The Philadelphia Phillies pose for a picture after Game 4 of a baseball NL Division Series against the Atlanta Braves Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023, in Philadelphia. The Phillies won 3-1 to win the series. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
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Phillies fans spent a lengthy offseason waiting for the team to make a big splash in free agency. The splash came early and from a family face. Aaron Nola was re-signed in November.
While it was a splash, fans dismissed it since Nola had always been a Phillie. Fans have been almost spoiled with free-agent signings in the past few seasons.
Despite the groans of the fans, Whit Merrifield was the only other “big” signing of the offseason.
The Phillies pushed hard after other players, such as Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Jordan Hicks, and Robert Stephenson but failed for one reason or another. They reportedly offered Yamamoto well over $300 million.
The Phillies were willing to spend but didn’t find the players they wanted.
Philadelphia Phillies baseball team owner John Middletown looks on at the introductory press conference for pitcher Aaron Nola, Monday, Nov. 20, 2023, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Why That Could Be Good for the Phillies
John Middleton wants “our f**king trophy back,” and he isn’t going to let anything stop him.
With the offseason being quiet, the Phillies may now have the resources to be a big player on the trade market during the season.
In a recent interview with Scott Lauber, Middleton confirmed that was the mentality with Dave Dombrowski.
“What Dave decided we’d do — and I agree with him — is save the powder,” Middleton said. “He said, ‘If you don’t spend it now, you could always spend it in July and maybe make a better, more aggressive trade, and you’ve got the money to pay for it.’”
Scott Lauber, Philadelphia Inquirer
Saving “the Powder” could lead the Phillies to their most exiting trade deadline since 2009-11. In that 3 year span the Phillies traded significant prospect capital for the services of Cliff Lee (July 29, 2009), Roy Oswalt (July 29, 2010), and Hunter Pence (July 29, 2011).
The Phillies management now have a contigency in place. If the Phillies suffer any significant injury, they have the flexibility to shop around the trade market. If a starter in the rotation goes down, both Shane Bieber and Dylan Cease could be available.
If the bullpen becomes an issue, players like Emmanuel Clase, Kanley Jansen, and perhaps Devin Williams could be there.
Kyle Schwarber goes down for the season? Paul Goldchmidt is a pending free agent.
The MLB trade deadline falls on July 30th this season. If any past blockbusters are to be looked at, keep an eye out on July 29th. The Phillies might strike again.
