Hunter Pence Brings Balance, Production to Phillies Lineup

On July 30th the Phillies traded four minor league players, including top prospects Jarred Cosart (Pitcher) and Jonathan Singleton (outfielder), to Houston in exchange for Astros fan favorite Hunter Pence and $2 million.

It's been about a month and a half since the trade, and it looks like it's been a great move for Phillies fans.

Since Hunter Pence joined the Phillies at the end of July, they've won 12 out of the last 14 games; and the Phillies are averaging 4.44 runs per game.

Pence also adds a much-needed right handed bat to help balance a lineup that's certainly talented, although a bit heavy on the left side of home plate.

According to MLB.com, before the Phillies traded for Pence they were batting .249 with a .322 on-base percentage, and a .388 slugging percentage. Since the trade on July 30, the Phillies have been batting .271 with a .332 on-base percentage and .441 slugging percentage.

Before the trade, the Phillies were already one of the best teams in Major League Baseball. It looks like Pence has made a great team even stronger heading into the end of summer - and a serious run at the World Series in just a couple of months.