Report: Phillies, D-Backs discussed Goldschmidt, but deal fell apart
The Philadelphia Phillies reportedly discussed a trade for All-Star first baseman Paul Goldschmidt with the Arizona Diamondbacks, a source told Jayson Stark of The Athletic.
The talks initially involved a package of Phillies players centered around 24-year-old starter Zach Eflin, Stark reports. However, Philadelphia apparently sunk the deal by trying to add first baseman Carlos Santana - who has two years and $34.5 million remaining on his contract - into the trade. The Diamondbacks seem to be shifting into rebuild mode and want to shed contracts like Santana's.
Philadelphia signed Santana last winter and is reportedly itching to move the 32-year-old, despite his solid season, in order to shift defensively challenged outfielder Rhys Hoskins to first base. Adding Goldschmidt would force Hoskins to continue as an outfielder for at least one more season - perhaps longer if Philadelphia inked Goldschmidt to an extension.
The Phillies are looking to make a splash this offseason following several years of rebuilding, with owner John Middleton admitting his team might "be a little stupid" about spending this winter. Goldschmidt will earn $14.5 million in 2019 and is entering the final season of his contract, putting him in line for a big-money deal as a free agent next year.
In addition to Goldschmidt, the Phillies continue to be connected to megastars Bryce Harper and Manny Machado, among other notable free agents and possible big-name trade targets.
Goldschmidt, a four-time Silver Slugger winner and two-time runner-up for NL MVP, is being shopped by the Diamondbacks. Rival evaluators apparently believe they'll move Goldschmidt despite the 31-year-old's status as the D-Backs' franchise player.
The Houston Astros and St. Louis Cardinals have also reportedly had "meaningful" talks with Arizona about Goldschmidt.