The Philadelphia Phillies rumored trade talks have been brought up. Jim Bowden, former general manager for the Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals, made an interesting comment about the Phillies. On June 2, during an appearance on MLB Network Radio, Bowden mentioned that sources have indicated to him that the Phillies trade deadline priority is acquiring an outfielder. Additionally, Bowden stated the Phillies have not been inquiring about relief pitchers so far. Bowden said that he received this information from three general managers. Furthermore, it is somewhat surprising to see an upgrade in the outfield be mentioned as a top trade deadline priority.
Phillies Rumored Trade Talks
Among the various position groups, the Phillies’ bullpen is in dire need of a trade deadline acquisition. This season, the bullpen has maintained a 3.64 ERA and recorded 17 saves in 25 opportunities. However, opposing teams have managed a .213 batting average against Phillies relief pitchers. In contrast, the starting pitchers have excelled with a 2.74 ERA, the best in baseball. They have even achieved two complete game shutouts. Opposing teams have a .209 batting average against Phillies starting pitchers. The team’s current use of a closer-by-committee system highlights the need for a trade that could bolster the bullpen.
Centerfield Situation
The remarks by Bowden seemingly indicate how the Phillies feel about Johan Rojas. At the same time, the team has been very patient with Rojas, which seems to be changing. After the early season struggles, Rojas started to show improvement on the plate. However, this has begun to change. Overall, in 50 games this season, Rojas has a score of .225/.266/.294 line with two home runs and 18 RBI, along with 13 stolen bases. Defensively, Rojas has a .980 fielding percentage in center field this season. Heading into a June 2 game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Rojas had a 60 OPS+ for the season and -4 Defensive Runs Saved in center field for the season.
In 74 plate appearances from April 4 to April 30, Rojas had a .279/.329/.397 line with one home run and six RBI. During that span, Rojas also had a 108 wRC+ and a .321 wOBA. Rojas had a 6.8% walk rate and a 12.2% strikeout rate during that span. During a 74-plate appearance span from May 2 to May 31, Rojas had a .214/.236/.257 line with one home run and 11 RBI. In that stretch, Rojas also had a 40 wRC+ and a .222 wOBA. Across those plate appearances, Rojas had a 1.4% walk rate and a 20.3% strikeout rate. Rojas saw a declining OPS from the April stretch to the May stretch, a decreasing walk rate, and an increasing strikeout rate.
What Might Happen Next
If the Phillies trade for an outfielder, it is for one of two reasons. The Phillies will likely trade for an outfielder because they are not satisfied with the offensive production coming from Rojas. Another reason could be insurance behind Nick Castellanos, who has struggled at times. Though Castellanos has been hit or miss at the plate, that scenario seems highly unlikely. This trade should not impact Brandon Marsh, a regular starter in the Phillies outfield. If a trade is made, Marsh may return to starting in center field instead of his current position in left field.
If Bowden’s prediction about the Phillies’ plan to trade for an outfielder proves correct, Johan Rojas may likely be optioned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley. In terms of potential trade candidates, Tyler O’Neill and Lane Thomas, both on expiring contracts, could be good fits. Both players have a decent amount of experience at all three outfield positions. O’Neill, a two-time Gold Glove Award winner, has 24 Defensive Runs Saved in his career. Both players also have an above-average career OPS+. Thomas has a 106 OPS+ during his career, while O’Neill has a 114 OPS+.
Main Photo Credits: Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports
