The Philadelphia Phillies made their first major offseason move by re-signing Aaron Nola to a seven-year, $172 million contract extension. The Phillies have alternatives at numerous positions with other moves to be made. They’ve practically stated that Rhys Hoskins will not be returning. Bryce Harper was a fan favorite at first base, and with his Tommy John surgery, there’s not much reason to move him back to the outfield.
With an available outfield spot seemingly available, could Philadelphia make a move for superstar Juan Soto? Jeff Passan of ESPN says that it’s certainly a possibility.
“The Yankees have the major league-ready pitching the Padres desire and a farm system deep enough to whet San Diego’s appetite for a deal. The Giants, who have sought a foundational star for more than a year, have roadblocks as an in-division team but enough motivation to overcome them. The Cubs check three important boxes: need, talent and money. Other possibilities include the Philadelphia Phillies, who don’t necessarily have the need but certainly the talent and money.”
As Passan notes, the Phillies could be in the mix here, although it might be unlikely. After Philadelphia signed Bryce Harper and Trea Turner to huge deals in years past, it’s clear the organization isn’t afraid to spend money if it helps the team. The front office understands that they’re in a championship window and have done what they’ve needed to do to capitalize on that.
Harper, 31, seemed to be improving with each passing year. Turner, who struggled at times in 2023, improved throughout the better part of the season. This squad is talented, and adding probably baseball’s best pure hitter will just make them more dangerous.
