Phillies rumors: 3 backup catchers to trade for at the deadline

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NEW YORK, NY – AUGUST 28: A.J. Ellis #34 of the Philadelphia Phillies reacts after the final out of a game against the New York Mets at Citi Field on August 28, 2016 in the Flushing neighborhood of the Queens borough of New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

127. . San Diego Padres. . AJ Ellis. . team

Phillies fans and most of the players are familiar with the 37-year-old A.J. Ellis after he came over in the Carlos Ruiz deal last year along with two minor league players two year ago.

Despite not being thrilled with the trade and leaving a team he’s played 544 games with, Ellis filled the role of a veteran voice behind the plate with Knapp and Alfaro.

After Philadelphia opted not to re-sign Ellis he’s played with Miami and San Diego in a limited role, playing only 19 games with the Padres this year. He’s hit well in those 19 games with a .311 batting average and five extra-base hits.

Ellis not only brings familiarity with the franchise, players, executives, and fans, he’s a capable player on the field despite his age. A deal for him won’t break the bank from a player perspective either.

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