While being a crucial piece in the Philadelphia Phillies' first division title in 13 years, Jeff Hoffman's future in Philadelphia is still uncertain.
The All-Star reliever is finishing off 2024 and his final arbitration year leaving him an unrestricted free agent during this upcoming offseason. It's obvious that both Hoffman and the Phillies like the situation that they have here in Philly and would like to continue it for the foreseeable future. Of course at the end of the day, money talks.
Entering free agency at age 32 and coming off an outstanding year and his best one in the big leagues, Hoffman's expected market value is around $6 million per year when compared to similar pitchers and contracts such as Phil Maton and Ryne Stanek. With a 1.68 ERA and 0.933 WHIP across 66 games however, the price tag could be even more steep.
The Phillies also have other expiring players that will need to be extended/renewed over the next two offseasons including J.T. Realmuto, Kyle Schwarber and Ranger Suárez. Dave Dombrowski and John Middleton love to spend, but there is a limit to how deep the pockets are.
If one was to watch Jeff Hoffman however, there's no inkling at all that he's going anywhere.
Jeff Hoffman drops not-so-subtle hint about his future
The North Carolina native was one of many different players interviewed in the locker room following the Phillies' NL East-clinching 6-2 win against the Chicago Cubs. During his conversation with NBC Sports Philadelphia's Tom McCarthy, Hoffman spoke about his time in Philadelphia and how much he enjoys pitching in Philadelphia with this group.
"It's so difficult to win at this level. It's important to celebrate every win, but when you get to be a part of a team like this, it's extra special," Hoffman told McCarthy.
"A lot can change in a short amount of time," Hoffman said about his career turnaround since joining the Phillies. "I feel like this is where I'm supposed to be ... it's been a lot of fun to be a part of, and I'm excited to help in any way I can."
“It’s the coolest thing I’ve ever been a part of.” ❤️
— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) September 24, 2024
Jeff Hoffman on this Phils team amid last night’s clubhouse party. 🥽 pic.twitter.com/Ywj6EhAX6e
It's understandable that the former Colorado Rockie would be having a great time in Philadelphia. Not only has Hoffman found a role and fit right into a clubhouse with the best comradery in sports, he's enjoyed a drop in ERA to 2.01 during his tenure with the Phillies, an over four-point decrease in overall ERA since his time in Colorado (6.40).
The Phillies have completed their first step in the path to the World Series and will continue to keep their head down throughout the next six weeks. The success of Jeff Hoffman and the team will largely impact his free agency decision approaching this offseason. As of right now, however, it is apparent that the big righty belongs in red pinstripes.