The Philadelphia Phillies pulled off a dramatic walk-off victory on Monday, thanks to an extra-innings catcher’s interference call by the Boston Red Sox.
This win allowed the Phillies to maintain their slim lead in the National League East. However, if they want to keep that top spot, they’ll likely need some reinforcements before the trade deadline.
Despite already adding veteran reliever David Robertson to the bullpen, the Phillies are expected to prioritize further bullpen upgrades. Additionally, given the recent injury to third baseman Alec Bohm, there may be a push for offensive improvements, particularly to strengthen the lower part of their lineup.
“Phillies third baseman Alec Bohm has a fractured left rib and was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday,” according to The Associated Press. “Bohm is hitting .278 with eight home runs and 42 RBI in 92 games this season.”
After an All-Star breakout gave way to a brutal slump and a benching in the playoffs last year, Bohm has been the center of trade speculation for the Phillies. And now that he’s been ruled out for a crucial stretch of the season, fans might expect that speculation to manifest in a viable replacement.
But, speaking out on seeking a trade replacement for Bohm, Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski declared the injury hasn’t changed his outlook.
“Dombrowski said Bohm’s injury doesn’t change how he views the team’s need for a bat, possibly because he already knew the Phils needed one,” Todd Zolecki reported for MLB.com.
Dombrowski might be banking on Alec Bohm returning soon after a short stint on the injured list, or he could be confident that Otto Kemp can fill in effectively at third base. However, it seems more likely that, regardless of Bohm’s health, the Phillies’ front office has been actively searching the market for an affordable offensive boost.
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