Phillies linked to $100 million Twins All-Star ahead of trade deadline

The Philadelphia Phillies came into Wednesday's doubleheader with the St. Louis Cardinals with a 24-17 record. Their recent surge has them in the second National League Wild Card spot.

However, there are a few needs that should be addressed with the trade deadline coming up in late July. In particular, center field needs some work. 

While Brandon Marsh has overcome a slow start at the plate, he is perhaps better suited for a corner outfield spot.

Jon Conahan of Athlon Sports proposed the idea of Philadelphia attempting to acquire Byron Buxton from the Minnesota Twins.

" If adding a center fielder doesn't happen now, when will it?" Conahan writes.

"According to Buster Olney of ESPN, there might be a new one available in the form of Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins, perhaps a perfect addition for this Phillies team."

Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp

Buxton is off to a hot start with the Twins this year. He is hitting .264/.304.520 with nine home runs, 26 RBI, eight stolen bases and an .825 OPS.

The 31-year-old is a former All-Star, Gold Glover, Platinum Glove winner and Defensive Player of the Year. He would provide a boost at the plate, and he could also give the Phillies elite defense out in center field.

The Phillies desperately need better defense at that position, and if they can get it in Buxton, then they could be a force to be reckoned with down the stretch.

It will of course depend on if Buxton can stay healthy, as injuries have been a problem for him over the course of his career. But this may be a better option than Luis Robert Jr.

More MLB: Phillies announce stance on MLB's polarizing Pete Rose decision