The Philadelphia Phillies have been one of baseball’s most exciting franchises in recent years.
With star power in the lineup, a passionate fan base, and a competitive spirit, they’ve come close to postseason glory on several occasions.
However, like many teams chasing that elusive World Series title, the Phillies have had their share of missed opportunities when it comes to player acquisitions. Some potential deals fell through, while others were never aggressively pursued. In hindsight, several players—if acquired at the right time—could have dramatically altered the team’s trajectory.
In the fast-paced world of sports betting, team decisions like trades and acquisitions significantly affect public sentiment and odds. The Phillies’ failure to acquire some game-changing talents not only impacted their on-field performance but also their perceived potential among bettors. Top bookmakers online frequently adjust their odds based on team developments, including the addition—or lack thereof—of star players.
A single key signing can shift championship odds overnight, reflecting newfound confidence in a team’s direction.
Had the Phillies pulled the trigger on some of these big names, their betting outlook could have been just as bright as their playoff aspirations.
1) Rafael Devers – The Left-Handed Cornerstone
Rafael Devers has been a consistent offensive powerhouse for the Boston Red Sox. The Phillies had long-standing questions at third base, and Devers could have been the answer. His left-handed power would have provided protection in the lineup for Bryce Harper, adding balance and depth to the batting order.
Defensively, Devers’ steady presence at the hot corner could have improved infield performance, particularly in tight postseason games where small errors make huge differences. Had the Phillies acquired Devers in 2023 or 2024, his impact could have been immediate and long-lasting.
2) Luis Robert Jr. – A Five-Tool Spark Plug
Another name the Phillies were loosely linked to was Luis Robert Jr. from the White Sox. Known for his athleticism, power, and elite defensive range, Robert could have solidified the Phillies’ center field—a position that’s been in flux for several seasons. Beyond his glove, Robert’s offensive upside is immense. A top-of-the-order bat with 20-30 home run potential and speed on the bases, he would’ve brought a level of dynamism the Phillies have often lacked. His presence could have transformed both the lineup and outfield defense.
3) Josh Hader – Locking Down the Ninth
While the Phillies have had some decent closers over the years, Josh Hader represents a different class. One of the most dominant left-handed relievers of his generation, Hader could have been the anchor of a bullpen that has frequently been their Achilles heel.
With high strikeout rates and the ability to shut the door in high-leverage situations, Hader could have given manager Rob Thomson greater confidence in close games. His presence would likely have led to more wins in one-run contests and could have been the missing piece in critical playoff moments.
4) Cody Bellinger – Versatility and Veteran Poise
A former MVP, Cody Bellinger offers value on multiple fronts. He can play all outfield positions and first base, giving a team like Philadelphia versatility that’s essential over a long season. While Bellinger has had ups and downs with injuries and performance, his 2023 resurgence showed he still has plenty in the tank. His ability to deliver in the clutch, paired with postseason experience, would have added another layer to a Phillies squad that has sometimes struggled with consistency. A deal for Bellinger in the right window might have added both depth and leadership to the roster.
5) Alex Bregman – Championship Pedigree
Alex Bregman of the Houston Astros has long been a thorn in the side of National League teams during interleague and World Series matchups. A consistent hitter with a sharp eye at the plate, Bregman also brings championship pedigree.
He’s played in numerous high-pressure games and knows what it takes to win. Had the Phillies secured him in a trade or via free agency, Bregman’s leadership and clutch hitting would have made a significant difference, especially during October baseball. His fit in the Phillies’ infield and batting order would’ve added stability and IQ.
6) Shane Bieber – Ace Material
Starting pitching is often the backbone of a championship team, and Shane Bieber is a name that’s been linked to trade rumors for years. The 2020 AL Cy Young winner has the composure, command, and stamina needed for deep playoff runs. Pairing him with Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola would have given the Phillies a lethal rotation. In postseason series where pitching matchups are everything, Bieber could have helped swing the balance in Philadelphia’s favor. Health permitting, his acquisition might have defined a new era for Phillies pitching.
7) Byron Buxton – Defensive Mastery
Injury-prone but immensely talented, Byron Buxton remains one of the game’s elite defenders. His range in center field and ability to turn extra-base hits into outs could have saved countless runs. Offensively, he’s explosive when healthy, with a rare mix of speed and power.
The Phillies could have deployed Buxton as a defensive specialist or platoon option, drastically improving late-game defensive setups. If they had managed his workload properly, Buxton might have offered a unique competitive edge.
8) Corbin Burnes – Rotation Game-Changer
The former NL Cy Young winner from Milwaukee, Corbin Burnes, has elite stuff and a bulldog mentality on the mound. He would have been a perfect fit for a Phillies team that sometimes struggles to dominate in series openers.
Burnes brings energy, intensity, and the ability to silence even the best lineups. A 1-2 punch of Burnes and Wheeler could have rivaled any in the league and given Philadelphia a real shot at World Series glory.
9) Paul Sewald – Under-the-Radar Weapon
Not all acquisitions need to be flashy. Paul Sewald’s effectiveness as a high-leverage reliever for the Mariners made him a valuable commodity. The Phillies’ bullpen has lacked consistency, and Sewald’s emergence as a late-inning asset would have fit their needs perfectly. With him in the mix, roles could have been more clearly defined, reducing wear and tear on younger arms and minimizing blown leads.
10) Trea Turner (Before Signing)
Though now a Phillie, it’s worth reflecting on how much more impactful it could have been if Trea Turner had joined a year or two earlier.
His speed, baserunning IQ, and contact hitting were sorely needed during earlier Phillies playoff pushes. His delayed arrival meant the team missed out on his prime seasons during critical runs.
Final Thoughts
In professional baseball, timing is everything.
The Phillies have built a solid core, but these missed opportunities show how just a few different decisions might have led to a championship parade down Broad Street.
While hindsight is always 20/20, the lesson is clear: in a game of inches, sometimes the biggest difference comes from the ones you didn’t get.
PHOTO: Bill Streicher/Imagn Images
The post The Ones That Got Away: How Missed Acquisitions Could Have Changed the Philadelphia Phillies’ Fate appeared first on Philadelphia Sports Nation.