Phillies relievers' bromance hits another level with All-Star appearances

Matt Strahm and Jeff Hoffman are two of the five Philadelphia Phillies pitchers who made the MLB All-Star game, which is an MLB record. Of the eight players the Phillies are sending to Texas, Strahm and Hoffman may be the most unlikely duo to attend the Midsummer Classic.

Both relievers were rewarded with their first All-Star selection when the reserves roster was announced last week. Strahm is 4-1 with a 1.49 ERA, while Hoffman is 3-1 with a 1.12 ERA. Middle relief pitchers are a tough sell at times for All-Star roster construction. The lack of attraction makes it challenging as they generally don't get many save opportunities or fewer high-pressure innings.

Phillies relievers' bromance hits another level with All-Star appearances

Strahm and Hoffman were complete strangers when they met in 2023. Since then, they have become natural catch buddies every afternoon and have grown inseparable in the clubhouse (subscription required), per The Athletic's Matt Gelb. Routines are important to them, and they have found comfort in keeping each other accountable.

Having a bullpen combination like Strahm and Hoffman has certainly helped the Phillies lock down more than a few games. On top of them being the best of friends, they've been almost perfect during the first half. The more dominant they've become, the later in the game they've been appearing. Hoffman has even been taking a bigger role as a closer.

The All-Star Game will allow them to keep their usual afternoon routine and play an amplified version of catch with a new perspective.

Strahm and Hoffman are happy for each other, and to have their catch partner

"Just the history of All-Stars, I guess, I wasn't expecting much. I was hoping Jeff would get the nod, obviously with what he's done in his saves and all that. Saves usually look better than the ," Strahm said of both players making the All-Star team. "So, you know he's done an unbelievable job with how he's just turned his career around. He's just so deserving of it. I mean, yeah, I don't need to find a catch partner."

Hoffman confirmed that he's relieved to have his catch partner with him in Arlington.

"Yeah, it'll be nice not to have to have that conversation, like 'Anybody want to play catch?'" Hoffman said. "So, I got my guy. Probably be the only one there with my actual catch partner there."

Like Strahm, Hoffman was happier to hear his friend's name called than his own.

"That was awesome, I mean, I think they announced Strahmy's name first, and that probably took more of a weight off my shoulders than hearing my own name called," the big righty said. "I know the type of work and the time and effort he puts in, and I'm really happy that we get to enjoy it together."

Phillies fans hope the pair will be together for a while

Phillies fans also hope they stay together for a while. Strahm signed an extension before the season that will keep him in Philadelphia through at least 2025, with a club option in 2026. Hoffman is in his last year of team control and has yet to sign an extension. It's highly possible Hoffman could return; Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has proven that he'll pay what is needed to keep a player he wants.

Hoffman's return may very well be in the mix with the progression he has shown. He has carved out a spot in the bullpen just for him, and Strahm, like the rest of Philadelphia, will certainly be elated if he stays past this season.