MLB Trade Rumors: 5 best fits for Brandon Phillips
By Greg Patuto
With the struggling Reds looking to unload and rebuild, Brandon Phillips might find his days in Cincinnati limited.
Brandon Phillips has been part of the Reds’ organization since 2006. In that time he has batted near .300 multiple times, been apart of winning teams and built a reputation as one of the best fielding second basemen in the league by winning four gold gloves.
Now that the Reds sit at the bottom of the NL Central with a record of 38-60, they know it is time to unload and rebuild the team that won 90 games not too long ago in 2013. Phillips is not the only player they are looking to deal. Outfielder Jay Bruce’s name has been thrown around for over a year in trade rumors. Even the face of the franchise Joey Votto has been talked about switching teams.
There is no doubt that Phillips can still play defense with the best of them but it is unclear whether he can perform offensively on a consistent basis. Phillips is batting .263 with 6 homers and 36 RBIs this season. At age 35, Phillips will likely not be asked to play everyday but be dealt to a team contending for a World Series who can use some depth and leadership in the clubhouse.
There are many teams in the league that are close to contending with teams like the Cubs and the Giants but they are one or two guys away. These are the top teams that Philips could help take the next step.
Next: 5. Washington Nationals