Should the Phillies Trade for Aaron Rowand?
Jon Heyman (@si_johnheyman) of Sports Illustrated is reporting that the Phillies may consider trading for Aaron Rowand if the Giants eat a large portion of the remainder of his ridiculous $60 million contract.
Rowand is taking part in a parade today, but he didn’t exactly do much to get there. Is he a good clubhouse presence? Sure. Is he a two-time World Series champion? Sure. But so is Pat Burrell.
Rowand could barely crack the Giants starting lineup in the playoffs. This was a lineup that had Burrell (1-27 for his career in the WS) batting cleanup for a few games during the playoffs. I know they won the World Series, but you’re kidding yourself if you think it wasn't 100% because of their pitching.
Rowand would be nothing more than a solid defensive replacement in the outfield. He is certainly not the answer to our right-handed bat problem we will have if Werth leaves. Although, he would allow many to dust off their old A-Ro jerseys and wax poetic about his nose breaking catch from 2006.
Speaking of old friends, Bill Conlin, who I generally disagree with, says the Phillies should take a look at Larry Bowa to replace Davey Lopes. Conlin is right on. Bowa’s passion would be good for a team that looked like they were sleep walking through 2010.
And for those of you feeling bad for Lopes- even if he doesn’t get a job, he still will make some coin: [Philly.com]
At age 67, he will be able to collect the maximum $140,000 a year players association pension. Tack on about $30,000 more in Social Security and you've got a better retirement package than a former U.S. president.