Phillies Expect Key Bullpen Boost With Closer Returning
Philadelphia Phillies are set to receive a major reinforcement in their bullpen as closer Jhoan Duran is expected to be activated from the 15-day injured list and return as early as Tuesday night.
Decision to Delay Return Was Precautionary
Interim manager Don Mattingly confirmed Monday that Duran is likely to rejoin the roster ahead of the team’s upcoming series opener at Citizens Bank Park. While he was technically eligible to return earlier, the Phillies chose to give him an extra day of recovery after he reached 100 mph during a bullpen session on Saturday.
Duran has been sidelined since April 11 due to a strained left oblique, but the team has been encouraged by his progress and did not require him to complete a rehab assignment.
“Ready to Compete at Full Strength”
Both Mattingly and Duran indicated confidence that he is prepared to return immediately to major league action. The organization believes his stuff is sharp enough that a minor league tune-up is unnecessary.
Impact on Struggling Bullpen
Before his injury, Duran was one of the Phillies’ most reliable arms, going 1–1 with a 1.35 ERA and recording five saves in just seven appearances. Since his absence, Philadelphia’s bullpen has struggled, posting a 4.59 ERA and producing very few save opportunities.
The drop-off has been noticeable, with only one ninth-inning save chance recorded during his time on the injured list.
Brad Keller has handled closing duties in the interim, including earning a save despite allowing a run in a recent outing against Miami.
