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Could Young Phillies Outfielder Be Trade Candidate Ahead of Deadline?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Mike Ostrowski | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 2:00 PM ET

Stop me if you've heard this before: the Philadelphia Phillies need help in their outfield.

That's been a recurring issue over the past three seasons, and it continues to be one in 2025. Max Kelper, who was signed to be the club's everyday left fielder, has struggled at the plate, especially against left-handed pitching. Brandon Marsh has been hot since coming off the IL, but he's faced southpaws even less.

And lost in the shuffle is Johan Rojas, whose early season hotstreak is now a distant memory. Rojas has gone from hitting over .300 at the start of May to barely cracking the Mendoza line, with Marsh firmly reclaiming his role as everyday center fielder.

Yet the 24-year-old could still be valuable to the right club on the trade market.

Rojas was the Phillies No. 8 prospect before making his MLB debut in 2023. He's shown incredible flashes in his short career, especially on the defensive side. And his bat has caught fire when he gets consistent playing time - without the threat of Marsh looming.

Rojas could benefit from a lower-pressure environment; while the Phillies are in win-now mode, several other teams can afford to give him consistent playing time.

Barring the unlikely event of keeping and extending Cedric Mullins, the Baltimore Orioles will need a new center fielder for the future. The same goes for the Chicago White Sox if they unload the underperforming Luis Robert Jr.

The Tampa Bay Rays are another option for a deal - they have operated an outfield-by-committee this season and have long succeeded by grabbing cost efficient options like Rojas.

None of this is to say Philly should trade Rojas just for the sake of it. At the very least, he's a solid defensive replacement and speed threat. But if he can't unlock his potential after two seasons' time, a chance of scenery may benefit both parties.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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