Top Phillies trade fit to fix ’embarrassing’ offense

At 32-29, the Philadelphia Phillies are climbing their way back into playoff contention. However, they may need some offensive reinforcements to get over the hump.

Entering Thursday, the Phillies ranked 29th in the league with 236 runs scored. In an attempt to bolster their lineup, ESPN’s Jeff Passan argues that Baltimore Orioles outfielder Taylor Ward would provide a strong fit.

“Considering how good Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper and Brandon Marsh have been, it’s embarrassing that the Phillies have scored fewer runs than Kansas City and Boston,” Passan wrote. “It’s not that the remainder of Philadelphia’s offense is slightly below average. It’s that the other six have been downright bad.”

“But seeing as left and right field have been hazmat areas for the Phillies, Ward fits snugly into either spot as well as atop a lineup with Schwarber second, Harper third and Marsh on cleanup duty.” he continued. “More needs to be done, but that would be a good start for a team with as many everyday holes as the Phillies.”

The Orioles acquired Ward in a trade with the Los Angeles Angels prior to the season. However, Baltimore sits at 29-33 on the season. With the outfielder set to hit free agency after the season, the Orioles may prefer getting some prospect capital in return rather than seeing him walk for free.

Over his first 61 games with Baltimore, Ward is hitting .252 with two home runs, 17 RBIs and two stolen bases. Don’t let the lack of home runs fool you, Ward had 36 long balls in 2025 and 25 a year prior. The outfielder has 115 total home runs over his nine years in the league, alongside a .247 batting average, 362 RBIs and 26 stolen bases.

Even with their slow start, the Phillies have their eyes locked in on the playoffs. Acquiring a hitter like Ward would get Philadelphia closer to their goals.