The Cincinnati Reds have reportedly agreed to a deal that would send Brandon Phillips to the Washington Nationals.
Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reports that Phillips must waive his no-trade clause for the trade to be completed, as he is protected since he has 10 years of MLB service and five in a row with the same club.
Phillips seemingly confirmed the news on Twitter:
513 to 202 ✈️ #PapaPope #OnDeck
— Brandon Phillips (@DatDudeBP) December 18, 2015
#YeaBuddy… Touchdown in the 202!!! Can't wait to put smiles on the kids faces, see my #TeamUA, & also see #PapaPope!! #WeInDaCity #Scandal
— Brandon Phillips (@DatDudeBP) December 18, 2015
The area code in Cincinnati is 513, and it is 202 in the nation’s capital. Papa Pope is also a reference to the show “Scandal,” which takes place in Washington, D.C.
Phillips is said to love the city of Cincinnati, but it doesn’t seem like he is all that disappointed in the trade. There are reportedly some financial issues to resolve before Phillips waives the no-trade clause.
Phillips signed extension with #Reds, accepted deferrals, chose to live year-round in CIN. Will require financial adjustment to OK deal.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) December 18, 2015
Many significant issues still unresolved before Brandon Phillips trade is complete: Just bought home in Cincy and his family loves community
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 18, 2015
The Reds are rebuilding, so this shouldn’t come as a surprise. Phillips is loved by many fans because of antics like this, but keeping the veteran around makes little sense given the current state of the franchise.
