The Philadelphia Phillies bullpen has been a source of uncertainty throughout the season, with a mix of struggles and key injuries. The team has been forced to rely on different options following Jordan Romano‘s underperformance and Jose Alvarado‘s 80-game suspension. One of the biggest changes that might be on the horizon is the Phillies’ approach to their closer role, which could see a significant shift after their recent game against the Miami Marlins.
With Romano and Matt Strahm both facing challenges, manager Rob Thomson is considering a new option for the 9th inning. The big change could see Orion Kerkering, who has been performing exceptionally well as of late, stepping into the closer role. Thomson’s comments following the Marlins’ game have sparked discussions about the potential for Kerkering to take on the high-leverage role.
“Could be,” Thomson said when asked if Kerkering would get more opportunities to close games. “He’s throwing the ball great.” According to Charlotte Varnes of The Athletic, the comment came after Kerkering secured his first career save, pitching a perfect bottom of the 9th inning against the Marlins in a 5-2 victory.
Kerkering’s rise: A strong case for the closer role
Kerkering has been one of the most impressive performers in the Phillies’ bullpen this season. Despite a rough start in April with a 6.52 ERA and three blown saves in 9.2 innings, Kerkering has turned things around dramatically since May. In 17 innings since May 1st, Kerkering has posted a 0.53 ERA, striking out 15 batters while allowing just 10 walks. His ERA for the season currently sits at an impressive 2.54.
Cristopher Sánchez #61 of the Philadelphia Phillies is taken out of the game by manager Rob Thomson #59 during the fifth inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park on May 24, 2025 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Scott Marshall/Getty Images)
A shift in the bullpen strategy
Thomson’s consideration of Kerkering for the closer role highlights the Phillies’ need to make adjustments as they approach the second half of the season. With Romano and Strahm struggling in their roles, Kerkering’s success has been a welcomed development. If he can continue his dominant run, Kerkering could become a central piece of the Phillies’ bullpen down the stretch.
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Although the Phillies may look to add another reliever before the MLB trade deadline, for now, it seems Kerkering will get more chances in the 9th inning. This decision, which has been a long time coming given Kerkering’s recent performances, could have a major impact on the team’s bullpen strategy moving forward.
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