Four games into the 2025 MLB season, the Philadelphia Phillies sit at three and one. Their record has come against teams they should beat, but it hasn't been easy. One of the largest factors in their solid start has been a bench bat that has become incredibly important over the years.
In the Phillies home opener, Edmundo Sosa came up clutch with a two-out double which gave the Phillies the lead. He was in the lineup since Trea Turner was out with a back injury. Sosa has been more than just a replacement, he's thrived.
Through three games played and 11 at-bats, Sosa is hitting for a .545 batting average, with six hits, three doubles, three runs scored, and three runs batted in. His scorching hot start makes his value to the Phillies clear; Sosa should not be traded.
Sosa has a full infield ahead of him, making a starting spot hard to come by. Alec Bohm is the full-time third baseman, Turner is the shortstop, and Bryson Stott is the Phillies' second baseman. Sosa is the backup at all three positions.
Normally, Sosa would have a strong trade market, and the Phillies would be open to capitalizing on it. However, Sosa is too valuable to the Phillies. The Turner injury proves it, as the Phillies lineup hasn't missed a beat with Sosa in for Turner.
While he's been relegated to a bench role, coming in to pinch hit or fill in for an injured player, Sosa provides just as much value as a starter. Whether it's in the field or at the plate, Sosa has been starting-caliber his entire Phillies tenure.
With a crowded infield and top prospect Aiden Miller working his way up through the farm system, there seems to be little room for Sosa. But, Sosa is too valuable to trade away. He won't return the value that the Phillies get out of him right now.
Sosa is a spark plug for the Phillies, igniting rallies and providing stability in the face of injury. His role on the team may be limited, but it's as valuable as a starter.
Sosa was acquired during the Phillies' 2022 season and has since been among the best bench bats in baseball. Sosa should not be traded, as the Phillies need him just as much as they need any other starter on their team.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!