June is almost over and it's abundantly clear the NL East race is a two-team situation at this point. The New York Mets (45-28) and Philadelphia Phillies (43-30) have been battling back and forth for the division's top spot throughout the campaign, whereas the Atlanta Braves currently sit 12 games back of the NL East lead, as well as 6.5 games away from the final National League playoff spot.
In other words, Braves fans could use an opportunity to poke fun at one of their division rivals, especially as manager Brian Snitker's club continues to flal out of the divisional race. Fortunately, one of those NL East teams just gave the Atlanta faithful what they were looking for.
The Phillies acquired RHP Nolan Hoffman from the Rangers for cash considerations. Hoffman was optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) June 18, 2025
Hoffman, 27, had a 5.91 ERA with Triple-A Round Rock, striking out 46 and walking 21 in 35 innings.
Braves News: Phillies Make Pitiful Trade for Rangers RHP Nolan Hoffman
The Phillies bullpen's struggles have been a hot topic this season. Closer Jose Alvarado was slapped with an 80-game suspension, offseason signing Jordan Romano has been inconsistent all year, Carlos Hernandez was designated for assignment last week, and they even kicked Jose Ruiz to the curb (before he was claimed by the Braves).
On Wednesday, Atlanta's rival attempted to shake up its bullpen again, this time by acquiring right-handed reliever Nolan Hoffman from the Texas Rangers in exchange for cash, per MLB.com's Todd Zolecki. The 27-year-old hurler was optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley right after the trade was announced.
Braves fans should find it amusing if the Phillies assume Hoffman can make a dent to their bullpen woes. The former Texas A&M product was playing poorly before being traded to Atlanta's rival, having gone 2-0 with a 5.91 ERA and 46 strikeouts in 22 games (3 starts, 35 innings) with Triple-A Round Rock.
For now, it apepars that Hoffman must prove himself to the Phillies before he's given a chance to make his MLB debut. Having said that, the Lincoln, NE native's opportunity could come sooner rather than later if Philadelphia's bullpen's inconsistencies persist.
It might be too early to predict how Hoffman's fresh start will go; however, his history indicates he likely won't be the answer to the Phillies' problems. Braves fans certainly won't mind if that happens, especially since it'd help Snitker & Co. get back into the NL East race.