Phillies Need To Target This Cubs Free Agent This Offseason

The Philadelphia Phillies are in pursuit of Seiya Suzuki, a free agent from the Chicago Cubs, to address their ongoing need for a dependable outfielder. As per CBS Sports, the Phillies have been identified as a potential landing spot for Suzuki in free agency. This offseason, the team has acquired Luis Arraez, who has bolstered their offensive output from the outfield.

However, should they lose Arraez in free agency, they will once again be seeking outfield upgrades. The Phillies currently lack reliable outfield options, with Brandon Marsh being the team's only All-Star outfielder outside of Bryce Harper. While Harper continues to excel in the outfield, Justin Crawford, the Phillies' other outfielder, struggles with a .263 batting average and an OPS below .700, particularly against left-handed pitching.

Suzuki, a 32-year-old player, boasts an impressive .823 OPS and 11 home runs over his 661 games with the Cubs. Despite not being an elite defender, Suzuki has shown remarkable improvement in defense this year and draws a significant number of walks. His chase and walk rates place him in the 90th and 91st percentiles, respectively.

The Phillies possess the financial resources to pursue Suzuki, who is eligible for a qualifying offer. If the Phillies successfully land Suzuki, adding him to their lineup alongside Kyle Schwarber and Harper could significantly enhance their chances of winning a World Series.