Report: Justin Upton for Cliff Lee Being Discussed, Subsequently Squashed

Ruben Amaro, Jr. may have a plan after all.

Pedro Gomez, ESPN, tweeted Tuesday evening that the Phillies and Diamondbacks are discussing a swap of Cliff Lee for Justin Upton, multiple reporters have refuted this, however.

After watching many outfield free agent targets sign elsewhere, trading for an outfielder has become increasingly more likely.

Cliff Lee found himself in trade rumors during the trade deadline last season when it was rumored that the Rangers were interested.

Lee was also claimed off waivers in August by the Dodgers, but a deal was never reached.

Upton is due to make $9.75M this season and $14M in 2014, 2015.

Still, the Phillies have a major need in the outfield and Upton could fill that right handed, middle of the order outfielder that Charlie Manuel has been clamoring for.

Upton batted .280 last season in 150 games.

--Pete Giordano