ESPN analyst expects Phillies to make a 'big move' or two at MLB trade deadline

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ESPN analyst expects Phillies to make a 'big move' or two at MLB trade deadline originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Philadelphia Phillies are coming out of the All-Star break, in which they played host for all of Major League Baseball, with a 54-43 record and 2.0 games back in the NL East.

There's a real chance they win the division. But, to do so, they need to add some help between now and the MLB trade deadline on August 3. It's going to be a tricky deadline, but they could really use help at a few key spots.

ESPN's Jesse Rogers is expecting Dave Dombrowski and the Phillies to not just be active at the deadline, but make a "big move" for two upgrades: a bat and a back-end reliever.

Phillies expected to make 'big move' for a bat and reliever at trade deadline​

"We know Dombrowski will be aggressive at the end of the month, and the team isn't necessarily constructed to fall apart just yet," Rogers writes. "But they are getting older, so expect a big move for a bat as well as a back-end reliever. It's World Series or bust in Philly."

With the Phillies potentially in "World Series or bust" mode, it would hardly be a surprise for Dombrowski and company to land a few key players at the deadline.

Looking at the back-end bullpen help, aside from Jhoan Duran and Jonathan Bowlan, the Phillies relievers this season have really struggled. And now, Brad Keller is likely done for the year and potentially for 2027 as well.

Another reliever would be a huge help, and there are some options to consider. Luke Weaver of the New York Mets would be great, while Antonio Senzatela would be an interesting multi-inning option as well.

MORE: Phillies could get involved with Mason Miller again after trade rumor

But that's not all the Phillies are expected to add. A "big move" could be coming for a hitter. Ideally, that hitter would come in the form of a right-handed hitting outfielder.

Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins or Mike Trout of the Los Angeles Angels would be the dream, but in reality, neither is going to be moved, barring a stunning change in plans for the two star outfielders.

Instead, the Phillies are more likely to target Spencer Steer of the Cincinnati Reds, Taylor Ward of the Baltimore Orioles, and Jo Adell of the Angels for their right-handed hitting outfield need.

They could explore third base upgrades, or maybe even a new middle infielder, and move around Trea Turner and Bryson Stott. But the best possible fit would be a right-handed hitting outfielder.

Rogers expects Dombrowski and the Phillies to swing a "big move" for help in the bullpen and with the offense. There are still a few weeks until the deadline, but Phillies fans should get ready, as it could be a very active deadline for Dombrowski.

More MLB news:​

• Cardinals sign JJ Wetherholt to eight-year, $112.5 million contract extension
• Why Astros are trading Lance McCullers to the Brewers
• Mason Miller shares honest thoughts on Yankees trade rumors
• Red Sox trade rumor involving All-Star shortstop includes Yankees, Braves
• Blue Jays could do something crazy and trade for Bo Bichette

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