Bryce Harper #3 of the Philadelphia Phillies
Could the Phillies Make a Blockbuster Move for Nolan Arenado?
The Philadelphia Phillies enter the 2025 season as one of the top contenders for the World Series, barring any major setbacks. ESPN Bet currently places them tied with the rival New York Mets for the fourth-best championship odds at 10-to-1, with a projected win total of 91.5 games. With a strong core led by Bryce Harper, the Phillies are in a prime position to compete deep into October.
However, as with any long season, things can change, and the Phillies may find themselves active at the trade deadline depending on how the first half unfolds. According to CBS Sports writer Mike Axisa, one bold prediction for this season involves a potential blockbuster deal that would bring St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado to Philadelphia. Such a move could shake up the Phillies’ infield and push Harper back to his old full-time role in the outfield.
Arenado to Philadelphia?
Axisa didn’t name the Phillies outright but strongly hinted at them as a potential landing spot for Arenado.
“Where will Arenado land?” Axisa wrote. “I won’t be specific, though there’s a certain all-in NL East team with a core that’s starting to get older and wouldn’t have to try hard to find a way to make things work on the infield corners (by moving a certain outfielder-turned-first baseman back to the outfield).”
On the surface, an Arenado trade to the Phillies seems unlikely, given the financial and positional hurdles involved. Harper, now 32, has primarily played first base or designated hitter over the last two seasons and has started in the outfield just 16 times since 2021. If Arenado were to arrive, third baseman Alec Bohm would likely have to shift to first base, a position he has played sparingly despite some prior experience.
The Financial and Performance Considerations
Arenado, entering his age-34 season, has seen a statistical decline in recent years. While he remains a reliable player, his 2024 campaign saw him post 16 home runs, 71 RBIs, and 70 runs scored across 635 plate appearances with a .272/.325/.719 slash line. While still productive, these numbers are a step back from his prime years.
Additionally, the financial aspect of the move would be tricky. Arenado has three seasons remaining on the eight-year, $260 million contract he signed while with the Colorado Rockies. The Phillies, already holding MLB’s third-highest payroll at $269.7 million (per Spotrac), would need to navigate luxury tax concerns to fit his contract into their books.
Will the Phillies Make a Move?
While the Phillies are expected to be a powerhouse in the National League this season, the trade deadline could bring some surprises. If Philadelphia finds itself in need of an upgrade at third base or additional firepower, a move for Arenado could be explored. However, given the logistics of such a trade, including Arenado’s contract, Harper’s position, and Bohm’s role, it remains a long shot.
With the trade deadline set for July 31 at 6 p.m. ET, plenty of time remains for speculation. If the Phillies decide to go all-in, Arenado could be a name to watch—but for now, it’s just a bold prediction.
