Philadelphia Phillies: What happens if they “sell” at the trade deadline?
By David Esser
![Feb 26, 2021; Clearwater, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski watches the team workout during spring training at Spectrum Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports Feb 26, 2021; Clearwater, Florida, USA; Philadelphia Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski watches the team workout during spring training at Spectrum Field. Mandatory Credit: Jonathan Dyer-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/c7ee7e747cbb75c3a8050ed911b5f285803a32bf1215ed311dae9c6943135c43.jpg)
Archie Bradley
A player who was signed to stabilize the Philadelphia Phillies bullpen woes, Archie Bradley has yet to make any sort of notable impact this season. A majority of his year has been taken up by an oblique injury, and when healthy, he’s looked shaky on the mound.
The veteran right-hander has allowed six runs to cross the plate in just 6.0 innings of work, and his WHIP sits at an eye-pooping 2.000. Not great!
For what it’s worth, I expect Bradley to settle in as the season progresses and as he continues to rehab that oblique up. If Bradley is able to string together a couple good outings in a row leading into the deadline, one can only assume teams would be willing to part with some pieces to acquire him.
Similar to Neris, Bradley is a reliever with experience closing down ballgames who’s on an expiring contract. The absolute gold mine for teams looking for “rental” bullpen arms around the deadline.
Bradley is a super fun and likable guy who seems to be really happy with his decision to sign in Philly, but if we’re being completely honest, there’s just little reason to hang onto a guy like him if the team ends up “selling” at the deadline. The Phillies bullpen still needs some serious improving, with or without Bradley.