The Philadelphia Phillies have officially reached a crossroads after three straight seasons and three near-misses. World Series berth slipping through their fingers again and again. And despite the star power of Bryce Harper, the electrifying speed of Trea Turner, and the sheer dominance of Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola on the mound, the same core has begun to show diminishing returns.
With Bohm Likely Gone, a Power Void Looms at Third Base
The Phillies appear set to move on from Alec Bohm this offseason — a decision that, while difficult, makes sense from both a financial and performance standpoint. Bohm, who made his first All-Star appearance in 2024, is now projected to earn over $10 million in arbitration. But his power dipped significantly in 2025, with just 11 home runs and 49 RBI. For a corner infielder in today’s game, that production doesn’t match the price tag — not for a team operating under payroll constraints.
While Bohm still hit for average (.287) and offers value at the plate, the Phillies need a true middle-of-the-order threat. The days of rolling with the same crew and hoping for a different October outcome are over.
Caminero Offers More Than Star Power — He Fills a Lineup Gap
Junior Caminero might be just 22 years old, but the numbers he’s putting up are beyond his years. He blasted 45 home runs last season — sixth-most in the majors — and hit .264 while doing it. That kind of production, paired with his team-friendly $820,000 salary in 2026, is the type of asset the Phillies front office can’t afford to ignore.
More than just a highlight-reel hitter, Caminero is a puzzle piece the Phillies have been missing. With Kyle Schwarber likely returning to a DH role and Harper locked in at first, Caminero could solidify the cleanup spot and provide protection behind Harper — something the team has struggled to find since the 2022 run.
A Deal Would Be Costly — But Championship Windows Don’t Stay Open Forever
Tampa Bay won’t let Caminero go easily. To land him, the Phillies would likely have to part with at least one top prospect — perhaps right-handers Mick Abel or Griff McGarry — along with a controllable major league player. It’s a steep price. But it’s the kind of trade that turns perennial contenders into legitimate World Series favorites.
The Phillies have the capital, the need, and the urgency. This offseason can’t be about running it back. It has to be about redefining the core — and if Dave Dombrowski is serious about chasing a title, acquiring Junior Caminero could be the boldest, smartest move he makes yet.
