The Philadelphia Phillies would gain significant roster flexibility if they decided to shift Bryce Harper back into the outfield, a move that could reshape their long term plans. Yet president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski has repeatedly indicated that he is not interested in making that change. Harper himself has publicly said that he is open to returning to the outfield if it improves the team’s overall outlook, though the final decision is not his to make. Even with this limitation, there are still observers who think the Phillies could target a first baseman and proceed as if a realignment is possible.
In fact, this idea has become more concrete with external speculation pointing directly to a potential addition. Kiley McDaniel of ESPN specifically listed Philadelphia as one of the clubs positioned to pursue Japanese star Kazuma Okamoto from NPB. McDaniel noted, “Okamoto could prove to be a cost-effective alternative to Pete Alonso (who projects for low nine figures) and can point to Yoshida’s $90 million deal as a comp. The Mets, Astros, Yankees, Pirates, Marlins, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks all seem to be in on the first base/designated hitter market to various degrees — and could be looking for a cheaper option than signing Alonso, Kyle Schwarber or Murakami, where Okamoto is the fallback option,” making it clear that Philadelphia is legitimately involved in the market.
This directly affirms the notion that the Phillies are indeed exploring a move for Okamoto and treating it as a real trade level acquisition possibility rather than a hypothetical. It confirms their willingness to pursue him and to position themselves in the first base and designated hitter market even without committing to shifting Harper’s defensive role. While adding Okamoto would not necessarily push the team to relocate Harper to the outfield, especially given the injury considerations involved, he still profiles as an appealing addition who could strengthen the lineup immediately.
There is also a scenario in which the Phillies could view Okamoto as a third base option if they decide to move on from Alec Bohm. That choice could open another path to reorganizing the infield without forcing Harper to change positions. Regardless of which route they take, the confirmed interest in Okamoto underscores that the Phillies are evaluating multiple offensive upgrades as they plan for the upcoming season.
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