Team #2: Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies were on the verge of landing Jones at this past trade deadline, but when the trade was vetoed they had to settle for Jose Bautista instead. Surely the Phils would have preferred to get Jones rather than Joey Bats — who’s hitting .188 with 1 RBI in 32 at-bats since he was acquired — and they’ll have a chance to do so this upcoming offseason.
While signing Jones would be a big move for any club, the Phillies might be going after the biggest fish in this year’s free agency pond. The Phils’ payroll this season was in the bottom-third of the league at $104 million, but that could potentially double next year if the team decides to finally cash in on the $5 billion TV rights contract they have with Comcast. Philly has been linked with impending free agents Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, and recent reports suggest the club could sign BOTH to lucrative long-term deals this winter.
Phillies fans would surely be thrilled if Bryce and Manny end up in the City of Brotherly Love, but if the front office doesn’t manage to snag Harper then signing Jones would be a fine backup plan. While Philly has enjoyed a good (or bad?) year — they’re 77-73 and 6 games back in the division — they definitely need to improve their 22nd-best offense if they want to contend in 2019.
The Phils have had especially terrible production from the position Jones would likely play. Phillies right fielders this year have hit .205 with 179 strikeouts, both the 3rd-worst totals in the league. Penciling in Jones as Philly’s everyday right fielder will certainly improve their offensive output, and since Citizens Bank Park is one of the least spacious venues in baseball Jones’ diminishing range won’t be as evident.