Phillies should skip starters, complete bullpen instead

Craig Kimbrel

Kimbrel is the star of this year’s relieving class. It has been reported Kimbrel is requesting a six year deal for over $100 million dollars and it is hard to say he doesn’t deserve it.

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In his eight career full seasons, the 30 year old has recorded 35 saves seven times, including three seasons with over 40. The seven-time All-Star closer has converted 90% of his save opportunities and has a career ERA below 2.00 and a sub one WHIP.

Kimbrel has been the league’s best closer since his debut. He could address a major issue for the Phillies as their closers who had only 43 saves in 63 opportunities (68%). While his contract demands might be a little pricey, maybe upping his annual salary to chop down some years could be the right play. This is especially true considering the fact that it could be the difference between Kimbrel being in Philadelphia’s bullpen, or facing him in the Atlanta Braves.

The Phillies have a ton of young pitchers and pitching prospects. If they succeed next year, it would prove their free agency decisions to be correct. But if they could bring in two of these five, it would go a long way to improving the team.

Personally, I’d love to definitely sign Ottavino and Kimbrel and the consider Herrera for the right price. The Phillies have an opportunity to create one of the best bullpens in baseball this offseason with the right additions to guys like Seranthony Dominguez and Pat Neshek. Saving that money on starting pitching could also allow Klentak to add a little extra to a contract to lure in a certain big bat.