The Phillies have a player they could move to save $12 million AAV (average annual value), and the faithful would consider this a no-brainer for general manager Matt Klentak if they only know this half of the situation.

Deal for dollars:

This offseason, the Philadelphia Phillies have holes in the five-man staff, relief corps and the lineup, plus they might swap a regular to free up space under the $208 million CBT (competitive-balance threshold). And they could acquire a decent pitcher by including their wild card in a package to draw in a trade partner.

IN OTHER WORDS: “The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks and starting on the first one.” – Mark Twain

Before the Winter Meetings begin on Dec. 9, the Fightins’ decisions to non-tender Maikel Franco and Cesar Hernandez with a contract have already determined the front office’s route for second and third base. Plus Klentak has a clearer picture of their potential replacements.

To succeed, Klentak must negotiate through a slow process with other execs and agents for deals and dollars. But a GM’s due diligence can confuse fans: He’s getting the lay of the land for players of some interest: free agents, other clubs’ asking prices, and offers for his personnel.

Realistically, financial resources determine signings and moves, whether they are a team’s market size or AAV limitations designed for parity by the lords of the MLB. Translation: Every franchise needs a mix of young, controllable talent and expensive stars. It’s almost a science!

Position-wise, the Phils prefer a left-handed bat for the infield –and Jean Segura could handle third or second– and they might want to swap their regular center fielder. Plus seven organizations are in the market for a limited number of center fielders.

Basically, free agency has many costly top starters, but some teams may deal a rotation piece entering his final 162 of organizational control. The market, though, only has a few remaining fireman to ink and a couple to trade for.

Presently, the red pinstripes have the $12 million AAV man in the final campaign of his three-season pact. And he’s the bargain Klentak can combine with Odubel Herrera to acquire a starter or reliever. Yes, he’s the wild card who can free up AAV dollars to make the exec more competitive for top-tier pitching.