The Philadelphia Phillies bolstered their bullpen significantly just a few days ago, trading for former Los Angeles Angels closer Carlos Estevez. At that moment, Dombrowski intimated that the Phillies were likely done making substantial transactions this deadline.
Philadelphia then traded for Baltimore Orioles outfielder Austin Hays, which could give them even more outfield flexibility. A deal between two World Series contenders is unusual this time of year, but Baltimore and Philadelphia were able to assist each other out, with the Phillies returning Seranthony Dominguez in exchange.
However, neither Estevez nor Hays are the types of players Phillies supporters expected Dombrowski to trade for before the deadline. Rather, Garrett Crochet or Luis Robert Jr. suit the bill, with the latter potentially filling a significant vacuum in the outfield if signed.
Could the Phillies still trade for Luis Robert Jr.?
Robert Jr.’s season batting line is.221/.290/.451, with an OPS of.741. There’s a reason he hasn’t gotten much attention, and the Phillies were apparently one of those teams. The Phillies’ only realistic hope of acquiring a player of Robert Jr.’s stature is if there is little competition (which is true in this situation) and his worth falls significantly. So far, the White Sox have yet to comply.
Chicago’s best bet is to keep Robert Jr. and hope that his season improves in the second half, improving his trade value. Dealing him now for less would be a blemish on Chris Getz’s already shaky record. Dombrowski is lurking in case he makes another error.
Robert Jr. is a former Silver Slugger and AL All-Star who has struggled to stay healthy. Due to a late start in 2024, it looks unlikely that Robert Jr. will be traded before the season’s deadline. Because Robert Jr. is under contract until 2027 (with two club options), an offseason move is much more likely and feasible for the White Sox. Bob Nightengale’s new piece calls into question a Robert Jr. trade, although it could benefit a team like the Phillies.
Leave a Reply