The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly considering a significant trade with the Minnesota Twins to address longstanding problems in their outfield. As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Phillies could acquire Byron Buxton to provide much-needed offensive power and defensive skill, a move that would involve sending promising prospects Andrew Painter and Justin Crawford to Minnesota.
Phillies Seek to Strengthen Outfield with a High-Profile Trade
The Phillies have struggled to find consistent performance in their outfield, with Brandon Marsh showing inconsistency, Johan Rojas failing to deliver strong hitting, and Max Kepler underperforming this season. ESPN’s David Schoenfield suggests that the Phillies’ best chance to turn this around is by trading for Byron Buxton, one of the most dynamic outfielders in the league this year.
According to Schoenfield’s proposal, the Phillies would send top pitching prospect Andrew Painter along with young outfielder Justin Crawford, who is performing well in Triple-A, to the Twins in exchange for Buxton. Schoenfield explains that despite the significant cost, the Phillies’ front office, led by Dave Dombrowski, is prepared to “go all-in” to enhance their roster for a championship run.
“Philadelphia has a lot riding on 2025 given the age of its lineup,”
Schoenfield writes,
“And executive Dave Dombrowski knows how to go all-in. In this case, it would mean parting with one of the top pitching prospects in the game in Painter, plus a promising young outfield hitting well in Triple-A.”
—David Schoenfield, ESPN Analyst
Pitching Depth Might Cushion Loss of Top Prospect Andrew Painter
While losing Andrew Painter would be challenging, the Phillies possess a strong pitching core capable of absorbing his departure. Zack Wheeler remains under contract through 2027, with Aaron Nola and Christopher Sanchez locked in through 2030, which adds stability. Additionally, current season contributions from Jesus Luzardo and Ranger Suarez, along with long-term potential from Mick Abel, provide further pitching support. The team can also explore free agency or other trade opportunities to fill any remaining gaps in their starting rotation.
Byron Buxton’s Impact Could Revitalize Philadelphia’s Lineup
Byron Buxton, a 25-year-old center fielder for the Twins, has made a significant impact this season, boasting 20 home runs and a .270 batting average over 73 games. His .879 OPS stands well above the current Phillies outfielders, indicating both strong offensive and defensive capabilities. The Phillies lack a consistent right-handed power bat in the outfield, and Buxton’s addition could fill that void immediately.
Among Philadelphia’s hitters, Kyle Schwarber leads with 27 home runs, while Trea Turner and Nick Castellanos are tied for second with 11 each. Buxton’s 20 home runs would substantially boost the team’s power numbers, something the Phillies badly need for their postseason aspirations.
Buxton’s contract control through 2028 also makes him a valuable long-term asset, fitting the Phillies’ strategy to compete strongly over the next several seasons.
Organizational Plans for Young Players Amid Trade Speculation
Within this context, the Phillies’ plans for young outfielder Justin Crawford have come under speculation. Crawford has drawn attention as a promising prospect, and his potential departure in a trade indicates how highly the Phillies value Buxton’s immediate impact over future development. Similarly, updates on Andrew Painter’s role within the organization highlight the balance the team is trying to maintain between its strong pitching prospects and the urgent need to upgrade other key areas.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Byron Buxton healthy?
A. Byron Buxton Is Fit and Doing Well for the Twins. Byron Buxton, who plays outfield for the Minnesota Twins, is famous for his amazing mix of power and speed. Recently, he’s been performing at his best.
Q. How fast can Byron Buxton run?
A. Buxton’s sprint speed is an indicator of his health this season. Statcast reports he’s running at an average of 30.2 feet per second on the bases. This makes him the second-fastest in the major leagues, just behind Bobby Witt Jr. of Kansas City. This is Buxton’s highest speed since 2019.