Phillies Rumors: Ruben Amaro Jr. on Ryan Madson, Ryan Howard and Free Agency
By Editorial Staff
Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. spoke with Jon Paul Morosi of Fox Sports about the offseason, the remaining free agent pool and Philadelphia’s outlook for 2012. Topics of interest included the Ryan Madson and Jonathan Papelbon contracts, Ryan Howard’s recovery and internal first base options, and additional moves the Phillies could make this winter.
As the march toward spring training continues and free agency winds down, Amaro said he “remains open to upgrading the pitching staff”, whether that be added rotation depth or a left-handed reliever. The Phillies “would also like to add more speed to their bench”. However, if Philadelphia is to make any more moves this winter, they will have to come at “reasonable costs”.
Amaro also told Morosi that Phillies slugger Ryan Howard has been “cleared to resume strength-building exercises and some weight-bearing activities”. Amaro noted that it would be “great” if Howard is able to return in May, but also said that he’s comfortable with the internal first base options the Phillies have, including John Mayberry Jr., Ty Wigginton, Laynce Nix and Jim Thome.
Morosi couldn’t end the conversation with Amaro before asking the GM what his thoughts were regarding former closer Ryan Madson’s a one-year, $8.5 million deal with the Cincinnati Reds.
Amaro told Morosi that he’s not second guessing his decision to sign Jonathan Papelbon to a four-year, $50 million deal, and that, at the time, he considered $12.5 million annually to be a reasonable deal for the four-time All-Star. Entering the offseason, Amaro told Morosi that closer was the Phillies “most specific need” and that Papelbon was the best player available to fit that role.
For more on the Phillies, be sure to check out That Balls Outta Here.
You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.