Phillies could add another notable outfielder to roster this offseason

Alex Verdugo, Yankees, Phillies
Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports

The Philadelphia Phillies reeled in left fielder Brandon Marsh and added outfielder Max Kepler this offseason, but they may not be done making moves.

Phillies have chance to look into signing Alex Verdugo

Oct 5, 2024; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees outfielder Alex Verdugo (24) catches a popup during the fourth inning hit by Kansas City Royals pitcher Michael Lorenzen (24) during game one of the ALDS for the 2024 MLB Playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Newsweek’s Drew VonScio suggested that the Phillies should bring in free-agent outfielder Alex Verdugo to solve Philadelphia’s questions at either left or center field next season:

“Marsh is better served as a team’s fourth outfielder, while Kepler and [Johan] Rojas both struggled in 2024. As a result, the Phillies could grab this former Yankees outfielder,” VonScio led with.

“One thing that would help Verdugo in Philadelphia is the dimensions of Citizens Bank Park. It is 330 feet to straightaway right field and 369 feet to the right field power alley. Right field would be 15 feet deeper with the Phillies, but the power alley would be 16 feet shorter and should help boost Verdugo’s home run numbers.

Baseball Savant shows Verdugo was one of the best left fielders in all of Major League Baseball in 2024. He finished the season in the 96th percentile for arm value and the 94th percentile for arm strength.”

Verdugo could reclaim fiery bat and boost Phillies’ defense

Offensively, Verdugo could have a bounce-back season with a change of scenery in Philadelphia. The eight-year MLB veteran experienced his most inefficient season outside of his rookie outing in 2024. Verdugo hit .233 at the plate for the New York Yankees. That was only the second time he ever posted a batting average south of .260.

Defensively, the Arizona native can carry over his noteworthy play out of left field into the Phillies’ home ballpark and help them erase scoring opportunities against some of their most bitter National League foes, a la the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers.

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