Former Philadelphia Phillies Slugger Traded to Brewers

It seems like the reunion between the Philadelphia Phillies and their former slugger won't happen after all.

Despite reports saying that the Phillies could bring back Carlos Santana before the trade deadline, the Pittsburgh Pirates traded him to another National League team.

Sitting first in the NL Central, the Milwaukee Brewers traded their 18-year-old shortstop prospect Jhonny Severino to acquire the veteran first baseman and designated hitter according to ESPN's Jeff Passan.

Santana is hitting .235/.321/.412 with 12 home runs and 53 RBI in 94 games. This acquisition should help the Brewers, whose everyday first baseman Rowdy Tellez has struggled this season.

The cost to get the switch hitter wasn't high as Severino is not in the top 30 prospects of either team after the deal.

It always felt like a strange fit for the Phillies to bring back their former slugger considering their holes were not at first base or designated hitter.

With Bryce Harper being able to effectively play the first base position, that was no longer an area of concern for the front office and coaching staff.

It wouldn't have taken much for Philadelphia to acquire Santana as evidenced by the Milwaukee trade. However, giving up future assets for a position that does not need to be upgraded this season or next would not have been a smart move.

It's more clear than ever the Phillies are going to focus their attention upgrading the outfield and acquiring starting pitching or bullpen help if they can.

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