AALIYAN MOHAMMED
The Philadelphia Phillies had a disappointing postseason after putting together a strong regular season. They could trade for some superstars to help get them to the World Series in 2025.
During an appearance on MLB Network, Ruben Amaro proposed this trade that brings Kyle Tucker and Ryan Pressly to Philadelphia in exchange for Nick Castellanos and Alec Bohm:
- Phillies receive: outfielder Kyle Tucker and right-handed pitcher Ryan Pressly
- Astros receive: outfielder Nick Castellanos, third baseman Alec Bohm, right-handed pitcher Mick Abel or shortstop Starlyn Caba
Bohm and Castellanos have both been the center of trade rumors this offseason. Bohm is coming off his first All-Star season. Despite manager Rob Thomson saying they are not shopping him, he could be moved while his value is high. Castellanos signed a five-year, $100 million deal with the Phillies before the 2022 season. He is a two-time All-Star with his last selection coming in 2023. He played in all 162 games last regular season, but he regressed slightly.
Pressly is a two-time All-Star and signed a two-year, $30 million deal with the Astros in 2022. His deal has a vesting option for 2025 that kicks in with 50 appearances in 2023 and 2024. He hit that mark and is due $14 million in 2025. The Blue Jays could use him, but allow him to close games again. He could serve as a closer after no longer being in the shadow of Josh Hader.
Tucker has been named to three consecutive All-Star games and is set up to be paid handsomely when he hits the open market. He played in just 78 games last season but managed to hit 23 home runs. His 2023 season was great as he led the American League in RBIs and hit 29 homers. He was on pace to beat that home run mark in 2024. Spotrac projects Tucker to sign a seven-year, $195 million deal.
Swapping Castellanos for Tucker could give the Phillies some much-needed consistency from their outfielders at the dish. Pressly could solidify the back end of the bullpen that lacked a true shutdown closer. He had 30-plus saves in 2022 and 2023.