The Philadelphia Phillies have decided to trade pitcher Matt Strahm to the Kansas City Royals for pitcher Jonathan Bowlan. Strahm is owed 7.50 million dollars for the 2026 season. Meanwhile, Bowlan is on a pre-arbitration contract with six more seasons of team control. Strahm is a free agent after the 2026 season as well. Robert Murray of FanSided first reported the trade, which both the Phillies and Royals have since confirmed. There was a report a few weeks ago that the Phillies were taking calls on their three left-handed relief pitchers. Now, Strahm ends up being traded in a salary-dump move a few weeks later.
Royals Acquire Matt Strahm in Trade with Phillies
Bowlan had a 1-2 record with a 3.86 ERA in 34 major league outings this season. To add to that, Bowlan recorded a 1.22 WHIP along with a 3.97 FIP and a 2.71 K/BB rate. Furthermore, Bowlan is out of minor league options. Overall, Bowlan has a 1-4 record with a 4.32 ERA in 37 major league appearances across three seasons. Bowlan has a 1.36 WHIP, a 4.86 FIP, and a 2.60 K/BB rate throughout his career. A right-handed pitcher, Bowlan has made a few starts as well. Bowlan is entering his age-29 season and will probably need to compete for a spot on the Phillies 2026 roster.
What This Means Going Forward
This comes days after the Phillies signed pitcher Brad Keller to a multi-year deal. Additionally, Jeff Passan of ESPN reported on December 18 that the Phillies were likely going to trade Strahm. This move frees up money for the Phillies to make a move elsewhere on the roster. Additionally, the team is still in the process of trying to re-sign catcher J.T. Realmuto. This could open the door for the team to sign Alex Bregman or Bo Bichette and move on from Alec Bohm. Tanner Banks will see an increased role in the Phillies’ bullpen, with two left-handed relief pitchers now instead of three.
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