Sat Aug 02 01:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Duran Keeps Cherished Number, Thomson’s Wife Pays the Price

**PHILADELPHIA** – New Phillies closer Jhoan Duran will sport his familiar No. 59 jersey, thanks to a gracious gesture from manager Rob Thomson. The number holds deep sentimental value for Duran, even etched into his family’s pool design back in the Dominican Republic, leaving his wife, Aida, relieved he wouldn’t have to give it up after the trade.

However, the jersey swap has created a ripple effect, leaving Thomson’s wife, Michele, less than thrilled. Thomson revealed he readily relinquished the number upon Duran’s arrival, opting instead for No. 49 in homage to Yankees legend Ron Guidry.

“The only one that’s upset at this point is my wife,” Thomson joked to reporters before the Phillies’ series against the Detroit Tigers. “All her merchandise has 59 on it. Now she has to go buy new stuff.”

Duran expressed his gratitude and respect to Thomson for the gesture. “I tried to be respectful in my first talk with [Thomson] about wanting the number.”

Thomson downplayed the significance of the number to himself, emphasizing the importance of making his new closer feel comfortable. “The number really doesn’t mean much to me,” Thomson explained. “But if it makes you feel better, I’m all-in.”

The acquisition of Duran is a significant boost to the Phillies’ bullpen as they push for another playoff run. Duran, 27, comes to Philadelphia with an impressive track record this season, boasting a 2.01 ERA and 16 saves in 49 appearances for the Minnesota Twins. He was traded to the Phillies on Wednesday in exchange for two minor league prospects.

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