MLB Rumors: Top 3 Bullpen Targets For Phillies On Trade Market

In what's becoming an annual tradition, the Philadelphia Phillies are having bullpen problems. Closing games, in particular. With the news this week that Corey Knebel has been removed from closer's duties, the Phils are looking for a replacement. 

Internally, the options aren't plentiful, and there's no doubt they will be hot to trot on the trade market to solidify the back end of their bullpen.

These three relievers are on the list of potential Phillies targets:

David Robertson

The 37-year-old Chicago Cubs closer has re-established himself this season as a high-end high-leverage reliever. He has 7 saves and a 1.90 ERA. And he's done this before. Closing for the New York Yankees and Chicago White Sox in years past.

Daniel Bard

Another 37-year-old, Bard has regained the Colorado Rockies' closer role this season, after starting with it, then losing it, last season. He's got 13 saves and a 2.05 ERA, while striking out a phenomenal 11.6 batters per nine innings.

Michael Fulmer

The failed-starter-turned-closer, the 29-year-old Fulmer has certainly shown that he can close out games. It's just that Gregory Soto has the full-time job with the Detroit Tigers this season. Last year, Fulmer registered 14 saves; this year he has a 2.25 ERA in a high-leverage role.

Any of these three, plus dozens of other decent arms on the market could step in and claim the Phillies' closer role. It's up to president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski to figure out which way he wants to go.

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