ESPN Reports: Phillies Finalize Deal to Acquire Four-Time All-Star
In a bold and strategic move, the Philadelphia Phillies have officially announced the signing of four-time All-Star outfielder Cedric Mullins, marking a significant acquisition in their pursuit of a World Series title. The Phillies, having come up short in 2022, are determined to seize every opportunity to return to the Fall Classic and finally secure a championship.
Since their World Series appearance, the Phillies have remained among baseball’s elite, consistently making the playoffs and positioning themselves as serious contenders. However, they’ve yet to recapture that 2022 magic, with each postseason since ending in disappointment. As some of their core players approach free agency, the urgency to win now has intensified. With a solid 25-18 start to the current season, the Phillies trail the division-leading New York Mets by just 2.5 games and are making moves to ensure they stay competitive down the stretch.
Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles—Mullins’ former team—have faced an unexpected collapse. Starting the season with a disappointing 15-26 record, they currently occupy the bottom spot in the American League East. The Orioles’ struggles have sparked speculation that they may become sellers at the trade deadline, and Mullins quickly emerged as one of the top names rumored to be on the move.
Veteran MLB insider Jon Morosi, during a recent appearance on MLB Central, identified Mullins as a potential trade piece for Baltimore and a top target for contending teams. “As we analyze potential impact players who could be moved by the deadline, Cedric Mullins stands out,” Morosi said. “He’s the kind of player that can make a major difference down the stretch—not just with his bat, but with his presence in the clubhouse and in the outfield.”
Morosi also mentioned the Phillies as an ideal landing spot, given their current needs and playoff ambitions. He added that Mullins’ versatility and talent make him a strong fit for nearly any contender, including teams like the Texas Rangers.
Statistically, Mullins has remained a bright spot on an otherwise struggling Orioles roster. He’s posted a slash line of .230/.335/.446, resulting in a respectable .781 OPS. Though he’s no longer in his 20s, Mullins still brings elite defensive value, ranking in the 77th percentile for Outs Above Average, according to Baseball Savant. His glove, speed, and experience make him a complete centerfielder.
Mullins’ best season came in 2021, when he delivered a breakout performance. That year, he crushed 30 home runs, accumulated 6.2 bWAR, and earned a spot among the top 10 in MVP voting. It’s that type of production the Phillies hope he can recapture in a new environment. With their centerfield situation currently lacking, Mullins’ arrival could be a game-changer.
The Phillies have struggled to find consistency in centerfield this season. Brandon Marsh, once viewed as a promising everyday option, has failed to meet expectations. His slash line features a troubling .270 on-base percentage, a meager .547 OPS, and a woeful 53 OPS+. Injuries have also limited his availability, and his projected WAR is trending into negative territory. In back-to-back previous seasons, Marsh had posted over 3 bWAR, making his current form all the more frustrating for the Phillies.
With the NL East heating up, there’s no room for Philadelphia to fall behind. The New York Mets are arguably the top team in baseball so far, while the Atlanta Braves have bounced back from a poor start and now sit at the .500 mark. The division race is expected to be tight, and the Phillies can’t afford to waste any time upgrading where they can.
By bringing in Cedric Mullins, Philadelphia signals their commitment to winning now. He fills a clear hole in the lineup and brings postseason experience, power, speed, and a strong defensive presence—all assets the team has sorely lacked in centerfield. If Mullins can approach anything near his 2021 form, this trade could be the move that helps push the Phillies over the top.
For the Orioles, dealing Mullins—who is nearing free agency—offers a chance to get value during what appears to be a lost season. Though losing a franchise mainstay is difficult, the return package could aid in their rebuilding process and open opportunities for younger players.
Ultimately, the acquisition of Cedric Mullins may be exactly what the Phillies need to fuel a deep playoff run and take one more swing at a long-awaited World Series title.
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