Gibson, Kennedy, Crouse to Phillies

Texas Rangers trade rumors: Kyle Gibson and Ian Kennedy are close to going to the Philadelphia Phillies, per reports. Jeff Passan says it is pitcher Spencer Howard and two other prospects going to Texas in the deal.

Gibson was signed to a three year deal prior to the 2020 season, and he had a rough 2020 campaign that made that deal look questionable. Gibson has been terrific for the Rangers this year, was named to the American League All Star team, and has been among the best pitchers in the A.L. for much of the season.

Kennedy was signed as a minor league free agent by the Rangers, and made the team with a strong camp. Kennedy has been terrific for the Rangers this year, taking over the closer role and providing a steady, solid presence in the pen.

Howard was a top 100 prospect coming into 2021, ranking as high as #27 on the BA list. A second round pick out of Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo in 2017, Howard just turned 25.

UPDATE — The total deal, per reports, is Kennedy, Gibson and Hans Crouse to Philadelphia for Spencer Howard, Kevin Gowdy and Josh Gessner.

Gowdy is a 23 year old who was a second round pick of the Phillies in 2016, but whose career has been slowed due to Tommy John surgery. He has a 4.43 ERA in 61 IP in high-A this year, though with 63 Ks and 15 walks.

Gessner, 21, is a righthanded pitcher from Sydney who has been pitching in the Philles’ complex league.

Crouse, of course, was the Rangers’ second round pick in 2017. The 22 year old has a 3.35 ERA in 51 innings for Frisco this year.

I will offer more thoughts later this afternoon.