Phillies Weigh Aidan Miller and Teruaki Sato for 2027 Offense

The Phillies are considering a two-part route to more offense in 2027: promote infielder Aidan Miller and add an outfielder. Dombrowski said in Las Vegas that Miller could make the club in spring training, despite missing most of this season with a back condition.

Miller, 22, returned to action in the Arizona Fall League, batting .327 with a 1.038 OPS and playing solid third base. He can also play shortstop. Dombrowski said Miller’s athleticism, ability to get on base and power would make him an important addition, while his minimum salary could help balance the team’s expensive roster.

Dombrowski said the Phillies need an outfielder, particularly after weak production from that position and the cleanup spot. The team could look at free agents Seiya Suzuki or Randy Arozarena, but both are expected to seek multiyear deals and will be 32 next season. Dombrowski said he did not want the club to keep getting older.

Sato, who turns 28 in March, hit .306 with 39 home runs and 106 RBIs in Japan last season, winning the league’s triple crown. The Phillies have scouted him; he has played mostly third base and also has experience in left field. A non-Phillies evaluator considered him below average defensively at third and suggested left field could suit him better. Sato bats left-handed, adding to a lineup already tilted toward left-handed hitters.