other relievers. His experience and recent success will be critical as the Phillies look to navigate the challenges of a grueling MLB season.
The Phillies finished the 2025 season with a record of 83-79, falling short of the postseason. The team has expressed its commitment to returning to playoff contention, and the addition of Keller is seen as a step in that direction. The organization is hopeful that his performance will not only enhance their bullpen but also provide a stabilizing presence in high-pressure situations.
Keller’s journey to this point has been marked by resilience and determination. After facing setbacks earlier in his career, he has emerged as a sought-after reliever, demonstrating the ability to adapt and improve. His success with the Cubs has not only revitalized his career but has also made him a valuable asset in the eyes of the Phillies’ front office.
As the 2026 season approaches, the Phillies will continue to evaluate their roster and make adjustments as necessary. The addition of Keller is a significant move in their efforts to build a competitive team capable of challenging for the National League pennant. The implications of this signing extend beyond the immediate future, as the Phillies aim to establish a foundation for sustained success in the coming years.
In summary, the Philadelphia Phillies’ agreement with Brad Keller represents a strategic investment in their bullpen, reflecting a broader trend in MLB towards valuing effective relief pitching. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Keller’s performance will be closely monitored as they seek to improve upon their previous year’s results and re-establish themselves as contenders in the National League.
