Cubs' All-Star outfielder is a 'realistic' free agent target for Phillies
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Cubs' All-Star outfielder is a 'realistic' free agent target for Phillies originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia Phillies could have a very busy offseason.
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After another disappointing postseason showing, Phillies president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski will likely be hoping to add impact players, especially on offense.
Philadelphia scored just nine runs in its three Wild Card Series games against the Atlanta Braves.
The front office could also look to make defensive upgrades, as the Phillies were well below par on that side of the ball.
Bleacher Report's Tim Kelly believes that makes left fielder Ian Happ a "realistic" free agent target for the Phillies. He hit 24 home runs and posted 10 defensive runs saved in 2026.
"Additionally, with Bryce Harper returning to first base, Philadelphia needs an impact outfield bat. Randy Arozarena and Seiya Suzuki are the big fish, but Ian Happ may be a more realistic target.
"He has a .783 career OPS and is a four-time Gold Glove Award winner, so he could upgrade the defense of a team that finished tied for dead last in baseball, minus-51 defensive runs saved," Kelly wrote.
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Happ's strong outfield defense is something coveted by most organizations, including the Chicago Cubs.
Given the Phillies' defensive struggles, it would make sense for them to find more sure-handed players who they know they can rely on.
If the Cubs decide to bring back only one of Happ and Seiya Suzuki, either player may be on the Phillies' radar.
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