The Philadelphia Phillies have been playing much better recently and are closing in on a return to the .500 mark, though there is still work to do and several areas that need improvement.
After a rough 9–19 start to the season, the club has bounced back strongly and, following the managerial change from Rob Thomson, has looked far more like the contender many expected.
A key reason for the turnaround has been improved pitching, especially with ace Zack Wheeler returning to form, helping stabilize a rotation that has been inconsistent at times but remains a strength on paper.
Offensively, the team has also shown progress, but concerns remain—particularly at third base. Alec Bohm recently had a strong game against the Colorado Rockies, but his overall production this season has been disappointing, raising doubts about his long-term role.
Because of that inconsistency, the Phillies could still explore external upgrades at third base, with Josh Jung of the Texas Rangers emerging as a potential target.
Jung has been impressive in 2026, hitting .322 with solid power numbers and providing steady production from the right side of the plate.
After a breakout 2023 and a down couple of seasons in 2024 and 2025, Jung appears to have rebounded strongly and could offer both immediate help and long-term stability at third base.
With Bohm struggling and set to reach free agency after the season, Philadelphia may soon need a replacement, and Jung—still under team control for multiple years—could fit that role.
