It was believed that Michael Young was only interested in a trade to the Texas Rangers as of yesterday, but a lot has changed in the last 24 hours. Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports that Michael Young will now accept a trade to the Boston Red Sox.
The Phillies have called up 23-year-old prospect Cody Asche, and he will be in the lineup tonight as the starting third baseman. It is believed he will stay in the role for the rest of the season. This is the realization that Young probably came to in the last day, which caused him to change his mind and consider Beantown as his next location.
Overall, the deal makes a ton of sense for all parties. The Red Sox would get a veteran right-handed presence while the Phillies would be able to take a long look at their third baseman of the future and probably get some middle relief help for their horrible bullpen. Young would likely get more playing time and a chance at a World Series title, which are two things he seeks.
The Phillies brought Young in to help them compete. He has played decently, but he is not in the Phils plans for the future, and it is in the team’s best interest to get what they can for him. Asche may struggle this season, but experience at such a young age may give the franchise some hope in the next coming years.
In addition, the Phillies need to decide what to do at third base because two of their top prospects both play the position (Asche and Maikel Franco). If they have to move one to another position they may want to do it sooner rather than later.