Good morning! A light news day with 40-man roster decisions coming …
- The Astros on Wednesday signed former Phillie Charlie Morton to a two-year $14 million contract. Morton had a 4.15 ERA in just over 17 innings for the Phils in 2016 before tearing his hamstring and missing the rest of the season.
That’s pretty incredible. A multi-year deal with decent money for a guy who didn’t get out of April. In 2015 he started 23 games for Pittsburgh, and in 2014 he started 26 games.
What’s weird is the Astros decided not to pay Pat Neshek’s option, moving him to the Phils, and then decided to pay Morton about the same amount despite much more uncertainty. The ‘stros like Morton’s change-of-pace style (he’s an extreme ground ball pitcher) and think he’ll fit in well in the rotation. That’s true. If he stays healthy. But that’s quite a risk for a risky pitcher. Meanwhile, maybe Jeremy Hellickson could’ve earned that big multi-year contract after all?
- Friend of the website Corey Seidman of CSN Philly looked at what a Cesar Hernandez trade could bring the Phillies.
Honestly is it enough? Someone like Yordano Ventura is intriguing (he could slot in the rotation or be an interesting relief candidate), but Hernandez is an up-the-middle player, a value piece for all teams. Now, Hernandez isn’t exactly a sure thing, but I’d almost love to get someone like Ventura plus a project arm, or even a major league fringe talent. Are we overvaluing Cesar now?
- Again, be on the lookout today for the Phillies to make roster moves (maybe some releases, maybe a trade). Read Jay Floyd’s piece on how the Phillies are approaching decisions regarding the Rule 5 Draft and roster protection.
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