The Philadelphia Phillies' biggest need at this year's trade deadline is likely a right-handed hitting outfielder, but they could also be in the market for a setup man.
Brad Keller's injury has added an item to Dave Dombrowski's shopping list. There is no shortage of valuable relievers expected to be dealt at this year's deadline. Last year, the Phillies surprised everyone and added Jhoan Duran. The closer was an All-Star this year, but the team now needs to replace his setup man. Keller had 13 holds on the season, but his ERA sat at 4.02.
"The Phillies, who already were seeking a right-handed hitting outfielder, now are in desperate need of a setup man with veteran Brad Keller out for the year with a torn UCL in his right elbow," MLB insider Bob Nightengale wrote for USA Today on Sunday. "They would love to acquire (New York) Mets reliever Luke Weaver, but the price tag may be high."
Weaver signed a two-year, $22 million deal with the Mets in the offseason, but has outperformed his salary. In 38 games, he has a 2.03 ERA and 43 strikeouts. He is more than just a rental and will cost plenty as is. However, to get the Mets to trade him within the division, the Phillies may have to pay even more.
Going from Weaver in the eighth to Duran in the ninth would be a dream for the Phillies and a nightmare for whoever they are facing. The backend of their bullpen would suddenly be one of, if not, the best in baseball. It's unclear how many of their pieces the Mets will sell off, but Weaver is certainly a player teams will be calling about.