Sal Dimarco's Take: Don't Trade the Arm That Actually Works
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Philly is weighing a trade involving Jonathan Bowlan to find a 'proven' setup man, but messing with a reliable asset is a dangerous game.
Q: What is the current situation regarding Philadelphia Phillies reliever Jonathan Bowlan?
A: As Sports Illustrated first reported, Bowlan has become a focal point for rival clubs looking to make a move. Matt Gelb of The Athletic reports that Bowlan has generated regular interest from other teams and performs well on projection models. While the Phillies are not in a rush to move him, Gelb notes that Philadelphia might include Bowlan in a trade package if another team offers a setup man who is considered more "proven."
Q: How did Bowlan perform during the 2026 season?
A: Sports Illustrated reports that Bowlan was a reliable producer during the summer, posting a 3.36 ERA over 56.1 innings pitched and 59 appearances—both career highs. He finished the year with a 1.3 bWAR. This production is particularly notable given that the Phillies acquired him from the Kansas City Royals in a deal for Matt Strahm; Sports Illustrated notes that Philadelphia won that trade, as Strahm struggled with a 7.32 ERA in 41 appearances before being designated for assignment on Aug. 4.
Q: If Bowlan was so effective, why is there talk of trading him?
A: Opinion: In my book, trying to swap a rising star for a "proven" commodity is how you end up with a roster full of expensive regrets. Bowlan is the real deal, and any team trying to poach him is just looking for a shortcut to a playoff run.
Factually, Sports Illustrated reports that Bowlan's production dipped at the end of the season and during the playoffs. While he was never officially placed on the injured list, he dealt with an ailment that likely contributed to his struggles. In his final eight regular season games, he allowed a run in six of them, accounting for six of his 21 earned runs and four of his eight home runs for the year.
Q: Who else is in the Phillies' bullpen mix?
A: As reported by Sports Illustrated, the Phillies have Jhoan Duran locked in as the closer. Other right-handed options include Alex McFarlane, who had a strong 2026 debut, and Caleb Kilian, who joined the team via a trade with the San Francisco Giants that also brought in Luis Arraez. However, as Matt Gelb of The Athletic points out, none of these pitchers—including Bowlan—are currently viewed as "proven" commodities.
Q: What is the broader state of the Philadelphia bullpen?
A: Sports Illustrated reports that the bullpen is a primary area for upgrade this winter. The 2026 group was overworked and eventually crumbled, leaving manager Don Mattingly with very few trusted options late in the season.