Philadelphia Phillies: 3 players to pilfer from the Pittsburgh Pirates

After winning their last series against the Atlanta Braves, the Philadelphia Phillies are facing off against the Pittsburgh Pirates in a four-game series. While the series itself will certainly be of importance to the team as they are just half a game out of the third NL Wild Card spot, there’s more to this matchup than just the game itself.

With the trade deadline just five days away, General Manager Dave Dombrowski and the Phillies’ front office will surely be paying close attention to the opposition as one or more of their foes may become a friend in just a matter of days. The Pirates are unsurprisingly sellers at the deadline as they sit with a record of 40-59.

There are quite a few different players in Pittsburgh that the Phillies could pursue despite the Pirates’ poor record. What’s more, the Pirates have players at multiple positions who could entice Philadelphia to attempt to make a deal.

From relievers to starters to even a star in centerfield, the Pirates may be the enemy for now, but by next week, some may be Philadelphia Phillies.

It’s clear that the Phillies are in need of upgrades, and frankly, the need appears at many levels, which is why the Pirates may prove to be such a valuable partner. While the bullpen has improved since the beginning of the season, Philadelphia is still forced to play Jeurys Familia (who nearly blew game one single-handedly) and Jose Alvarado, who have been anything but helpful this season.

Then there’s the clear lack of starting pitching past Wheeler and Nola. While Kyle Gibson pitched well in his last start, he has not shown the consistency that he had displayed with the Rangers last season. Pair that with Suarez’s own inconsistency and Efflin’s unavailability, and that equals a starting pitching problem for the Phillies. One that they could address with the Pirates.

One need that is not as prevalent for the Phillies as the need for a starting pitcher but could be addressed even more thoroughly with the Pirates is the need for an outfielder. In particular, a center fielder. One that Philadelphia has been tied to going back to last season. First, however, is looking into boosting the bullpen.