The Philadelphia Phillies entered the 2024 season with high hopes for a championship. They responded positively by winning the National League East for the first time since 2011. However, their playoff journey ended abruptly when they were eliminated by the New York Mets in the NLDS. As they look ahead to 2025, what changes might be on the horizon? President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski hinted at potential significant roster moves this winter as the team aims to compete for its first World Series title since 2008.
The Phillies have various options to revamp their roster. While free agency is always a possibility, it seems that trades are more likely at this point. There are rumors that All-Star third baseman Alec Bohm might be on the market. So, who could the Phillies potentially acquire in a trade? ESPN’s Dave Schoenfield suggested “one big move” for each MLB team this winter, proposing a three-team trade that would bring 2019 NL MVP Cody Bellinger to Philadelphia:
- Phillies receive: Outfielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger
- Seattle Mariners receive: Third baseman Alec Bohm and second baseman Nico Hoerner
- Chicago Cubs receive: Right-handed pitcher Luis Castillo and catcher Harry Ford
Schoenfield noted, “The Phillies get a desired upgrade in the outfield and can have Edmundo Sosa play third base until prospect Aidan Miller is ready, likely by 2026. Perhaps Chicago and Seattle could send some cash or a lesser prospect to Philadelphia to balance out the differences in Bellinger’s and Bohm’s salaries. Will this happen? Probably not. Is it fun? Yes!”
While this scenario may be unlikely, it highlights the creative strategies teams might explore to address perceived roster gaps. Bryce Harper is firmly established at first base, but Bellinger could step into center field at Citizens Bank Park, boosting the team’s offensive performance in that position without compromising defense. Additionally, the left-handed slugger brings considerable postseason experience from his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
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