The Phillies' offseason shopping list looked something like this:
- Centerfielder
- Third baseman
- Corner outfielder
- 8th inning reliever
The salary numbers leave about $30 million before the Phillies exceed the luxury tax . The Phillies accomplished their centerfielder and third baseman needs for just about $6 million. that leaves the Phillies room for something significant. And the buzz has begun.
Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports seems to be hearing that the Phillies are about to do something "big":
Source believes Phillies still primed to do something "big." Anything from pursuing Hamilton to a late Greinke run to trade for outfielder.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 8, 2012
I am not really sure that Greinke is a match for the Phillies. Reports are that the money in play for him has gotten silly, and the Texas Rangers have an advantage of no state income tax. But if Greinke does indeed sign with the Rangers, there may not be room for Josh Hamilton in Arlington.
What the Phillies have going for themselves in this equation? Michael Young and Cliff Lee. Two former teammates, and friends. If previous reports that the Mariners and Josh Hamilton were "close" at $75 million for three years, there is no way that the Phillies can't get a deal done, even if they exceed that length. While we are putting together a Texas Rangers reunion, let's pick up Mike Adams along the way. The numbers indicate the Phillies may have room in their budget for both.
Stay tuned.
