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Phillies bullpen ‘odd man out’ revealed ahead of Jhoan Duran’s injury return
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- Phillies bullpen ‘odd man out’ revealed ahead of Jhoan Duran’s injury return
Phillies bullpen 'odd man out' revealed ahead of Jhoan Duran's injury return appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The Philadelphia Phillies have received encouraging news regarding star closer Jhoan Duran . The update adds to the growing optimism surrounding Don Mattingly's tenure. The season began poorly, including a 10-game losing streak that led to Rob Thomson's dismissal. Since Mattingly stepped in, however, the team has shown significant improvement. The Phillies have posted a 6–1 record under his leadership.
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Duran returns ahead of the Phillies' Tuesday matchup vs. the Athletics —the opener of a three-game home series—after missing several weeks with an oblique injury. His comeback immediately strengthens the Phillies' bullpen, where the power-throwing closer has already established himself as a dependable late-game option.
The move became official as the Phillies prepare to open a six-game homestand over the next six days. With bullpen roles shifting, the team identified which pitcher to displace to make room for Duran's return.
The Athletic's Matt Gelb reported the decision on X, formerly Twitter, confirming both the activation and the corresponding roster move.
" Jhoan Duran is active tonight as expected. Trevor Richards will be the odd man out in bullpen."
The update that Trevor Richards was optioned to create space on the roster. Richards had provided valuable depth in recent appearances but ultimately became expendable with the 28-year-old flamethrower's return and the bullpen's evolving structure.
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Duran's presence stabilizes the late innings for Philadelphia, offering a dependable option in high-leverage situations. Before his injury, he delivered consistent results and played a central role in closing out games. This season, he has appeared in seven games, posting a 1.35 ERA and a 0.75 WHIP while continuing to demonstrate elite velocity and swing-and-miss ability.
The move also reflects the team's growing confidence during a recent stretch of improved performance. As the Phillies continue to build momentum, reinforcing the bullpen becomes an important step in maintaining that progress.
Should Duran regain his form, he could become a pivotal presence in tight games, bolstering the Phillies' late-inning stability as the season unfolds.
Related: Don Mattingly facing brutal trend after 7-1 start as Phillies manager
Related: Phillies' Bryce Harper breathes a sigh of relief after Zack Gelof nearly robs HR
