As spring training nears, MLB teams are making final adjustments to their rosters for the 2025 season. While the Philadelphia Phillies appear ready for action in Clearwater, Florida, their front office is still exploring ways to strengthen their bullpen.
Free-agent pitchers have been hosting bullpen showcases to demonstrate their readiness, and the Phillies have been actively scouting. Most recently, they attended a session by former Braves reliever Tyler Matzek, who also drew interest from the Mets, Yankees, and Dodgers, according to Sports Illustrated’s Pat Ragazzo.
Scouts at the showcase in Irvine, California, were reportedly impressed by the 34-year-old left-hander’s performance, noting he looked healthy and strong after years of setbacks.
Matzek, a key figure in the Braves’ 2021 World Series triumph, has had a turbulent few seasons. After missing all of 2023 due to Tommy John surgery, he pitched just 10 innings in 2024 before being sidelined with elbow inflammation. Traded to the Giants midseason, Matzek was ultimately released, leaving him on the free-agent market.
In his MLB career, Matzek has posted a 3.72 ERA and 1.36 WHIP with 272 strikeouts over 285 1/3 innings. His last fully healthy season in 2021 was a standout campaign, where he delivered a 2.57 ERA and 1.22 WHIP with 77 strikeouts in 63 innings. In the postseason that year, he shined with a 1.72 ERA and 0.89 WHIP over 15 2/3 innings, solidifying his role as a postseason hero.
Now back to full health, Matzek could fill a critical gap in the Phillies’ bullpen. With only three left-handed relievers—Matt Strahm, José Alvarado, and Tanner Banks on the roster, Matzek could provide much-needed depth. Given his recent injuries, he might be available on a team-friendly deal, potentially a minor league contract with a spring training invite, making him a low-risk, high-reward option for the Phillies as they finalize their plans for 2025.
