CUBS DEAL FOR DAVID PHELPS
The Chicago Cubs acquired pitcher David Phelps and cash from the Toronto Blue Jays for pitcher Thomas Hatch.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
Phelps should provide valuable depth as a reliever for the Cubs down the stretch. He has pitched well this season for a non-contender in Toronto and has plenty of experience in Major League Baseball (245 games). Expect to see Phelps in some high-leverage situations for Chicago.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays managed the Phelps asset well. He pitched well after coming back from Tommy John surgery and was traded for Hatch, a marginal starting pitching prospect with modest upside. He is a bit of a dart throw for Toronto, but he certainly has more value to a rebuilding team than Phelps has.
Fantasy impact
It is unlikely that Phelps will get a lot of save chances down the stretch, but he should continue to strike a lot of hitters out and register a few holds with the Cubs. He may even pick up a few wins. Therefore, his stock goes up after this trade. As for Hatch, take a wait-and-see approach. He does not need to be owned right away.
