The Philadelphia Phillies might have a golden opportunity to shake up their struggling lineup by bringing in a former MLB All-Star to replace one of their underperforming veterans.
Despite a strong 9-6 start to the 2025 season—just one game behind the NL East lead—there’s a sense that the Phillies could be even better if a few key players stepped up. One of the biggest concerns early on has been veteran outfielder Brandon Marsh, who has gotten off to a rough start at the plate. Through 14 games (37 at-bats), Marsh is hitting just .108 with a .250 OBP and a .189 slugging percentage, tallying only one home run and four RBIs.
With Marsh struggling, the Phillies could look to make a move—and there’s a potential replacement already on the market.
Luis Robert Jr. Could Be the Ideal Replacement for Marsh
The Chicago White Sox are off to a miserable 4-11 start and may already be looking to offload talent. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, the White Sox have had trade discussions with the Dodgers about Luis Robert Jr., though talks have been put on hold for now. That gives the Phillies a window to swoop in.
Robert hasn’t had a strong start either, hitting just .163 with a .495 OPS, one home run, four RBIs, six walks, and six stolen bases in 14 games. Still, his track record suggests he’s capable of bouncing back. In 2023, Robert was an All-Star, hitting 38 homers, driving in 80 runs, and posting a .264/.315/.542 slash line.
Phillies fans were already eyeing Robert as a trade target during the 2024 deadline, but Chicago opted to keep him. Now, with his name back in trade rumors, Philadelphia has another shot at landing him—and shouldn’t miss out this time.
Beyond the short-term upgrade, Robert would give the Phillies long-term value as well. He’s under contract for $15 million in 2025 with team options worth $20 million for both 2026 and 2027, giving the team flexibility and control.
Given how close the Dodgers reportedly were to acquiring him, the Phillies should act quickly before another team pounces on the chance to help Robert rediscover his All-Star form elsewhere.
