Jazz Chisholm Jr. is traded to the Phillies in a blockbuster deal in exchange for top prospects.

The Philadelphia Phillies appear to be aiming for another lengthy playoff run, with an elusive World Series win as the ultimate prize, as they have risen to the top record in Major League Baseball.

Zachary Rymer of Bleacher Report has suggested a trade that would bring in center fielder Jazz Chisholm Jr. to replace Johan Rojas, and with the Miami Marlins firmly in the sell-now mode, the notoriously aggressive Phillies front office seems likely to continue adding to the roster if it sees an opportunity to improve the chances of reaching that goal.

Clearly, Rymer observed, “the Phillies are winning games despite Rojas’ porous bat.” “Dave Dombrowski, the president of baseball operations, is fond of big trades and stars, so pursuing Chisholm would undoubtedly satisfy both requirements.”

Proposal Sees Philadelphia Phillies Trade Top Prospect Justin Crawford for Jazz Chisholm Jr. Ryan suggested that the Phillies trade Chisholm to the Marlins for number-four prospect Eduardo Tait and number-nine prospect Justin Crawford.

“It’s hard to imagine the Phillies moving either of their prized right-handers, Andrew Painter or Mick Abel,” he added. “Ditto for third baseman Aidan Miller, who’s hit .308 since going to the Phillies at No. 27 in last year’s draft. As he’s taken some lumps since moving up to High-A, a trade of Crawford is easier to imagine, but only slightly. And that’s to say nothing of how reluctant Dombrowski might be to move him to an NL East rival.”

Given that Crawford was the team’s first-round draft selection in 2022, dealing him might be difficult to accept. He could be the team’s center fielder of the future because of his outstanding speed, batting, fielding, and arm strength. However, given their current emphasis on winning, a deal for Chisholm, a young, proven center fielder, might make sense.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. Could Be a ‘Win-Now’ Addition for the Philadelphia Phillies

In five big-league seasons, the 26-year-old Chisholm has slashed .245/.306/.447 with 58 homers, 175 RBI and 67 stolen bags. This season, his numbers have fallen somewhat as part of a woeful Marlins lineup, and his line is down to .243/.322/.412 with five homers, 20 RBI and eight steals.

The Phillies would have to give up Crawford for a one-year rental as he is now only signed to a one-year, $2.65 million contract. However, they could be able to persuade Chisholm to sign a long-term deal and play center field for many years to come.

In addition, Rymer pointed out that he is only making $2.6 million this year, with two more years of arbitration eligibility coming up in 2025 and 2026. “Teams looking to win now and down the road, with needs at center field and/or second base, are the best fits for Chisholm.”
John Middleton, the major owner of the Phillies, stated to The Philadelphia Inquirer that the team is holding onto “powder” in case a midseason move increases their odds of winning the World Series. Though the front staff will have to determine if the ultimate asking price is worth the potential boost the team can receive, an offensive upgrade at one of the few open spots on the roster does seem like the kind of move that meets the criteria.