Phillies: July’s trade targets

Under consideration:

Adding a hitter to protect Santana appears necessary, but the positions to consider are right field and the infield’s left side. As for Maikel Franco, he either leaves room for doubt in the five spot, or he’s the RBI man at the bottom of the order. He’s at .258 with 10 bombs and 38 RBIs.

Entering the season, the issue was the offense after the cleanup hitter, but Franco’s numbers indicate he’s a possible fit. The third sacker projects to .258, 21 homers and 79 RBIs. As for outside hot-corner options, the link on the last page connects to “Phillies: Trade-fix checklist.”

Which starters are some fans uncomfortable with? Well, some might be waiting for Vince Velasquez or Zach Eflin to live down to expectations. Or they require a proven commodity to slot third because they don’t trust the bottom three pitchers. Name recognition?

"ON THE OTHER HAND: “When your opinions start to coincide with those of the majority, it is time to reconsider your opinions.” – Mark Twain"

Currently, the relief corps is the proverbial thorn in the side, and the stronger competition equals, the more difficulty they experience. They have two problems: One is the similarity of their stuff, and the other is those on the disabled list: Pat Neshek, Luis Garcia, and Edubray Ramos.

If Kapler deploys a soon-returning Neshek in critical situations, he could bring in Dominguez for the last four or five outs. Additionally, Neshek’s unorthodox delivery between two flamethrowers will benefit him and the next reliever. A solid plus!