The Philadelphia Phillies have made a move to bolster their outfield depth, acquiring outfielder Brewer Hicklen from the Detroit Tigers in exchange for cash considerations. The announcement came as a surprise to many, especially after Hicklen's brief stint with the Tigers.
Hicklen's Journey to Philadelphia
Hicklen's path to the Phillies has been a winding one. He was initially acquired by the Tigers in a trade with the Milwaukee Brewers back in March. He even had a single game appearance for Detroit in May, where he went 2-for-3 with a walk, showcasing his potential at the major league level.
However, Hicklen's overall performance in Triple-A Toledo this season hasn't been stellar, with a batting line of .227/.335/.394, including eight home runs and 14 stolen bases. This mirrors his career struggles to consistently make contact at the highest level. He only has 13 major league plate appearances.
What Hicklen Brings to the Phillies
Despite his batting struggles, Hicklen possesses notable speed, having stolen 248 bases in 287 attempts throughout his professional career. He also offers versatility, capable of playing all three outfield positions. This makes him a potentially valuable late-game addition for a Phillies team looking to contend down the stretch.
Cusick Designated for Assignment
To make room for Hicklen on the roster, the Phillies designated right-handed pitcher Ryan Cusick for assignment. This move highlights the Phillies' focus on addressing their outfield needs as they push for a playoff spot.
Tigers' Perspective
The Tigers, who are currently facing a rough patch after a promising start to the season, designated Hicklen for assignment earlier in the week to make room for right-hander Troy Melton. This trade signifies their willingness to make changes as they try to regain their early-season form.
The Phillies will likely assign Hicklen to their Triple-A affiliate, where he will look to improve his offensive consistency and prove his worth as a potential major league contributor.