Bryce Harper, Manny Machado, AND Mike Trout! Oh my.
According to MLB Network insider Jon Heyman, the Phillies will make a "big play" for Millville, NJ native Mike Trout in two years "regardless" of what happens in free-agency this winter with Harper and/or Machado. Heyman reports that the Los Angeles Angels will attempt to extend Trout this winter, but "the whispers are that an extension now is unlikely."
Related: Todd Zolecki talks about Phillies' interest in Harper, Machado
Now, this isn't necessarily mind blowing insight, as every team is going to make a big push for Trout. However, it is interesting to note that Trout—assuming Heyman's report is correct—is clearly in the Phillies' financial plan. Also, Philadelphia very well could be No. 1 on Trout's list of possible destinations.
Trout is just 27-years-old and not only is he the best player in baseball, but he's probably the most famous Eagles fan right now and Philadelphia's favorite professional athlete that doesn't play in Philadelphia. Trout is friends with Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz and tight end Zach Ertz and grew up a die-hard Phillies fan.
As for his career, Trout is on pace to have arguably the greatest MLB career ever. In seven full seasons, Trout has been named an all-star in all seven. He has already won two MVP's, rookie of the year, and six silver slugger awards. He's finished inside the top-4 in MVP voting in each of his seven seasons.
Trout is a career .307/.416/.573 hitter averaging 37 homers and 99 RBIs per season.
