MLB Trade Rumors: 5 best fits for Brandon Phillips

Jun 16, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips (4) hits an RBI single in the first inning of their game against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 16, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Cincinnati Reds second baseman Brandon Phillips (4) hits an RBI single in the first inning of their game against the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
3 of 6
Next
Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Kansas City Royals

2016 has been a disappointment to say the least for the reigning World Series champions and the reigning two-time AL champions. They currently sit a game below .500 at 48-49 and in third place in the AL Central. While Phillips could help a lot of teams off the bench or in a spot start role, this is a team that he could play for everyday and make an immediate impact.

The Royals are currently playing Whit Merrifield at second base along with Christian Colon. The Royals have been in need of a second baseman before, last year comes to mind. And what happened? They acquired Ben Zobrist and ended the year as World Series champions for the first time since George Brett back in 1985.

Not saying that they will make a third straight World Series appearance if Phillips comes to town but they can certainly benefit from a proven MLB veteran with a gold glove up the middle. They have lost pieces from last season that were huge factors in their championship. Zobrist left for the Cubs and Johnny Cueto is now winning a lot of games in San Francisco and started the All-Star game.

If the Royals are happy with the championship and want to mail in this season and work on next year, that’s fine. If they want to fight back in a division race or wild card race, they need some help and Phillips could be the first step.

Next: 3. Toronto Blue Jays