The Philadelphia Phillies are "deep in serious talks" for Toronto Blue Jays slugger Jose Bautista, per an unconfirmed report from Howard Eskin of Fox 29 TV and 94 WIP Radio in Philadelphia.
Jose Bautista trade rumors: Phillies ‘in serious talks’ to acquire slugger
One report says the two sides are deep into conversations that would see Domonic Brown sent to Toronto.
J. Meric
Philadelphia would reportedly give up Domonic Brown in the deal. The Phillies would also add more to the trade than just Brown, who posted an .818 OPS and slugged 27 home runs in his first full major league season. Over parts of three other seasons, Brown hit 12 home runs and had a .703 OPS.
Bautista would fit the Phillies’ current team, says Eskin, as the slugger is still under contract for two more seasons at $14 million years apiece, with a team option for 2016 at the same price. He also is a right-handed power bat, which fits a need for the Phillies. Eskin says Bautista could play either outfield or third base, though he has played just four games at third the past two years after seeing time at the hot corner in 25 games during the 2011 season.
Bautista has been named an all star each of the past four seasons, but has missed significant time the past two years due to wrist and hip injuries. He has hit 152 home runs and has a .960 OPS the past four seasons. He hit .259/.358/.498 with 28 long balls in 2013.
WIP broke the news that the Phillies signed outfielder Marlon Byrd earlier Tuesday.
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