With a need in center field and the bullpen, the Phillies could target an Orioles outfielder with serious pop this July. Here’s who they may target and what they might have to give up.
As the Phillies continue their tight NL East battle, adding a dynamic outfielder with power and defense has emerged as a top priority. Among the rumored names is Ramón Laureano, the Baltimore Orioles’ veteran who’s quietly thriving in 2025 with 14 homers, a .277 average, and an .858 OPS—not to mention a player option year ahead. The Phillies are seeking stability in center and bullpen effectiveness late in games; Laureano addresses the former, while his contract situation keeps the cost reasonable. Here’s how this trade scenario could enhance their roster, and what Philadelphia may have to send in return.
Why Laureano Makes Sense
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Performance & Versatility: Over 75 games, Laureano has delivered 30 extra-base hits and power (.521 slugging), while offering high-end outfield defense and speed on the bases .
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Affordable & Short-Term Control: A $4M salary with an opt-out next season minimizes investment, limiting long-term commitment even if he tests free agency.
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Depth Area: With Brandon Marsh underperforming and center field remaining unsettled, Laureano gives Philly an immediate boost while allowing them to reassign internal options.
Ramón Laureano is the most slept on bat available during this deadline
249 PA
.283/.345/.516
8% BB | 26% K
12 HR | 40 RBIDemolishing RHP while being solid vs lefties as well (93 wRC+). Been consistently hitting all season.
— Kick Dirt Baseball (@KickDirtBB) July 21, 2025
What the Orioles Could Gain
Baltimore, struggling post-veteran departures, can turn Laureano into cost- and timeline-aligned assets for their next window:
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They’d likely ask for mid-level prospects, players close to the major leagues who are ready but not untouchable.
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A combination of a high-contact bat prospect and a young pitching arm could align perfectly with their timeline.
 Possible Trade Proposal
| Phillies Receive | Orioles Receive | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Ramón Laureano (OF) | Johan Rojas (CF prospect) Mid‑A hitting prospect |
Phillies get power-speed outfield upgrade; Orioles get high-upside centerfield and bat depth. |
Rob Thomson’s decision to have Johan Rojas bat with both Max Kepler and Bryson Stott on the bench pays off.
(Via @aokstott)
— On Pattison (@OnPattison) July 20, 2025
Trading for Laureano could be a smart low-risk move by Philadelphia: he brings current offensive and defensive juice at minimal future cost. For Baltimore, exchanging a pending free agent for two developing assets fits their ongoing retooling path. While this wouldn’t make headlines like a blockbuster closer deal, it’s quietly impactful, a trade that fills the Phillies’ gaps without overpaying and gives the Orioles real value in return.
