Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Phillies are exploring trade options following the conclusion of the Winter Meetings. Despite not being heavily involved in free-agent signings, they remain open to changes. Agent Scott Boras commented, “The fact that they’re not in the pool doesn’t mean that they don’t have their swimming trunks on.”

Earlier this week, the Phillies signed right-hander Jordan Romano to a one-year deal worth $8.5 million. Dave Dombrowski, president of baseball operations, expressed satisfaction with the team's bullpen and offensive capabilities from 2024 but acknowledged room for improvement.

Dombrowski emphasized a cautious approach to trades: “You always weigh those things,” he said regarding potential deals involving top prospects like Aidan Miller and Andrew Painter. The Phillies previously pursued Garrett Crochet but did not meet the White Sox's demands.

Rumors link the team to Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker and Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado. However, Dombrowski noted no urgency in making moves: “We just didn’t feel comfortable... We don’t have to force anything.”

Key areas for improvement include outfield positions and possibly adding a late-inning reliever or a No. 5 starter before Painter is ready. Despite nearing the luxury tax threshold at $301 million, Dombrowski stated it wouldn't deter future transactions.

On Bryce Harper's contract extension talks, Boras mentioned ongoing discussions with team management: “There is no question that those dynamics are being discussed.”

In other developments, Eiberson Castellano was selected by the Twins during the Rule 5 Draft while Mike Vasil was picked by Philadelphia but may be traded for cash considerations.

Dombrowski concluded with a strategic outlook: “You’d trade anybody at a particular time... I don’t know that the timing was right for us to give up that type of quality and quantity of players.”