– Philadelphia Phillies are connected to several marquee free agents and trade targets, including Cody Bellinger, Kenley Jansen, and Devin William
– The team has also checked in with Cleveland Guardians on a potential trade for Emmanuel Clase, a potential closer for the Cleveland Guardian
– One player Cleveland wants is Justin Crawford, but the Phillies are unwilling to part with Crawford to obtain Clase
– Analysts have highlighted the fit between Clase and the Phillies, projecting trades that have involved Crawford along with several other young player
– Clase is on a relatively team-friendly contract after signing a five-year, $20 million contract with the Guardians in 2022
– Crawford was their third-ranked prospect in 2023 and a top-100 prospect in all of MLB for 2024
– He is the top-ranked player in their farm system who isn't a pitcher and could be the team's long-term answer in center field
– Ultimately, the Guardians and Phillies might reach some other agreement over Clase before looking elsewhere to find an upgrade at closer.