The Phillies are closely monitoring Athletics outfielder Brent Rooker as the trade deadline approaches, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale.
President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski hinted last month that the team might only make modest additions before the trade deadline on July 30, with a focus on strengthening the bullpen. However, the Phillies may still consider other enhancements, given their strong 58-31 record as of Sunday, which puts them in a prime position for a World Series push.
Despite their success, the Phillies have notable gaps, particularly in the outfield. With Bryce Harper transitioning to first base and Kyle Schwarber taking on the everyday DH role, the outfield corners have opened up. Brandon Marsh has performed well when healthy, while Nick Castellanos has recently improved and continues as the everyday right fielder.
However, Johan Rojas, Cristian Pache, and Whit Merrifield have underperformed offensively this season. Although Rojas and Pache are strong defensively in center field and Merrifield’s versatility is valuable, none have exceeded a wRC+ of 60 this year despite their combined 500 at-bats. Consequently, journeyman David Dahl has been used as a left-handed complement, but his performance has declined, resulting in a modest .207/.242/.397 line in 19 games with the Phillies.
Rooker could be an ideal addition to the outfield mix. The 29-year-old had a breakout season with the A’s last year, posting a 127 wRC+ in 137 games, and he has elevated his game further in 2024. In 313 plate appearances this season, Rooker has posted an impressive .277/.351/.540 line with a 153 wRC+. Despite a high 32.9 percent strikeout rate, his strong 9.9 percent walk rate and high isolated slugging percentage are noteworthy. His .371 BABIP is likely unsustainable, but advanced metrics support his production, with a .378 xwOBA closely matching his .380 wOBA.
Rooker’s contract aligns well with the Phillies’ competitive window. He has just over two years of service time and is earning just above the league minimum this year, with three more seasons of team control before hitting free agency after 2027.
This fits neatly with Philadelphia’s current window, which includes veteran ace Zack Wheeler, whose extension also ends in 2027, and younger players like Brandon Marsh and Bryson Stott, who are also set to become free agents after that season. Meanwhile, stars like Bryce Harper, Aaron Nola, and Trea Turner will be in their mid-30s, and key contributors like Schwarber, Castellanos, and J.T. Realmuto will see their contracts expire.
However, the Phillies may prioritize other areas before the deadline. Dombrowski has expressed a need to improve the bullpen and indicated that the team is unlikely to pursue a blockbuster trade involving multiple top prospects.
Additionally, with the rotation depth having been challenged by injuries to Taijuan Walker and Spencer Turnbull, the Phillies might also look to add a pitcher who can contribute either as a starter or in relief.
If the Phillies decide against acquiring Rooker, there are other outfield options available. White Sox veteran Tommy Pham could be a cheaper rental alternative, and players like Kevin Pillar of the Angels, Mark Canha of the Tigers, and Jesse Winker of the Nationals could be available at a lower cost than Rooker.
