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Report: Mariners, Phillies Agree to Terms on Jean Segura Trade

By Colby Patnode

CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 29: Seattle Mariners shortstop Jean Segura (2) throws from his knees after a diving stop to get an out at first base during the eighth inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Seattle Mariners and Cleveland Indians on April 29, 2018, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH. Seattle defeated Cleveland 10-4. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 29: Seattle Mariners shortstop Jean Segura (2) throws from his knees after a diving stop to get an out at first base during the eighth inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Seattle Mariners and Cleveland Indians on April 29, 2018, at Progressive Field in Cleveland, OH. Seattle defeated Cleveland 10-4. (Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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Late Sunday evening, the baseball universe exploded and, surprise, the Seattle Mariners are the main cause for it. It has been reported by multiple sources that the Phillies and Mariners will announce a trade on Monday.

The early reports have indicated that the Mariners will send All-Star shortstop Jean Segura to the Philadelphia Phillies. The return for Seattle is still unknown. It is nearly unanimously believed that the Mariners will receive former top prospect J.P. Crawford, among others, for Segura.

Crawford, a 24-year-old shortstop, was long believed to be the next “superstar shortstop” while making his initial trek through the Phillies farm system. Scouts were enamored by his average or better tools across the board, as well as his baseball IQ and work ethic.

Crawford made his debut in 2017, playing in just 23 games that season. Even with his rookie struggles, Crawford managed to post a .356 OBP in 87 PAs, while flashing his plus glove in the field.

Crawford made it back to the big leagues in 2018, but struggled at the plate in 138 PA’s and spent a chunk of his season on the DL with a broken hand. The Phillies have since soured on Crawford, and with their reported pursuit of Segura and Manny Machado, he becomes unnecessary for their future.

In addition to Crawford, veteran first baseman Carlos Santana is rumored to have been discussed in these talks. Santana signed a 3-year, $60 million deal in 2018, and is still scheduled to earn $34.5 million in 2019-2020.

While many Phillies fans believe he’s garbage, Santana’s 2018 wasn’t a far cry from his career norms. His BB%, OBP, and home run numbers were all right in line with his career norms. He walks, hit home runs, and doesn’t strike out. He is best suited to DH but can play first base and a nice level. Santana is not a lock to be in the deal, as Crawford appears to be.

Jean Segura is expected to waive his no-trade clause. The deal could be official as soon as Monday. We will continue to monitor the situation.

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