The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to be active buyers ahead of the August 3 trade deadline, and their need for bullpen reinforcements has only grown more urgent in recent weeks.
While All-Star closer Jhoan Duran has anchored the back end of the bullpen, Philadelphia’s relief corps has struggled with consistency.
The loss of Brad Keller to what is expected to be a season-ending injury has further increased the pressure on the front office to find additional late-inning help.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, one reliever high on the Phillies’ wishlist is New York Mets standout Luke Weaver.
Nightengale reported that Philadelphia would “love” to acquire the veteran right-hander, though completing such a deal could prove challenging because of the significant acquisition cost involved.
Weaver has been one of the National League’s most effective relievers this season, posting a 2.03 ERA with 43 strikeouts over 40 innings while providing reliable high-leverage innings for the Mets.
His strong performance, combined with team control through the 2027 season under a two-year, $22 million contract, has greatly increased his trade value.
That contract status is also a major obstacle for Philadelphia. Not only would the Phillies have to negotiate with a division rival, but they would likely need to surrender a substantial prospect package to convince New York to part with one of its most valuable bullpen arms.
Because of those challenges, Philadelphia may ultimately turn its attention to more attainable targets.
Mets left-handers A.J. Minter and Brooks Raley have also been linked to the Phillies and would likely come at a lower cost since both are approaching free agency.
Although Weaver appears to be Philadelphia’s preferred bullpen target, the combination of his value, contract status, and the rivalry between the two clubs could make a blockbuster deal difficult to complete before the deadline.
