Don't Look A Gift Horse In The Mouth
By: Seth Everett
With a win in the series finale in Chicago today, the Phillies can win their 8th consecutive series. This, as every talk show I appear on and every caller wants to talk trades. I am not flip-flopping my position. I don't think a trade is necessary for this team to win. A gift would not be something I'd refuse.
Tuesday night, the Phillies demonstrated how timely hitting is most important for a championship run. Matt Garza pitched extraordinarily, and the Phillies had to seize the opportunity against that Cubs bullpen, and Chase Utley & Michael Martinez did the honors. Timely hitting is something the Phillies will not know until October if they can produce.
The story earlier this week came from New York. Reports indicate the Mets are shopping Carlos Beltran and are willing to pick up most if not all of the $8 million remaining on his contract. Within a couple of hours, FOX Sports reported the Phillies were actively pursuing Beltran.
That makes sense! Beltran can be a game changer, and if the money doesn't affect the Phillies finances, then by all means the Phillies need to pursue this. A switch-hitter, he could add a lot to the lineup. Wait for it – NOT a lot of money, and significantly better than Ryan Ludwick, Michael Cuddyer, & Josh Willingham, who had been rumored. Even if it costs a mid or upper level prospect, the opportunity might be too good to pass up.
I discussed this on Twitter (@Seth_Everett) & Facebook, as well as on the radio. Check out my appearances on WIP w/Angelo Cataldi, or Tuesday with Howard Eskin.
Additionally, I spoke with Matt Leon on KYW 1060 Wednesday afternoon on "Reporter's Round-Up."
Listen to Seth Everett's full interview with Matt Leon here...
