Phillies Reportedly Seek Multiple AL Central Relievers Ahead Trade Deadline

As the 2025 MLB trade deadline approaches on July 31, teams are actively positioning themselves to address key needs, especially in pitching and bullpen roles. The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly willing to trade significant prospects for controllable, high-impact relievers, focusing on American League Central teams like the Minnesota Twins and Cleveland Guardians, with Emmanuel Clase being a top target due to his elite bullpen credentials and contract control through 2026. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays have already made a move by acquiring reliever Bryan Baker from the Baltimore Orioles to bolster an inconsistent bullpen. The New York Yankees are seeking additions across both starting rotation and bullpen, aiming to improve their 20th-ranked bullpen ERA. The Pittsburgh Pirates are sellers at the deadline but intend to retain cornerstone pitcher Paul Skenes and veteran Andrew McCutchen. Additionally, teams like the Angels are contemplating upgrades to their rotation, with potential bargain starting pitchers such as Charlie Morton and German Marquez being considered as trade targets.