5 Phillies bullpen trade candidates from clubs already falling out of contention
By Matt Grazel
The Philadelphia Phillies will be buyers at this year's trade deadline on July 30, although it might still be too early to gauge exactly what additions president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski and the front office will target at the deadline. There could be plenty of options on the market (subscription required), according to Jim Bowden of The Athletic.
A 44-19 record gives the impression that things are fine with the roster as currently constructed. That is true for the most part. Philly has dodged multiple long-term injuries to any of its key players, aside from Trea Turner's hamstring strain, and will hope that remains the case as the trade deadline nears. One or multiple long-term ailments to any of their core players will alter their strategy to look for upgrades/replacements to keep their World Series hopes alive in 2024.
Many players who could be traded at the deadline could find the current atmosphere at Citizens Bank Park appealing. The Phillies fan base has been one of the best for players to be a part of over the last couple of seasons. The organization finished fourth in attendance last year and is currently second this season, averaging 39,619 fans per game.
5 Phillies bullpen trade candidates from clubs already falling out of contention
As of now, one area that could need an upgrade is the bullpen, as ESPN's Jeff Passan mentioned in his early 2024 trade deadline preview this week.
Manager Rob Thomson has opted to go with a closer-by-committee approach. While it may be prudent to go this route throughout a 162-game schedule, the argument can be made to designate pitchers for certain roles in the postseason. Even with a committee approach, adding another stud arm for the playoffs wouldn't be a bad thing.
Here are five closers who could already be on the Phillies' trade deadline wish list.