Phillies Might Be Long-Shot Trade Spot for Red Sox Outfielder

The Philadelphia Phillies have decisions to make at first base and that could influence how they approach their outfield in 2024.

The Philadelphia Phillies have an interesting decision when it comes to Rhys Hoskins and it may influence how the team pursues potential outfield options this winter.

Why? Hoskins missed all season with a torn ACL and will be a free agent. Normally, the Phillies would be all-in on keeping him. But, the transition of Bryce Harper from outfield to first base — a necessity given his recovery from Tommy John surgery — could make Hoskins expendable, if the Phillies opt to keep Harper at first base.

So why does that impact the outfield? That’s where Harper played before the injury. Keeping him at first base may be better for his long-term health. Plus while Kyle Schwarber could play outfield, he may end up being Philly’s long-term designated hitter.

So, the Phillies could end up in need of an outfielder, either by free agency or trade, and an outfielder in Boston stands out as a potential fit, according to MLBTradeRumors.com.

Boston outfielder Alex Verdugo slashed .264/.324/.421/.745 with 13 home runs, 54 RBI and is a Gold Glove finalist in right field. He is also signed through 2024.

Several teams were interested in Verdugo at last year’s trade deadline, and the Red Sox may be interested in moving him as he has one year left on his contract and there’s a new chief baseball officer, Craig Breslow. He’s likely eager to put his own imprint on the organization, one trying to turn itself around in 2024.

MLB Trade Rumors wrote that the Phillies would be a long-shot candidate for a trade. Why? It’s not his defense, certainly. But as a left-handed bat, he might tip the lineup more left-handed heavy than the Phillies want.

But an outfield rotation with Verdugo, Brandon Marsh, Nick Castellanos, Johan Rojas and Cristian Pache would certainly give the Phillies stability next season — and wouldn’t tie the Phillies to Verdugo long-term.