Phillies trade rumors: Team targeting LH power at the deadline

Phillies trade rumors are picking up regarding their bench depth, which is stretched thin.

The Phillies trade rumors have continued to pick up with 67 days until the one and now only trade deadline, July 31.

Early reports suggest the Phillies will target pitching, but a new look at Phillies trade rumors has them looking for power.

Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports noted Saturday that he expects the Phillies to target a left-handed power bat. Phillies pinch hitters have just one home run this year and are hitting .157 in 86 plate appearances.

Nationals first baseman Matt Adams was the only player mentioned specifically in Rosenthal’s video report. Adams has missed time with injury this year and has just four home runs for the Nationals.

A couple of other players would fit the mold of a power hitter who can come off the bench. Derek Dietrich of the Cincinnati Reds could be an option depending on how the National League Central shakes out. Cincinnati is currently in last place but still within striking distance of a playoff spot just six wins behind the first place Cubs.

Dietrich is hitting .240 with 12 home runs this year and has played four positions this year, though primarily handles second base. He’d provide the versatility Philadelphia’s coaches and front office covet.

Eduardo Escobar also has 12 home runs this year and would provide even more versatility as a switch-hitter. The Diamondbacks middle infielder is signed through 2021, making him a tough piece for Arizona to move.

Philadelphia Phillies

Angels infielder Tommy LaStella has doubled his career home runs this year by hitting a dozen of his own while maintaining a career-best .301 batting average. He’s played second, third, and first this year and is arbitration eligible, which could raise his return should Los Angeles want to move him.

LaStella’s teammate Kole Calhoun has started all but three of his major league games in right field and isn’t a great hitter. He’d provide the lefty power Philadelphia craves with 116 career home runs over eight seasons.

Justin Smoak is a traditional first baseman/designated hitter with pop, making him the least versatile option available, though he is a switch-hitter. He’s got eight home runs this year and 177 in a long career playing solely in the American League.

Finally, keep an eye on Curtis Granderson, who the Phillies targeted last year at the trade deadline. The outfielder has hit six home runs but is batting just .190 for Miami. He’d be a nice veteran voice in the clubhouse and a cheap swap with the Marlins.

Follow TBOH on Twitter for the latest Phillies trade rumors throughout the summer.