Phillies Trade Rumors: Top 5 potential targets ahead of trade deadline
The 2024 MLB trade deadline is fast approaching, and the Philadelphia Phillies need to be a bit aggressive with their approach. The Phillies need a player who could make a great contribution in the bullpen as well as the outfield for the second half of the season.
Such a player could help them to improve their roster and their chances of winning the 2024 World Series championship. While the Phillies' have seven players who will be playing in the All-Star break, and the others taking a much-needed rest from the game, the management and front office will be looking at their options for making a valuable trade.
Top 5 potential trade targets for Philadelphia Phillies
#1. Luis Robert Jr., Chicago White Sox
Luis Robert Jr. could prove to be an instant improvement for the Phillies. Mainly because he holds a .220 batting average alongside 11 homers and an OPS of 119. He was also an All-Star in 2023.
However, this deal would likely cost the Phillies a lot, as Robert is already worth $15 million next year, and will have around $20 million in club options available as well. So, it could be a hefty amount for the Phillies if they look to make this trade.
#2. Jazz Chisholm Jr., Miami Marlins
Jazz Chisholm Jr. is delivering a .256/.325/.414 in just 89 games played this season. He could become the versatility that the Philadelphia Phillies need in their team right now. He's also known to be one of the fastest players in the league.
If the Phillies could give what the Marlins want, this deal would likely be done in no time, and the Phillies could have a big advantage in the league with Chisholm added to the roster.
#3. Cody Bellinger, Chicago Cubs
Cody Bellinger might be on the injured list right because of his middle finger fracture, but he's also a known prospect for a trade to the Phillies. He's hit nine homers and slashed .269 with a .742 OPS.
However, Bellinger has two years more remaining on his contract, with a price for 2025 set at $27.5 million and for 2026 at $25 million.
#4. Jake McCarthy, Arizona Diamondbacks
Philadelphia is reportedly exploring Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Jake McCarthy emerging as a potential target, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale. This isn't McCarthy's first experience with trade rumors, earlier this season, he was a potential piece in a deal between the Chicago White Sox and Diamondbacks.
McCarthy, drafted by Arizona in the first round of the 2018 MLB draft, finished a strong fourth in Rookie of the Year voting in 2022. With teammate Alek Thomas sidelined on the injured list, McCarthy has been a consistent starter for the Diamondbacks this season, batting .268 with nine stolen bases.
#5. Jacob Young, Washington Nationals
The Philadelphia Phillies (61-33), currently leading the National League East, are reportedly exploring a trade for Washington Nationals outfielder Jacob Young. This move addresses a perceived weakness in center field, with Young boasting a stellar defensive reputation and impressive speed with 20 stolen bases so far this season.
However, any potential trade presents a calculated risk. Young still lacks experience, and it might prove to be a bit hasty for the Phillies if he isn't able to figure out his true potential in the long run.