3 potential trade targets for the Philadelphia Phillies
By David Hill
Ramon Laureano
Ramon Laureano is going to be a hotly sought after piece as the trade deadline approaches. He would also solve a long standing problem for the Philadelphia Phillies.
The Phillies have tried to find a center fielder. Mickey Moniak was the first overall pick in the 2016 MLB Draft. Odubel Herrera and Roman Quinn kept getting chances. Matt Vierling is the new flavor of the month, but he has struggled as well. The Phillies simply have not had a good center fielder since the days of Shane Victorino a decade ago.
Help could be available. The A’s have said that everyone on the team is available, which would include Laureano. Not only is he a solid all around option in the lineup with decent pop and speed, but he is also a Gold Glove caliber outfielder in center. Considering that Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber make up the corner outfield spots right now, having someone that is capable of covering ground and catching the ball would be beneficial.
Laureano would also be more than a rental. He is under team control for the next two seasons, giving the Phillies their outfield for the present and near future. They would then be able to focus their energy on other areas, such as the ever present bullpen problem.
Ramon Laureano is going to be a hotly coveted player at the trade deadline. He is also someone that the Philadelphia Phillies desperately need.