Phillies Free Agent, Trade Options: Which Lefty Makes the Most Sense

Brandon Moss

Many forget Brandon Moss had a cup of coffee with the Phillies in 2011, playing five games and failing to record a hit. Then-general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said at the time that the team moved on from Moss due to his lack of power. Since the Phillies released Moss, the first baseman has hit 123 home runs for three different teams. Maybe that’s why Amaro is now working the first baseline in Boston.

As you can see below, Moss primarily bats the baseball towards right field. That will help in Citizens Bank Park, where the dimensions are typically smaller than other fields Moss has played in.

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One advantage of signing Moss is his versatility as both an outfielder and first baseman. Tommy Joseph will be the starter at first, but his lack of power against lefties is well documented. He hit nearly .040 points higher, a massive difference for a player of his age. Inversely, Joseph hit most of his home runs against righties.

Moss could possibly platoon with Joseph, or simply fill-in once or twice a week if the young slugger needs a rest.

With experience in right field, Moss could also translate into the Phillies starting right fielder to start 2017. Aaron Altherr and Roman Quinn will have a shot to win the job in spring training the way the current roster stands. If Moss comes aboard, Quinn could get some at-bats in Lehigh Valley, something he did not have before his call-up in September.