Phillies Bolster Bullpen, Acquire Lefty Specialist Kyle Backhus from D-backs

The Philadelphia Phillies have acquired left-handed reliever Kyle Backhus, 27, from the Arizona Diamondbacks in exchange for minor league outfielder Avery Owusu-Asiedu. Backhus made 32 relief appearances for Arizona in 2025, going 0-3 with a 4.62 ERA over 25 1/3 innings and recording 10 holds. He held left-handed hitters to a .139 average and is expected to fill a lefty specialist role. Known for his unorthodox three-quarter arm slot and 7.2-foot release, he has three Minor League options remaining.