By Vasantha
Although the Phillies have the second-most wins in baseball, they have struggled since the trade deadline.
Their record since June 1, 2024, is barely over.500, trailing six National League teams in victories.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report said an uninspiring outfield acquisition was the biggest squandered chance for the front management before the deadline.
“It’s still baffling that Philadelphia’s trade deadline solution to its outfield problem was buying low on Austin Hays,” he wrote.
Hays blasted a grand slam in a 12-inning defeat to the Yankees, but he has only one RBI since July 27.
A stunning trade with the Miami Marlins for Jazz Chisholm Jr. gave the Yankees the deadline outfielder. If the Phillies had signed Chisholm, their record may be better.
“If the Phillies had swung a deal for Jazz Chisholm Jr., they’d probably be the World Series favorites,” Miller said.
Hays, who has a kidney infection and was placed on the 10-day injured list, has hit.254/.275/.373 with one homer and two stolen bases since joining the Phillies.