Phillies rumors: Team wanted Nathan Eovaldi – as a closer

The Phillies were in the market to sign pitcher Nathan Eovaldi but wanted him to serve as the team’s closer rather than in the rotation.

Nathan Eovaldi was one of the top pitchers on the market this offseason before ultimately re-signing with the Red Sox to the tune of four years and $68 million. The Phillies were one of the teams also pursuing the righty, but not in the capacity you would expect.

Jayson Stark of the Athletic reported that despite looking for a starter, Philadelphia pursued Eovaldi to be their closing pitcher. This was a dealbreaker for Eovaldi as he stated at his press conference with the Red Sox that he wanted to remain a starter long-term.

The Phillies are in the market for…