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Have the Phillies Identified a Kiermaier Alternative?
Prior to the MLB lockout that occurred on Dec. 2, the Philadelphia Phillies were reportedly speaking with the Tampa Bay Rays about center fielder Kevin Kiermaier.
The longtime Ray could be moved, as his salary of just over $12 million in 2021 and $13 million in 2023, with a buyout option for the 2023 season, may not fit Tampa's payroll goals.
However, MLB Trade Rumors suggested that if the Rays refuse to move on from their franchise icon, Manuel Margot could be a potential fit. With just one year left on his deal and Margot being a natural center fielder, the Phillies just might be interested.
Of course by adding Margot, if Philadelphia does not re-sign or extend him, he will be a free agent after the upcoming 2022 MLB season. In which case, Margot could end up as just a one-year rental, which doesn't help solve the future of the position.
Yet, if Margot were to find his way to Philadelphia, he would improve the position on both defense and at the plate. In 2021, Margot slashed .254/.313/.382 with 10 home runs in 464 plate appearances.
When on the field playing center, Margot boasted three defensive runs saved, one more than Odúbel Herrera during the 2021 MLB season. However, Margot's career DRS is significantly much more consistent than Herrera's. In the last three years, Margot has averaged 7 DRS compared to Herrera's -7.
However, as MLBTR points out, he may not fit well on the Phillies as an everyday center fielder. Whereas if Kiermaier were to be moved, he could be passable as their center fielder.
Regardless, Philadelphia will need to explore every option when it comes to fixing their hole in center. If they can address the leadoff hitter situation in one fell swoop, that would be even more ideal.
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