Andrew Benintendi rumors: 3 teams with better trade chances after vaccination status revealed

ANAHEIM, CA - JUNE 20: Andrew Benintendi #16 of the Kansas City Royals celebrates his two-run home run with Whit Merrifield #15 in the first inning the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on June 20, 2022 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) /

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Andrew Benintendi, Philadelphia Phillies, Atlanta Braves, Seattle Mariners

KANSAS CITY, MO – JUNE 27: Andrew Benintendi #16 of the Kansas City Royals hits a single against the Texas Rangers during the first inning at Kauffman Stadium on June 27, 2022 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Reed Hoffmann/Getty Images) /

Andrew Benintendi trade destination: The Philadelphia Phillies

With Bryce Harper’s thumb injury, the Philadelphia Phillies have less offense but more flexibility with their DH spot. Harper was exclusively DH’ing due to a strained flexor muscle before his thumb injury so now, the Phillies can get some replace Harper (somewhat) offensively but also get better defensively.

Kyle Schwarber (-5 Defensive Runs Saved) and Nick Castellanos (-12 DRS) are not exactly sterling outfielders so, optimally, one of them should be DH-ing.

If they acquired Benintendi, the Phillies would have to DH Schwarber rather than Castellanos but that might not be a bad thing. Schwarber is leading the NL in runs (61) and home runs (28) so if could focus more on hitting, he could be even better while Benintendi would be an upgrade defensively and offensively compared to their current DHs (primarily Darick Hall).

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