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Phillies Announce Trade With Rangers for Right-Handed Pitcher
Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

With a questionable bullpen, the Philadelphia Phillies are expected to make some changes in the buildup to the MLB trade deadline. Whether the moves are big or small, the team will be shaking things up within their organization in the bullpen.

The Phillies announced on Twitter/X that on June 18th, they had completed a trade with the Texas Rangers. In the deal, they are acquiring right-hander Nolan Hoffman for cash considerations, and he is subsequently being optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Hoffman is the second Hoffman to join the team in the pat few yers, both being relievers. Though this Hoffman isn't as great as Jeff Hoffman was during his time in the city.

But, Nolan Hoffman will provide depth on the roster in the bullpen. The 27-year-old right hander from the Rangers system has been pitching in the Minor Leagues since 2018. 

With the Phillies needing more depth in the bullpen, whether it's due to poor play, injuries, or suspension, Hoffman is a depth addition for the team at best. but, despite being depth, he's still a worthwhile addition to the team.

Down in Triple-A for the Rangers, Hoffman had a 5.91 ERA through 22 games, three of which were as a starter, his first start since 2021 in the Minors. Across his 35 innings pitched, Hoffman struck out 46 batters and walked 21.

He also allowed batters to hit .245 off him in 2025, and his 1.46 WHIP is the third-highest in his Minor League career. He's also allowed four home runs this season, more than double any of his previous years in the Minors.

While Hoffman hasn't had his best season on the mound, he does have a career 3.65 ERA across 185 appearances in the Minor Leagues. He had initially been an intriguing option for the Rangers in the Spring, but with his 5.91 ERA, he wasn't making any headway into the Majors.

But, considering the Phillies have had a knack for helping pitchers turn things around, the team taking a chance on Hoffman is worth it. If the Phillies do get something out of Hoffman, it wouldn't be the first time that the Phillies helped a Hoffman turn his career around in the Majors. 

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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