Last week I asked for your mailbag questions. Thanks to those who sent them in; let’s answer them.
Chris: I was wondering when and how you think the Phillies will eventually jump into the big-time free agent market? Not just the roster filling moves but the big splash to announce they’re ready to compete. It’s been interesting to see names like Heyward and Upton get bounced around in local blogs, but realistically the Phillies weren’t players.
Right. While I was behind signing Heyward because he’s young enough, and more of his value is tied to his fielding (which typically doesn’t decline as steeply as hitting or speed), there is no short-term rush for the Phillies to sign a major free agent.