The Philadelphia Phillies continue to reload after losing the World Series in six games last season.
Despite an incredible playoff run, the Phillies ran out of gas in the fall classic.
It was clear the Phillies needed to add bullpen depth.
So after adding Craig Kimbrel, they made another splash move on Saturday.
That was to acquire left-handed closer Gregory Soto from the Detroit Tigers.
This was a move that almost no one saw coming, but Soto was one player who did not seem to fit with Detroit’s timeline.
Over the past two seasons, Soto has come into his own.
He made the all-star team each year and even recorded 30 saves last season.
Playing in Detroit, the save opportunities are minimal, but he made the most of them.
Soto can help fill two of the Phillies’ biggest weaknesses.
That is a left-hander out of the bullpen, and a shutdown closer.
One issue for Soto over the past few seasons has been his command.
Last year he walked 34 batters in 60.1 innings and had a WHIP of 1.376.
That level of baserunners allowed is not going to cut it.
He can be an effective closer if he can learn to limit the walks.
Soto is still in the prime of his career, entering his age-28 season next year.
In the deal, the Phillies traded two MLB-ready players, Nick Maton and Matt Vierling, and a minor leaguer, Donny Sands.
Vierling was a platoon outfielder for the Phillies last season, while Maton is a utility player that played occasionally.
The Phillies also received Kody Clemens in the trade.
The Phillies came into this offseason to find players that will put them over the top.
Soto is another player that can make that happen.
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