Philadelphia Phillies seek Wilton Lopez through a trade with Houston Astros - MLB Update
Reports suggest that Philadelphia Phillies are actively pursuing Wilton Lopez through a trade with Houston Astros. They are willing to sacrifice some of their prospects for this.
However, no official confirmation has been made yet from both the parties as to whether the deal will take place and when it will be formally announced.
Lopez can fit in the bullpen of the Phillies easily given their requirements for some solid pitchers.
He is at such a phase of his career right now that his best is not far from coming about. The Phillies can reap the benefits of his career best performances that are expected in the next couple of seasons.
What makes the deal highly likely to happen is the fact that the Astros may not afford Lopez's price after he becomes arbitration eligible.
On the other hand, Houston requires prospects for their Minor League that can serve their team in the years to come.
The Astros are on their way to reconstructing the club. Continuous disappointments they faced in the last couple of seasons call for fundamental changes in order to produce results.
In this regard, promising young players available in the Phillies’ farm system can serve their purpose precisely.
Phillies will not want to have another episode of negotiations failed after they lost B.J. Upton to the Atlanta Braves following their pursuit of him.
The Phillies were engaged in talks with Upton but could not finalise a contract with him, resulting in his acquisition by Atlanta eventually, as per the reports.
Philadelphia will have this in mind as they negotiate with Astros for a possible trade including Lopez.
Lopez performed reasonably well last season for Houston. His role in the latter half of the matches was appreciable. Despite being a part of a weaker team, he managed to post impressive pitching numbers.
By joining the Phillies, which have better players to create more opportunities for him to win games, he can improve his stats immensely.
Furthermore, he can prove to be a healthy addition in the struggling bullpen of Philadelphia.
The Phillies had their relievers disappointing them and causing failures for the team during the 2012 season.
Lopez will look to help the Phillies not repeat mistakes next year and strengthen their bullpen if added to their roster as a result of the trade.
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