The Philadelphia Phillies may have made their final significant transactions this winter, but it’s not too late to make a few more roster changes.
As the team considers its championship window, 2025 could be the final season to capitalize on veteran stars such as Bryce Harper and Zack Wheeler. This may necessitate the addition of one or two players to shore up any roster weaknesses. “The Philadelphia Phillies know their outfield could certainly use some upgrades,” said Drew VonScio for Newsweek. “The Phillies’ right field is locked up by Nick Castellanos, but left and center field are significant question marks. Max Kepler, Brandon Marsh, and Johan Rojas are competing for the final two berths.”
And if the Phils want
To add some protection to these outfield platoon battles, VonScio suggested they look into a guy who had signed a one-year deal with the New York Yankees. “Alex Verdugo hit.233 with the Yankees in 2024, with 13 home runs and 61 RBIs. He is predominantly a left fielder, and he would immediately be an upgrade over Kepler,” VonScio said. “His season in the Bronx didn’t necessarily go as planned, so he is looking to bounce back and gravitate more toward his numbers from 2023 (.264/.324/.461).”
Verdugo had a contentious tenure with the Yankees in 2024, serving as a high-energy clubhouse presence, but infuriating some fans because his job was perceived as standing in the way of a promotion for top prospect.
Jason Domínguez. As such, he may be a bounceback and change-of-scenery prospect for the Phillies, who already have a plethora of potential outfielders. However, investing in Verdugo until 2025 and beyond may be prohibitively expensive. However, depending on how you evaluate his potential, his anticipated deal may still be reasonable.
“Verdugo is expected to sign a four-year deal worth $60.8 million,” he said. “This works out to $15.2 million per year for the outfielder, who will turn 29 in May.” He would be a viable option for the Phillies to help them compete in the National League East.
As the team hopes to make a World Series run next season, it can’t afford to stand pat. If a reasonable option to improve the roster becomes available. Bringing Verdugo to Philadelphia may make sense based on how the front management sees him, considering his tough 2024 season and ability to improve.
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