That Balls Outta Here
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Phillies Trade Chips: Piece and Chooch

By Matt Veasey

Jun 29, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (right) and first baseman Ryan Howard (center) joke with Arizona Diamondbacks mascot Baxter at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 29, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz (right) and first baseman Ryan Howard (center) joke with Arizona Diamondbacks mascot Baxter at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 15, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians catcher Gomes at Progressive Field. The Mets won 6-5. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 15, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Indians catcher Gomes at Progressive Field. The Mets won 6-5. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

‘CHOOCH’ TO THE TRIBE

You could make a valid argument that Ruiz could step right in and become the Indians everyday starter. This is a weak link position for Terry Francona‘s contending Tribe.

The Indians are 53-36 and leading the AL Central Division race by 6.5 games. However, their starting catcher is 28-year old Yan Gomes, who has just a .163/.198/.310 slash line with eight homers and 32 RBI over 245 at-bats.

The Tribe’s current backup, Chris Gimenez, is a 33-year old with a .185/.230/.272 slash line with two homers and four RBI over 81 at-bats.

Perhaps the Phillies could pry someone like 23-year old outfielder Greg Allen loose in this deal. While he is never likely to be an impact player, Allen has speed and could become a valued organizational piece with chance to fill gaps at AA Reading once others begin to be promoted.

Next: HOWARD TO HOUSTON

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