The Philadelphia Phillies have a few needs to address when the trade deadline comes around. They have needs at third base and center field, but could also use some bullpen help.
They came into Wednesday’s doubleheader with the St. Louis Cardinals with a 24-17 record and in control of the second National League Wild Card spot.
Their bullpen is an area of concern, even with the team playing well, but there are options that will be available.
If the Cardinals sell at the trade deadline, Philadelphia could target a reliever or two from St. Louis. Russel Steinberg of Clutch Points proposed the idea of Philadelphia targeting left-hander Steven Matz.
“Matz will be a free agent at the end of the season, making him an affordable rental,” Steinberg noted. “Meanwhile the Cardinals have a stable of solid relievers they could look to move — if they decide they’re sellers.”
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Matz is 2-0 with a 1.35 ERA in 11 appearances, two of which were starts. He has settled into a swingman role for St. Louis.
The left-hander was signed to a four-year, $44 million contract prior to 2022. Injuries have been an issue for him, but he has remained healthy thus far.
Thanks to his days with the New York Mets, Matz is familiar with the NL East, and he could significantly boost the Phillies pitching staff, as he can serve in multiple key roles.
The Cardinals have won nine consecutive games, however, so they may end up buying instead of selling. But if they fall out of contention, the Phillies could easily target one of their relief arms to bolster their bullpen.
If they remain in contention, the Phillies will have to look elsewhere.
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