Phillies rumor: Club interested in OF Carlos Gonzalez

A veteran power bat could be coming to the Phillies this offseason

Former Colorado Rockies outfielder Carlos Gonzalez is drawing interest from the Phillies, according to MLB Network’s Jon Heyman.

Gonzalez, 32, has spent the last nine seasons in Colorado where he’s hit over 200 home runs in his career. Heyman reports that the Astros, Blue Jays, Orioles, and Athletics are also keeping a close eye on Gonzalez.

After already adding free agents Pat Neshek and Tommy Hunter to the bullpen it appears general manager Matt Klentak is trying to stabilize left field for at least the first half of the season.

More from Phillies Rumors

• Phillies rumors: Club targets Seth Lugo for possible bullpen role
• Could Phillies sign 2nd former Mets starting pitcher in same offseason?
• Phillies rumor: Dansby Swanson could be club’s alternative to Trea Turner
• Rob Thomson apology hints possible Phillies blockbuster signing
• Phillies rumors: Club likely to land top shortstop on free-agent market

Aaron Altherr has been injured for what feels like every single month of the season, and his numbers in what many considered a breakout season were on par with John Mayberry Jr. during his run with the team.

Gonzalez would likely start in left field with Odubel Herrera and Nick Williams, and be a placeholder for prospects such as Dylan Cozens, Roman Quinn, and Carlos Tocci in August when he becomes a valued trade commodity.

Hitting 14 home runs last season Gonzalez is certainly not at the point of his career when he was an MVP candidate. His role would be similar to Howie Kendrick and Michael Saunders last year, although the Phillies hope for much better success with Gonzalez than they had with Saunders.

Next: Top 10 Phillies Pitchers of the Last 10 Years

To strike a deal with Gonzalez, Philadelphia will likely have to outbid their opponents, which shouldn’t be an issue considering their financial flexibility. Giving him a two-year deal will also keep his trade value up so interested teams see him less as a rental player.

If Klentak can leave the winter meetings with Neshek, Hunter, and Gonzalez in tow I’d call that a tremendous success.