The Phillies made the NLCS again in 2023 but fell short of another World Series trip, so here are some trades to pursue
But instead Philly faltered in the two most crucial games of the season, leaving the team and fans shocked. Given the NLCS collapse, the front office will look to fortify the roster in order to get over the hump and win the World Series. Aaron Nola has already signed a long-term contract, so their top three in the rotation will be Nola, Zach Wheeler, and Taijuan Walker.
Even with that, there are a couple of names they can pursue in the offseason who would elevate their status in the tough National League race.
Dylan Cease
Forming an enormous package to chase Dylan Cease from the Chicago White Sox would be a fantastic addition for the Phillies. The White Sox are in the process of unloading a plethora of their major pieces in the hopes of bolstering their farm system, so the Phillies can try to persuade Chicago to move Cease to their organization.
The top three of Philadelphia is sensational, but the subpar performances in Games 6 and 7 of Nola and Ranger Suarez prove they can still improve their rotation. Moreover, Cease is the best long-term investment from the possible pitchers who can be traded, so Philadelphia would have the leverage to experiment and enjoy a lot of success with him in the fold.
Shane Bieber
The Shane Bieber sweepstakes have not been as loud as they would have been the past years because of his durability concerns and underperforming numbers. The Cleveland Guardians are likely going to move him sometime soon, so he could be a No. 3 starter under manager Rob Thomson. It would not take a hefty package compared to Cease or Corbin Burnes.