Padres Reportedly Interested in Trading for Phillies' Maikel Franco

Despite his big day in the Phillies' win Saturday afternoon (see story), Maikel Franco's future with the Phillies is uncertain. According to Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, we know there's at least one team interested in trading for him.

Rosenthal reports the Padres have interest in Franco but says there's one important condition that would need to be met before a trade could occur. 

"For a deal to happen, the Phillies would need to acquire someone else to play short or third," Rosenthal notes.

That's because J.P. Crawford, who had been playing at third, is out with a fractured left hand. It appears that a combination of Franco, Jesmuel Valentin and recently acquired utility man Danny Espinosa will share the playing time at third for the time being.

Franco's role has recently diminished (see story), so you'd think the Phillies would probably be open to discussions with the Padres and any other interested parties, especially given their reported interest in Adrian Beltre.  

As for what the Phillies would want from the Padres, Rosenthal reports, "The Phillies undoubtedly would add to Franco to get one of the Padres' top relievers, while the Padres would be gambling on Franco returning to form knowing he has three more years of control." 

The Padres have several relievers who could interest the Phillies. Lefty closer Brad Hand has an NL-leading 21 saves in 24 opportunities, while veterans Kirby Yates and Craig Stammen are having strong seasons.

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