Rise and Phight: 7/28/2023

By this time next week, the Phillies will have some new players on their team. The rumor mill is getting all hot and bothered, and the name that was the focus of yesterday’s desires was Eduardo Rodriguez.

It makes some sense. If the team is finding that the prices for bats is a little too exorbitant for their tastes, it would make sense to strengthen the pitching staff and Rodriguez would certainly do that. The issue is his contract, which he can opt out of after the season. No team is going to give up a ton of value for a player that would likely bolt after the season unless they had assurances he would stay. Rodriguez will most likely opt out, so he’s basically a rental. It will shape his market to a point.

On to the links.

Phillies news:

• There are four teams mentioned here that the Phillies could be looking to circle around as the deadline nears ever closer.
• Two names mentioned here - Eduardo Rodriguez and Cody Bellinger - would fill specific needs the team has.

MLB news:

• Apparently, the Brewers had a brewing Fortnite problem in their clubhouse and acquired Carlos Santana to take care of it.
• “MAKE THESE TRADES NOW!” Ralph screams from his corner, frothing at the mouth over the need to do so.
• Well. Shohei Ohtani had a day. First, he’s taken off the trade market, then he goes all Rick Wise on the Tigers.
• This would definitely qualify as a stunner if actually comes to fruition. The Dodgers are interested in Nolan Arenado.