OF Randy Arozarena and RHP Pete Fairbanks, Tampa Bay Rays
Randy Arozarena had been most well-known for his monster performance in the 2020 MLB playoffs when he joined the Rays for the stretch run that season. There’s no doubt he'll be hungry to have the chance to compete in the postseason once again with a club like the Phillies.
The former All-Star and AL Rookie of the Year has the ability to produce 20+ home runs, 80+ RBI and 25+ stolen bases per season. In addition, Arozarena can provide more than adequate defense as a corner outfielder, with a career .992 fielding percentage and 23 outfield assists across 499 games.
For Fairbanks, he has been a mainstay in the Rays’ closer role. He started 2024 slowly but has since reverted to his usual dominant self. In 34 appearances, Fairbanks has a 2-3 record, 17 saves, a 3.21 ERA and 1.25 WHIP with 32 strikeouts in 33 2/3 innings. His effectiveness involves offering an even mix of his four-seam fastball and slider. Giving hitters a different look could pay off in the long run if Fairbanks is needed more frequently.
Given that Arozarena and Fairbanks match closest to the profile of the Nationals’ duo of Thomas and Finnegan, the trade package that the Phillies need to offer up should reflect in a similar fashion. To complete the deal, the Phillies will likely need to include Abel and perhaps one of Caba/Rincones and/or catching prospect Eduardo Tait, as the Rays lack quality catching depth in their organization.