Breaking Down the Brandon Kintzler Signing
The Phillie’s bullpen restoration continues as yesterday around the middle of the afternoon, ESPN MLB reporter, Jesse Rogers, broke their transaction acquiring veteran reliever Brandon Kintzler. Kintzler, during his time in the big leagues, has produced respectable numbers, with a career 3.31 ERA nearing 450 total innings pitched. His previous two stops with the Cubs in 2019 and the Marlins last year were productive. With the cubs in 2019, he recorded a 2.68 ERA in 62 appearances. He led the fish with 12 saves and improved with a 2.22 ERA in 2020. Also, in 2017, Kintzler was an All-Star, splitting the season with the Twins and Nationals.
When speaking with MLB Network Radio on Sirius XM, he noted that the Phillies offer him an ultimate redemption.
“As soon as my option got turned down by the Marlins, the Phillies were where I wanted to go because that would be my ultimate revenge tour.”
Certainly, hearing that added motivation to one-up his previous employers rings music to the front office’s ears. Also, Kintzler commenting despite being 36, he feels his performance on the mound has never been better breeds more optimism into the life of the Phils re-newed bullpen.
Bryce Harper reportedly levied his star power in the process of closing this deal. Like Harper, Kintzler is a native of Las Vegas, so when Bryce told him the pen could use his mindset and guidance, he obliged with that hometown aspect in mind. Specifically, he mentioned this,
“When the superstar keeps telling you they want you on their team, at some point, you gotta give in.”
According to ESPN’s article of the signing, the Phillies’ increase towards performance-based incentives was the breaking point in the deal finalizing. The Marlins grounded their offer at two million. The Phillies increased to three million, with the potential to expand to four million if he meets the incentives.
So what does Kintzler provide? In 2020, he relied predominantly on his Sinker that sits in the low 90s. Followed by and change up and a slider that sits in the mid-80s. He throws a fastball as well in between the low and mid-90s but isn’t used frequently.
The Phillies adding a veteran All-Star leadership who feels his best ball is ahead him should breed a warm welcome from the squad alongside the fanbase. Prominent veteran names are still available on the relievers market; it’ll be interesting to continue tracking the club’s pursuit to upgrade the much-maligned bullpen.
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Categorized:Phillies