Phillies might make unexpected trade to address their Andrew Painter problem

Phillies might make unexpected trade to address their Andrew Painter problem originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Philadelphia Phillies are heading towards the 2026 MLB trade deadline with an incredibly clear need to upgrade the outfield, specifically, a right-handed hitter.

Adolis Garcia might miss the rest of the year, and with the Phillies' lackluster right-handed hitters, adding a righty outfielder makes too much sense. But that might not be all the Phillies look to address at the MLB trade deadline.According to MLB insider Robert Murray of Fansided.

com, the Phillies might look to trade for a new starting pitcher to help address their Andrew Painter problem.Phillies linked to SP trade amid Andrew Painter problem"At this point, it would be a shock if the Phillies didn't add a righty outfielder, and they very well may add in other areas as well, including the rotation," Murray writes.While the outfield need has been well-discussed at this rate, the Phillies problem with Painter might be resolved by a trade at this year's deadline.

The young right-hander has struggled in his debut season, and while the Phillies might not give up on him long-term, they could look to add a new starting pitcher to ensure they don't get burned by Painter as they fight for a postseason spot this season.Now, they likely won't be involved in the trade markets for someone like Tarik Skubal, Joe Ryan, or one of the other top names on the market.MORE: Phillies extending Cristopher Sanchez to his $107 million deal was geniusIt might be a need, but not one dire enough to part with their top prospects, especially since the Phillies don't have the best farm system anyway.

But the Phillies could look to add a cheap rental option in the trade market to help take some of the load off Painter, and give the team some much-needed rotation depth after cutting Taijaun Walker, and seeing Painter's struggles.While the Phillies aren't likel