The Phillies have pulled off some trades for some top pitching talent over the past few seasons.
In 2008, the Phillies traded Josh Outman, Adrian Cardenas and one other to acquire Joe Blanton.
In 2009, the Phillies traded Carlos Carrasco, Jason Donald and Jason Knapp to acquire Cliff Lee. Then, in the offseason that year, the Phillies traded Kyle Drabek, Michael Taylor and Travis D’Arnaud for Roy Halladay.
During the 2010 season, the Phillies traded J.A. Happ, Anthony Gose and another player for Roy Oswalt.
As you can tell, the Phillies system has been decimated by trades and therefore there is very little talent at the AA and AAA levels that can come up to the major league club and help fill specific needs.
Here are some ways the Phillies can strategically replenish the farm system.