Kansas City Royals: Destinations for Danny Duffy
By David Hill
Philadelphia Phillies
Last offseason, the Philadelphia Phillies proclaimed that they were ready to spend an insane amount of money to upgrade the roster. They did exactly that with the lineup, but the rotation still needed work.
The Phillies did address that need during free agency this year. Zack Wheeler gives Philadelphia a solid 1-2 punch with Aaron Nola. However, the rest of the rotation is a major question mark. Jake Arrieta is not nearly the pitcher he once was. The rest of the rotation is filled with pitchers that showed flashes, but may ultimately be better off in a relief role.
That is where the Kansas City Royals could work as a trade partner. Duffy would upgrade the middle of the Phillies rotation, giving Philadelphia that needed piece to truly make a run for a championship. Meanwhile, a pitcher such as Nick Pivetta or Vince Velazquez could be an enticing long term option for the Royals pitching staff.
The Royals could also solve another issue for Philadelphia as well. They currently have Whit Merrifield listed as their starting center fielder, an option that may not be best for anyone. With that potential opening in the outfield, the Phillies could send Odubel Herrera to Kansas City, giving him the change of scenery that he may need to resurrect his career.
The Kansas City Royals and Philadelphia Phillies both have pieces the other team could use. A trade could be in both of their best interests.