Needing a major upgrade in left field, the Phillies traded Darin Ruf and Darnell Sweeney to the Dodgers for infielder-turned-left fielder Howie Kendrick. Kendrick instantly became the expected starter in left field, but it was uncertain how well Kendrick would perform in Philadelphia.
So far, Kendrick looks to be worth the move. Through his first five games with the Phils, he already has nine hits, including three doubles and a triple that ended with him tripping into third base. Kendrick has driven in five runs and scored twice in 23 plate appearances.