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The Philadelphia Phillies made a big move by extending Jesus Luzardo to a five-year, $135 million extension. However, this move could have unforeseen consequences.
One of those consequences is losing a key player in superstar closer Jhoan Duran. While he still has two seasons of control, FanSided’s Christopher Kline believes that once he hits free agency, the Phillies won’t have the money to retain him.
“Philadelphia has another year of arbitration with Jhoan Durán before he becomes a free agent after the 2027 season. This is not necessarily something Phillies fans should panic about; there is extreme external pressure for the front office to hammer out a long-term deal here. But the reliever market continues to explode year over year. With so much money tied up elsewhere, is Philadelphia going to spring for the $20 million-plus annually it will require to lock up Durán? It's a fair question…If the Phillies get 2.5 years of an elite closer and push deep into October once again, it will be hard to complain about this trade. But if Durán ultimately walks and the Phillies don't capitalize on this abbreviated window, you know the fan base will express its anger,” Kline wrote.
Duran posted a 2.06 ERA, 80 Ks, a WHIP of 1.100, and 32 saves in 72 games of the 2025 season. He was traded at the deadline to Philly, where he posted a 2.16 ERA, 27 Ks, a WHIP of 0.919, and 16 saves in 23 of those 72 games.
Duran has been elite for the Phillies, and could be for the foreseeable future. With the loss of Ranger Suarez, and getting duped by Bo Bichette, the Phillies need to retain their talent no matter what.
Hopefully, Philadelphia realizes this, and makes sure they ink an extension with their closer.
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