The Phillies are dominating the MLB headlines today with news from Peter Gammons that second baseman Chase Utley will have surgery on his right thumb and will be out 5-6 weeks. Tough blow for the Phillies.
It was also reported today that the Phillies have interest in dealing for Diamondbacks ace Dan Haren. Is this in response to the Mets interest in Cliff Lee? Also, didn't Ruben Amaro deal Cliff Lee to the Mariners to bolster their farm system, and now he is looking to deal for Dan Haren? Who would he have to give up? Certainly not Domonic Brown, who is proving he is close to being ready for a call up. I guess the Diamondbacks could ask for a package headed by Low-A starting pitcher Jarred Cosart, AAA closer Scott Mathieson, High-A starting pitcher Trevor May and Low-A catcher Sebastian Valle.
And now we hear from Tom Krasovic over at AOL Fanhouse, as he is reporting that the Phillies are listening to offers for right fielder Jayson Werth. Here is an excerpt:
Heard this from a major league exec: The Phillies are evaluating the trade market for outfielder Jayson Werth.
Was told he's the best bat that could be dealt by July 31st. Surprised me to hear it. Werth's right-handed bat seems crucial to the left-leaning Phils. But Werth has said he will explore free agency this offseason, and the Phillies could replace him now with prospect Domonic Brown, a left-handed hitter. Recent injuries to hitters Placido Polanco and Chase Utley would argue against the Phils dealing Werth, who certainly would attract interest.
Amaro trading Werth is certainly something that would not surprise me.
UPDATE from MLB.com's Todd Zolecki:
Chase Utley had surgery this morning in New York. Timetable to return unknown, but MLB Network's Gammons says 4-6 weeks.
UPDATE (6:05PM)
Utley has surgery today and will be out for eight (8) weeks, while Polanco will be out for four (4) weeks. Expect a few trades in the near future to fill these needs. Miguel Tejada and Ty Wigginton are possibilities, especially with today's call-up of third base prospect Josh Bell by the Orioles.