Michael Bourn: Would He Be a Desperate Signing for the Philadelphia Phillies?

As the free-agent market rapidly shrinks, the Philadelphia Phillies are still left empty handed in center field—the club’s No. 1 priority.  Lucky for them, Michael Bourn is still available.

But are the Phils lucky?

The Philadelphia Phillies have seen multiple, high-profile players sign with other teams this offseason and are still searching for their prize signing. Ruben Amaro Jr. has played it pretty cool through the winter meetings, but fans are growing impatient by the minute.

Michael Bourn and his super-agent, Scott Boras, are also scrambling for the right deal. Bill Shaikin of the LA Times tweeted that Boras recently labeled Bourn as “the best defensive CF in the game.” Needless to say, Boras believes in his clientele.

Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports tweeted the Phillies are potentially gauging a price for Bourn. Have the Phillies put themselves in a position to sign Bourn by default?

The Phillies could be in reactionary mode to fill their need in center, or the team simply held out to sign Bourn for lower money. Whatever the case, Ruben Amaro Jr. understands a player is needed to compete in the division and World Series.

Bourn may have to be that player.

The Washington Nationals are still the same team and the Atlanta Braves, who passed on re-signing Bourn, have upgraded this offseason.

The Phillies must now take action. Bourn is a good player. He’s an upgrade from the club’s current outfield situation and will fill a much-needed leadoff role in the lineup.

Yet he does not posses the “wow” factor.

Bourn is not the fan favorite and probably not the club’s favorite, but the Phillies may have to settle.

The Phanatics, on the other hand, will not settle for another losing season.