Inside The Phillies

Philadelphia Phillies Looking Into Rockies Outfielder Before Trade Deadline

Phillies are looking into options to acquire Colorado Rockies outfielder before the MLB Trade Deadline

Brad Wakai

Philadelphia Phillies Looking Into Rockies Outfielder Before Trade Deadline
Philadelphia Phillies Looking Into Rockies Outfielder Before Trade Deadline /
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The Philadelphia Phillies are looking to be buyers ahead of the August 1st MLB Trade Deadline.

It's clear that they're trying to upgrade the corner outfield position to get better defensively. The combination of Kyle Schwarber in left field and Nick Castellanos in right field has resulted in below average defense.

The issue is exasperated by Bryce Harper's injury recovery. His UCL tear limited him to being a designated hitter and most recently playing first base, instead of his normal right field position.

The Phillies' front office has looked into multiple options, including in division with the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs slugger Cody Bellinger.

Colorado Rockies outfielder Randal Grichuk could also be an option for Philadelphia.

Entering Saturday, Grichuk is hitting .300/.362/.469 with five home runs and 22 RBI in 56 games for the Rockies. It's the highest batting average and on-base percentage he's had in his career.

The right hander has even better numbers against left handed pitchers, posting a slash line of .318/.384/.545 in 66 at-bats this season.

The biggest upgrade the outfielder could provide is on the defensive end.

If Harper shows that he can play first base effectively, Schwarber can move into the designated hitter role he was signed to play. Then, there can be an outfield rotation of Grichuk, Brandon Marsh and Christian Pache, significantly upgrading the defense.

With Colorado last in the NL West with a record of 38-59, they should be looking to sell off parts. Grichuk is entering free agency at the end of the season so the Rockies should recoup assets for one of their trade pieces.

Likely only a rental deal, the Phillies should pursue the right handed outfielder to address the biggest hole on their roster as they make a run at the playoffs.

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Brad Wakai
BRAD WAKAI

Brad Wakai graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Journalism. While an undergrad, he did work at the student radio station covering different Penn State athletic programs like football, basketball, volleyball, soccer and other sports. Brad currently is the Lead Contributor for Nittany Lions Wire of Gannett Media where he continues to cover Penn State athletics. He is also a contributor at FanSided, writing about the Philadelphia 76ers for The Sixers Sense. Brad is the host of the sports podcast I Said What I Said, discussing topics across the NFL, College Football, the NBA and other sports. You can follow him on Twitter: @bwakai

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