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MLB trade deadline: Nationals and Mets for sale, plus wish lists for Phillies, Braves, Marlins

By Beau Adams

QUEENS, NEW YORK - JULY 1: Justin Verlander #35 of the New York Mets pitches against the San Francisco Giants at Citi Field on July 1, 2023 in Queens, New York. (Photo by Andy Kuno/San Francisco Giants/Getty Images)
QUEENS, NEW YORK - JULY 1: Justin Verlander #35 of the New York Mets pitches against the San Francisco Giants at Citi Field on July 1, 2023 in Queens, New York. (Photo by Andy Kuno/San Francisco Giants/Getty Images) /
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Jul 19, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) hits a two RBI single against the Milwaukee Brewers during the fifth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 19, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Phillies left fielder Kyle Schwarber (12) hits a two RBI single against the Milwaukee Brewers during the fifth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports /

Undecided in the NL East: Philadelphia Phillies: Seeking Right-Handed Production

The Phillies (54-47) have struggled to get consistent production from their top hitters, including Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber. To have a productive offense, especially from the top of the order, the Phillies need to address their lack of production from the top two spots. While there are in-house options that can fill these roles, the team should consider acquiring a right-handed impact bat to balance their lefty-heavy lineup.

Another option to consider is Randal Grichuk of the Colorado Rockies. While Grichuk can be inconsistent, he brings power from the right side and can play either corner outfield spot, providing the Phillies with some versatility.

Tommy Pham and Mark Canha of the New York Mets are also worth considering. Pham, known for his hot streaks and high OPS, would be a productive addition to the lineup. Canha, if the Mets decide to sell, could provide the Phillies with a bat that performs more consistently than his 2023 numbers suggest.

With Rhys Hoskins out due to injury, the Phillies must find a replacement at first base. While Bryce Harper is rumored to be transitioning to first base, it remains to be seen if he can provide the same level of production as Hoskins. The ideal candidate to fill this position would be a right-handed power hitter.

One high-end target that has been mentioned is Paul Goldschmidt of the St. Louis Cardinals. Goldschmidt, a former MVP, would bring a significant boost to the lineup with his right-handed power and solid defense at first base. However, acquiring Goldschmidt would likely require a substantial package of prospects. A trio of top-20 prospects like RHP Griff McGarry, OF Carlos De La Cruz, and C Rickardo Perez should be good for St. Louis.

If the Phillies seek a more affordable option, C.J. Cron of the Colorado Rockies could be a viable alternative. Cron, a power-hitting right-handed first baseman, may not offer much defense, but he would be an upgrade over Bryce Harper’s experience at first base and allow Harper to focus at DH. While Cron’s numbers may not be outstanding, his power potential could be unleashed as the season progresses.

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