Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Jeff Hoffman has an interesting list of potential landing spots. The Phillies will look to re-sign Hoffman this offseason. Jim Bowden of The Athletic predicted that Hoffman would not re-sign with the Phillies. Hoffman recorded a 3-3 record with a 2.17 ERA and a 2.52 FIP in 68 outings in 2024. Additionally, Hoffman had a 5.56 strikeout-to-walk rate. Hoffman was named to the All-Star team as well. In 2024 Hoffman recorded 10 saves and 21 holds. R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports wrote that Hoffman is a fit for most contenders. Anderson did not name any specific team as a potential destination for Hoffman. Spotrac projects that Hoffman will get a 2-year contract worth $12.362 million dollars. A setup role or a closer role is possible.
Hoffman re-signing with the Phillies would be significant for the team. In two seasons with the Phillies, Hoffman has become one of the best relief pitchers in baseball. The Phillies should have signed Hoffman to an extension during the season but did not do so. With Carlos Estévez also a free agent, the Phillies may have to redo their high-leverage relief group this offseason. Matt Gelb of The Athletic expects the Phillies to make moves in that area. Hoffman re-signing with the Phillies could be part of that. With the Phillies, Hoffman has set career bests in K/9 and BB/9 rate in a single season, as well as batting average against and WHIP as well as ERA and FIP. There are some more potential Hoffman landing spots beyond him staying in Philadelphia.
Teams That Could Land Jeff Hoffman This Offseason
Baltimore Orioles
Bowden has mentioned the Orioles as a potential landing spot for Hoffman. The Orioles fit the contender criteria mentioned by Anderson as well. The Orioles were regularly mentioned throughout the trade deadline as a team looking for high-leverage bullpen arms. With that likely to continue, the Orioles signing Hoffman is a possibility. At the same time, Felix Bautista should return in 2025, but that does not rule out the signing of Hoffman. In this scenario, Hoffman would reunite with former Phillies teammate Seranthony Domínguez.
New York Yankees
The Yankees are another team Bowden mentioned as a potential landing spot for Hoffman. Clay Holmes is a free agent setting up a potential bullpen need. However, the Yankees did pick up the option Luke Weaver had. Holmes leaving in free agency would increase the likelihood that Hoffman would sign with the Yankees. Given the number of relief pitchers free agents, the Yankees are a logical destination for Hoffman. Also, being a contender helps the Yankees chances. With Hoffman likely to demand a large contract, the Yankees are a team that could afford it.
Other Destinations
Other teams named by Bowden include the Boston Red Sox, the Kansas City Royals, and the San Francisco Giants. Realistic Hoffman landing spots include the Atlanta Braves and the New York Mets. Both of those teams have a few relief pitchers that are free agents. Regardless of where Hoffman signs, it would not be surprising if he gets the largest contract for a relief pitcher this offseason. A team wanting Hoffman to be in a setup role as opposed to a closer role may also influence the team that he signs with this offseason.
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