Eduardo

Tait

Catchers are weird from a developmental standpoint. There are so many variables to consider with their long-term outlook, but Tait has made some waves in the lower minors this season, hitting .255/.319/.434 with 11 homers in 75 games between High-A Jersey Shore and Low-A Clearwater. The 18-year-old prodigy boasts immense raw power upside and has posted upper-echelon exit velocities relative to his age and level. He’s clearly one of the better catching prospects in baseball already and a significant addition for Minnesota.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan adds that the Phillies are parting with right-hander Mick Abel and elite catching prospect Eduardo Tait in the deal — a blockbuster price tag. Abel impressed during his brief big-league stint this season, and Tait ranks among the premier backstops in the minors. The move was telegraphed the moment closer José Alvarado was hit with an 80-game PED suspension back in mid-May, ruling him out for the postseason. Duran gives Philadelphia a battle-tested stabilizer for the back end of their bullpen as they gear up for October.