The Phillies' division rivals have landed several big names this offseason already. While the Phillies have added Delmon Young and Michael Young, the Phillies have seen B.J. Upton, Rafael Soriano, Denard Span, and Adam LaRoche added to division rivals. The next one may be Justin Upton, whom the Arizona Diamondbacks finally appear to be ready to unload.
Ken Rosenthal reports that the talks are heating up:
Sources: #Braves waiting to hear from #Diamondbacks on offer for Upton. "Sensitive" time in discussions.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 23, 2013
#Braves had trouble getting #Diamondbacks to return calls for much of off-season. As market for JUp shrunk, things evidently changed.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 23, 2013
Upton, brother of new Braves centerfielder B.J. Upton, would be the final piece the Braves need this offseason. Having replaced Michael Bourn in center, the Braves are looking to replace Chipper Jones' place in the lineup. With the versatile Martin Prado able to play third base Upton can take Prado's old spot in left and Jones' old spot in the lineup.
