The Philadelphia Phillies have been relatively quiet in the offseason, having re-signed pitcher Aaron Nola and retained most key players from the 2023 team that fell short of its World Series aspirations. Despite not ruling out further moves, recent reports suggest that the Phillies will not pursue high-impact starters Blake Snell or Jordan Montgomery.
In recent years, the Phillies have invested significantly in starting pitchers like Zack Wheeler, Taijuan Walker, and Nola, prompting them to explore other areas to allocate their budget. One potential area for improvement is the bullpen, especially after the departure of Craig Kimbrel in free agency, leaving a vacancy at the closer position. Several quality closers, including the sought-after Josh Hader, could be of interest to the Phillies, although Hader is reportedly seeking a substantial contract.
Another consideration for the Phillies is bolstering their outfield, particularly with Bryce Harper transitioning to first base. A defensive upgrade in the outfield could be beneficial, and former NL MVP Cody Bellinger is mentioned as a potential fit. While Bellinger comes at a high cost, his ability to excel in center field and impressive offensive performance last year make him an enticing option for the Phillies.
In summary, even though the Phillies may have concluded their spending on starting pitchers, there remains an ongoing focus on enhancing their roster, potentially by addressing bullpen needs and securing a valuable outfield addition.
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