March 13, 2022
The Phillies reportedly have made a post-lockout free agent signing: 32-year-old relief pitcher Jeurys Familia. Save for a half-season he spent in Oakland, Familia has played his entire 10-year career with the Mets.
The report first came from FanSided's Robert Murray:
Free-agent reliever Jeurys Familia in agreement with the Philadelphia Phillies, pending physical, according to sources familiar with the situation.
— Robert Murray (@ByRobertMurray) March 13, 2022
New York Post's Mike Puma reports that it's a one-year deal worth $6 million:
Familia is getting $6 million for one year from the Phillies. Deal can be worth as much $7 million.
— Mike Puma (@NYPost_Mets) March 13, 2022
Following a 2016 season in which he made the All-Star team and led the league in saves, Familia's play has dropped off a bit. From 2017 on, he has an ERA of 4.15 in 242.4 innings pitched. Still, even a pitcher who might be past his prime could still be welcomed in a Phillies bullpen that's had some disastrous outings the last two years. Historical stuff.
It's worth noting that the Phillies are prioritizing singing bullpen arms in free agency. Just before the lockout, the team signed 30-year-old righty Corey Knebel on a one-year deal worth $10 million. Knebel is a one-time All-Star too, chosen as a selection during a 2017 season in which he had a 1.78 ERA and 39 saves.
I'm intrigued to see where the Phillies go after this. Perhaps they'll continue to boost their pitching or even make a move for an All-Star like Nick Castellanos, who they've reportedly had interest in.
It also should be noted that Familia served a 15-game suspension without pay in 2017 for violating Major League Baseball's Joint Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Policy.
