Philadelphia finally making waves

Waves aren't normally seen along the Delaware River in Philadelphia, but the Phillies were making some of their own on Tuesday (and late Monday). The rumors, two completely separate deals, feature trading outfielder Jason Michaels to Cleveland for a setup man, and inking free-agent catcher Mike Piazza (pictured).

The Michaels trade with the Indians is said to be for one of three players, Guillermo Mota, Arthur Rhodes or David Riske. The Phillies need pitching, and either of the three would work well in the bullpen. The trade could also signal the end of the Phillies trying to move Bobby Abreu, as Michaels would've been his likely replacement.

The Piazza signing is intriquing. The Norristown native recently had Philly included on his no-trade list, and he clearly cannot return to catching full time. His only other viable position in the National League is first base, and the Phillies are set there with emerging star Ryan Howard.

So how does Piazza fit in? According to ESPN.com, the Phillies would use him to spell Mike Lieberthal and Howard when necessary. But I smell trade bait. Now that the Phillies are likely keeping Abreu in the fold, Piazza is a much bigger name to trade to an American League club. He would serve a much larger purpose there, as an everyday DH and back-up catcher.

Whether they keep him or trade him, Piazza would be a great pick-up for the Phillies. If he stays, he'd be a great back-up and help put a famous face into the marketing plan. If he goes, the Phils would likely get something decent in return.