We've heard from Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Cole Hamels and Jonathan Papelbon on their stances of whether they'd prefer to remain in Philadelphia or be dealt elsewhere to a team that can contend for a World Series title.
Enter Marlon Byrd. The Phillies signed the 36-year-old right fielder to a two-year, $16 million deal this offseason and he has been, by far, their best outfielder defensively and offensively. He leads the team in home runs with 18, slugging at .481 and is second in RBI's with 52.
Byrd's name, with the Phillies current state, has been brought up multiple times in trade talks. Then again, who hasn't? Last season, he spent time with the Mets before being moved to Pittsburgh, where he helped them clinch a playoff berth. The veteran outfielder's stance on things leans more towards that of Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins, wanting to remain in Philadelphia. (via CSNPhilly.com)
“I don’t want to get traded,” he said Thursday in Milwaukee. “I signed a two-year deal here for a reason. The thought process was to retire as a Phillie. At the same time, this is a business and I know how it works. If trading me makes the organization better, I have to go with it.”
Excuse me if my mind can't handle this, but if Ruben Amaro agreed with Papelbon's comments that all players should want to be on a winning team, why would he go sign an over-aged outfielder that came here to retire with the team he was drafted by in 1999? Rube being Rube, I guess. I like Marlon, but Chase and Jimmy have earned that right to block trades and stay here, even though I am not a huge fan of the mindset of mediocrity.
There's more. In addition to the two-year deal, Byrd released to CSNPhilly's Jim Salisbury that he has a small no-trade clause that includes the ability to block deals to the Mariners, Royals, Blue Jays and Rays. Byrd said he would prefer not to go to Toronto or Tampa Bay because their fields have artificial turf, which could be tough on his legs as an older player.
Despite Byrd's run in with PED's a few years back, he is a gritty player that will do what is best for the organization. If that means the Phillies asking him to be included in a trade, it would be something he would have to consider. (via CSNPhilly.com)
“There would have to be a conversation with me, my agent and Ruben (Amaro Jr., the Phillies’ GM) if it gets to that point,” Byrd said.
Byrd has an $8 million option for a third year on his contract and would be 39 at the end of that year if the option goes into effect with 600 plate appearances in 2015. (via CSNPhilly.com)
As for Seattle and Kansas City being on his no-trade clause, Byrd said: “Those really are things that were just put on at the time being.”
The Mariners have been scouting Byrd since they are in need some offensive help from their outfield. Combined, Seattle's outfielders are slashing .246/.291/.354. They have 16 homers amongst themselves. Byrd has 18 alone.
With the Mariners scouting Byrd, Marlon may have to consider a move to the west coast. Even if it isn't what he wants, if the right prospects are offered, Ruben should bite. At least we hope so.
Brandon Apter, Publishing Editor for Philliedelphia.com
