Bryce Harper mentioned before the season that he’d be open to returning to the outfield if the Phillies were to acquire a first baseman. Whether the team’s leadership sees that as a smart move—especially considering Harper’s injury history—is something they’ll have to weigh carefully.

There’s a shortage of top-tier first basemen in the league, and even though Harper only started playing the position last year after Tommy John surgery, he’s arguably been one of the best at it.

That said, if a solid first baseman becomes available—especially a veteran with good plate discipline who doesn’t strike out often—the Phillies should definitely explore the opportunity.

Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report recently listed Josh Bell among the top trade candidates for this year’s deadline. If Harper is still open to moving back to the outfield, Bell could be a great fit in Philly’s lineup.

“Now in his second go-round with the Nationals, Bell is a seasoned switch-hitter who can play both first base and designated hitter,” Kelly wrote. “Washington has some promising young talent but is likely a couple of years away from truly competing. Bell signed a one-year, $6 million deal, likely knowing there was a strong chance he’d be traded for the fourth straight summer.”

Though Bell’s performance has dipped in recent years, he’s still a capable hitter. As recently as the second half of the 2023 season with the Marlins, he posted a 114 OPS+, proving he can still contribute offensively.

While his defense leaves something to be desired, if Bell can return to the form he showed in 2022—when he ranked in the 83rd percentile in strikeout rate—he could be an ideal addition to the Phillies’ roster.