Inbox: Will Phils trade big names in offseason?

Will the Phillies try to make any big trades this offseason? — Benjamin V., Philadelphia.

At the very least, they will be open-minded to it. That might not lead to a blockbuster, but there is no reason not to inquire and listen. After all, is there anybody in the organization that is truly untouchable? The fact the Phillies engaged in serious trade talks with the Rangers in July about Vince Velasquez indicates they are willing to consider anything. That is a good thing.

What do you think the Phillies’ projected record should be for next season? — Jeffrey B., Newtown Square, Pa.

Before the season started, I predicted the Phillies would win 73 games, because I believed their starting pitching would be vastly improved from 2015. They won 71, and if Aaron Nola had stayed healthy, they might have won one or two more. It is too early to predict how many games they will win next season, because we don’t know what the roster will be. But if the Phillies make a few necessary improvements (bolster the bullpen, add at least one veteran starter to replace Jeremy Hellickson and at least one veteran hitter), I see them in the 74-to-78-win range. Why not more? Because it is hard to make the jump from 71 to 81 or more with the worst offense in baseball and still so many questions on the …

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