After a 5-1 loss to the Orioles, the Phillies named Jhoan Duran their official closer on Aug. 7, 2025. Is the flamethrower the answer to their bullpen woes?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
While the sting of Wednesday's 5-1 loss to the Baltimore Orioles still lingers, the biggest news for Phillies fans on this Thursday off-day is a seismic shift in strategy. In a move that signals a clear all-in mentality for the stretch run, manager Rob Thomson has officially named newly acquired flamethrower Jhoan Duran as the team's closer. The era of the bullpen carousel is over; the ninth inning now has a name.
For the first time in Rob Thomson's tenure as manager, the Philadelphia Phillies have a designated, full-time closer.
It's official. President Dave Dombrowski and manager Rob Thomson confirmed that Jhoan Duran, acquired in a blockbuster trade, will wear No. 59 and take the ball in save situations. This marks a departure from Thomson's long-held belief in a fluid, matchup-based bullpen, a strategy that has often left fans holding their breath. By handing the keys to Duran and his triple-digit fastball, the Phillies are making a definitive statement: they believe they have their lockdown arm for the most critical moments of the season.
The need for that late-game certainty was on full display in Wednesday night's loss. A single rough frame from Ranger Suárez (8-5) proved to be the difference. The lefty was cruising before a four-run fourth inning, capped by a back-breaking three-run homer from Orioles slugger Coby Mayo. The offense couldn't muster a comeback, stranding key runners despite a stellar performance from Trea Turner, who collected three hits and the team's only RBI. The bats fell silent against Orioles starter Trevor Rogers, and Kyle Schwarber's 0-for-4 night with three strikeouts encapsulated the team's offensive frustrations.
While no moves were made today, the front office has been busy fortifying its pitching depth. RHP Joe Ross was recently activated from the IL, while the club added veteran arms Lou Trivino and Jacob Waguespack on minor league deals, providing more options. Down at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, recently optioned outfielder Johan Rojas is working to find his form, while top prospects Justin Crawford and a now-healthy Gabriel Rincones Jr. continue their development, offering a glimpse of the talent pipeline.
With an off-day to reset, the Phillies will look to put the Orioles loss in the rearview mirror. The timing of the Duran announcement couldn't be better, providing a jolt of confidence as the team heads to Texas for a crucial weekend series. A new era for the bullpen begins now, and the hope is that it's the final piece of the puzzle for a deep postseason run.
