Phillies Looking For Right-Handed Outfielder, Expanding Search To Corner Positions

[Brock Beauchamp]

Matt Gelb of The Athletic reported on the Philadelphia Phillies releasing outfielder Whit Merrifield after a terrible start to the season. This leaves the Phillies with a new hole (if you can call it that on the stacked Phillies roster) to patch by the trade deadline: right-handed outfielder.

While it was previously reported the Phillies were looking exclusively for center field help, Gelb reported they are now open to corner outfielders and are not averse to taking on longer contracts, even if it means they increase their already franchise-record payroll.

While Ian Happ is a switch hitter, it's unlikely he fits the Phillies needs, as he's much better against right-handed pitching than he is left-handed. The Cubs also have Seiya Suzuki rostered for the next few years; he is paid $21 million this season and is under contract for $19 million in 2025 and 2026. Suzuki's defense has been... questionable... but that hasn't prevented Philadelphia from acquiring players in the past.

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