Phillies again connect with Twins in deal for center fielder

Bader fills an immediate need for the Phillies, who were looking for an upgrade in center field over incumbent Johan Rojas. In Bader, they get just that: an improved hitter who also plays defense at a high level. He also has a mutual option for 2026 should both sides choose to exercise it.

Bader's 12 home runs, 10 stolen bases and .778 OPS showcase a well-rounded skill set that features power and speed. That easily outpaces Rojas' .569 OPS in 152 at-bats this season and doesn't sacrifice much on the bases or in the field. 

The 31-year-old Bader is also an upgrade over new teammate Brandon Marsh, who has a .717 OPS on the season and is not quite the defender in center field that the former is. 

In return, the Minnesota Twins acquired Phillies 12th-ranked prospect in outfielder Hendry Mendez (currently in Double-A) and unranked right-hander Geremy Villoria (4.50 ERA in the Dominican Summer League). 

While not flashy, Bader checks a box for Philadelphia, though surely fans are disappointed that the Phillies didn't go all-in for a more impact bat, much as they did in the bullpen when they traded for Duran on Wednesday evening. But with a few hours to go until the 6 p.m. trade deadline, perhaps the Phillies still have another trick up their sleeve as they gear up for an intense NL East race with the New York Mets.

As for Minnesota, a disappointing 2025 campaign has led to something of a sell-off, with more assets possibly in play to be dealt.