Philadelphia Phillies: The “other” Royals outfielder to trade for

The Philadelphia Phillies outfield situation is a unique one and has been before the season even began. While at his healthiest, Bryce Harper was able to play right field. This left open the idea of Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber defending left field regularly.

This didn’t last long as Harper was limited to DH duties for most of the year. As a result, the Phillies had to put both Castellanos and Schwarber on defense far more than they had planned.

Heading into the trade deadline, the Phillies should be in search of some outfield upgrades. Specifically, they need someone who can defend. The name Andrew Benintendi has been talked about plenty by every ball club in need of an outfielder. However, it’s his teammate, Michael A. Taylor, the Phillies should have their eyes on.

Michael A. Taylor is a better fit for the Philadelphia Phillies roster than Andrew Benintendi.

Andrew Benintendi might be the bigger name, have the better pedigree, and own the stronger bat. His years with the Boston Red Sox helped establish him as a quality outfielder capable of playing the corners and even manning center field as needed. It’s this position, center field, where the Phillies should be hunting the most.

Benintendi’s teammate, Taylor, won a Gold Glove last year playing the position. The longtime Washington Nationals outfielder who showed only occasional success at the plate has actually quietly put together a fine campaign for the Royals this year. He came into action on Sunday slashing .280/.354/.412 in 207 plate appearances.

This is more than adequate to enter the Phillies lineup and drastically improve a part of their game that’s tremendously weak: defense.

Taylor can run although his stole bases are down from his early days with the Nationals. His purpose in Philadelphia would be to save more runs than he actually scores. Far more affordable than Benintendi, who could have suitors with much better packages to deal to Kansas City, he’s the affordable fit for Philadelphia to pursue.

As an added bonus, Taylor is signed for next season to only $4.5 million. He’s pretty ideal for the Philadelphia Phillies, who could use a more small ball and defense on their roster to help balance it all out.