The Philadelphia Phillies are considering significant roster changes after their disappointing early exit from the 2024 postseason. With an eye toward improving their team for the 2025 season, one possible avenue for the Phillies is a blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros, targeting two key players: outfielder Kyle Tucker and relief pitcher Ryan Pressly. Both players have been linked to the Phillies over the past few months, and with Tucker’s potential free agency after the 2025 season, the Astros could be willing to trade him this winter.
Tucker, who is set to earn $16.7 million in 2025, enjoyed a standout 2024 season with a .993 OPS, 23 home runs, and 49 RBIs in 339 plate appearances. His strong performance has made him one of the top outfielders in the game, and his value to the Phillies would be immense as they seek to bolster their lineup. As a potential free agent after the 2025 season, the Astros may be inclined to explore trade offers for Tucker, especially if they are not planning to extend him long-term.
Along with Tucker, the Phillies could also target Ryan Pressly, the Astros’ veteran closer. Pressly, who is also entering his final season under contract in 2025, is set to earn $14 million. Although Pressly was a key part of Houston’s bullpen from 2021-2023, he lost his closer role to Josh Hader last season. Despite that, Pressly remains a valuable arm and could be a significant upgrade for the Phillies’ bullpen, which would benefit from another proven late-inning reliever alongside newly signed closer Jordan Romano.
A trade proposal, as suggested by former Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. on MLB Network, could involve the Phillies sending outfielder Nick Castellanos, third baseman Alec Bohm, and either right-handed pitcher Mick Abel or shortstop Starlyn Caba to the Astros. This trade would be contingent on the Astros’ decision not to re-sign their free-agent third baseman, Alex Bregman. If Houston opts to part ways with Bregman, acquiring Bohm could help fill that gap in their infield. Meanwhile, Castellanos would add another proven bat to the Astros’ lineup.
If the Phillies do acquire Tucker, they would likely want to sign him to a long-term extension, as he could be a cornerstone player for years to come. Tucker’s market value is projected at seven years and $195 million, making him a potentially expensive but highly impactful addition. This deal could significantly elevate the Phillies’ chances in the National League, especially with the added depth and talent that Tucker and Pressly would bring to both the lineup and bullpen.
