The Philadelphia Phillies entered the MLB trade deadline looking to strengthen several areas, with a right-handed hitting outfielder viewed as one of their biggest priorities.
After Adolis García suffered an injury, Philadelphia turned to Derek Hill, who provided a strong spark and valuable depth. However, the club was still expected to search for a more permanent solution.
That search may already be over. According to MLB.com’s Todd Zolecki, interim manager Don Mattingly appears ready to give Bryan De La Cruz an extended opportunity as the Phillies’ starting right fielder following his impressive start with the team.
Mattingly suggested De La Cruz has earned the chance, noting that his offensive production and reliable defense make him a worthwhile option.
Although De La Cruz has appeared in only five games, he has made an immediate impact.
Entering Wednesday’s matchup against the Miami Marlins, he had collected eight hits in 11 at-bats, along with a double, a home run, an RBI, a walk, and two strikeouts while posting an eye-catching .727 batting average and 1.841 OPS.
While no one expects that level of production to continue over a full season, the Phillies have little reason to remove him from the lineup while he’s swinging a hot bat.
His early performance has already produced 0.4 bWAR, surpassing what he accumulated over the previous 433 games of his major league career since 2022.
Among Phillies players, that mark already ranks him among the team’s most productive contributors this season, ahead of several established names.
Though it’s too early to declare De La Cruz the long-term answer in right field, he has certainly done enough to earn an extended audition through the August 3 trade deadline and possibly beyond.
