There is speculation that the Baltimore Orioles might trade their starting center fielder, Cedric Mullins, to a contender like the Philadelphia Phillies before the trade deadline.
The Orioles have an abundance of outfield talent, with Colton Cowser and Heston Kjerstad seen as key future pieces, and Anthony Santander performing exceptionally well this season. Austin Hays is also solid in his role, while Kyle Stowers and top prospect Connor Norby are vying for more playing time.
Cedric Mullins, though talented, might be at risk of losing his spot due to this depth. His performance this season has been inconsistent, hitting .214/.256/.373 overall and struggling in July with a .188/.212/.250 slash line. Despite this, Mullins still holds value, especially for a team like the Phillies who are in need of outfield reinforcement.
MLB insider Jim Bowden has linked Mullins to the Phillies, suggesting that a trade could benefit both teams. Mullins comes with an additional year of team control, making him a more valuable asset on the trade market. A potential deal could involve the Phillies sending two mid-tier prospects to Baltimore.
One candidate is De La Cruz, a 6-foot-8 outfielder with first base capabilities, currently slashing .263/.333/.423 in the minors. Another is McGowan, a pitcher with a 2.51 ERA over 14.1 innings this season, despite struggling with walks.
Such a trade could allow the Orioles to promote their younger, high-upside players, while the Phillies gain a solid outfielder. This move might disrupt team chemistry, but from an external perspective, it appears logical.
