The Philadelphia Phillies expressed interest in adding experienced outfielder Tommy Pham to their roster before he eventually opted to join the Chicago White Sox, as per insights from MLB insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today.
“Upon his arrival at the Chicago White Sox, Pham was questioned by reporters about his decision to sign with the team,” Nightengale relayed.
“They speculated whether it was due to the chance of being a regular starter, unlike the Phillies’ proposal of limited appearances per week. Or perhaps it was the allure of living and playing in the picturesque city of Chicago. However, Pham’s response was straightforward: ‘It boiled down to one factor,’ he informed the press. ‘The financial aspect.'”
Tommy Pham Could Help the Philadelphia Phillies Outfield Gain More Offence
Pham has embarked on his eighth team within an 11-year span in Major League Baseball. Despite the delay in securing a deal well into the season, it’s logical that the Phillies and various other teams pursued him. With a career batting line of .259/.351/.435 and a solid .774 OPS, along with contributing 16 home runs, 68 RBIs, and 22 stolen bases for the New York Mets and Arizona Diamondbacks last season, Pham presents an appealing option.
His versatility in playing across the outfield, especially with significant experience in center field, is particularly enticing for the Phillies. This flexibility becomes crucial as the team may be seeking offensive upgrades, given that their current primary options, Johan Rojas and Cristian Pache, excel defensively but lack offensive prowess.
David Murphy of The Philadelphia Inquirer suggests that roster adjustments, potentially involving swapping out Pache for a more potent bat, could inject a much-needed sense of urgency within the team. Pham’s signing could have addressed this need, providing a stronger offensive presence in center field when required. However, it appears that economic considerations played a significant role in Pham’s decision-making process. The Phillies might not have valued him enough to match the one-year, $3 million deal he secured with the White Sox.
Additionally, it’s noted that another National League contender, the San Diego Padres, fell short in their offer to Pham. Despite coming close to signing with the Padres, Pham opted for the White Sox’s pro-rated $3 million deal, which includes a bonus if he gets traded, as anticipated at the trade deadline. There’s speculation that the Padres might revisit the possibility of acquiring Pham before the July 30 deadline.
Tommy Pham Could Be Acquired by the Philadelphia Phillies at the Trade Deadline
With Pham possibly being made available for trade before the deadline, the Phillies might revive their interest in acquiring him.
Matt Grazel noted for Phillies fan blog That Ball’s Outta Here that Pham is worth keeping an eye on for the Phillies as their outfield depth lacks offensive strength. Acquiring more outfield depth by the trade deadline could be advantageous for Philadelphia, particularly if their current outfielders struggle offensively or face injuries. Despite his age, Pham remains committed to playing regularly.
The White Sox, aiming to gather young talent amid a disappointing start to the season, may find Pham appealing due to his veteran status and one-year contract. Even if the Phillies couldn’t attract him in free agency, it might not require much effort to secure him in a midseason trade.
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