The Philadelphia Phillies dropped their series opener to the Chicago White Sox on Monday, just days ahead of the trade deadline, underscoring the urgency to make impactful moves to improve their roster.
With the bullpen having struggled, especially with the loss of Jose Alvarado for the playoffs due to suspension, the Phillies are likely to target a high-leverage reliever. However, an offensive boost could also be in order, particularly in the outfield, where Johan Rojas, Brandon Marsh, and Max Kepler have had difficulty at the plate.
“As the market starts to take shape, the lack of righty-hitting outfielders is jarring,” Matt Gelb wrote for The Athletic. “Desperation could lead to unconventional solutions.”
If the Phillies are unable to replace a current outfielder with a meaningful upgrade before the deadline, Gelb suggested the team could move designated hitter Kyle Schwarber into a corner spot. Schwarber played left field against the New York Yankees on Sunday but has not maintained a regular defensive position for the last two years.
When asked if moving Schwarber to left field for the final months of this season would be something he’s comfortable doing, Phillies manager Rob Thomson offered a clear two-word response.
“Oh, very,” Thomson replied, per Gelb.
“I mean, we did that in ’22,” the manager added, referencing the Phillies’ run to the World Series three years ago, per Gelb. “It worked out pretty well, and I think he’s moving better now than he did back then.”
Schwarber has been the Phillies’ most reliable power hitter this season, with 36 home runs and 84 RBIs. Any attempt to alter his offensive production would be risky. However, if Schwarber can help address the Phillies’ offensive struggles by returning to a more regular defensive role, it might be the best option the team has for their outfield heading into the trade deadline.
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