As the Phillies look to strengthen their pen and middle of rotation starting pitching.. they must hold onto their prize SP prospect (Andrew Painter) leaving everyone else open for trade.. The Guardians offer that unique blend of value and talent.. Both Clase (5 years/$ 35.5 MM if EVERY incentive is achieved) and Bieber ($ 12.2 MM est.) add very little to the Phillies payroll while converting the back end of the Phillies' bullpen into strength. ..but it costs the Phillies four top prospects not named Painter... It should be noted that the Guardians would probably pair Aidan Miller with another player and send him where a potent RHH bat, preferably a corner OF'er, would be returned..

This package as is should not entice Cleveland. No piece that can contribute this year, something they should absolutely be focused on with this weak division. Now, that being said, this front office has been known to not enforce the current roster at all over the past few seasons (with some exceptions that ended up horribly) so it can't be ruled out they'd go out and do something like this. Looking at this offseason ideally, as a Guardians fan, I'd say no to this, I need a bat that can hit NOW.