Phillies make a major push by trading for Wilson Ramos

Looking to prove they are serious about contending this season, the Phillies added a huge at-bat to their potent lineup. Before the MLB Trade Deadline ended, the team acquired Wilson Ramos from the Rays. In return, they gave away a player to be named later or cash.

This is a few days after acquiring Asdrubal Cabrera from the Mets. The Phillies also acquired left-hander Aaron Loup from the Blue Jays before the deadline passed.

Ramos returns to the NL East, where he was the primary catcher for the Washington Nationals from 2011-2016. It wasn’t until 2016 however when he really broke out of his shell. In a contract year, Ramos hit .307/.354/496 with 22 home runs and 80 RBIs in 131 games. He was an All-Star and one of the most premier athletes in the game, until a torn ACL ended his season. Expected to sign a big contract, he ended up getting picked up by the Rays on a two-year, $12 million deal.

Still healing from his ACL injury to start the season, Ramos struggled in his return. He ended up hitting .260 however with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs in 64 games. This season, Ramos continues to produce, as he is hitting .297/,346/.488 with 14 home runs and 53 RBIs in 78 games. The injury bug however continues to plague him, as he has been out since July 14 with an injury.

While there is no expected timetable for his return, the Phillies have the young Jorge Alfaro to hold the fort down until he is healthy.

The trade by the Phillies is a sign that they are aggressive again. A free agent after this season, Ramos will once again look to show how valuable he can be. Winning a World Series with a young team like the Phillies should do the trick.