The Philadelphia Phillies are the best team in baseball and will operate accordingly at the trade deadline. Dave Dombrowski has never shied away from a major move, so the Phillies will be looking to buffer weaknesses and reinforce strengths. It’s time to cement a historic ball club and position Philadelphia for another trip to the World Series.
It’s hard to poke holes in the Phillies’ roster, but outfield depth would help — ideally a power-hitting righty to platoon with Brandon Marsh or outright take Johan Rojas’ spot in centerfield. The Phils could also use a dominant closer if there’s one available. The Jose Alvarado experience has been less than ideal lately. Jeff Hoffman, Matt Strahm, and Orion Kerkering provide late-relief options beyond Alvarado, but if the Phillies can land Tanner Scott or, god forbid, Mason Miller? Of course they should do it.
The Phillies don’t need much infield help. Bryson Stott is in a prolonged slump at second base, but Philadelphia shouldn’t replace him. Edmundo Sosa has been excellent all season, so he can step in once the playoffs arrive, if need be. Philadelphia is also rock-solid in the starting rotation. And yet, the latest rumor from MLB insider Jon Morosi connects Philadelphia to possibly the best starting pitcher on the market.