Three New Outfield Trade Targets Emerge

MLB insider Jim Bowden has identified three outfielders the Philadelphia Phillies are considering as the trade deadline approaches. The Phillies’ strategy leading up to July 30 remains uncertain. They might go for a major deal involving top prospects or opt for less risky trades to boost depth while retaining their young talent.

Previously, the Phillies were rumored to be targeting Luis Robert Jr. from the Chicago White Sox, which would require trading top prospects like Aidan Miller. Now, new targets have emerged: Jake McCarthy from the Arizona Diamondbacks, Cedric Mullins from the Baltimore Orioles, and Jacob Young from the Washington Nationals.

Bowden stated the Phillies are seeking a long-term center fielder and a right-handed platoon partner for Brandon Marsh. McCarthy, with a .278/.365/.387 slash line and .752 OPS in 82 games, could be a good fit. He has four years of arbitration remaining, providing long-term value. McCarthy has experience in all outfield positions, making him a versatile option.

According to Jim Bowden, the Phillies have talked about the following players:

Jake McCarthy, Diamondbacks
Jacob Young, Nationals
Cedric Mullins, Orioles pic.twitter.com/60yj2f1dNK

— Phillies Tailgate (@PhilsTailgate) July 18, 2024

Jacob Young, a right-handed hitter, has a .257/.320/.319 slash line and .639 OPS in 88 games this year. Despite being only in his second MLB season, Young has shown promise. His experience is mostly in center field, but he has played in left and right during his minor league career. Young has two years of pre-arbitration left, offering the Phillies potential cost-effective value.

Cedric Mullins, known for his strong defense in center field, has seen a decline in his offensive numbers since his standout 2021 season. This year, he has a .215/.258/.380 line and .638 OPS in 89 games. Mullins has one year of arbitration left before free agency in 2026.

Given McCarthy and Young’s club control, the Phillies might acquire them without trading top prospects, unlike what might be needed for Mullins. The Phillies’ current outfield depth has been lacking, with players like Cristian Pache, Nick Castellanos, and Johan Rojas underperforming.

Overall, acquiring a reliable two-way outfielder could significantly benefit the Phillies without sacrificing their best prospects.