The Philadelphia Phillies seemed ready to part ways with Alec Bohm, the 2024 All-Star, as part of their offseason overhaul. Financial constraints from hefty contracts limited their ability to make significant roster changes, making Bohm’s trade a potential solution to address other team needs. Additionally, Bohm’s rapport with teammates had reportedly soured, further fueling speculation about his departure. However, as Spring Training nears, Bohm remains on the roster with no clear signs of a move, although Phillies president Dave Dombrowski’s track record of last-minute trades keeps the door open for a potential deal.
Meanwhile, rumors regarding the Phillies’ interest in Nolan Arenado persist as the St. Louis Cardinals look to move the star third baseman. Arenado’s role with the Cardinals complicates their rebuilding process, prompting them to aggressively seek a trade partner. Cardinals president of baseball operations, John Mozeliak, has emphasized that trading Arenado remains the team’s top priority. Though St. Louis nearly traded him to the Houston Astros, Arenado invoked his no-trade clause, stalling the deal. The limited market for Arenado, compounded by factors like Alex Bregman’s free agency, leaves the Phillies as a viable option.
Reports suggest the Phillies have set a lofty asking price for Bohm, but trade talks involving Arenado and Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley remain in play. St. Louis’ willingness to include Helsley, a standout closer with no extension talks underway, could make the deal more appealing to the Phillies. Adding Arenado, a 10-time Gold Glove and five-time Silver Slugger winner, would bring valuable leadership to Philadelphia, while Helsley would bolster their bullpen with a reliable closer.
If the trade materializes, it would mark a dramatic shift for both teams. Bohm’s trade would provide long-term potential for the Cardinals, while the Phillies would gain championship-caliber experience with Arenado. Helsley would also strengthen an already formidable bullpen alongside players like Jordan Romano and Jose Alvarado. This move could position the Phillies as serious contenders for the 2025 season. For the Cardinals, trading Arenado and Helsley would help clear salary space and align with their rebuilding efforts.
While a trade is still uncertain, the growing urgency within the Cardinals makes a deal more likely. The chance to acquire a future Hall of Famer in Arenado and a top-tier closer in Helsley could be an opportunity the Phillies cannot resist. As the offseason continues, this potential trade could reshape both teams, with Philadelphia enhancing their championship hopes and St. Louis accelerating their rebuild.
