The Milwaukee Brewers traded outfield prospect Brett Phillips at the 2018 trade deadline. They paired him with Jorge Lopez and received Mike Moustakas in return. As a prospect, Phillips quickly became a fan favorite for the Brewers. He was well known for his personality and also appeared on several Brewers videos that featured his unique laugh. After playing for the Royals, Rays, and Orioles, Phillips has now signed a major league deal with the Angels.
Free-agent outfielder Brett Phillips in agreement with Angels on one-year, major-league contract, source tells @TheAthletic.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 9, 2023
Former Brewers fan favorite Brett Phillips has signed a major league deal with the Angels.
Aside from the intangibles, Phillips has not quite found his footing at the plate in the big leagues. He did hit 13 home runs and stole 14 bases for the Rays in 2021, but overall his career numbers are not good. His career slash line is .188/.273/.348/.620. He also has struck out 37% of the time.
Most of Phillips value comes defensively. He has a cannon for an arm and great speed. With new defensive shift rules in place next season, his value to play the outfield could increase. He has a career 41 DRS including 11 in 2021 and seven last season.
Phillips does also have some experience on the pitching mound. Last year he perhaps made the most spectacular catch of any pitcher.
Despite having not played in the Brewers organization since 2018, Phillips is a player that most root for to have success. Hopefully he can carve out a role with the Angels in 2023.
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