Joc Pederson, OF
With the Phillies still left with the uncertainty of whether or not they should give both Brandon Marsh and Johan Rojas a full workload for the 2024 season, it would be wise for the team to keep their options open on the free agent front to see if there could be a potential outfield upgrade. One of the prominent remaining free agent outfielders available includes two-time All-Star Joc Pederson.
Known to be a low-average, but potent power hitter over much of his MLB career, Pederson would be an ideal target for the Phillies if they were mainly looking for a boost in offensive output from their outfield. After all, Pederson would be good for 25 to 30 home runs and 60 to 70 RBI. Entering his age-32 season in 2024, he should be able to maintain that production at least for a couple more years.
However, Pederson represents a huge liability on the defensive side of the ball, registering a miserable -20 DRS combined over the past two seasons, along with committing five errors in just 179 chances for a .961 fielding percentage.
With the Phillies focus on improving their outfield defense this past season by taking Kyle Schwarber out of the field and putting him into a DH role, the last thing they need is to add another defensively deficient player into their outfield mix.
Add the fact that with a lifetime batting average of just .237, if Pederson ends up struggling at the plate as well, he would be a disastrous addition who would set the Phillies back. They should steer clear of him at all costs.