Brad Keller’s Return Could Fix the Phillies’ Biggest Weakness Before It’s Too Late

The Philadelphia Phillies are breathing down the neck of the Atlanta Braves in the NL East. Right now, they’re just 2.5 games back after being buried earlier in the season. But here’s the thing about the Phillies — they haven’t exactly been getting dominant relief work. That might change soon.

Reliever Brad Keller is expected back from a forearm injury next week, according to MLB.com. He could start a rehab assignment as early as Friday. For a guy who threw to a 2.07 ERA with the Cubs last season, that could be a real boost for a bullpen that’s been shaky at times.

The Keller Factor

Keller, 30, hasn’t looked great so far this year. His ERA sits at 4.15 across 31 appearances. That’s not gonna blow anyone away. But the guy proved last season he can be a reliable high-leverage arm. Sometimes a pitcher just needs to reset. A forearm injury is tricky, but the fact that he’s even close to returning suggests the Phillies are being cautious rather than dealing with something serious.

The team has not confirmed the exact timeline, but the signs are pointing to a pre-All-Star break return. That would give the front office a clearer picture of what they need at the trade deadline. If Keller looks like his old self, maybe they don’t have to overpay for another reliever.

Where Things Stand Now

Philadelphia just wrapped up a series win against the Pirates after dropping the opener. They took Tuesday and Wednesday by a combined 18-6 score. That’s encouraging, but the bullpen still logged some stressful innings in both games. Thursday’s series finale is a day game — first pitch at 12:35 PM EST — and the Phillies are trying to close out the series on a high note before heading into a tough stretch.

The NL East race feels very much alive right now. Atlanta opened up a big lead early, but the Phillies have been clawing their way back. Another healthy arm in the bullpen could be exactly what they need to keep the pressure on.

We’ll keep an eye on Keller’s rehab assignment and update as he progresses. But for now, the Phillies have to like where they’re sitting.