Rosenthal: Reds, Nationals close on trade for Phillips
The Cincinnati Reds' rebuild continues.
Having already traded right-handers Johnny Cueto and Mike Leake last season, and Todd Frazier just days ago, the next domino soon could fall with Brandon Phillips:
FOX Sports insider Ken Rosenthal reports that a deal apparently is in place between the Reds and Washington Nationals to trade Phillips to D.C.
Trade agreement between #Reds and #Nationals apparently is in place. Talks with Phillips continue, sources say.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 18, 2015
Phillips, 34, had a solid bounce-back season in 2015, slashing .294/.328/.395 with 12 home runs and 70 RBI.
The deal, however, has yet to go through since Phillips holds 10-and-5 rights (he's a 10-year veteran and five with the same team), giving him a no-trade clause.
If the trade does go through, Phillips will give the Nationals a steady everyday second baseman, possibly moving Danny Espinosa to shortstop until Trea Turner is deemed ready.
Phillips is owed $13 million in 2016 and $14 million in 2017.
