Phillies Turn to Brad Keller as Closer with Jhoan Duran Injured

Keller will take over closing duties while Duran recovers from a left oblique strain.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 3:54am

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The Philadelphia Phillies have placed star closer Jhoan Duran on the 15-day injured list due to a left oblique strain. In his absence, the team will turn to veteran reliever Brad Keller to handle closing duties, with Jose Alvarado moving into the setup role.

Why it matters

Duran has been a key part of the Phillies' bullpen, racking up 5 saves and posting a 1.35 ERA in 7 appearances this season. His injury is a significant blow, but the Phillies are hopeful he can return in around 15 days. In the meantime, Keller and Alvarado will need to step up to fill the void.

The details

According to reports, Keller will take over as the Phillies' primary closer while Duran is sidelined. Keller, who signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the Phillies in the offseason, has struggled to start the year with a 4.70 ERA and 1.304 WHIP. Alvarado, who has been the setup man, will now move into the closer role.

  • On Saturday, the Phillies placed Jhoan Duran on the 15-day injured list due to a left oblique strain.
  • The Phillies are hopeful Duran can return in around 15 days, depending on his recovery process.

The players

Jhoan Duran

The Phillies' 28-year-old closer, who was placed on the 15-day IL with a left oblique strain. He had a 1.35 ERA and 5 saves in 7 appearances before the injury.

Brad Keller

A 30-year-old reliever who signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the Phillies in the offseason. He will take over as the team's closer while Duran is out.

Jose Alvarado

The Phillies' setup man, who will now move into the closer role with Duran injured.

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What they’re saying

“'Brad Keller will get the bulk of closing opportunities while Duran is out.'”

— Todd Zolecki, MLB.com reporter

“'The Phillies are hopeful Jhoan Duran will be back in 15 days. Imaging showed a 'very mild' strained left oblique. We'll see, of course.'”

— Todd Zolecki, MLB.com reporter

What’s next

The Phillies will monitor Duran's recovery process and hope he can return to the closer role in around 15 days. In the meantime, Keller and Alvarado will need to step up to fill the void in the bullpen.

The takeaway

Duran's injury is a significant blow to the Phillies' bullpen, but the team is hopeful he can make a quick recovery. In his absence, veteran reliever Brad Keller will get the chance to prove himself as the team's closer, while Jose Alvarado moves into the setup role. The Phillies' bullpen depth will be tested, but they are confident they have the pieces to weather Duran's absence.