Liberty Look to Be Active in Trade Talks During Draft
The Philadelphia Liberty front office has made available to other GMs its 2028 draft assets guide, a list of all the assets they would like to acquire from or shop to other teams in this weeks CBA Draft.
“We’re looking to maximize our presence in the 2028 draft as part of our ongoing strategy to rebuild this organization,” said team general manager Michael Queen during a brief conference call to announce the guides release. “So, first and foremost, our motivation in any trades this week will likely to be acquire additional draft picks, or to move up to more favorable draft positons as we seek to add as many of our targeted prospects to the organization as possible.”
Perhaps the biggest news of the brief conversation Queen had with the press is that Philadelphia is willing to part with their number one prospect, left-handed sensation Ken Kovac. It should come as no surprise, however, that Queen’s asking price comes at quite a premium.
“We would be willing to move Ken if, and only if, that meant moving into the top ten of the first round while also allowing us more of a presence in early rounds this year,” Queen answered when questioned by CBA Network reporter Barry Benzinger. “He’s a player we see wearing a Liberty uniform much sooner than later, so if we’re giving up a player ready to contribute at a high level, we need to feel confident that it’s for the greater good of Philadelphia and its fans.”
Other notables made available in the guide include reserve roster standouts Rick Eaton and Jonathon Pawlowski, along with powerhouse hitter (and rumored powerhouse problem) David Guerrero. The complete list, along with our commentary, can be found below.
PHILADELPHIA looks to move into the top ten of round one in the 2028, and is looking to stockpile picks in all rounds. Picks already assigned to the team are unlikely to be traded, unless the deal allows them earlier picks in the same round.
PHILADELPHIA makes available the following players for trade–
Pitchers David Benson and Adam Freeman, workhorse veterans capable of putting in quality innings for any Bronze League team. High-energy youngster German Garcia, a vibrant clubhouse presence and the #12 prospect in their system. Josh Lienhart, a quality swing man who has been working out of the bullpen in Reading this season but also has starting experience under his belt.
Moving into the bullpen, another Reading standout in Rick Eaton could appeal to teams in need of a quality reliever at all levels. Veteran left-hander Kwan Um and known clubhouse leader Chris Osorio have also been made available with an asking price of picks in the lower rounds of the draft.
Available out of the infield are a healthy mix of young prospects and proven players. Perennial Dominant Defender Paul Folk is on the block, along with a lengthy but favorable contract. Josh Green, former Rookie of the Year and a Dominant Defender winner at third base, is also being shopped; Green has been struggling as of late and a change of scenery could be just what he needs. David Guerrero, a power bat at first base, in the outfield, or as a designated hitter, is available at presumably the same low asking price as talent like Um and Osorio. Some intriguing prospects were also made available, including switch-hitting catcher Tim Wheeler (bumped to the reserve roster when Philly acquired Trevor Hamberlin in the off-season), first baseman Rick Walkowiak, and highly-touted hot corner outfielder Danny Horvath.
In the outfield, along with Ken Kovac and his premium price tag, Queen also mentioned David Bache as a candidate while reminding fellow GMs that “Rusty” is also a capable first baseman. Former third round pick Nick Rangel and utility outfielders Chris Pop and Kevin Lopez are also available.
