Tuesday, August 21, 2018

Waving the White Flag in DC

It looks like the Washington Nationals are having a going out of the pennant race sale today.

Word is that second baseman Daniel Murphy has been traded to the Cubs for a prospect and slugging first baseman Matt Adams is headed to the Cardinals. And Bryce Harper has reportedly been claimed off irrevocable trade waivers. Stay tuned for updates on what could have huge repercussions across MLB.

The Nationals, preseason favorites to win the NL East, have pretty much stunk all season. There are rumors of trouble in the clubhouse for the sub-.500 defending division champs.

Which could be good news for the Phils, who start a 3-game series in DC tonight. Trading a high-profile guy like Murphy is sure to lower the morale there even more. A disinterested and distracted opponent could be just what the Phils need to get back on track after losing 3 of 5 to the stinking Mets.

The Phils will be happy to see Murphy out of DC. He’s killed the Phils over the years, with 12 homers and 72 RBI and an .863 OPS in 145 games.  

And speaking of trades, I'm still pissed the Phils didn't get Cole Hamels back for the stretch run. The Rangers traded Hamels to the Cubs, and he's been outstanding since he returned to the NL. He's 4-0 in 4 starts with a teeny 0.72 ERA and an opponents OPS of .462. I'd much rather see Hamels facing the Mets (or anyone else) than trying to figure out of we're going to get good Nick Pivetta or bad Nick Pivetta. The same goes with Vince Velasquez.

The Phils are where they are because of their pitching. Adding Hamels to the mix would have given the Phils a huge edge in the season's last 6 weeks.




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