Phillies: NL East’s 4-way battle in 2019
By Tal Venada
NL East pennant:
To defend their division crown, the Braves inked Josh Donaldson and Brian McCann to one-campaign pacts. Donaldson, 33, will have the chance to rebuild his value for a long-term commitment after an injury-riddled ’18. As for McCann, 35, Atlanta added him for $2 million with his career nearing its end.
Regarding roster openings, the Braves haven’t picked up a starter or a replacement in right field with $25 million remaining. They had entered the winter with roughly $50 million and allocated half for Donaldson and McCann. Of course, they may be waiting for a late January bargain and reserving dollars for July 31.
Atlanta has enough pitching and offense to earn the divisional flag again, but Donaldson must produce the way he did before 2018. And if he does, he will more than replace the offense of right fielder Nick Markakis. Additionally, they may depend more on their young starters to handle some of the workload.
While the other three organizations probably won’t sign any significant pieces before spring training, the Phillies may add a hitter with power to McCutchen and Jean Segura. In the pen, Juan Nicasio, James Pazos, Jose Alvarez and now David Robertson were the pickups increasing the total to 11 solid relievers. March madness?
On the horizon, starters and two big bats are available via free agency or a trade, and stupid money is probably a four-summer offer instead of three or 10 seasons, not eight. And some contracts could have a higher AAV (average annual value). Remember, it was a little stupid, not insane!
Negotiations happen two ways. Scott Boras clients have a back-and-forth relationship of demands and proposals, while other free agents receive offers, initial and final. To illustrate, Jake Arrieta received the Phils’ final proposal because Klentak had the luxury of adding payroll in February. Here we go again!