Philadelphia Phillies: Possible Maikel Franco Trade Destinations
By Tim Boyle
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates got by in 2017 with David Freese as their primary third baseman. Although he hit very well, next year is already his age 35 season. The Pirates have to think about their future and that could involve Franco at the hot corner.
The Pirates do have a few options for the position. Josh Harrison can play just about anywhere, but right now he’s their second baseman. Adam Frazier is also a utility man the Pirates may consider. However, Frazier is probably best suited moving around the field as needed.
Franco is not the ideal fit for Pittsburgh considering they do have other choices at third base. First baseman Josh Bell also won’t go anywhere although we could see him receive regular action in the corner outfield depending on how the 2018 roster shapes up.
A lot will depend on other moves the Pirates make this offseason. Will they trade Andrew McCutchen before his final contract season begins or wait until the trade deadline? Whichever they do, it’s important for this small-market squad to build some more depth.
After some very good seasons, the Pirates are back to battling for a .500 record. Franco won’t get them there, but he does give them another choice. Considering several of their highly-touted prospects have hit walls on their big league progress, it would benefit the Pirates to add someone they at least know can play at the MLB level even if below average. If the Phillies sell low, Franco could move across Pennsylvania.