MLB Free Agency: Ranking the Best Fits for Brandon Moss

4. Philadelphia Phillies

Role: Starting Right Fielder

Somewhat of a surprise fit because the Phillies are not seen as “contenders” entering 2017, Philadelphia has its reasons for pursuing a player like Brandon Moss.

Having just inked center fielder Odubel Herrera for the long term and bringing back Jeremy Hellickson on a qualifying offer, the Phillies are clearly not against the idea of spending money. Ryan Howard‘s mega-flop of a contract just came off the books to open up some space in the budget.

General manager Matt Klentak did already bring in a veteran hitter when they traded with the Los Angeles Dodgers for Howie Kendrick. But while he’s going to be holding down left field, the other corner outfield spot remains open.

Aaron Altherr is presumably the starting right fielder if today was opening day, but he struggled greatly in his stint with the team last season. He could use some more seasoning at Triple-A with Moss getting the regular at bats at the MLB level.

Now it’s true that Moss doesn’t turn the Phillies into a contender in the NL East, but he could be a solid trade chip come July, especially if he continues to show that he is an above average home run threat.

Not many clubs have a spot for Brandon Moss, but the Phillies could use Moss at least for the first half of the 2017 regular season. That may be all it takes to find a match in a weak market for power hitters.