Former Phillies All-Star Offers 3-Word Response On Retirement Decision

BusinessSportsMoneyFormer Phillies All-Star Offers 3-Word Response On Retirement DecisionByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorAug 21, 2026, 06:30am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.SummaryThe Philadelphia Phillies have found a dominant closer in Jhoan Duran, acquired from the Twins, crucial for their World Series aspirations. Duran's success, however, recalls former Phillies closer Craig Kimbrel, whose career is now winding down. Kimbrel, 38, recently signed with the Royals and gave a "Yes and no" response to retirement, reflecting tumultuous recent years with many teams. His 2023 Phillies season saw him reach 400 saves and dominate early, but ended in a difficult postseason, including a walk-off surrendered in the NLCS, leading to their elimination. Despite the disappointing Philadelphia exit, Kimbrel's overall career remains extraordinary.Show More ATLANTA, GA - MAY 26: Bryson Stott #5 of the Philadelphia Phillies (left) and Brandon Marsh #16 (right) dump a cooler of water onto Craig Kimbrel #31 after Kimbrel recorded his 400th career save with a 8-6 win over the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on May 26, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin D. Liles/Atlanta Braves/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe Philadelphia Phillies have found plenty of success at the back end of their bullpen since acquiring Jhoan Duran, giving the club a dominant closer who is hoping to pitch some key innings in an upcoming World Series run.Duran has quickly become one of the Phillies’ most reliable relievers after Philadelphia sent two young pieces to the Minnesota Twins for him.“Duran … has been exactly what the Phillies hoped for after sending right-hander Mick Abel and catching prospect Eduardo Tait to the Twins to acquire Duran before the 202...