The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to make a Bryce Harper move following the Luis Arraez trade.
Dave Dombrowski and the Philadelphia Phillies have been a team to watch heading into today's MLB trade deadline. It didn't take long for the day to get started with a bang.
On Monday morning, the Phillies agreed to terms on a trade with the San Francisco Giants to acquire three-time batting champion Luis Arraez. In exchange, they gave up prospects Ramon Marquez and Marty Gair, while also acquiring right-handed reliever Caleb Kilian.
Arraez, who plays second base, will be a big-time addition for the Philadelphia lineup. However, his addition brings up some questions about roster fit.
Following the Arraez deal, the Phillies have a very crowded infield. A new report has shared one move the team could make.
According to MLB.com Philadelphia beat writer Todd Zolecki, the Phillies are expected to move star first baseman Bryce Harper back to the outfield to make room for Arraez. Harper brought his outfield glove on the team's last road trip, clearly prepared to move back to the outfield.
"Bryce Harper brought his outfielder's glove on the last road trip, saying he was ready to move to the outfield, if needed," Zolecki wrote on X.
"He's expected to move to the outfield to make room for Luis Arraez in the infield. Alec Bohm to first base, Bryson Stott to third base."
So far this season with the Giants, Arraez has been off to a strong start once again. He has played in 105 games, hitting four home runs to go along with 43 RBI and 10 stolen bases. The 29-year-old infielder has also produced a slash line of .324/.360/.440.
Adding that kind of production to a lineup that badly needed help will inject fresh energy for Philadelphia.
Harper, on the other hand, has cooled off considerably in recent days from his strong start. In 112 games played, the 33-year-old star has hit 23 home runs, driven in 66 RBI, and slashed .255/.360/.497.
With the trade deadline coming up quickly, there is a good chance the Phillies aren't done. They would still like to add an upgrade for their starting pitching rotation, while the bullpen could be another focus point they target.
Expect to continue hearing news and rumors about Philadelphia as the day moves forward. The 2026 MLB trade deadline arrives at 6:00 p.m. ET.
