The Phillies' outfield is a puzzle that needs solving, and it's a complex one at that. The team's president of baseball operations, Dave Dombrowski, has his work cut out for him this offseason.
Let's break it down. The Phillies' outfield underwent a transformation mid-flight during the summer, with the acquisition of Harrison Bader for center field and the implementation of platoons in the corners. It wasn't flawless, but it was functional. However, as the offseason begins, they're faced with the task of rebuilding their outfield from scratch.
The internal candidates are not a sure bet. Bader is now a free agent, and his return is uncertain. Max Kepler, a lefty-hitting outfielder, won't be returning to Philadelphia. Dombrowski also mentioned that they're seeking a 'change of scenery' for right fielder Nick Castellanos, who had a career-worst season, but the timing of this move is unclear.
This leaves Brandon Marsh as the only regular from the previous season who is set for extended playing time next year. Marsh had a productive season with a .785 OPS, but he struggled against left-handed pitchers. Dombrowski suggested that Marsh might be better suited as a part-time player, especially with his struggles against left-handers.
"He hasn't established himself against left-handed pitching," Dombrowski said. "I wouldn't mind complementing him with a right-handed hitter."
One potential partner for Marsh is Otto Kemp, an undrafted free agent who had a .709 OPS in 62 games as a rookie. Kemp performed well against left-handed pitchers, with a .786 OPS. Dombrowski feels confident about a Marsh-Kemp partnership, but he also wants to explore Kemp's potential beyond a weak-side platoon role.
But here's where it gets tricky. Marsh has experience in both center and left field, but he's more comfortable in left at this stage. The Phillies also have a prospect, Justin Crawford, who could challenge for a spot in the outfield. Crawford, a contact hitter and former first-round pick, has played both center and left field. The question is, where will he fit in?
If Crawford ends up in left field, it could push Marsh to center, where he's less effective defensively, or to right field, requiring a different platoon partner. Alternatively, if their positions are too similar, trading Marsh could be an option worth considering.
Dombrowski also mentioned other internal options, including center fielder Johan Rojas, recently claimed Pedro León, and prospect Gabriel Rincones Jr. Rojas is a defensive specialist who could provide depth. León has limited major league experience and missed most of the 2025 season due to a knee injury. Dombrowski is optimistic about Rincones, a left-handed hitter, who could contribute in a platoon role, despite his struggles against left-handed pitching.
"He's close, and he's dangerous. He's got a chance to be a good player," Dombrowski said.
The Phillies will also have Weston Wilson, a right-handed depth and platoon option, in the mix. However, they're not considering moving Trea Turner or Bryce Harper to the outfield at this time.
The outfield puzzle is far from complete, and the Phillies may need to bring in external pieces to field a productive unit. While bigger names like Kyle Schwarber, who recently signed a five-year deal to return to Philadelphia, might be the priority, the Phillies' outfield challenge is significant.
"We've got work to do," Dombrowski reiterated. "We're trying to make things happen."
What do you think? Do the Phillies have what it takes to rebuild their outfield? Share your thoughts in the comments!
