The Philadelphia Phillies are singularly focused on securing a World Series championship.
With a dominant presence in the National League East division for most of this season, the Phillies are assured of a postseason berth. Yet, to overcome their recent near misses in the playoffs, they acknowledge the need for additional support.
Approaching the Major League Baseball trade deadline, the Phillies are poised to play a significant role. According to respected insider Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the team is actively pursuing a center fielder who can contribute in multiple facets of the game.
“They’re in search of a two-way center fielder for the long term,” Bowden disclosed during a recent MLB Network Radio appearance.
While it might be expected for the Phillies to target center fielders from teams at the bottom of their divisions, Bowden revealed an unexpected twist.
“They’ve engaged with the Baltimore Orioles regarding Cedric Mullins,” Bowden noted. “He could be a good fit there.”
Despite the Orioles leading the American League East division, Mullins, their long-serving center fielder, has experienced a downturn this season. His batting average has dropped from a career .738 OPS to .629, accompanied by a slight decline in defensive performance. These factors have made him less effective overall.
Baltimore boasts a crowded outfield with rookies Colton Cowser, Heston Kjerstad, and Kyle Stowers vying for starting roles, alongside standouts like Anthony Santander and Austin Hays.
Mullins’ tenure with the Orioles has been enduring, but the surplus of outfield talent in Baltimore could lead to a trade scenario. His veteran experience and leadership qualities might benefit Philadelphia, as a change of scenery often revitalizes players.
Philadelphia has struggled to find consistency in center field this season, primarily due to the offensive struggles of their Opening Day starter, Johan Rojas. Acquiring Mullins or another impactful player could significantly bolster the Phillies’ chances of contending for a championship by stabilizing their outfield.
