The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to be active ahead of the MLB trade deadline as they search for a right-handed bat to strengthen their lineup.
While much of the attention has focused on upgrading the outfield alongside Brandon Marsh and improving their center-field situation, the club could ultimately look elsewhere for offensive help.
One proposed solution comes from Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer, who predicts Philadelphia could pursue a blockbuster trade for San Francisco Giants third baseman Matt Chapman.
The move would effectively provide the Phillies with a significant upgrade at third base over Alec Bohm while adding another proven power hitter to the heart of the lineup.
Rymer suggested that acquiring Chapman may not require a complicated negotiation if Philadelphia is willing to absorb the remainder of the veteran’s massive contract.
The four-time Gold Glove winner is currently signed to a deal worth $151 million, with roughly $100 million still owed over the next four seasons.
Chapman has certainly played well enough to justify interest. The veteran third baseman has been one of San Francisco’s most productive hitters recently, posting a .281 batting average, a .981 OPS, six home runs, and 23 RBIs during June.
His right-handed power and elite defense would address multiple needs for the Phillies.
However, there are significant concerns surrounding the potential deal. Philadelphia already has substantial long-term financial commitments tied to stars like Trea Turner and Kyle Schwarber, making another $25 million-per-year obligation difficult to justify.
While Chapman would represent a clear upgrade over Bohm, the combination of trade assets and financial responsibility could make the acquisition too costly.
As appealing as the idea may be, taking on the remainder of Chapman’s contract would be a major gamble that may outweigh the potential benefits.
