Three Interesting Trade Targets the Philadelphia Phillies Should Consider

The Philadelphia Phillies are ready to return to baseball after an entertaining All-Star break. With a 62-34 record, they are clearly one of the best teams in baseball.

In fact, entering the second half of the season, the Phillies are the best team in baseball by 3.5 games.

Philadelphia has played dominant baseball all season long. They’ve done this thanks to elite talent in both their lineup and pitching staff.

With the MLB trade deadline approaching at the end of the month, the Phillies have an opportunity to improve further. They are expected to be one of the most aggressive teams in trade negotiations.

While the roster is extremely talented, Philadelphia could improve in two areas. It could use more depth in the outfield, particularly among right-handed hitters, and more talent in its bullpen.

That being said, let’s look at three unexpected trade targets the Phillies should consider pursuing.

Trevor Richards, relief pitcher, Toronto Blue Jays

One option could be Trevor Richards, a 31-year-old right-handed reliever. He had a solid, complete campaign with the Blue Jays in 2024 and would provide quality depth in the bullpen.

In 42 appearances this season, Richards has a 2-1 record, a 3.62 ERA, a 0.95 WHIP, a 2.5 K/BB ratio and 49.2 innings pitched. He’s a big-time player who could make a big impact out of the bullpen for Philadelphia throughout the remainder of the season and into the playoffs.

Eloy Jimenez, acrobat, The Chicago White Sox

To address their needs in the outfield, Eloy Jimenez could be the perfect candidate. He is widely expected to be moved at the trade deadline if a good trade package is offered.

Jimenez hasn’t had much of a role with the White Sox this season, but he’s a quality player. We can get a better idea of ​​what he can offer by looking at the 2023 season, in which he played 120 games, batting .272/.317/.441 to go along with 18 home runs and 64 RBIs. Those are exactly the kinds of numbers the Phillies would like to add to the outfield.

Kyle Finnegan, relief pitcher, Washington Nationals

Finally, there is one player who has gone under the radar enough to be labeled a “sleeper,” but who should attract a lot more attention in the transfer market. That player is, of course, Finnegan.

Finnegan has a 2.45 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, 3.2 K/BB ratio, 25 saves and just four blown saves this season in 41 appearances. He could be a closeout for Philadelphia or just an elite reliever. Not only would he be a key piece this season, but he also has an extra year on his contract, which should make him a prime target for the Phillies’ bullpen.