The Philadelphia Phillies were the top team in MLB at the All-Star break. However, in the months that followed, their hold on the National League began to slip. The team’s talent was clear — with eight All-Stars, including five pitchers, it showcased their offensive power — but having talent is different from fully utilizing it.
As the season progressed, the Phillies’ strongest hitters struggled significantly. In the postseason, three of the NL’s leading relievers during the regular season — Jeff Hoffman, Matt Strahm, and Orion Kerkering — failed to get crucial outs. This unexpected downturn from three previously dominant players marked the end of Philadelphia’s remarkable season.
A loss in the NLDS to the Mets was not something fans anticipated at the start of the season. The series wasn’t even close, prompting a reality check for the fanbase. Both Dave Dombrowski and Rob Thomson will return next season, as they should, but the pressure is mounting on this Phillies core. Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber are all aging, and so is Zack Wheeler, whose best postseason performance was wasted by the suddenly ineffective bullpen.
It wouldn’t be surprising if the Phillies made bold moves this winter. While the chances of acquiring Juan Soto seem slim, Dombrowski has a history of making significant acquisitions under pressure. One potential target suggested by Tim Kelly from Bleacher Report could generate significant buzz.
Alex Bregman listed as potential Phillies target to replace Alec Bohm at third base
Alex Bregman joining the Phillies is a prospect few have imagined. While there’s lingering tension from a past World Series matchup with the Houston Astros, Bregman is an undeniably skilled player, particularly reliable in October—exactly what the Phillies need more of.
However, Bregman is expected to command over $150 million, which would secure him as the Phillies’ everyday third baseman. This complicates Alec Bohm’s future; he’s a potential 2024 All-Star, but his swing faltered late in the season. Bohm has immense talent, yet his inconsistency has frustrated both fans and the coaching staff, leading Rob Thomson to bench him in Game 2 against the Mets.
The Phillies could shift Bohm to first base, but that’s been Bryce Harper’s role for the past year and a half. Transitioning Harper back to the outfield seems unlikely, especially as he gets older. In short, bringing in Bregman would likely necessitate trading Bohm. I’ll let Tim Kelly elaborate on this.
“However, if the Phillies moved Bohm for another area of need, they would have a hole at third base,” writes Kelly. “Managing partner John Middleton and president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski have made quite a few deals with Boras previously, and an aggressive move can’t be ruled out after a disappointing postseason exit.”
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