Another option for Phils - B.J. Upton

In game five of the 2008 World Series B.J. Upton reached first base on an infield single in the top of the sixth inning. He then stole second and third, scoring on the throw from Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz that bounced off of him into foul territory.

Upton is capable of making things happen. He is 26 and filled with upside.

According to ESPN's Buster Olney, Upton is thought to be available via trade, and the Phillies should consider him as an option.

It is unlikely that the Phillies will re-sign free agent Jayson Werth, leaving a huge hole in the middle of their lineup.

Why not sign the speedy Upton to be your leadoff hitter and then move Jimmy Rollins into the five-hole?

Yes, Upton has been on the decline - he's gone from a .300 average in 2007 down to .237 last season - but he has shown flashes of brilliance. He hit seven home runs in the 2008 playoffs and has over 40 stolen bases in each of the last three years.

Upton is a true leadoff hitter, unlike Rollins. He would give the Phillies a speedster at the top of the lineup while allowing the more powerful Rollins to fill a gap in the middle of the lineup.

Plus, he will only make 3 million this season.

Oh yeah, did I mention he was young?

Phillies GM Ruben Amaro has said he wants to sprinkle youth into the Phillies lineup and this is a great opportunity to do just that.

Upton could play right field while gold glove center fielder Shane Victorino would remain in center.

The Phillies could also use the combination of Upton, Victorino, and Domonic Brown in the outfield for years to come, as Raul Ibanez is in the last of a three year deal. Sounds good to me.

Upton could likely be had for not too much in return given his recent struggles. The upside is high enough that the Phillies should take a chance on him.