MLB Trade Deadline: The ultimate 30-team trade
21. Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies have reportedly been looking for help at second base, but Dee Gordon, not Brad Miller, has been rumored to be on their wish list. The Miami Marlins would probably like to rid themselves of Gordon’s contract, and would be willing to send the speedy second baseman to a division rival in a deal to bring back Miller and a midlevel prospect.
Gordon is hitting .289/.332/.348 in 95 games this season. He has 15 doubles, four triples and 35 stolen bases, has scored 59 runs and driven in 19. In addition to his solid (though flawed given his 3.8 percent walk rate) performance at the plate, and his solid defense at second, Gordon has been worth 1.4 fWAR this season.
A two-time All-Star, former NL batting champion, Silver Slugger and Gold Glove winner, Gordon is a valuable asset to a lineup and in the field. He’s 29, which is young enough to build around but as a seven-year major league veteran, he is old enough to be a leader in the clubhouse – a perfect fit for the rebuilding Phillies.
Philadelphia also has the budget to take on the $37.9 million owed to Gordon through 2020, as well as the $14 million team option (and $1 million buyout) for 2021. By taking on the full salary, the Phillies would also be able to limit the number of prospects in the deal.
Phillies prospect Roman Quinn has a similar skillset to Gordon’s, but has more upside given his switch-hitting ability and slightly more power. The 24-year-old former infielder, along with Miller, would be a fair return.