Phillies Predicted to Snag $25 Million All-Star Closer From Division Rival

The Philadelphia Phillies know they'll need to upgrade the bullpen when the trade deadline rolls around.

That's not a slight against the Phillies at all. Every contender finds a way to add to the bullpen at the end of July because you can never have too much pitching. With the National League East expected to very tight for much of the season, every win matters.

One baseball writer believes the Phillies will go for a closer in their own division.

Mike Ostrowski of Athlon Sports believes the Phillies should get agressive -- and be aggressive now -- by trading for All-Star closer Kyle Finnegan from the Washington Nationals.

"New addition Jordan Romano has been a mess through his first five appearances," wrote Ostrowski. "José Alvarado is looking much better, with 10 strikeouts in five innings, but he carries past baggage of melting down for stretches. At the very least, Philly needs insurance for Alvarado."

Finnegan would certainly provide that insurance for the Phillies. He pitched to a 3.68 ERA last season in Washington and recorded 38 saves. Finnegan already has four saves so far this season.

"Because Finnegan is on an expiring contract for a rebuilding club, he will be one of the top relievers on the trade market this year," wrote Ostrowski. "St. Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley also fits that category, but it's unclear whether or not the team will choose to sell. Instead of waiting until close to the trade deadline to find out, Philly should make a call now and offer Washington a prospect pairing."

Here is the full trade Ostrowski projected:

• Philadelphia Phillies acquire: RP Kyle Finnegan
• Washington Nationals acquire: INF Otto Kemp (Phillies No. 23 prospect), Micah Ottenbreit (Phillies No. 28 prospect)

Two prospects ranked that low may seem like a fleece for the Phillies. However, Finnegan would be a rental as he's expected to become a free agent at the end of the season. Ostrowski also notes there is a historical precedent to create this package.

"Last year, the Phils traded LHP Sam Aldegheri and RHP George Klassen - their No. 24 & 29 prospects, respectively - to the Los Angeles Angels for Carlos Estévez at the deadline," wrote Ostrowski. "Estévez was then the top closer available and also on an expiring deal, so the same trade framework should work here."

The Phillies would love for lightning to strike twice and land an elite closer for a similar package. The longer they wait though, and the more they'll have to cough up.

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