Potential Fix for Philadelphia Phillies Outfield Issues: Former Yankees Star

One former outfielder for the New York Yankees might be just what the Philadelphia Phillies need.

There aren’t many roster gaps for the Philadelphia Phillies to fill before the 2024 MLB season.

The outfield is one position where assistance is needed.

The Phillies feel uneasy starting Johan Rojas or Brandon Marsh as an everyday player heading into next season, as Matt Gelb of The Athletic discussed in a recent column. For the time being.

According to reports, this has prompted Philadelphia to consider some outside options to help strengthen the areas of uncertainty in the outfield. Considering the defensive shortcomings of both Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber, the Phillies might want to reevaluate their outfield alignment plan.

Harrison Bader, a former centerfielder for the New York Yankees, was one name Gelb brought up.

As a right-handed hitter, Bader would be a great addition to the lineup. Because of his exceptional center field defense, one of Marsh or Rojas may be able to play a corner outfield position, freeing up time for Schwarber or Castellanos at second base. That would maintain offensive balance without significantly improving defensive alignment.

Bader hit seven home runs and slashed.232/.374/.348 in 2023. After being released by the Yankees, he was selected by the Cincinnati Reds off waivers in August.

Although Bader’s 2023 slashline was consistent with his career totals, the Phillies roster may benefit from having him. But as Gelb noted, Bader might find it difficult to convince to sign with a team in order to get more playing time. In all likelihood, Philadelphia would assign him to a platoon role.

The Phillies may consider Bader as well as other names that are being floated, like Whit Merrifield.