5. Adam Duvall
Arguably the best outfielder left on the free-agent market is Adam Duvall. A champion with the Atlanta Braves in 2021, Duvall is coming off of a down 2022 season — in which he hit .213 with a .677 OPS and just 12 home runs in 86 games. Considering he is now 34, Duvall may be experiencing a natural career decline.
On the other hand, the 2021 season was arguably his best as a professional baseball player. Duvall won a Gold Glove Award and hit 38 home runs with a .772 OPS in 146 games between both the Braves and Miami Marlins.
Adam Duvall with the exclamation point.
— Bally Sports: Braves (@BravesOnBally) July 16, 2022
456-foot homer for the @Braves outfielder. pic.twitter.com/iZ9nWA8nlE
Not only is Duvall’s right-handed power bat valuable, but so is his defense. Duvall played all three outfield positions this past season. That versatility would make him a key part of manager Rob Thomson’s 2023 Phillies outfield.
Before Bryce Harper returns from injury, Duvall can spell Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber in the field and then even be the designated hitter a couple of times a week himself. Once Harper gets back, Duvall’s ability to play all three spots will keep him in the rotation as the season progresses.
Lastly, Duvall is a World Series champion. He knows what it takes to win it all and can be an option for the Phillies in the postseason if a young player — such as Brandon Marsh — was to struggle.
The longer Duvall stays on the market, the cheaper he will be. Dave Dombrowski should jump at the opportunity if that comes to fruition.