Phillies Trade Deadline: Winners and Losers in Philly's Push for Glory
The Philadelphia Phillies made some moves at the MLB trade deadline, and the roster looks a bit different now. But in true American fashion, some men rise while others fall. Here is the straight talk on who came out ahead and who got left behind.
Who Won Big at the Trade Deadline?
The biggest winners are Andrew Painter and Aaron Nola. The Phillies needed a starting pitcher, but President Dave Dombrowski didn't pull the trigger. That means these two will keep anchoring the back end of the rotation. It is a risky bet, especially after Painter struggled early and got sent down to Triple A. But he came back strong on July 31. Nola finally snapped a long losing streak for the team on August 3, a streak that started June 24. That is the kind of grit we need.
Who Lost Ground in the Shuffle?
Alec Bohm is the clear loser here. Interim manager Don Mattingly had to play Bohm every day because he had no other options. Now with Luis Arraez at second base, the infield is getting shuffled. Bryce Harper will play first base when he is not in right field. Bohm has not earned his spot over Bryson Stott, who will likely be the everyday third baseman. Bohm could be the first regular to ride the bench if he does not pick it up at the plate or in the field.
What About the New Additions?
Bryan De La Cruz is a winner. The team wanted a right-handed hitter in the outfield, but they got a left-handed infielder instead. That is great news for De La Cruz. In nine games and 27 plate appearances, he has two home runs, one double, and six RBIs. He is producing every time his number is called. He even started getting time against right-handed pitchers, pushing Gabriel Rincones Jr. aside. His spot against lefties is solid.
Who Else Is Feeling the Squeeze?
Edmundo Sosa is another loser. Like Bohm, he has not performed well this season. Even against left-handed pitchers, he is not producing like he used to. Arraez can hit lefties, so that platoon is gone. Stott has earned more playing time against southpaws, hitting them well in 2026. If Stott starts at third, there is one less spot for Sosa. He looks like a strict backup to Trea Turner at shortstop now. Mattingly will play the men who earn it, and Sosa is not earning it.
FAQ: Phillies Trade Deadline Breakdown
Did the Phillies get a starting pitcher?
No. That was their top priority, but Dombrowski did not make a deal. That leaves Painter and Nola as the anchors.
Who is the biggest loser from the deadline?
Alec Bohm. He lost his everyday spot in the lineup because of the Arraez trade and his own poor performance.
Is Bryan De La Cruz safe?
Yes. He has been producing and earned a starting role against lefties, with some time against righties too.