The 2024 Philadelphia Phillies have a multitude of players who would be considered key pieces to their success. Big-name stars such as Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, and Zack Wheeler are all undeniably important to this roster.
On the other hand, there are a number of players who fill their roles well but are not considered stars. Recently, Jim Bowden of The Athletic took feedback from each potential playoff team's executives and put together a list of those "indispensable" under-the-radar type players.
Phillies general manager Sam Fuld offered his opinion on his club's top, lowkey player. His answer may surprise some, but should it?
Phillies GM’s most ‘indispensable’ player might surprise you even though it shouldn’t
Fuld named left-handed reliever Matt Strahm (subscription required) as his choice for the Phillies player who may not be a household name around the nation but is a key component to the club. The versatile reliever makes a good argument for that to be the case.
“Strahm is that guy for us," Fuld said, per Bowden. "I know he was an All-Star, so maybe he doesn’t quite meet the (under-the-radar) criteria, but I feel like he’s an underappreciated player who can get lefties and righties out in any situation. He competes and wants the ball.”
Strahm had his best season of his career when he joined the Phillies for the 2023 season. He was reliable as a starter, but similar to the Spencer Turnbull situation of the current campaign, was relegated to the bullpen to limit his innings. He also excelled in a relief role.
Heading into 2024, Strahm was viewed as a major part of the Phillies' bullpen. The 32-year-old has not disappointed. In 58 2/3 innings to this point in the season, the left-hander has pitched to a 1.99 ERA. More impressively, his 0.78 WHIP ranks seventh among all qualified relievers in baseball and his 2.38 FIP ranks 10th.
Strahm also made his first All-Star appearance this season after posting a 1.49 ERA and 11.6 K/9 in the first half. It appears that the club's decision to offer him an extension during spring training is paying off.
While Phillies fans know and appreciate the impact that Strahm has on the bullpen, he is a little-known player to more casual fans around the league. This team has loads of players who can be considered "indispensable," but Strahm is a player who performs well in almost any situation and fits in well with this clubhouse.
Perhaps the left-hander is the most important lesser-known player on the roster.