The Philadelphia Phillies hit the All-Star break in playoff position (though they have fallen out of it after getting swept by the Cubs over the weekend). But after an up-and-down first half, it’s surely a welcome sign for Phillies fans to see their team in the playoff mix. Slugger Kyle Schwarber at the All-Star break talked about getting some players back from injury in the second half and how it would be like making a big trade. Obviously the return of Bryce Harper, whenever that happens (possibly mid-late August), would provide the biggest boost.
What about any additions from outside the organization, though? With so much high-priced talent in prime year — Schwarber, Harper, Aaron Nola, Zack Wheeler, J.T. Realmuto, Nick Castellanos, etc. — the Phillies are in position to buy. At least they’ll try. The system isn’t as depleted as it was in the recent past, but it’s still not robust.
We should point out that Realmuto and, more extremely so, Castellanos can hit a lot better, too. That alone would provide a boost.
Needs
One mid-rotation starting pitcher sits toward the top, for me. It’s a common theme on the Phillies to need roster depth, because they have plenty of big names. At this position, they need something behind Wheeler and Nola. Zach Eflin has a knee injury and there remains concern about it. Ranger Suárez has been inconsistent and injured. Kyle Gibson is more like the fifth starter of a strong playoff team. If the Phillies can grab a quality, mid-rotation starter, it’s possible to have the situation looking really positive late in the season. Suárez still has so much talent that it’s reasonable to believe he’ll get it figured out late.
It’s the Phillies, so we have to say the bullpen needs shoring up. The thing is, the bullpen wasn’t bad in June and it’s been great in July, though, so adding depth pieces is really all they should shoot for here. And everyone does that.
And, of course, there’s center field. The Phillies have been one of the least productive teams in baseball at that position this season. Only a few non-contenders like the Cubs, Reds and A’s have been worse.
Potential targets
- First off, they don’t have enough to get Juan Soto. I know he doesn’t fit a “need” outlined, but he’s the type of player you make room for. I just don’t think they can.
- Bryan Reynolds would be a huge coup for the Phillies, as he’d check several boxes….
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