The Philadelphia Phillies made a big lineup-boosting trade ahead of Tuesday’s trade deadline, acquiring all-star catcher Wilson Ramos from the Tampa Bay Rays.
Ramos is having a fantastic year, and due to an injury, the Phillies got him for an absolute bargain.
Ramos was voted the starting catcher in the American League for the All-Star Game, as he is the only player who is having an undoubtedly great offensive season.
Ramos is slashing .297/.346/.488 (130 wRC+), which is incredible production from the catcher position.
The Phillies are currently leading the NL East and are looking to get back to World Series contention. They are still a young team, but they have surprised everyone with just how productive they have been this year. They were expected to make a jump, but this level of production has been very surprising.
The Phillies now own one of the sneakily deepest lineups in the NL, led by Rhys Hoskins. Maikel Franco has also had a very productive year, as has Odubel Herrera.
The only real hole in the Phillies’ lineup is Scott Kingery, a top prospect who could turn it around at any second.
Philly could make a nice little run in the playoffs. They are expected to be among the top teams in pursuit of Manny Machado and Bryce Harper, who would make them genuine contenders in 2019. Keep an eye on this squad.
Featured Image via Wikimedia Commons
