The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly projected to acquire superstar closer from the San Francisco Giants during this offseason.
Phillies deal for elite closer in offseason projection
When asked recently about which underrated free-agent signing might have the most significant impact on next season’s playoff race, FanSided’s Robert Murray instead highlighted a potential trade candidate, Doval, who could elevate the Phillies in the National League if he rebounds next season. Citing Brad Wakai of *Philadelphia Phillies on SI*, Murray stated:
“I believe there’s a strong possibility he gets traded, and a change of scenery could help him rediscover his form after a rough season where he lost the closer role. The Phillies are definitely a team I could see showing interest in him.”
Phillies: Doval is historically an efficient closer & strikeouts artist
Doval experienced a dip in performance last season after leading the National League with 39 saves during his 2023 All-Star campaign. In 2024, the Dominican closer finished 40 games and recorded 23 saves but struggled with an elevated 4.88 ERA. Despite this, his four-year track record in the majors highlights his ability to effectively close out games and dominate hitters.
Although he pitched 8.2 fewer innings in 2024 compared to the previous year, Doval still managed 78 strikeouts—just nine fewer—demonstrating his precision on the mound. Meanwhile, Philadelphia recorded only 37 saves last season, the sixth-lowest total in MLB.
Doval could cause sharp swing in Phillies’ late-game prowess in the playoffs
They were one of just four teams that failed to record a save in the postseason. According to Fox Sports, they suffered two blown saves during their short four-game National League Division Series loss to the New York Mets. These missteps came from relievers Jeff Hoffman and Carlos Estevez, each responsible for one. All in all, a partnership between these parties could prove mutually beneficial.
For Doval, moving out of his reduced sixth-to-eighth inning role in San Francisco could help him regain his elite form, while Philadelphia would gain a game-changing closer to bolster their chances against top competitors like the reigning champion Los Angeles Dodgers in their 2025 World Series pursuit. The Phillies have also been tied to Milwaukee Brewers star closer Devin Williams this offseason, giving the team multiple high-impact options to target.
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