Phils and O’s talking Burnett trade
May 25, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher A.J. Burnett (34) gets a new baseball after giving up a home run against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
A.J. Burnett seems to have an affinity for East coast teams. He’s only played for the Florida Marlins, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates and now of course the Philadelphia Phillies.
The latest trade rumors surrounding Burnett involve him staying on the East coast. His previous team, the Pirates, as well as the Baltimore Orioles have emerged as the top two potential suitors for the 16 year veteran.
According to Jon Morosi of Fox Sports, the Orioles and Phillies have had “very preliminary” talks about a Burnett trade. So far the talks have not gained any series traction. As the trade deadline approaches, the talks could grow increasingly stronger depending on the needs and wants of the two clubs.
Burnett lost his ninth game of the season Friday night and only has six wins in 21 starts. He signed a one-year deal for 2014 worth $16 million, but has a mutual option for 2015 when he will be 38 years old. Where he ends up (or stays in the Phillies case) and how he pitches in the second half will ultimately be what decides if he will be kept for another year.
Although Burnett was born in North Little Rock, Arkansas he currently lives in Monkton, Maryland. As the Orioles pursued Burnett during his free agency this offseason many thought Baltimore might be a nice fit for him, especially the O’s. Perhaps he regrets that decision now seeing as the Phillies are last in their division while the Orioles are currently leading the American League East.
This March during spring training, Burnett pitched against Baltimore and felt no reason to explain himself to Orioles reporters for choosing the Phillies. The righty recently said the Phillies were his team amid trade talks.
In ten career games at Camden Yards, Burnett has given up ten home runs, 3 triples and thirty-five runs.