The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to be active buyers before the MLB trade deadline, with the club looking to strengthen multiple areas of the roster as it pushes toward a postseason berth.
Adding a right-handed bat remains the organization’s top priority, particularly in the outfield. The need became more urgent after Adolis García suffered a season-ending injury, leaving Gabriel Rincones Jr. and Derek Hill to handle larger roles in right field.
Philadelphia has also struggled to generate consistent production from its right-handed hitters against left-handed pitching, increasing pressure on president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski to find offensive help.
However, lineup upgrades are not the only focus. According to ESPN insider Buster Olney, the Phillies are also exploring ways to improve their pitching staff and could have interest in Boston Red Sox reliever Garrett Whitlock if Boston decides to become a seller before the deadline.
The Red Sox entered July 4 with a 38-48 record, sitting well behind the division-leading Tampa Bay Rays and facing an uphill battle in the American League Wild Card race. While Boston has not yet committed to selling, a continued slide in the standings could make several veterans available on the trade market.
Whitlock would provide Philadelphia with a significant boost in the bullpen. Beyond Orion Kerkering, the Phillies have lacked consistent late-inning options, especially with Brad Keller sidelined by injury and José Alvarado struggling to find consistency.
Whitlock has emerged as one of Boston’s most reliable relievers this season, posting a 2.57 ERA with 32 strikeouts and just six walks across 28 innings in 29 appearances.
His strong underlying numbers, including a 2.86 FIP and 159 ERA+, further highlight his effectiveness and make him an appealing target for a contender seeking bullpen stability.
Boston could also have another intriguing option for Philadelphia in closer Aroldis Chapman. If made available, Chapman would fill the Phillies’ need for a left-handed high-leverage reliever and could form a formidable late-game tandem with closer Jhoan Durán.
While Philadelphia may still prioritize adding rotation depth due to the struggles of Aaron Nola and Andrew Painter, strengthening the bullpen remains an important objective.
With the fifth spot in the rotation often turning into bullpen games, adding reliable relief arms such as Whitlock could prove critical as the Phillies look to solidify their playoff chances and prepare for a deep October run.
