The Philadelphia Phillies have faced plenty of challenges throughout the season, but they are starting to regain the form that has established them as one of the National League’s premier teams in recent years.
One of their biggest obstacles has been generating offense, with the team often struggling to consistently put runs on the board.
“The offense the Phillies have been trotting out this season has been putrid at worst, average at best. You know this is something that can be state with almost factual intent when people get excited about the team scoring six runs on Wednesday. There have been a few spurts here and there of competence,” The Good Phight’s Ethan Witte wrote.
Philadelphia suffered another major blow when right fielder Adolis Garcia tore his lat, removing a middle-of-the-order power bat from the lineup.
“The Phillies announced that they have placed outfielder Adolis García on the 60-day injured list with a torn right lat. They recalled outfielder Gabriel Rincones Jr. from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to take his active roster spot,” MLB Trade Rumors’ Anthony Franco wrote.
Now, the Phillies are expected to aggressively pursue a power bat to replace Garcia at the trade deadline. While several intriguing options could become available, one of the best fits may be Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki.
“The Philadelphia Phillies have had a major need for a right-handed bat to protect players like Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper in the middle of the lineup this season, which only became magnified when right-fielder Adolis García was put on the 60-day injured list with a torn lat. Suzuki, 31, is hitting .255 with 10 homers, 28 RBI, 31 runs and a .772 OPS. That’s also a bit of a down year for him,” Bleacher Report’s Timothy Rapp wrote.
Landing Suzuki would be a significant addition for Philadelphia. He brings both a powerful bat and a strong throwing arm, making him an ideal replacement for Garcia while strengthening the middle of the Phillies’ lineup.
Suzuki would likely be a rental acquisition, as he is in the final year of his $85 million contract with the Cubs. His right-handed bat would provide protection for Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber in the heart of the order. If Chicago decides to become a seller at the trade deadline, Suzuki could be one of the Phillies’ top trade targets.
