Fri, Jan 27, 2006 at 9:00pm

TRIBE DEALS RHODES TO PHILLY FOR MICHAELS

The Philadelphia Phillies acquired pitcher Arthur Rhodes from the Cleveland Indians for outfielder Jason Michaels.

What does it give the Philadelphia Phillies
One of the Phillies' main goals of the off-season was to rebuild their bullpen and this move may complete that. Rhodes will give them a strong left-handed setup man, dropping fading veteran Rheal Cormier down the bullpen's depth chart. He also has some closer experience, which could come in handy if new closer Tom Gordon falls flat.

What does it give the Cleveland Guardians
With Coco Crisp probably on his way to Boston, Michaels is set to slip into at least a semi-regular role in left field. That means more playing time for him than he's ever had before, and it remains to be seen whether or not he can handle the workload or even put up the kind of numbers worthy of an everyday player. But at the very least the Tribe found themselves a strong fourth outfielder.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Philadelphia Phillies

Arthur Rhodes P

Cleveland Guardians

Jason Michaels OF