NASHVILLE -- So, a lot of you have asked, via blog comments and e-mails, about the Phillies' potential pursuit of Erik Bedard, which is being reported in some places.Keep dreaming.
After spending some time in the lobby, I've heard they don't have enough pieces to pull off such a deal. The Orioles are looking for a package of upper-level prospects, and as you know, the Phillies' farm system isn't particularly strong or deep. I've heard the Orioles rejected a Mets offer of outfield prospect Carlos Gomez, pitching prospect Phil Humber and setup reliever Aaron Heilman. If that's not going to get it done, surely the Phillies don't have any package that will. Meantime, the Mets and Orioles continue to talk.
If the Phillies acquire a soon-to-be former Orioles pitcher, it'll be free-agent right-hander Kris Benson. As I wrote today in the 50-center, the Phils will be among at least nine teams that dispatch scouts and execs to watch Benson throw next week. If the Phillies make a trade, it would have to be for a second- or third-tier pitcher, someone like Giants' lefty Noah Lowry.
Not much else going on. Saw Charlie Manuel about an hour ago, and he said the Phillies continue to have discussions about how to improve their pitching staff.
Back to the lobby. More later.
2 comments:
Scott,
What about this Nate McLouth rumor that has suddenly appeared? For some reason, I hadn't really thought about a three-way Victorino/Werth/Player X platoon, but it makes as much sense, considering that we aren't 100% sure whether Shane can make it through a full year yet. His OPS last year was higher than Jenkins, and he's younger and far cheaper. Of course, younger and cheaper always means harder to acquire via trade, but if Gillick could swing a deal for him, he definitely looks like, at worst, a very serviceable fourth OF with upside.
Thanks for the update, Debbie Downer.
I know, I know, you're only the messenger ...
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