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Trade Details
PHILS FILL NEED, ADD UTILITYMAN TY KELLY Saturday, April 22, 2017
The Philadelphia Phillies acquired infielder/outfielder Ty Kelly from the Toronto Blue Jays for cash.
What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies?
Kelly's calling card is his versatile glove (which includes the ability to play anywhere in the infield and outfield, minus catcher). He's also a solid offensive performer who's a switch hitter and draws a high number of walks, so Kelly can be an underrated option if and when needed by the Phillies. The recent injury to left fielder Howie Kendrick should see Kelly see some opportunities.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays?
The Blue Jays still have solid bench depth without Kelly (including Steve Pearce, Ryan Goins, and Darwin Barney) so Kelly was expendable. Toronto essentially 'sells high' here, flipping a player who wasn't around long and didn't even see game action for the Blue Jays; Toronto claimed him off waivers from the Mets, so the Jays essentially get cash for using a waiver claim.
Fantasy Impact
Some Philadelphia fans might have wished super-slugger prospect Dylan Cozens would get called up to replace Kendrick, but the Phillies clearly see him needing more time in the minors. Adding a solid vet and journeyman in Kelly will help their youngsters get more development time (while learning from Kelly's veteran example). Incumbent Phillies backup Daniel Nava likely falls off the fantasy radar following this swap. There's no fantasy fallout on the Toronto side of the trade.
Player Focus

to Philadelphia Phillies

to Toronto Blue Jays
cash