MLB Bullpens Drive Key Wins, Boost Playoff Contention

Several Major League Baseball teams are focusing on strengthening their bullpens as the 2025 season progresses. The Philadelphia Phillies have transformed their bullpen from a weakness to a strength with the return of Jose Alvarado and Jhoan Duran taking over as full-time closer, lowering their bullpen ERA significantly in August and allowing manager Rob Thomson to use relievers more aggressively. Despite some struggles earlier in the season from acquisitions Jordan Romano and Joe Ross, the Phillies are considering roster changes to bolster the middle bullpen. The New York Yankees are also bolstering their bullpen by activating Fernando Cruz, who has been effective when healthy, while managing injuries and roster moves such as optioning Jake Bird to Triple-A. In the minor leagues, the Visalia Rawhide's bullpen showcased dominance with three relievers combining for 5.1 shutout innings in a win over the San Jose Giants, highlighting prospects such as Tayler Montiel and Logan Mercado. These developments reflect teams' strategic efforts to manage pitching staff health and optimize late-game performance as the postseason approaches.