Opinion: Phillies Should Target Mets Fire Sale to Bolster Bullpen
AI-generated image · US National Wire
A Sports Illustrated column argues that with the New York Mets reportedly open for business, Philadelphia should address pitching needs ahead of the trade deadline.
The Philadelphia Phillies should aggressively upgrade their roster as they chase the Atlanta Braves in the NL East, and as Sports Illustrated argues, their division rivals, the New York Mets, should be a primary target for trades.
According to reporting from SNY's Chelsea Janes, a rival executive indicated that the Mets have informed their team that a "sale is on." While young stars Juan Soto, Carson Benge, AJ Ewing, Christian Scott, and Nolan McLean are reportedly off the table, the Mets are expected to listen to offers on nearly everyone else.
For Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski, the Mets would offer a wealth of pitching options to support All-Star closer Jhoan Duran and interim manager Don Mattingly. The column notes that the Phillies are in desperate need of left-handed relief after struggles from Tanner Banks and Jose Alvarado, making Brooks Raley a key target. Other potential candidates include Huascar Brazoban, A.J. Minter, and Luke Weaver, though Weaver's contract for next season may complicate a deal.
Additionally, the Phillies could target Freddy Peralta, who is set to become a free agent after the season. These moves come as Philadelphia deals with the loss of Brad Keller, who is sidelined for the remainder of the year due to a UCL injury. While the Phillies may face a higher price tag for trading with a division rival, the move would be worthwhile for a team that currently is relying on Jonathan Bowlan and Orion Kerkering in the bullpen.