The Philadelphia Phillies pose a legitimate challenge to the Los Angeles Dodgers and have their sights set on a World Series run this season. However, to solidify their status as true contenders, they may need to bolster their roster. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Phillies are expressing concern over one of their key bullpen arms, which could drive them to pursue a trade for a top-tier reliever.
Nightengale reported that the team is particularly worried about closer Jordan Romano, whose fastball velocity has dipped from an average of 96.8 mph two years ago to around 92–94 mph this season. He’s also having trouble controlling the running game. “This helps explain why the Blue Jays non-tendered him last winter before the Phillies signed him to a one-year, $8.5 million deal,” Nightengale noted.
If the Phillies lose confidence in Romano as a reliable high-leverage option, they may turn to the trade market. One potential target is Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley, who’s in the final year of his contract and expected to command a major payday—Spotrac projects a deal in the $81 million range in free agency. Given the Cardinals’ reluctance to pay that price, they could be open to moving him.
Philadelphia, who let Carlos Estévez and Jeff Hoffman walk in free agency without making strong replacements, would be upgrading significantly by acquiring Helsley. Though the cost of such a trade would be steep, it could be a game-changing move for a Phillies team with championship aspirations.
