Then and now:
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Although the Phillies haven’t exceeded the CBT, it doesn’t mean they won’t, but the players will determine the assistance provided by the execs. Translation: Give management a reason to spend $12-20 million AAV because winning is their goal.
During the offseason, the Fightins had already inked Wheeler and Gregorius, plus they were willing to surpass the Luxury Tax threshold in December for Betances. But they didn’t want to meet his asking price of $10 million: an overpay. However, they are willing to eat a $3-4 million tax to fill a fair-valued need with quality.
At the deadline, expect the red pinstripes to be in the hunt if they are healthy, and look for the higher-ups to make a move for the NL East crown by plugging glaring holes with quality pieces. Wild card-wise, they must show something before late July with .600 ball for the front office to sign off on dramatic spending.
To sum up, players now via a trade probably won’t happen, but some stars will be available in July. So, don’t expect secondary additions because the Phils will determine their next moves in July: Will it be a starter between Aaron Nola and Wheeler or a fireman to join Hector Neris and Seranthony Dominguez? Maybe, both!
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