GOOD NEWS: Phillies Close To Finalizing Deal With Diamondbacks outfielder; Thoughts?

GOOD NEWS: Phillies Close To Finalizing Deal With Diamondbacks outfielder; Thoughts?

 

As the Philadelphia Phillies continue to fine-tune their talented roster, they have shown interest in potentially adding outfield depth with Jake McCarthy, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. Any potential trade involving McCarthy would hinge on the Diamondbacks’ position in the playoff race by the deadline. Even if Arizona is out of contention, they might be reluctant to part with McCarthy, who is under team control through 2028.

McCarthy has frequently surfaced in trade talks despite fluctuations in his stock over his first two full MLB seasons. In 2022, he finished fourth in NL Rookie of the Year voting but experienced a slump in his sophomore year, resulting in a demotion to Triple-A due to subpar offensive performance and an oblique injury.

While McCarthy’s tenure with the Diamondbacks appeared uncertain, he has since demonstrated improvement. With a .268/.354/.370 batting line and three homers this season, he has showcased a blend of success and challenges. His offensive output is aided by a .327 BABIP and impressive speed, though his power metrics are modest.

Defensively, McCarthy has been serviceable, primarily occupying right field in a platoon with Randal Grichuk. Surprisingly, McCarthy has fared better against left-handed pitchers than right-handers this season.

Given McCarthy’s years of control, age (27 next month), and draft pedigree, he represents more than a rental piece for potential suitors like the Phillies. Comparisons could be drawn to the Phillies’ acquisition of Brandon Marsh from the Angels in 2022, where they addressed outfield needs by trading Logan O’Hoppe.

Marsh has since become a regular contributor for the Phillies, underscoring the potential impact of acquiring McCarthy. With concerns over the production of Johan Rojas and Nick Castellanos in the outfield, McCarthy could offer valuable left-handed hitting depth for Philadelphia.

However, trading for a player like McCarthy would involve considerable prospect cost, unlike acquiring a rental player. Despite the Diamondbacks’ subpar record, they may prioritize selling impending free agents and veterans before entertaining offers for controllable players like McCarthy.

As the trade deadline approaches, McCarthy’s improved performance and Arizona’s position in the standings could influence trade negotiations, potentially raising the asking price for the outfielder.