In a move that is a bit shocking, the Phillies have traded prize Catcher prospect Logan O’Hoppe for Angels outfielder Brandon Marsh. It had been reported O’Hoppe was among a list of untouchable Phillies prospects for this deadline, but it turns out they were willing to deal him. In exchange, they receive Brandon Marsh from the Angels.
Phillies acquiring OF Brandon Marsh from Angels for Double A C Logan O’Hoppe, source tells @TheAthletic. On it: @ByRobertMurray
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) August 2, 2022
Marsh is hitting .226 this year, with 8 home runs and 8 stolen bases this season. He is considered to have a plus glove in Centerfield but has struggled with the bat. O’Hoppe meanwhile was among the best prospects in the Phillies system. He was considered their 3rd best prospect, and many fans thought he would one day take over for JT Realmuto and he would go to first base. But now he is heading to Los Angeles.
Marsh is an immediate upgrade defensively in CF. His bat not so much, but he is no worse than anyone else they were trotting out there. The Phillies were apparently also in talks for the Angels SP Noah Syndergaard. But those dissolved when it became clear the asking price would be too high. Fans’ reactions so far are mixed. Many are upset to lose O’Hoppe. But others realize that Marsh fills a huge need for the team. Marsh is a former top prospect himself. He is just 24 years old. This is just his 2nd year up in the majors, and first full season. He is under team control until 2027.