Sizing up the Boston Red Sox competition for Giancarlo Stanton

Philadelphia Phillies

Philadelphia obviously meets Stanton’s geographical preference, but they may also be the farthest away from contending for a championship. Adding Stanton, of course, would help, but do they have the assets the Marlins covet in return?

Assuming ace Aaron Nola is untouchable, the Phillies have few good arms to offer, and none at Reyes’ level. 19-year-old Sixto Sanchez has terrific stuff and preternatural command, but is at least a couple years away from the bigs. Vince Velasquez, Jake Thompson, Ben Lively, Nick Pivetta and Tom Eshelman are closer to contributing, but none profiles as an ace.

The most appealing Phillies offer might instead center on SS J.P. Crawford, a former Top 10 prospect, and one of their young corner outfielders, Aaron Altherr or Nick Williams.

If the Marlins can wait on Sanchez, this deal offers the best mix of big league ready talent and upside. Whether or not Stanton agrees depends on if he can see Nola, Rhys Hoskins, Odubel Herrera and others as the core of a future World Series contender.