After the departures of Harrison Bader and Nick Castellanos, the Philadelphia Phillies are left with one of the less imposing outfields in Major League Baseball. While players like Adolis García and Brandon Marsh remain in the mix, the group still lacks the overall impact needed to elevate the unit among the league’s best.
According to Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report, a potential fix could come via trade with the Minnesota Twins. He suggests the Phillies pursue star center fielder Byron Buxton, who previously shared the field with Bryce Harper at the World Baseball Classic. Buxton would not only add power to Philadelphia’s lineup but also bring elite defensive ability to center field.
The proposed deal would send Buxton to Philadelphia, while Minnesota would receive a package of prospects: outfielder Justin Crawford (ranked No. 53 overall), right-handed pitcher Gage Wood (the Phillies’ No. 4 prospect), and second baseman Aroon Escobar (the organization’s No. 6 prospect).
Rymer argues the move would address Philadelphia’s long-standing struggles in center field while also strengthening their chances of overcoming the Los Angeles Dodgers in pursuit of another World Series appearance. Although durability has occasionally been an issue for Buxton, he is coming off an outstanding season that featured a 136 OPS+, 35 home runs, and 24 stolen bases. With the center fielder under contract through 2028 at roughly $15.1 million per season, Rymer believes the price would justify a significant trade package—though Philadelphia would still keep top prospects Aidan Miller and Andrew Painter.
In the most recent season, Buxton posted a .264/.327/.551 slash line with 21 doubles, 35 home runs, and 83 RBIs across 126 games. His power would provide a major boost to the Phillies’ offense, while his elite glove—highlighted by a Platinum Glove Award—would significantly strengthen their defense in center field.
Additionally, Buxton’s team-friendly contract could appeal to Philadelphia as the club continues to spend heavily on its roster, including major investments in sluggers like Kyle Schwarber. There is even speculation that Harper could try to recruit Buxton during the World Baseball Classic, potentially encouraging the Twins to engage in trade discussions with the Phillies. ⚾
