The Philadelphia Phillies always seem to approach the annual trade deadline at a critical organizational crossroads, with potentially monumental decisions still to be made ahead of Monday's 6 pm deadline. This club has grown stale, yet again, and a major makeover could be on the horizon. Per Jeff Passan of ESPN, the Phillies have reportedly been in contact with the Los Angeles Angels regarding shortstop Zach Neto. It would be a massive move, and it could provide some youth and additional pop to the lineup. It could also possibly solve the dark cloud surrounding third baseman Alec Bohm.
The Phillies have tried to shop Bohm in the past, so they could revisit trade talks again before next week if they crowd their infield with Neto. He's currently playing for a contract next season, but that motivation has failed to find him in 2026, and he has been an anchor on this Phillies lineup with a .653 OPS. The Phillies needed an upgrade at the hot corner all offseason, but could never pull the trigger on a shake-up (and Aidan Miller's back injury threw a wrench in things from the start). A deal to bring Neto to Philadelphia could force the issue. Neto could get inserted into the infield and give the boost it needs to go on a run in the last few months of the season.
Phillies-Angels Zach Neto possible trade could have rippling Alec Bohm effect
Passan said the Phillies could go all-in at the deadline, and their connection to Neto gives them something to think about for the infield. There have been talks among Phillies fans about the severe decline of Trea Turner's defense, and what type of change in position, if any, could help him this season or in the offseason. Adding Neto would technically have the Phillies fielding three shortstops across the diamond in Neto, Turner, and Bryson Stott. However that would get worked out, Bohm should still be the odd man out. They would most likely have to trade him separately, but it would be worth just cutting ties.
Bohm has not come close to replicating his lone All-Star appearance in 2024. Among 19 qualified third basemen, Bohm's .653 OPS ranks 17th this season. His defense somewhat passes the eye test but doesn't grade out well, with -7 outs above average, fourth worst among third basemen in MLB. Bohm was initially thought to be a cornerstone of the franchise, but as the years have gone on, Phillies fans have been struck by the sense that the ceiling just isn't high enough. As a result, they have been just counting the days until he walks in free agency. The trade deadline would be the perfect time to get him out to bring in a younger and more promising star like Neto.
Passan also mentioned that Neto could end up being the biggest name moved at the deadline. The Phillies need more than just another bat, but pulling off potentially the biggest chip at the deadline is a win in its own right. Bohm may be the fall guy, but this would give the hot corner the production it's been missing for quite some time.
Add us as a preferred source on Google