Toronto Blue Jays talking to Phillies about Curtis Granderson
By Paul Taylor
The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly in discussions with the Toronto Blue Jays regarding three-time All-Star Curtis Granderson.
Last week, we shared a report about the Philadelphia Phillies apparent interest in J.A. Happ. Now, it turns out Happ isn’t the only Toronto Blue Jays player on the Phillies’ radar.
Sources have told The Athletic that the Phillies are also in talks with the Blue Jays, regarding Curtis Granderson. The news came via a tweet from Ken Rosenthal, who also contributes to Fox Sports and the MLB Network.
Rosenthal goes on to write that the Phillies are looking for a left-handed bat to come off the bench, who can also occasionally start in the outfield. They demoted their fourth outfielder Aaron Altherr to Triple-A on Sunday night.
It’s possible the Phillies will attempt to negotiate a deal which sees them land both Granderson and Happ. Regardless, it would be no great loss if Granderson does move on.
The reality is the three-time All-Star’s best days are behind him. In fact, he is on course for one of his worst ever statistical season in the Majors, albeit due to playing a part-time role.
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Entering Monday’s action, Granderson has a slash line of .230/.337/.417 through 81 games, with nine homers and 29 RBIs. The only time he has had a poorer return during these last 13 years is in 2013, when injuries limited him to 61 appearances.
If nothing else, the combination of the 37-year-old’s experience and leadership should prove valuable for a Phillies’ team in contention for the postseason. Anything else would be a bonus for a player who will essentially just be there to provide depth.
Even if Granderson isn’t traded — whether it be to Philadelphia or somewhere else — he won’t be back in Toronto next year. He signed a one-year, $5 million deal with the Blue Jays in January, and is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of this season.
Next: Jays still looking to trade Josh Donaldson
Who do you think is more likely to be traded; Granderson or Happ? Regardless, what is your take on Granderson’s play for the Toronto Blue Jays this year? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.