Yesterday I profiled Jonathan Papelbon. Previously I profiled Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley, Cliff Lee, and Cole Hamels. Today we move on to A.J. Burnett. The veteran righty has been solid this season for the Phillies, and could retire or return after this season. Given that he signed for geographic reasons, and is owed $5 million post deadline, while he makes sense to trade, the field might not be as big as it could be.
Teams that could want him- Burnett lives in Maryland, and probably wouldn't accept a trade to leave the region, given that he signed here to be close to home. Fortunately, there are at least three suitors in the region that he might okay a deal to. The Pittsburgh Pirates, Burnett's previous team, are a strong possibility. Another team that makes complete sense are the Baltimore Orioles, a team that really needs pitching. His previous-previous team, the Yankees, could use some pitching help too, though they say they aren't interested. I wouldn't rule out the Reds or Nats if a deal presents itself.
What we have to get back, money wise- I'm not sure the Phillies will want to pay any of his salary, thought I doubt it's the most important thing. Again, he's owed $5 million post-deadline. Do the Phillies just want to do him a favor, or do they want to get a prospect? That determines the money side.
What we have to get back, players wise- It's a matter of how much money the Phillies eat, but I'm thinking they'd like to get one good prospect, and maybe a second. Chances are they fall short of that though. They will get a player, and the caliber of that player will be dictated by money, and the team. A second would be nice too though.
The Outlook- A.J. gets traded. Why do I say this? Well, it doesn't make sense not to. My guess is that Burnett is sent to Pittsburgh or Baltimore, and the Phillies get a player who makes the 2015 squad. With Buchanan and Marquis both in AAA right now, the Phillies can afford to make a move here.
