With the Phillies teetering on playoff contention at the trade deadline, they faced a tough decision. They weren’t close enough to a playoff spot to warrant going all-in, but also weren’t so far out they could sell off spare parts. This left the team in limbo when it came to making deals, so general manager Matt Klentak tried to find a middle ground.
The most impactful acquisitions made at the deadline were outfielder Corey Dickerson and starter Jason Vargas. Other miscellaneous moves including signing starter Drew Smyly and reliever Blake Parker and trading for relievers Mike Morin and Dan Straily.