Oscar Mercado claimed by Phillies

The Philadelphia Phillies have claimed outfielder Oscar Mercado off waivers. Mercado was designated for assignment by the Cleveland Guardians last week.

Philadelphia is dealing with the uncertain future of outfielder Bryce Harper and his fractured thumb. While Mercado is no Harper, he can least play better outfield defense than the likes of Nick Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber.

Oscar Mercado was a productive bat during the 2019 season and it appeared that Cleveland found a diamond in the rough. Unfortunately for both parties Mercado was never able to find his form again and struggled mightily. With other more appealing offensive options available to the Guardians they made the decision to DFA Mercado.