Phillies: Top 3 reasons to get excited about Archie Bradley

Archie Bradley, formerly of the Arizona Diamondbacks (Photo by Sarah Sachs/Arizona Diamondbacks/Getty Images)

1. Archie Bradley is an overall huge upgrade to the Phillies bullpen.

Throughout Archie Bradley‘s Major League career thus far, he has a record of 23-25, an ERA of 3.91, he has pitched in 255 games over 412 innings, he has struck out 425 batters and recorded 28 saves.

His numbers have been consistent throughout the years and he’s proven that he is a solid pitcher, let alone a great closer. He is a huge upgrade to really any bullpen and the Phillies got him for a great price.

Coming off of an awesome 2020 season, with a combined ERA of 2.95 over both Major League teams he played for, Archie is going to be a welcome addition to a struggling Phillies bullpen.

Hector Neris, Jose Alvarado and Bradley are now the most capable veterans among the arms in the bullpen at this point. It seems that with Archie’s experience, though it remains to be seen, it wouldn’t be surprising if he were to become manager Joe Girardi‘s go-to out of the bullpen for the 2021 season.

Since he does have high numbers for striking out batters, something that is a necessity for the Phillies, he currently would be the best option for the Phillies closer role. It is still not clear if he will be used as a closer, but as I mentioned before, he does have the needed experience and skill for that role and would be a great fit for it.

Bradley may be exactly what the Phils need to ignite their bullpen for this coming season. We will just have to wait and see!