HUNTER PENCE TO THE PHILLIES
The Philadelphia Phillies acquired outfielder Hunter Pence and cash from the Houston Astros for first baseman Jon Singleton, pitchers Jarred Cosart and Josh Zeid, and a player to be named later.
What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies have been searching for a right-handed bat to complement their lefties (Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez) for quite some time. Pence should fit the bill and take over as the everyday right-fielder. He has a lot of talent and can still get better, especially in the middle of a much better lineup in Philly. The Phils gave up two very good prospects, plus another decent one and a future asset, but Pence plugs a major hole.
What does it give the Houston Astros
In Singleton and Cosart, the Astros land two very good prospects. Singleton has a chance to become a staple in Houston at first base, where Brett Wallace has struggled to establish himself this season. Singleton might be ready for the big leagues in late 2012, or early on in 2013. Either way, he's a solid pickup. Cosart has just as much upside and may also be ready to make the big jump some time next season. He may one day join Jordan Lyles as the cornerstones of the Astros rotation. Zeid projects as a reliever in the bigs. Overall, the 'Stros did well in this deal, despite moving out a young veteran in Pence. J.D. Martinez (another good prospect) has been recalled to replace Pence in the outfield.
Fantasy impact
Player focus
Houston Astros
player to be named later - Domingo Santana