The Philadelphia Phillies have been without their closer, José Alvarado, for several weeks following a PED suspension, which will also keep him out of the postseason. As a result, the team is in urgent need of left-handed bullpen help ahead of the trade deadline to compensate for Alvarado’s absence come October.
Michael Hennelly of That Ball’s Outta Here confirmed that Steven Matz of the St. Louis Cardinals is going to Philadelphia. “Matz signed with the Cardinals before the 2022 season and has filled a swingman role over his three years with the team. In 2025, the 34-year-old has mostly pitched out of the bullpen, making 22 appearances with only two starts,” Hennelly noted. “He’s posted a 3.78 ERA in 33 1/3 innings as a reliever, with three holds and one save, primarily pitching in the sixth and seventh innings.”
The Cardinals, who sit 4.5 games behind the NL Central lead and one game back of a Wild Card spot, may decide to trade Matz if they slip further out of contention by the deadline. He’s in the final year of a four-year, $44 million deal.
Matz could be an ideal addition to the Phillies’ bullpen, offering a steady left-handed option in Alvarado’s absence, though not in a closer role. Philadelphia may still need to acquire another high-leverage reliever, but if they land Matz along with another impact arm, they’ll be well-positioned for a strong playoff push.