How to improve the Phillies: Outfield

Ethan Witte of The Good Phight analyzes how the Philadelphia Phillies can address their persistent outfield struggles heading into the 2026-2027 offseason. The Phillies face arbitration decisions on Derek Hill, Bryan de la Cruz, and Brandon Marsh, whose potential $9 million salary complicates his future after a difficult finish to 2026. Philadelphia must also determine a defensive role for young outfielder Justin Crawford.

Free-agent options evaluated by Witte include Japanese star Teruaki Sato, whom executive Preston Mattingly has reportedly scouted in person, as well as Seiya Suzuki, Randy Arozarena, and Ian Happ. The writer ultimately predicts the Phillies will retain Crawford and Hill, trade Marsh, and acquire two external outfielders, projecting Sato as a primary target.