Philadelphia Phillies: Trade Bait
By Tal Venada
Before camp opens next month, manager Pete Mackanin and pitching coach Bob McClure completely discuss Buchholz. The veteran hurler – they verbalize – has had an up-and-down career since 2012 and an injury-riddled history. Then, the conversation revolves around three possible replacements: Eflin, Thompson and Asher. Eflin would benefit from a few months at Triple-A after his knee operations, while the other two could work on their consistency.
Because of the new CBA (collective bargaining agreement), the red pinstripes will deal Hellickson and/or Buchholz. The organization can not extend the former a QO (qualifying offer), and the franchise can not receive a top draft pick for the latter. Ergo, the trading option will be the preferred route.
"FOOD FOR THOUGHT: “There are more teams looking for pitchers than there are pitchers. That’s why it’s pricey.” – Brian Cashman"
To sum up, Double D, in July the Philadelphia Phillies will have available pitching: Hellickson and Buchholz. Also, they’ll soon have two open spots in the rotation for Eflin, Thompson, Asher and/or Lively. In other words, the club will have extra Triple-A pitching and an extra catcher besides the two experienced starters. And if the GM has a price, what will it be? A left-handed bat with power and/or a lefty reliever – but not stopgaps. So, what does Klentak have for the Phils’ needs? The bait!