The Philadelphia Phillies have blitzed their way to the best record in baseball. Now, they have to figure out how to better sustain their pace compared to the 2024 campaign.
After a red-hot first half, the 2024 Phillies played .500 baseball in the second half, ultimately hanging on to win the National League East but losing to the division rival New York Mets in the NLDS.
The Phillies love their roster and team chemistry, and last season, they didn’t mess with either much at the trade deadline. Outside of bullpen additions, their main trade acquisition was Austin Hays, who wasn’t getting that much playing time in a crowded Baltimore Orioles outfield.
The Hays addition didn’t work out due in large part to injury. But the outfield is once again a need, with center field standing out as an issue. Could the Phillies go right back to the well by trading with the Orioles?
In a recent YouTube video, Jim Riley of BALLCAP Sports predicted that the Phillies would trade for Orioles center fielder Cedric Mullins, a former All-Star and Silver Slugger who will be a free agent at the end of the year.
“To get through the National League side of the postseason bracket is going to be one hell of a gauntlet. Can’t be weak anywhere,” Riley said. “Philly is going to have to be aggressive. I like them to grab Mullins.”
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Mullins, 30, has a solid .226/.320/.446 slash line this season, with 10 home runs and 31 RBI. His defense hasn’t been quite up to his usual standard, so the advanced defensive metrics will be something to monitor if the Phillies are serious about acquiring him.
The Orioles are 18-34, so barring a miracle turnaround, Mullins should be available. But the Phillies will have to decide whether it’s worth rocking the boat to bring him in as the starter over Brandon Marsh.
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