clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Rumored Phillies target B.J. Upton signs with Braves

Centerfielder B.J. Upton signed with the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday. Where do the Philadelphia Phillies go from here while trying to fix their outfield?

Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE

The Philadelphia Phillies lost out on centerfielder B.J. Upton when he signed with Atlanta Braves on Wednesday night. Upton's contract with the Braves is for five years and is worth $75 million. While its unknown how much the Phillies offered Upton, they were making a big push towards trying to sign Upton.

The Phillies had also hired hitting coach Steve Henderson - who was Upton's hitting coach for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2007 when he entered the majors - to their staff. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. now turns his attention towards other players to fill the void in centerfield. Some other players that the Phillies may be interested in include Michael Bourn, Angel Pagan and Shane Victorino.

The Phillies have also looked into Josh Hamilton, but there are some reservations about him because of his addiction problems early in his career. The Phillies may also look into trading for the Colorado Rockies' Dexter Fowler or the Minnesota Twins' Denard Span. B.J.'s brother, Justin Upton, may also draw some interest, but the Arizona Diamondbacks have put forward a steep price for him.