The Philadelphia Phillies are in a make-or-break season, with the goal of winning a World Series or considering it a failure. Despite holding the Major League Baseball record for over a month, the Phillies have hit a rough patch in July, losing five straight series.
General manager Dave Dombrowski made significant moves ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring Carlos Estévez from the Los Angeles Angels and Austin Hays from the Baltimore Orioles. While these moves addressed the team’s needs for a leverage reliever and a right-handed outfield bat, not all reviews have been positive.
MLB insider Andy McCullough labeled the Phillies as “snoozers” in his review of the trade deadline moves, criticizing the hefty price paid for Estévez, who is a free agent after this season. Dombrowski defended the move, stating it was necessary given the circumstances.
Despite giving up promising young pitchers for Estévez and parting ways with Seranthony Dominguez and Cristian Pache for Hays, the Phillies are focused on the immediate impact of these acquisitions on their playoff push.
Trade deadlines are ultimately judged in the long run, but for now, the Phillies are banking on their new additions to help them chase a championship this season.
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