A new report has offered up some notable updates on potential Philadelphia Phillies trade chatter and who might be targets to replace Harrison Bader in 2026.
For the second straight year, Philadelphia one close to 100 games and took home another NL East title. Unfortunately, for a second straight season, they saw their campaign end in just four NLDS games, this time to the eventual champion Dodgers. It means another offseason looking to tinker with a strong roster to bring the franchise its third title.
One thing they must do this offseason is bring a bit more balance to the lineup with a right-handed impact bat. Since the options in free agency are weak, it likely means Philly would need to address the issue on the trade market, according to The Athletic’s Matt Gelb. Two potential options could be Diamondbacks All-Star Ketel Marte or Twins veteran Byron Buxton.
The Phillies insider claims, “any reasonable package would have to begin with Andrew Painter plus several other prospects.” However, he adds, “It’s a price the Phillies are probably not willing to pay at this point.” If the team does make a trade, Gelb reports they are telling rival clubs that talent from their big-league roster being placed in trades is their preference, so they don’t further weaken their farm system.
Who could replace Harrison Bader?
One of the big bright spots this past season was the emergence of veteran outfielder Harrison Bader after he arrived in the second half in a trade from Minnesota. He delivered his trademark defense, but he also hit .305 in Philly during a season where he also slugged 17 homers and knocked in 54 runs.
That strong performance came just in time for a jump into free agency. It also means, according to Gelb, they will likely lose him on the open market. So who could fill that void for the Phillies next season?
“One name to file away: Astros center fielder Jake Meyers, a righty hitter, who might be squeezed out of Houston’s outfield plan,” Gelb reports. “Meyers, considered a strong defender, does not hit for power. But he could be a decent alternative to Harrison Bader — if he lands elsewhere. Houston is fielding calls on Meyers.”
Phillies are letting Ranger Suarez walk
After Kyle Schwarber, Ranger Suarez is another notable Phillies veteran hitting free agency this month. The one-time All-Star had, arguably, his best season yet in the big leagues. And, unsurprisingly, it means there will be many suitors for his services on the open market.
Don’t count the Phillies among them. According to Gelb, “No one has said it aloud, but the Phillies have made it clear they do not expect to be bidding on Ranger Suárez… As of now, they are not in the rotation market.”
Suarez won 12 games for a second straight season and pitched to a 3.20 ERA.
