Phillies: July’s trade targets

Acquisitional talent:

Of the possible solutions, the faithful rarely mentions right-hander Raisel Iglesias of the Cincinnati Reds, but national publications expect him to have many suitors. And although Iglesias has a 2.08 ERA with 15 saves, he is under contract through 2020 with a balance of $11.5 million after July 31. Ergo, a higher asking price.

Like Iglesias, lefty Brad Hand of the San Diego Padres is closing without the pressure facing postseason hopefuls. He has 22 saves with a 2.75 ERA. However, his pact has $15.67 million remaining through 2020 with a $10 million club option for 2021. The competition will also be fierce here.

After three solid summers, southpaw Zach Britton had been on 2017’s DL for three months with a left forearm strain and began this year on June 12 due to Right Achilles surgery. He has missed 5.5 months out of nine since April 2017. He will have $4 million remaining on his commitment by Aug. 1.

If you hear about a closer who blew a four-run lead in the ninth inning against the Atlanta Braves, what’s the first name that comes to mind? Of course, “Happy Hector” Neris did it again, right? No, it was Britton of the Baltimore Orioles on June 22, and he nearly lost the game. In Philly, that’s an unforgivable sin.

Finally, four contests remain on this 42-game stretch ending July 1 against wild-card and divisional contenders. In other words, even an 18-20 mark puts them in a viable position for serious September baseball. So, locals should consider their recent opponents regarding Phils starters, relievers, and hitters.

To some fans, Washington is beatable despite being the favorite to win the NL East. But before you underestimate them, remember their message. Down 6-2 on national TV, they faced an embarrassing sweep at home, but Bryce Harper and Daniel Murphy were an amped duo. What happened next? Boom!