The Philadelphia Phillies enter the 2026 MLB trade deadline with three clear priorities: adding a starting pitcher, strengthening the bullpen with a high-leverage reliever, and acquiring a right-handed hitting outfielder.
However, those may not be the only areas the front office is exploring. With Alec Bohm enduring another inconsistent campaign, Philadelphia could also look to reinforce third base before the deadline.
According to ESPN insiders Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel, the Phillies are among the top landing spots for Houston Astros infielder Isaac Paredes. While the connection is somewhat surprising given the club’s greater need in the outfield, Paredes’ offensive production could provide a significant boost to the lineup.
Phillies Linked to Astros Third Baseman Isaac Paredes
“18. Isaac Paredes, 1B/3B, Houston Astros. Chance of being traded: 40%,” Passan and McDaniel wrote. “Best fits: Guardians, Mariners, Phillies, Pirates, Brewers, Reds.”
Philadelphia’s inclusion as a potential destination for Paredes stands out, especially with the organization widely expected to prioritize a right-handed outfielder. Still, the Astros infielder could represent an appealing offensive upgrade.
Bohm has struggled for much of the season, batting .224 with 11 home runs, 46 RBIs, and a .655 OPS. Although he has shown improvement after a slow start, his production remains below the level the Phillies were hoping for from their everyday third baseman.
Paredes has delivered stronger numbers, batting .254 with a .722 OPS while contributing 12 home runs and 47 RBIs. His offensive consistency would give Philadelphia another reliable bat, and placing him in the cleanup spot behind Bryce Harper could make the lineup considerably more dangerous.
Although Paredes has spent most of his time at third base, he also has the versatility to play first base. In theory, that could allow Harper to shift to the outfield, though such a move appears unlikely. Even so, it remains a possible option if the Phillies decide to acquire Paredes before the deadline.
Another scenario would involve Philadelphia moving Bohm in a separate trade. A contender seeking help at third base, such as the New York Yankees, could emerge as a logical landing spot, allowing the Phillies to create a clearer path for Paredes rather than leaving Bohm in a reduced role.
Adding Paredes would undoubtedly strengthen the offense, but exactly how he would fit alongside Bohm remains uncertain. If Philadelphia pursues the Astros infielder, the move would likely be part of a broader series of roster changes as the club looks to position itself for a deep postseason run.