The Philadelphia Phillies are entering a pivotal season as the championship window for their core stars begins to narrow.
The team is set to carry a projected $284 million payroll this year, with over $20 million allocated to players like Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, Trea Turner, Bryce Harper, and Zack Wheeler. Next season might represent the last real opportunity to maximize the contributions of these stars before age starts to have a greater impact.
Fans may have expected the team to make more significant roster upgrades during the offseason. However, even if the Phillies stick with their current roster on Opening Day, Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report predicts they’ll make a major move at the trade deadline.
“The Phillies’ projected Opening Day lineup includes five left-handed hitters—Max Kepler, Bryce Harper, Kyle Schwarber, Bryson Stott, and Brandon Marsh,” Kelly pointed out. “While someone like Weston Wilson might emerge as a viable platoon option in the outfield, the team currently looks like it needs another right-handed bat for key matchups against tough lefties like Chris Sale, Sean Manaea, and Blake Snell.”
With that context, Kelly speculated the Phillies could target Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward.
“Taylor Ward would be a logical fit for the Phillies, given his strong 2024 season with the Angels, where he hit .325 with an .873 OPS against left-handed pitching,” Kelly explained. “He could serve as a platoon partner in left field alongside Kepler or take over the position entirely if Kepler struggles or faces health issues.”
Ward’s performance in 2024 included 25 home runs and 75 RBIs, marking his most productive season yet. With a modest $7.8 million salary in 2025 and an additional year of arbitration eligibility, Spotrac values his market worth at $43.7 million.
Given Ward’s defensive versatility, effectiveness against lefties, and manageable contract, he appears to be an ideal addition for a Phillies team looking to bolster its playoff chances while their window remains open.
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