The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to make significant changes to their outfield heading into the 2025 season. Currently, the outfield lineup consists of Brandon Marsh or Austin Hays in left field, Johan Rojas in center, and Nick Castellanos in right field. However, reports from MLB insider Todd Zolecki suggest that the Phillies are planning to revamp this arrangement, with the possibility of Marsh, Hays, and Rojas all moving on to different teams next year.
Left Field Overhaul
The Phillies’ primary focus for improvement is left field. In 2024, their left fielders posted a modest .710 OPS and a 98 wRC+. Austin Hays, acquired at the trade deadline, battled injuries after his arrival and failed to make a significant impact. It is likely Hays will be non-tendered, especially given his .256/.275/.397 slash line in just 22 games with the Phillies. Meanwhile, Brandon Marsh’s strikeout rate increased from 30.5% in 2023 to 32.4% in 2024, signaling a decline in his offensive production.
To address this, the Phillies are eyeing potential free-agent outfielders. The ideal target would be Juan Soto from the New York Yankees, but with Soto likely to re-sign, the Phillies might consider players like Jurickson Profar or Tyler O’Neill. Profar’s disciplined approach at the plate and strong on-base percentage would be a great addition to Philadelphia’s lineup, though O’Neill’s defensive metrics make him a solid alternative.
Center Field Uncertainty
Both Marsh and Rojas have played center field, but their futures in Philadelphia are uncertain. Phillies center fielders combined for a .644 OPS and an 80 wRC+ in 2024, and while Marsh and Rojas could be moved in trades, it’s more likely one will stay and platoon in center field. St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Lars Nootbaar is a potential trade target, offering excellent plate discipline and experience in center field, making him an ideal fit for the Phillies’ needs.
Right Field Stability
Nick Castellanos, who is under contract through 2026, will remain in right field. In 2024, Castellanos posted a .254/.311/.431 line with 23 home runs and 86 RBIs, showing improvement in his strikeout and walk rates. His consistent offensive performance will continue to be a valuable asset for the Phillies as they look to improve their outfield.
https://x.com/PhilsTailgate/status/1846593194957717534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1846593194957717534%7Ctwgr%5E870668494062393cbf98071c7803de47680b52d9%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Flastwordonsports.com%2Fbaseball%2F2024%2F10%2F24%2Fphillies-outfield-changes-likely-2024-offseason%2F
Designated Hitter Plans
Kyle Schwarber, the Phillies’ designated hitter, is under contract through 2025 and is expected to remain in that role. Schwarber had a solid 2024 season, hitting .248/.366/.485 with 38 home runs and 104 RBIs. Although his high strikeout rate remains a concern, his leadership and power make him an integral part of the team’s future. The Phillies may consider extending his contract to ensure he remains a long-term piece of their roster.
As the offseason progresses, the Phillies are set to make bold moves to improve their outfield, aiming to build a team that can compete at the highest level in 2025.
Leave a Reply