Why the Phillies Should Trade to Bring Mike Trout Home (And Why They Shouldn't)

Why It's a Bad Idea

Look, it'd be a story for cinema for Trout to come to Philadelphia and help lead the Phillies to a World Series championship. But making a move like this, especially right now, feels way out of proportion, unnecessary, and irresponsible on so many different levels. This team is so close to the cusp, a massive altering of the roster and future would just not make sense to do right now.

First of all, Trout's contract is huge and mostly guaranteed. The Phills have already tied their hitch to Harper's wagon long term. Financially speaking, there would not be enough flexibility to have both those all-stars on the roster, plus Nola's new contract, plus Trea Turner's deal, and still be able to have a supporting cast and add elsewhere if and as needed.

The Phillies also have to be smart and look at what the give would be to land Trout. Johan Rojas would almost certainly be gone, as well as other key prospects like Mick Abel, Aiden Miller, and pitcher Andrew Painter. On top of that, you'd probably have to add in another veteran like Nick Castellanos. This would be a massive shuffling, restructuring, and dismantling of a roster that is ready to win right now and potentially for years to come. And, for what? A good story and, at most, two possible chances at a title?

But, I guess it is Mike Trout.