The Philadelphia Phillies have inquired about Toronto Blue Jays right-hander Marcus Stroman, according to major-league sources cited by Philly.com.
The Phillies agreed on Friday to a three-year, $60-million contract with first baseman Carlos Santana and appear poised to move forward with their rebuilding process.
The club has asked about several young, controllable starting pitchers around baseball this off-season, including Tampa Bay Rays right-hander Chris Archer and Kansas City Royals left-hander Danny Duffy, according to Philly.com.
Of course, it’s important to note that “inquired” does not mean a deal is imminent or even likely.
The Blue Jays have repeatedly stated their intention to contend in 2018 and so far, Stroman’s name has not come up as a player reportedly dangled by the team in trade talks.
The 26-year-old is coming off a breakout season in which he posted a 3.09 ERA over 201 innings, finishing eighth in American League Cy Young voting. Stroman made $3.4 million in 2017, but that number figures to rise next season as he’s eligible for arbitration.
Because Stroman is under team control through the 2020 season, it would likely take a huge deal to pry him from the Blue Jays.
The Phillies have a surplus of major-league ready outfielders, with Odubel Herrera, Rhys Hoskins, Aaron Altherr and Nick Williams all on the roster.
Toronto has openings in its outfield and could also be attracted by standout Phillies second baseman Cesar Hernandez.
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