The Philadelphia Phillies are actively seeking to improve their lineup, with a clear focus on bolstering the outfield. Although Bryce Harper has played in the outfield previously, he transitioned to first base last season. While Harper has expressed willingness to return to his old position, Phillies President Dave Dombrowski downplayed this possibility, stating, “I can’t say that we’d never do it. But it’s not something that we are thinking of or wanting to do.”
One of the most high-profile names linked to the Phillies is Juan Soto. However, multiple factors make this move challenging. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Phillies are not actively pursuing the 26-year-old superstar. Soto has already garnered interest from five teams, with some reportedly offering contracts. Given his potential price tag of $600 million, coupled with the Phillies’ significant financial commitments to Bryce Harper and Trea Turner, a deal for Soto appears unlikely. Despite this, the team remains hopeful and could explore more cost-effective options to strengthen their roster.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives to Juan Soto
Rather than committing their resources to a single player, the Phillies could target more affordable outfield options to upgrade their lineup holistically. Some of the leading candidates include:
Jurickson Profar
Once a top prospect, Profar had a breakout season in 2024, batting .280 with 24 home runs and an impressive .839 OPS. His transformation came after refining his swing mechanics during winter ball under the guidance of Fernando Tatis Sr. Although Profar is a below-average defender in left field, his excellent strike-zone discipline—swinging at just 21.9% of pitches outside the zone—makes him an intriguing option for the Phillies.
Tyler O’Neill
Known for his power and defensive skills, Tyler O’Neill is a versatile outfielder who can play all three positions but thrives in left field. A two-time Gold Glove winner, O’Neill showcased his offensive potential with the Boston Red Sox, hitting 31 home runs and achieving a career-high in walks. At an estimated $15 million annual salary, he represents a more affordable and reliable option for the Phillies.
Michael Conforto
Conforto could be a wildcard choice for the Phillies. After missing the 2022 season due to a shoulder injury, he rebounded with a strong performance for the San Francisco Giants, finishing with a .529 slugging percentage and 10 home runs late in the season. His strike-zone discipline, comparable to Profar’s, makes him another cost-effective option for the team.
The Importance of Brandon Marsh
Reports indicate the Phillies are unlikely to trade Brandon Marsh, underscoring the importance of his role in the lineup for 2025. Despite offensive struggles, trading Marsh could exacerbate the team’s issues, as the Phillies’ outfield ranked 20th in WAR for 2024. Instead, Alec Bohm appears to be a more likely trade candidate as the winter meetings approach.
Conclusion
While acquiring Juan Soto would be a blockbuster move, the Phillies appear focused on practical and budget-friendly strategies to improve their outfield and overall roster. The decision to prioritize depth and versatility over a single marquee player could set the team up for sustained success in the coming seasons.