The Phillies gave away Bobby Abreu and Cory Lidle to the Yankees today for 5 minor leaguers. Three (3) of the players the Phils received are only playing Single A ball now and are a good 4 or 5 years away from potentially making the majors.
The only advantage I see in this deal is that the Phillies shed $16.9 million in salaries this year and probably another $30 million in out-year salaries (Abreu is due $15 million next year, with an option year of $16m).
From now until the off season, the Phillies should trim their payroll by $30-$40 million.
Bell - $4.7 million
Abreu - $13.6 million
Lidle - $3.3 million
Lieberthal - $7 million
I would certainly hope that they systematically begin to sign free agents in the off season, specifically pitching. The Phillies will also need to sign a Catcher and a 3rd baseman before the start of the 2007 season. Here's a quick look at a possible lineup for 2007.
RF Victorino
CF Rowan
2B Utley
1B Howard
LF Burrell
3B FA
SS Rollins
C FA
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