Matt Chapman likely not heading to Philadelphia Phillies

Matt Chapman is going to be the priority for any team searching for a third baseman without breaking the bank. Kris Bryant may be one of the best players available in free agency, but he will cost far more than Chapman over the next two seasons. It is just a matter of finding a team willing to meet the Oakland A’s demands.

It would make sense that the A’s would want some of the top players in any interested team’s farm system. If, or when, Chapman is traded, the A’s need to make certain that they get any deal right as they look to rebuild for a couple of years down the road.

Philadelphia Phillies likely out of Matt Chapman Sweepstakes

That quest to add top prospects from whichever organization they are talking with has led to plenty of cold feet. This includes the Philadelphia Phillies, who are reportedly reluctant to include any of their top prospects in a trade for Chapman.

The Phillies could clearly use an upgrade at the hot corner. Alec Bohm, who had an impressive debut in 2020, cratered last year and ended up back in Triple-A. The Phillies’ pursuit of third basemen aside from Chapman show that they are not sold that Bohm can bounce back.

But it will take a lot more than Bohm to get a player such as Chapman. The Phillies will need to part with one of those top prospects to get such a deal to take place. The A’s will not move such a hot commodity without adding that type of prospect.

While the Phillies want to upgrade their lineup as soon as possible, the A’s can afford to wait. Once Bryant comes off the board, Chapman clearly becomes the best option available. Then, the A’s could name their price. If Bryant spurns the Phillies, they will have to part with one of those players or roll the dice with Bohm.

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The Philadelphia Phillies are reportedly loath to trade their top prospects for Matt Chapman. That likely takes them out of the running for his services.