Mets-Phillies Bidding War Predicted Before MLB Trade Deadline
Mets-Phillies Bidding War Predicted Before MLB Trade Deadline originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies are in the midst of a contentious division race as we approach the middle of July.
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How good is this for baseball? Juan Soto and Pete Alonso are leading a Mets renaissance while the Phillies are doing what they always do, though without Bryce Harper this time.
Harper has reportedly dealt with that same wrist injury since April of last year, and it comes as the Phillies have lost 11 of 16 dating back to May 25.
As the Mets sharpen their knives down the stretch and the Phillies look to fill their many roster holes, one MLB executive gave a very interesting prediction for July's trade deadline.
Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper (3) walks towards the dugout after the third out against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fourth inning at Rogers Centre.Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Longtime general manager Jim Bowden wrote that between now and the July 31 trade deadline, the Mets and Phillies are not only gearing up for an epic division race but also to see who can bolster their bullpen the best.
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"According to industry sources, both organizations are focused on high-leverage arms and will be chasing similar relievers," Bowden wrote.
This is a fascinating possibility that's in the same league as the Juan Soto bidding war.
Many interesting relievers could be on the market in July, including Rockies standout Seth Halvorsen, Orioles' Felix Bautista, Athletics' Mason Miller, Angels' Kenley Jansen and Red Sox closer Aroldis Chapman.
Halvorsen is the most interesting possibility; his lightning-quick fastball hasn't yet translated into strong numbers but could easily turn it around with the right coaching.
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Halvorsen's ground-ball percentage, whiff rate and offspeed run value are all elite, according to Baseball Savant.
The fates of Bautista, Jansen and Chapman all depend on the mentality of each front office. Bautista, who is under control until 2027, would be among the most lucrative trade pieces if general manager Mike Elias decides to sell at the deadline.
Bowden's prediction here leaves so much to the imagination, and it would be an enthralling dynamic to watch the Mets and Phillies fight over some of the top relievers in baseball.
Related: Phillies' Rob Thomson Throws Memorial Day Celebration After Hot Start
Related: Phillies-Brewers Trade Idea Brings Beloved Slugger Back to Philadelphia
Related: Mets Manager Addresses Juan Soto's Questionable Actions in Red Sox Loss
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
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