Phillies keeping an eye on the free agent market
The Philadelphia Phillies are in full rebuild mode, but that doesn't mean they'll stop shopping on the free agent market.
General manager Matt Klentak, speaking to MLB.com, says that the team could still add a free agent before the season starts.
"We'll continue to survey the market for opportunities," Klentak said. "Every year, it turns out that somebody who we thought was going to sign early and they don't, they hold out and there's a deal to be done. We're on the phone. We're talking to the agents and other clubs. Sometimes they come in trades. We continue to be active, but it's hard to handicap it at this point who it may be. But if there's an opportunity out there, we're going to push forward."
Still, Klentak would be comfortable if they didn't explore the market.
"If we needed to break camp today, I think we'd be in very good shape," Klentak said. "I think one of the things I'm pleased about this offseason is that we've really been able to establish depth in a lot of areas. And adding to the core that we already had in the organization. So we're always going to keep an open mind for opportunities to get better. That's the name of the game. That's what we're always trying to do, but I've been pleased with what we've been able to accomplish this offseason."
Klentak took over this offseason to guide the Phillies through their rebuild. So far, his most significant move has been parting with closer Ken Giles, who went to Houston in a trade for five minor league pitchers.
