Phillies Eye World Series Run with Key Moves at MLB Trade Deadline
The Philadelphia Phillies are in a prime position to make a World Series push, and the upcoming MLB trade deadline could be the key to unlocking their championship aspirations.
Under Dave Dombrowski’s leadership as president of baseball operations, the Phillies have consistently improved, posting better win totals each season. However, their postseason success has not matched their regular-season achievements, with the team still in search of its first World Series title in recent years.
The Phillies made it to the World Series in 2022 but were defeated by the Houston Astros. Since then, their playoff runs have been shorter: in 2023, they blew a 3-2 lead in the NLCS against the Arizona Diamondbacks, and last year, after winning the NL East, they were eliminated in the NLDS by the New York Mets.
Now, as they’re on track for another 90-plus win season, the Phillies are once again considered one of the top teams in baseball. But the big question remains: will they finally break through in the postseason?
Chad Jennings of The Athletic (subscription required) views this as a make-or-break year for the Phillies. “This is a championship-or-bust era for the Phillies. They’ve been very good, but they’re still missing a ring. Is this the year it changes? And how aggressive will they be at the deadline in pursuit of a championship?” he asked.
Upgrading the bullpen is currently the team’s top priority. With Jordan Romano struggling and Jose Alvarado ineligible for postseason play, adding one or two experienced relief pitchers with high-leverage experience could provide the necessary boost. The focus will be on how aggressively the Phillies pursue bullpen reinforcements.
Dombrowski has never hesitated to make bold moves when the situation calls for it. The real question is whether he’s willing to part with top prospects, like Aidan Miller, to acquire a game-changing closer such as Emmanuel Clase from the Cleveland Guardians or Felix Bautista from the Baltimore Orioles.
This could also be the final year the current core of players stays intact. Key contributors like designated hitter Kyle Schwarber, catcher J.T. Realmuto, and starting pitcher Ranger Suarez are all set to become free agents. Dombrowski is expected to go all-in to make the most of this season before potential roster changes this winter.
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