Phillies Bolster Bullpen with Pop Signing and Trades

Philadelphia Phillies Bolster Bullpen with Multiple Additions Amid Roster Shifts

The Philadelphia Phillies continued their aggressive offseason overhaul on Monday by signing right-handed reliever Zach Pop to a one-year major league contract, the latest move in a series of transactions aimed at strengthening a bullpen that faltered in key moments during the 2025 season. The team, which captured the National League East title with a 96-66 record last year, has focused on adding depth and reliability to support closer Jhoan Durán, acquired from Minnesota at the July trade deadline.

Pop, 29, brings experience from four major league organizations, including 58 appearances with the Toronto Blue Jays in 2025 before stints with the Seattle Mariners and New York Mets. He posted a 2.77 ERA in 2022 but struggled this year, allowing 11 earned runs in just 6 2/3 innings across limited outings. After finishing the season on a minor league deal with the Chicago Cubs without reaching the majors, Pop elected free agency in November. His sinker-slider mix has shown promise at times, though consistency has eluded him since his stronger 2022 campaign. Without minor league options remaining, Pop...