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Phillies interim manager: It's 'probable' several veterans are traded before deadline

Bill Streicher / USA TODAY Sports

Philadelphia Phillies interim manager Pete Mackanin confirmed the organization's worst kept secret Wednesday, saying he's expecting his roster to endure plenty of turnover throughout the next 30 days.

With the non-waiver trade deadline set for July 31, Mackanin alluded that it's most likely that several veteran players are dealt from the rebuilding roster.

"The whole point of this year basically is to see young guys, help us get ready for next year and beyond," Mackanin told Nick Suss of MLB.com. "If we can get good deals for (Cole) Hamels and good deals for whoever else there might be out there, (Jonathan) Papelbon.

"There might be a team that will come after Ben Revere or after (Jeff) Francoeur. We're not sure about anything, so we're going to have to wait and see what develops."

The Phillies were fully expected to dismantle their roster this season, as its group of underachieving veterans currently own the major's worst record at 27-52. Though general manager Ruben Amaro has yet to pull the trigger, the organization has its sights set on the future.

Ryne Sandberg resigned as manager late last week and Andy MacPhail was introduced Monday as the man set to take over for president Pat Gillick at the conclusion of the season. Mackanin took over the managerial duties on an interim basis for the remainder of the season, while MacPhail and Amaro will have their fingerprints on the next skipper.

While their veteran's have occupied much of the playing time, the Phillies have had success when playing their core of young players - primarily Maikel Franco. The third baseman has pushed his name into contention for the National League Rookie of the Year, hitting .294/.337/.535 with 10 home runs and 32 RBIs through 43 games.

Aaron Nola, the organization's top pitching prospect and first-round selection in 2014, could benefit from the Phillies potentially moving veteran starters Aaron Harang or Hamels.

Amaro said earlier in the season that Nola could make his major league debut at some point this season after posting strong numbers in the minors, though both he and Mackanin don't want to rush the 22-year-old.

"Everyone's anxious to see Nola," Mackanin said. "And they're just going to pick the time that's right. They're going to pick the time that they feel is most beneficial not only to him but the team."

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