No. 2: Jeff Hoffman
Jeff Hoffman appeared in 54 games for the Phillies in 2023, the most during his eight-year career. His 2.41 ERA last year was also the lowest of his time in the majors. He finished with 69 strikeouts and an impressive WHIP of 0.92 last season.
The 31-year-old reliever emerged as a reliable option for the Phillies in the late innings during the playoffs. He had a 1-1 record, 0.86 WHIP, 2.57 ERA, and nine strikeouts over seven innings in eight playoff contests. Hoffman does not have much experience as a closer but proved he is a reliable option for Philadelphia to use in the seventh inning or the eighth in the setup role.
Jeff Hoffman, Vicious 92mph Splitter. 😤 pic.twitter.com/QQOi8S8xJp
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) October 18, 2023
Based on his strong regular season and playoff success last year, Hoffman could enter 2024 in the setup role out of the Phillies bullpen. ZiPS DC and Steamer project him to finish with a higher ERA this year - 4.13 and 3.88, respectively.
The projection systems each have him finishing with a higher WHIP in 2024 than last season. ZiPS DC predicts Hoffman to finish with a 1.23 WHIP compared to 1.27 with the Steamer projection. Both systems have the right-hander finishing with more strikeouts — Steamer has him totaling 85 strikeouts, while ZiPS DC has him finishing with 84.
Hoffman will have a spot secure in the Phillies bullpen when their regular season begins on March 28. While he is one of their better relievers, it is to be determined if he will receive more opportunities to be used in the closer role in 2024.