Phillies Could Land $52 Million Infielder If They Opt To Trade Alec Bohm…

Phillies Could Land $52 Million Infielder If They Opt To Trade Alec Bohm…

The Philadelphia Phillies are navigating the offseason with a critical eye on their roster. While they look to build a team capable of contending for a World Series title, there is one significant question hanging over their plans: What to do with Alec Bohm, their talented but sometimes inconsistent third baseman? Bohm, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 MLB Draft, has shown flashes of brilliance, but his defensive struggles have raised questions about his future in Philadelphia. If the Phillies choose to trade Bohm, they could potentially land a highly coveted infielder worth $52 million, which would address multiple areas of need for the team.

Bohm’s bat has never been the issue. Over the past two seasons, he has shown he can hit for average and get on base, which has helped solidify his place in the Phillies’ lineup. In 2023, Bohm posted a .284 batting average with 17 home runs and 88 RBIs, demonstrating that he is capable of providing valuable offensive production. However, his defensive struggles have been hard to overlook. Whether it’s his inconsistent throwing or difficulty handling ground balls, Bohm’s defense at third base has been a constant topic of discussion.

The Phillies’ front office has been patient with Bohm, but the time may have come for a change. If they decide to trade him, they could potentially land a player like New York Mets’ infielder, Eduardo Escobar, a player under contract for $52 million over two years. Escobar, 35, has proven himself as a reliable hitter and a versatile infielder who can play both second and third base. While not known for his defense, Escobar offers a solid offensive profile with occasional pop and can provide leadership in the clubhouse, a trait the Phillies value as they continue to develop their core.

Escobar’s potential addition to the Phillies could fill a significant gap in their infield while giving them the financial flexibility to pursue other needs. The team’s biggest need remains an impactful shortstop, and if they can secure a proven bat like Escobar while trading Bohm, they can allocate more resources towards a player like Trea Turner or even focus on bolstering their pitching staff.

Furthermore, trading Bohm may be a smart financial move in the long term. Escobar’s contract provides immediate cost control, which could help the Phillies avoid overspending on a position player they are uncertain about in the long run. This would free up capital to target areas of weakness such as the bullpen or add another power bat to the lineup.

While Alec Bohm’s offensive contributions are undeniable, the Phillies need to weigh his defensive issues against the potential benefits of moving him. If they can secure a player like Escobar, the Phillies could solidify their infield and add depth to their roster, making them a more balanced and competitive team as they aim for a championship.