The Phillies have just completed a trade that could reshape their bullpen, swapping right‑hander Tommy McCollum for Tampa Bay prospect Yoniel Curet.
Trade Details
In a move reported by Matt Gelb of The Athletic, Philadelphia traded Tommy McCollum to the Tampa Bay Rays for Yoniel Curet. The exchange pits a seasoned reliever against a 23‑year‑old right‑handed pitching prospect who has spent his professional career in the Rays’ organization.
Yoniel Curet’s Prospect Profile
Curet signed with the Rays out of the Dominican Republic in 2019 and has since shown flashes of brilliance. Over his first four professional seasons, the Rays’ No. 22 prospect appeared in 81 games, starting 61 of them, and posted a 2.96 ERA. He struck out 424 batters over 316 innings and reached Double‑A before the 2025 season.
The 2025 campaign was a mixed one. Command issues resurfaced, leading to a career‑worst 1.43 WHIP and 31 walks in 62 innings. After a strong five‑start run in Double‑A, where he went 1.45 ERA, Curet was promoted to Triple‑A. There, he struggled, allowing 21 earned runs in 31 1/3 innings, posting a 6.03 ERA and a 1.92 WHIP.
The Rays’ 2023 Minor League Pitcher of the Year was ranked as Tampa Bay’s No. 2 prospect on FanGraphs, underscoring the high ceiling Curet possesses.
Pitching Arsenal
Curet’s repertoire is built around a powerful sinker that clocks 96–98 mph and is graded a 70 on MLB Pipeline’s 20–80 scale. The sinker is complemented by a cutter, four‑seamer, changeup and slider, giving him a five‑pitch mix that aligns well with bullpen roles.
Phillies’ Perspective
President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski said the club views Curet as a reliever and a depth piece as they shape the 40‑man roster. The Phillies believe the swing‑and‑miss traits that Curet displays will translate to the majors, and the trade is an early step toward reshaping the relief group, especially in the middle innings.
Tommy McCollum’s Career
McCollum, 26, has pitched all 165 of his professional games out of the bullpen. He owns a 3.42 ERA with 36 saves in 40 chances across five seasons since signing with the Phillies as an undrafted free agent out of Wingate University in 2021.
Outlook for the 2026 Bullpen
With potential bullpen adjustments coming in 2026, the move fits into Philadelphia’s long‑term plan. The Phillies are looking to add depth and flexibility to their middle‑innings relief, and Curet’s arm velocity and pitch mix provide that potential.
Key Takeaways
- Phillies acquire Yoniel Curet for Tommy McCollum, adding depth to the bullpen.
- Curet’s 2025 season showed command struggles but a powerful sinker and diverse pitch mix.
- McCollum has a solid ERA and 36 saves, offering immediate bullpen help.
The trade marks a strategic shift for the Phillies as they prepare for future roster moves and aim to strengthen their relief corps for the 2026 season.
