Free agent relief pitcher Brad Keller has reportedly agreed to a two-year, $22 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Contract Details and Career Revival
Keller, a 30-year-old veteran of eight MLB seasons, experienced a significant resurgence in 2025 while pitching for the Chicago Cubs.
After struggling with a combined 5.44 ERA in 2024 between the Chicago White Sox and Boston Red Sox, Keller revitalized his career. He posted an impressive 2.07 ERA across 68 appearances with the Cubs. This successful season followed a spring training invitation from the Cubs in February.
From Starter to Key Reliever
Keller's early career was primarily spent as a starting pitcher for the Kansas City Royals. He gradually transitioned to a bullpen role, ultimately finding success as a reliever with the Cubs.
The key to his turnaround was reportedly an increase of approximately 4 mph on his fastball, transforming him into one of the Cubs' most reliable bullpen arms. This performance earned him the lucrative contract with the Phillies.
Role with the Phillies
Throughout his career, Keller has accumulated a 4.14 ERA over 234 games, including five saves. Three of those saves came during his impressive 2025 season.
He also pitched effectively for the Cubs in the postseason, recording a 1.59 ERA in five appearances. The Phillies are expected to utilize Keller in high-leverage situations late in games, likely as a setup man for closer Jhoan Duran.
Key Stats:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Career ERA | 4.14 |
| 2025 ERA (Cubs) | 2.07 |
| Career Saves | 5 |
| 2025 Saves | 3 |
| Postseason ERA (Cubs) | 1.59 |
FAQs
How much money will Brad Keller make with the Phillies?
Brad Keller signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies worth $22 million. This deal comes after a successful season with the Chicago Cubs.
What role is Brad Keller expected to have with the Phillies?
The Phillies are expected to use Brad Keller in high-leverage situations late in games. He will likely serve as a setup man for closer Jhoan Duran.
What contributed to Brad Keller's improved performance in 2025?
Keller experienced a career resurgence in 2025 with the Cubs, largely due to an increase of approximately 4 mph on his fastball. This transformation made him a reliable bullpen arm.
You've got the context, now make it count. Leverage your sports knowledge and predict the future of the game with Whales Market, the crypto premarket platform.