In a significant move that could reshape their bullpen, the Philadelphia Phillies have secured valuable right-handed relief by finalizing a two-year, $22 million contract with Brad Keller, according to sources reported by The Athletic. This acquisition comes on the heels of a lackluster 2024 season for Keller, during which he notably rebounded while playing for the Chicago Cubs.
Initially signed as a non-roster invitee by the Cubs prior to the 2025 season, Keller was highly regarded, landing at No. 36 on The Athletic’s Big Board. Analysts had projected him to command a three-year deal worth around $30 million, and his performance this past season certainly underscored that potential. In 68 appearances, he pitched 69 2/3 innings and recorded a stellar 2.07 ERA, establishing himself as one of the premier relievers on a team that made the playoffs.
It’s important to note that Keller’s contract is contingent upon passing a physical examination.
Keller, who has primarily been a starter throughout much of his career, saw a remarkable enhancement in his pitching effectiveness after transitioning to a relief role. His four-seam fastball, which he utilized 42.6% of the time—the only pitch he relied on more than 20%—averaged an impressive 97.2 mph, a notable increase from his previous seasons where he never exceeded an average of 95 mph.
Despite his shift to the bullpen, Keller adeptly employed his full range of pitches. His sweeper emerged as a particularly effective strikeout pitch against right-handed batters, while his changeup proved beneficial when facing lefties. He continued to utilize his sinker effectively, contributing to his excellent groundball statistics. Overall, Keller excelled in fulfilling the responsibilities of a reliable pitcher: he achieved a career-high strikeout rate of 27.2%, maintained a low walk rate of just 8%, and upheld a robust groundball rate of 56.1%.
Keller's impressive turnaround began following his release from the Chicago White Sox midway through the 2024 season. The Boston Red Sox claimed him and played a crucial role in refining his pitching mechanics, helping him to utilize his lower half more efficiently. This process continued during spring training with the Cubs, where Keller quickly caught attention by showcasing his ability to throw upper-90s fastballs, ultimately earning a spot on the roster.
Before long, he found himself tasked with high-leverage situations on a team that secured 92 victories and challenged the Milwaukee Brewers, the league leaders in wins, in a demanding five-game National League Division Series. Although he only notched three saves during the regular season, Keller stepped up in the postseason, successfully converting two saves while delivering an impressive 1.59 ERA over 5 2/3 innings of work.
