Reports: Phillies Eyeing All-Star Free Agents Taylor, Bryant
The Phillies remain active in the outfielder free agent market.
Already linked early Monday to outfielder Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber, the Phillies have now been linked to two additional All Stars as they seek to fill both left field and center field in their outfield.
Bryant's versatility could help the Phillies at a few positions, including third, left and even some center field in a pinch.
Bryant is a former National League MVP, and a well-known friend of Philadelphia's own MVP, Bryce Harper. A 2021 National League All-Star, Bryant batted .265 with 25 home runs and 73 runs batted in, while managing an .835 OPS.
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Bryant has mostly been a third baseman in his career, but is a versatile defender. In 2021 alone Bryant played third base, left field, center field, first base, and even made an appearance at shortstop after an injury forced teammate Nico Horner out of a game.
With a designated hitter believed to be coming to the National League, Bryant would give the Phillies many options.
The Phillies' interest in versatile potential outfielders does not end there. The Phillies have reportedly been in touch with free agent Chris Taylor, who gained fame with some key hits during the Dodgers 2021 playoff run.
Taylor plays all over the diamond, and presumably the Phillies are interested in Taylor in center field.
Taylor was also a 2021 All-Star and played all three outfield positions, third base, second base, and shortstop in 2021. The 31-year old hit 20 home runs and drove in 74 runs while batting .254 and getting on base at a .344 clip.
The MLB Hot Stove is particularly active on Monday morning. Much more so than the typical November 29th. That is because December 1 marks the expiration of the collective bargaining agreement between MLB and the MLB Players Association. So expect many more moves in the next 48 hours.