Philadelphia Phillies: Trading for Charlie Blackmon
By Tal Venada
Considering other interested franchises for Blackmon’s services, the Philadelphia Phillies are monitoring the roster moves of the Cleveland Indians, the Seattle Mariners and the Texas Rangers. And while these teams are seeking an outfielder, they’ll need the pitching they have to compete for a divisional title. In other words, they’ll go in a different direction because most GMs must finalize their rosters long before Spring Training.
"FOOD FOR THOUGHT: “We live by the Golden Rule. Those who have the gold make the rules.” – Buzzie Bavasi"
On December 7, Klentak powwowed with president Andy MacPhail regarding Blackmon, Bruce and Michael Saunders. And the junior executive pointed out the cost, the competition and the drawbacks of a deal with Colorado. One minus would be Roman Quinn spending three months with the Triple-A Lehigh Valley IronPigs. The Rockies, the general manager noted, might settle for Hector Neris and a starter because they currently have Jake McGee, Jason Motte, Chad Qualls and Dunn as their late-frame options. So what is Klentak’s only strategic option? Wait them out.
Being in a good position is important in this case because the Phillies could be willing to offer more than the Orioles. Baltimore is only trying to score a rare bargain. And if the locals are willing to trade a young starter with Neris, they can make a move in late March. That said, Joaquin Benoit would be the new closer and Pat Neshek could work the eighth inning. But an overpay would be Neris and one of these hurlers: Jeremy Hellickson, Jerad Eickhoff, Vince Velasquez or Aaron Nola. On the other hand, if Zach Eflin proves he’s healthy in camp, would the Rockies have interest in Neris and Eflin for Blackmon? A big maybe.