Philadelphia Phillies: Trades and Consequences
By Tal Venada
A few weeks back, one local on another site commented that Hernandez is on his way to an All-Star career. Another posted about getting prospects for Hernandez, while a third replied about acquiring another outfield bat. Of course, some have dared to dream out loud of signing a marquee player, but what do the Phils need most? A southpaw reliever.
On the downside of swapping Hernandez at this time, the readiness of J.P. Crawford is still fifty-fifty for mid-season and will require two months with the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs to estimate his arrival time. So, when Klentak floated trading his leadoff hitter in November, it revealed his preference for Freddy Galvis at second base to make room for Crawford. But if the youngster struggles at Lehigh Valley or with Philly, both Hernandez and Kendrick might not be with the Philadelphia Phillies due to a trade or an expired contract.
"IN OTHER WORDS: “Look at misfortune the same way you look at success – Don’t Panic! Do your best and forget the consequences.” – Walter Alston"
Concerning receivers, one poster stated that switch-hitting Knapp could play first base against some right-handed hurlers and back up Rupp. But others have said to move Knapp now due to Rupp’s success and Alfaro’s potential. Yet while Alfaro has a high upside, many fans feel he should be the starter on Opening Day, but the youngster must earn a 25-man roster spot first. That stated, many franchises will have interest in MLB-ready catching as part of a package for a left-side hitter with pop to fit between Maikel Franco and Tommy Joseph in the five hole.
While the team’s future backstop is Alfaro, Rupp has secured the regular role after exceeding his projected ceiling. However, if the Phillies deal him now, the tandem of Alfaro and Knapp with only one veteran starter would be disastrous. So, Klentak could swap Knapp and have Alfaro backing up Rupp but with frequent playing time, or the general manager could assign Alfaro to the IronPigs if Knapp is still on the roster.