The Philadelphia Phillies are heading into what could be a franchise-altering offseason, and early signs point to significant roster changes ahead. ESPN SportsCenter anchor Kevin Negandhi summed it up best on social media.
“I think this is the end of an era. I would anticipate some major changes ahead for the Phillies.”
The organization isn’t just tinkering around the edges this winter. They’re exploring major moves, including potentially trading Alec Bohm to upgrade their infield defense.
Here’s how the roster math works out for Philadelphia. Bryce Harper isn’t going anywhere, Nick Castellanos can’t be moved with that contract, and Trea Turner isn’t the issue. That leaves third base as their most realistic upgrade path.
CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa sees exactly that scenario playing out:
“The Phillies seem determined to shake up their offense this offseason but they have only so many movable parts… Third base is one position they could easily make a move, and I boldly predict that move involves shipping Alec Bohm elsewhere and bringing in a heavily subsidized Nolan Arenado to take over at the hot corner.”
Rotation Questions
The pitching staff could look different too. Ranger Suarez has been a reliable contributor for years, but the Phillies seem ready to let him walk in free agency.
What makes this interesting is the timing. Zack Wheeler is recovering from thoracic outlet syndrome surgery and might not be ready for Opening Day. You’d think that would make keeping Suarez a priority.
Not so much. According to CBS Sports’ RJ Anderson:
“The Phillies aren’t expected to re-sign free-agent left-hander Ranger Suárez, and they’re likely to be without ace Zack Wheeler, recovering from surgery to correct his thoracic outlet syndrome, at the onset of next season. Yet that doesn’t mean the Phillies are in the market for another starter.”
That tells you something about Philadelphia’s priorities this winter.
Different Direction
Instead of focusing on pitching depth, the Phillies seem more interested in bigger offensive moves. They’re reportedly interested in Kyle Tucker and bringing back Kyle Schwarber.
It’s a calculated risk. The organization clearly believes their current pitching depth can handle Wheeler’s absence and Suarez’s departure. They’d rather allocate resources toward position player upgrades.
For Suarez, it’s the business side of baseball playing out in real time. After years of solid production, he’s looking at a new uniform next season.
The Phillies have multiple paths forward this winter, but one thing seems certain – they’re not standing pat after falling short of their championship goals.
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