Phillies prediction: GM’s trade target
By Tal Venada
Klentak’s direction:
Firstly, the Phillies can make one –and only one– big trade between now and July 31. The GM, however, will stand pat with the offense, the outfield and the relief corps, while he concentrates on the five-man staff. Realistically, no team plugs every hole!
With every starter being right-handed, Klentak needs a two-slot portsider. Fortunately, four of the six moundsmen who are or could be available are southpaws, but one righty is an ace having a dominant campaign.
The Phils are at $196.4 million, and the competitive-balance threshold is $206 million: a $9.6 million difference. Yes, three relievers earning $24.5 million total will end this year, and the Luxury Tax ceiling will be $2 million more for 2020. But part of that added $26.5 million will cover salary increases and J.T. Realmuto‘s extension.
Considering their key players who are ages 26 to 28, management prefers someone earlier in their prime: 27 through 32. And the Fightins stars except for Realmuto are under control for four summers. In other words, they have a basic four-season window for their third parade.
Currently, the red pinstripes have three consistent starters but will need four for the playoffs. And this is top-of-the-list urgent and immediate. Logically, if they appear too eager, they’ll be at a disadvantage.
As for Klentak’s pattern, he offers top prospects for longer-term deals. To illustrate, Sixto Sanchez was the proposal for Realmuto, but Adonis Medina was made available for a superstar rental. So, Medina, Mickey Moniak and/or Cornelius Randolph could be the offer for a two-month acquisition or the perfect fit.