Philadelphia Phillies unable to acquire B.J. Upton as he joins Atlanta Braves - MLB Update
Philadelphia Phillies have failed to finish their negotiations with B.J. Upton in the form of signing a contract. As per the reports, Upton has joined the Atlanta Braves after agreeing on a five-year $75.25 million contract with them.
The Phillies confront a major task of responding to their outfield requirements. They are supposed to fill empty spots on their roster during the offseason so that they enter next year fully prepared and ready to reclaim their lost Division title.
Preparations in the offseason will go a long way in determining their success next year.
Some of their issues that they face are more serious than others. For example, if they do not add infielders and outfielders capable of making their defence infallible on the roster, they will make a huge compromise over the probability of winning some glory
next year.
It means that buying free agents that meet their criteria is indispensable for them in many ways. Although it requires a massive cash commitment with the players for future, it can pay immediate dividends in the form of an overwhelming success during 2013
season.
One of the ways the Phillies could address a discrepancy on their roster was obtaining Upton from free agency.
Not being able to do so, they have other options to seek now. Michael Bourn is another player who boasts a resume which can attract the Phillies toward him.
At centre field, Bourn can remove the worry of not having a regular player at this position by Philadelphia. Bourn has the speed and the defensive skills needed to become part of a reputable club of Major League Baseball such as the Phillies.
After the conclusion of the deal between Upton and Atlanta, the Phillies will be mindful of the amount of money which can be required to acquire a centre fielder.
Certainly, during their negotiations with Bourn, they cannot resist talking it into account and modelling the possible contract with him after it.
At the same time, Bourn can make a reliable estimate now as to what maximum he can earn from his new contract.
It will be interesting to see how he is approached by some club in the next couple of days and conclude an agreement with one of them.
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