The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to be active ahead of the MLB trade deadline as they look to improve a roster that still has clear weaknesses. Philadelphia currently sits just over the .500 mark and trails a wild card spot by 1.5 games. Even so, the club is in a far better position than it was only a month ago, when the Phillies ranked among the worst teams in the National League entering May.
While the team has shown improvement lately, additional help is still necessary. The biggest concern continues to be the offense. Philadelphia is averaging only 3.90 runs per game this season, a number tied for the third-lowest mark in Major League Baseball. More specifically, the outfield remains an area that desperately needs an upgrade.
Because of that, Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller believes the Phillies could ultimately acquire one of the premier outfielders expected to be available this summer. Rather than predicting one specific move, Miller identified four possible targets for Philadelphia: Byron Buxton, Mike Trout, Riley Greene, and Jarren Duran.
Philadelphia Phillies Could Explore Multiple Major Trade Targets
Mike Trout grew up supporting the Phillies in nearby Millville, New Jersey.
Among those names, Mike Trout would easily represent the biggest splash for Philadelphia. However, there is growing doubt around the league that the future Hall of Famer will actually be moved by the Los Angeles Angels. USA Today insider Bob Nightengale recently dismissed the likelihood of Trout being traded anytime soon.
If Trout remains unavailable, Byron Buxton could emerge as the Phillies’ top realistic option. Buxton has long been regarded as one of baseball’s elite all-around players, excelling both offensively and defensively. The veteran outfielder has already earned both a Platinum Glove Award and a Silver Slugger during his career.
The concern with Buxton has always been durability. Injuries have consistently interrupted his career, and the two-time All-Star has surpassed 102 games played in a season only twice since reaching the majors. On top of that, the Minnesota Twins are still hanging around the American League wild card race and may be hesitant to become sellers too soon.
That could make deals involving Detroit Tigers star Riley Greene or Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran more realistic scenarios for Philadelphia. Detroit currently owns one of the worst records in baseball and could eventually consider reshaping its roster. Still, moving Greene would be a surprising decision given that the All-Star remains under team control until 2029.
Phillies Continue Searching for Answers in Right Field
Out of the four potential targets, Jarren Duran may ultimately be the easiest player for Philadelphia to acquire. The Red Sox have struggled throughout the season and possess a crowded outfield situation. That combination could allow the Phillies to pursue Duran at a lower cost compared to the other names being discussed.
If Philadelphia does succeed in landing another outfielder, it could create serious questions about the future of right fielder Adolis Garcia. The veteran slugger is batting just .191/.274/.296 this season and is set to reach free agency in 2027. With the Phillies already carrying the fourth-highest payroll in MLB, adding another major contract would further increase spending. Even so, Philadelphia may have little choice but to make a significant move if it hopes to become a legitimate postseason contender.