Even though he wasn’t as dominant as the year before, Phelps continued to pitch well in 2017. He was 2-4, 3.45 in 44 games for Miami, all in relief, with 51 strikeouts in 47 innings.
Due to his recent performance and the fact that he remained under contract for another year and a half at a relatively fair salary, his name was floated as one of the more fascinating relievers on the market as the trade deadline approached.
This explains why, on July 20th, the Seattle Mariners were willing to part with four players to obtain him.
In 10 games for the Mariners, he was 2-1 with a 3.12 ERA, but he had two spells on the injured list due to elbow issues.
Then, in a Cactus League game on March 17, 2018, he tore the ulnar ligament in his elbow. He had Tommy John surgery, which forced him to miss the rest of the season.
In 2019, he made his comeback as a member of the Toronto Blue Jays.
The Blue Jays weren’t sure what they were going to get, but he pitched well in 17 games, including one start as an opener, with an ERA of 3.63 in 17 1/3 innings and 18 strikeouts while not making a decision.
They chose to take advantage of his resurgent value at the July 30 trade deadline, sending him to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for Thomas Hatch, a promising young pitcher.
How Much Does David Phelps Make?
David Phelps earns an average of $1,750,000 each year. Phelps will earn a base salary of $1,750,000 in 2022.