Red Sox expressing interest in Rays outfielder Brett Phillips
Phillips was designated for assignment by the Rays on Monday
The Red Sox may not be done addressing the outfield following the acquisition of Tommy Pham from the Reds. According to Alex Speier of the Boston Globe, Boston checked in on recently DFA’d Rays outfielder Brett Phillips.
The Yankees and Phillies have also checked in on Phillips who was designated for assignment on Monday. The move came following the three team trade that sent Trey Mancini to the Houston Astros, the Rays acquired outfielder Jose Siri while the Orioles acquired prospects.
Phillips has struggled at the plate this season hitting just .147 with five homers, 14 RBIs and a .475 OPS in 75 games.
The 27-year-old Phillips is a well-liked player in the game. Boston could see value in adding a good defender in the outfield while adding a good clubhouse guy to the mix.
Phillips is is best known for his walk-off hit in Game 4 of the 2020 World Series vs. the Dodgers. He’s also known for pitching in blown out games and having fun on the mound in the process. Phillips also had a dance off during the 2020 playoffs with Randy Arozarena.
The former fan favorite for the Rays will make an impact with his new team in other ways than his batting average. Phillips DFA status comes on the heels of the Rays offering “Brett Phillips jersey giveaway” night this past Saturday.
From a Red Sox perspective, Phillips would give them another outfield option, especially if Jackie Bradley Jr. is traded before the 6pm deadline. If the Red Sox look at trading J.D. Martinez, Pham could slide into the designated hitter role while Phillips could become a right field platoon option along side Christian Arroyo.
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