Phillies Acquire Closer Jhoan Duran from Twins

The Philadelphia Phillies made a major trade ahead of the MLB trade deadline, acquiring closer Jhoan Durán from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for top prospects Mick Abel and Eduardo Tait. Durán, who boasts a 2.01 ERA and 16 saves, fills a critical bullpen need after the Phillies lost their closer José Alvarado to a postseason PED suspension. Bryce Harper praised Durán as one of the best in baseball and believes the trade was worth the hefty price, highlighting Durán's impact on the team's chances to win a championship. Analysts generally agree that the trade benefits both teams, with the Phillies gaining a top-tier reliever under club control through 2027, while the Twins receive promising prospects. The acquisition is seen as a key move for the Phillies' title window, providing a reliable ninth-inning arm that strengthens the entire bullpen. Overall, the trade is viewed as a strategic upgrade for the Phillies, addressing one of their most pressing needs at the deadline.