player

Reminder: Phillies Got Wilson Ramos for Almost Nothing

A reminder after his historic Phillies debut last night: Wilson Ramos was acquired for practically nothing. 

When the surprising trade was announced on July 31 - 17 days after Ramos had injured his hamstring - it was for a player to be named later or cash considerations. 

According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, the Rays took the cash. 

Teams around both leagues in need of a catcher or DH are probably kicking themselves right now. There was a trade market for Ramos in early July, with a lot of buzz about a return to the Nationals. (Matt Wieters has not had a productive offensive season.)

Philadelphia Phillies

Complete coverage of the Fightin' Phils and their MLB rivals from NBC Sports Philadelphia.

Phillies give Keith new dad advice, local businesses prepare for Opening Day

WATCH: Phillies season preview, Brenna plays Wiffle ball!

Then came Ramos' hamstring injury, which apparently thinned out the market to the point that Tampa chose to take the only decent offer left, which came from the Phillies. 

Ramos last night became the first player in recorded history with at least three extra-base hits and three RBIs in his Phillies debut. He became the first Phillies catcher with three extra-base hits in a game since Chooch midway through 2014. 

There just aren't many catchers like Ramos, which is why for weeks I've been writing that he'll end up being their most impactful July addition. The last three seasons, Ramos has hit .296 with an .827 OPS. 

There are catchers like Buster Posey and J.T. Realmuto who can hit for a high average but don't have as much power as Ramos. There are guys like Gary Sanchez, who have the power but not the ability to hit .290 to .300. Ramos has both skills, which is rare for catchers these days. 

The Phillies have seen flashes this season from Jorge Alfaro but not nearly enough consistency at the plate or behind it. A team in a pennant race needs that kind of defensive reliability from its catcher. If that catcher also happens to be perhaps the most well-rounded hitter at his position the last three years, even better. 

More on the Phillies

Copyright CSNPhily
Contact Us