The Philadelphia Phillies continued reshaping their roster with an eye toward the 2026 season, making another notable bullpen move. After three steady years as a key relief option, left-hander Matt Strahm was traded to the Kansas City Royals in exchange for right-handed pitcher Jonathan Bowlan, signaling another shift in the club’s pitching plans.
The move sends Strahm back to familiar territory. He originally broke into the Major Leagues with Kansas City in 2016, and his return marks a full-circle moment in his career. Although his final appearance with Philadelphia came during a difficult NLDS matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers, where he struggled, his overall body of work with the Phillies was largely positive and reliable.
During his time in Philadelphia, Strahm appeared in 188 games, compiling a strong 2.71 ERA while striking out 257 batters. He also collected 11 saves and earned an All-Star nod, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most dependable arms in the bullpen. His departure leaves a noticeable gap, particularly among the team’s left-handed relief options.
Philadelphia’s front office wasted little time responding. Just hours after completing the Strahm trade on Friday, the Phillies have announced another deal aimed at restoring bullpen balance. The club acquired left-handed reliever Kyle Backhus from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for outfielder Avery Owusu-Asiedu.
“Makin’ more moves 🤝 We’ve acquired Kyle Backhus from the Arizona Diamondbacks,” the team wrote on X.
Owusu-Asiedu is viewed as a lower-level prospect within the organization and was not expected to contribute at the Major League level in the near future. Backhus, however, steps in as immediate bullpen depth and gives manager Rob Thomson another left-handed option.
The 27-year-old appeared in 32 games for Arizona last season, posting a 4.62 ERA with 22 strikeouts and two saves. While those numbers fall short of Strahm’s production in Philadelphia, Backhus offers a fresh arm and the flexibility to handle middle relief duties. His ability to face left-handed hitters adds value to a bullpen that prioritizes matchup versatility.
The Phillies have consistently stressed the importance of depth and adaptability in the relief corps, and this move reflects that philosophy. Though Backhus is not expected to replace Strahm’s impact outright, his presence helps stabilize the bullpen and maintain balance as the team looks ahead.
As preparations for the 2026 season continue, Philadelphia is banking on a smooth transition. With Backhus joining the mix and additional arms in place, the Phillies hope their bullpen remains strong enough to support another postseason push despite the departure of a trusted veteran.