Phillies predicted to sign Cubs' $85M former Silver Slugger finalist for Bryce Harper reason originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia Phillies entered the season as one of the favorites to win the World Series, especially given the talent on their roster. However, things did not go according to plan, making it a challenging season for the club.
Philadelphia dealt with several injuries early in the season that affected its performance. One of the biggest setbacks was losing Adolis García for the remainder of the year, leaving a hole in right field for much of the season.
“The Phillies announced that they have placed outfielder Adolis García on the 60-day injured list with a torn right lat. They recalled outfielder Gabriel Rincones Jr. from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to take his active roster spot," MLB Trade Rumors' Anthony Franco wrote.
The Phillies managed to make the playoffs, but their postseason run did not go as they had hoped. Philadelphia faced its NL East rival, the Atlanta Braves, and lost the series, leaving plenty of questions heading into the offseason. Bryce Harper believes the roster could look significantly different next year.
“I'd imagine this team is going to look a lot different next year," Harper told the media.
The Phillies have several options to consider this winter, but they will need to be strategic with their moves. Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter believes they should pursue Seiya Suzuki and move Harper back to first base.
“The Phillies took a flier on Adolis García last offseason hoping he could be a buy-low solution to their need for a right-handed hitting outfielder, but a torn lat muscle ended his season in June. Right field was a black hole until Bryce Harper moved back there following the deadline addition of Luis Arraez. With Arraez set to depart in free agency, it's a clear position of need once again, and Suzuki figures to be one of the top targets for the Phillies this winter,” Reuter wrote.
Philadelphia could use a younger star to complement its veteran-led roster. The Phillies know their championship window will not remain open forever, so they may need to make some significant moves this offseason to remain competitive.
Suzuki has completed his $85 million contract with the Chicago Cubs. Harper could move back to the infield if it benefits the team, and adding Suzuki would give the Phillies another proven offensive option in the outfield. If Philadelphia can make the pieces fit, Suzuki could be a significant upgrade for the roster.
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