2003 Topps #531 Placido Polanco

7 days away . . . The Phillies Room counts down to the Trade Deadline

July 26, 2002: Scott Rolen and Doug Nickle traded to the St. Louis Cardinals for Placido Polanco, Mike Timlin and Bud Smith

I've previously discussed my feelings on the whole Scott Rolen debacle . . .

Placido Polanco would play in parts of four seasons (2002-2005) with the Phillies, ultimately being usurped by Chase Utley. In 344 games, as the team's primary third baseman or second baseman, Placido hit .297. There is no truth to the rumor that the English translation of his name is Randy Ready.

Mike Timlin finished the 2002 season with the Phils, pitching 30 games in relief with a 3.79 ERA, and then moved onto the Boston Red Sox after the season. Bud Smith never pitched a game for the Phillies.