MLB Trade Rumors: Insider Links All-Star Pitcher To Phillies

June 26, 2025 ,
Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson walks to the mound during 2025 game.

The Philadelphia Phillies are in bullpen crisis mode, and they may have zeroed in on a solution: Baltimore Orioles All-Star closer Félix Bautista. 

According to multiple insiders, the Phillies are among the most aggressive teams exploring a potential Bautista deal as the trade deadline nears. With José Alvarado suspended and Jordan Romano struggling, the Phillies’ bullpen ERA has ballooned to 4.63, ranking among the worst in MLB. Bautista, nicknamed “The Mountain,” would be a massive upgrade, both literally and figuratively.

Bautista's Value Skyrockets Amid Orioles’ Mixed Signals

Bautista has returned to dominance in 2025 following Tommy John surgery, boasting a sub-3.00 ERA and elite strikeout numbers. The 30-year-old is under team control through 2027, which only adds to his appeal for win-now contenders like Philly. 

But the Orioles are torn. Sitting in last place in the AL East but just 6.5 games out of a Wild Card spot, Baltimore could go either direction at the deadline. If they sell, Bautista would be the centerpiece. However, insider Jeff Passan pegs the odds of a trade at just 15 percent, unless the offer absolutely blows the Orioles away. 

Could the Phillies Meet Baltimore's Demands?

If the Orioles do entertain offers, their ask will be steep. Names like Phillies top pitching prospect Mick Abel have been floated as starting points in trade talks. The logic? Bautista isn’t a rental, he’d be a multi-year anchor in the back end of the Phillies’ bullpen and could help fuel multiple postseason runs. But with Baltimore reportedly prioritizing MLB-ready talent, especially rotation help, it’s unclear if Philadelphia can (or will) match the ask. 

Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

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