Phillies Push Bullpen, Lineup, and Draft Changes

The Philadelphia Phillies are seeking to strengthen their struggling bullpen, with interest in elite relievers such as Jhoan Duran, Ryan Helsley, Emmanuel Clase, and Jake Bird, in response to a 4.63 ERA and José Alvarado's 80-game PED suspension that rules him out for the postseason. The suspension increases the urgency for bullpen reinforcements. Manager Rob Thomson is also considering changes to the starting rotation to break up left-handed pitchers and keep Zack Wheeler on regular rest. In left field, a platoon of Max Kepler and Otto Kemp is planned once Bryce Harper returns, aiming to maximize production and versatility. The Phillies are also looking ahead to the MLB draft, where they may select high school infielder Gavin Fien as a future third base option due to Alec Bohm's possible departure after his walk year. These moves underscore the Phillies' efforts to address weaknesses and remain competitive in the NL East.