Following last night's loss, we're all back thinking about trades again. If we're thinking about trades, Marlon Byrd's name almost has to come up. To me, he should have some very high value right now, and if he doesn't, he might be worth keeping. I'll explain more later. Yesterday we profiled A.J. Burnett, before that it was Papelbon, Rollins, Utley, Lee, and Hamels.
Teams that could want him- Do you need some offense? Want a guy that can catch the ball too? Here's your guy. The Kansas City Royals have been linked before, and you could certainly link the Giants with their offensive needs as well. Toronto is said to want an outfield bat possibly, so they could move Bautista into the infield. The Mariners come up most though, as Byrd has more homers than their whole outfield.
What we have to get back, money wise- Probably everything here. Byrd is owed $2.67 million after the deadline this year, and $8 million next year. I can't imagine the Phillies paying that money for their only productive outfielder to play elsewhere.
What we have to get back, player wise- Let's be honest here again, you don't give away productive players. I would think the Phillies have to get at least one good prospect that can make our team next year, in return, plus another one or two. He is having a very good year, and a contender could use that.
The Outlook- I see Marlon Byrd being dealt. I'm torn on whether I want this or not, but I see it. In the end, I think there is enough need for an outfielder who both plays defense and can hit with power, so that he's not going to stay here. I figure Seattle or Kansas City will come in and get this one done. With that said, I'm not sure i'm giving him away either. If I think there's even a remote chance to put a decent 2015 product on the field, Byrd is under contract for a very affordable amount of money. Why would I not want to have him out there. Ultimately though, the Phillies will get a decent package and make the move.
