Phillies Favor Vernon Wells Over Alfonso Soriano

In so many ways, I wish I could publish a recording of my whooping guffaws last night as Cubbies Crib staff writer Stan Crousett and I conversed via twitter about the Phillies’ pursuit of Vernon Wells.

August 25, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Los Angeles Angels left fielder Vernon Wells (10) hits a single during the fourth inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The Phillies are known to want a solid outfielder with a right handed bat who wont break the bank and they could find that in Alfonso Soriano. Alas, they’re choosing to ignore Soriano because of his age… or something. I’m unsure really.

Soriano is a far superior outfielder to Wells both offensively and defensively considering both are old and kind of beat up. Looking at a simple triple slash line tells the same story too.

Past 3 seasons:

• Alfonso Soriano .254/.311/.488 –  78HR
• Vernon Wells: .240/.286/.443 – 67 HR

I’m sure Wells can be had for much cheaper than Soriano, but since the Cubs have next to no trade leverage in any potential deal with Soriano involved, it begs the question: Are the Phillies nuts or are they just weighing their options?

I want to hear what you think. Leave your thoughts in the comment section below.