Philadelphia is counting on its latest All-Star acquisition from Houston to do what Cliff Lee and Roy Oswalt did before him - help take the team with the best record in baseball deep into the postseason.

The Phillies made another deadline splash last night, acquiring Pence from the Astros for a package of highly rated prospects.

“He’s a guy that I think our fans will take to very well,’’ general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said.

The NL East-leading Phillies got the right fielder and cash from Houston for three minor leaguers and a player to be named, shoring up their lineup as they try to make it back to the World Series for the third time in four years.

“I think every competitor at the highest level wants to be in a pennant race, wants to be in a World Series,’’ Pence said in Milwaukee, where the last-place Astros lost to the Brewers. “I’m pretty lucky now I get to jump on board with one of the best teams, and hopefully have an opportunity to do that.’’

Amaro is developing a knack for pulling off big deals right before baseball’s non-waiver trade deadline. He acquired lefthander Lee in 2009 and righthander Oswalt last year.

“Hopefully he comes in, fits in and helps us,’’ Lee said.

The 28-year-old Pence began the day with a .309 batting average, 11 homers, and 62 RBIs.

Houston nabbed two top prospects in first baseman Jonathan Singleton and righthander Jarred Cosart. But the Phillies managed to hold onto talented outfielder Domonic Brown. Rebuilding Houston also got 25-year-old righthander Josh Zeid, who was 2-3 with two saves and a 5.65 ERA in 21 games, 11 starts, for Double A Reading.

Amaro said the Phillies were able to stay under the luxury tax. He also refused to say if he was done dealing before tomorrow’s deadline.

“Right now, I’m very comfortable with our ballclub,’’ he said.

The Phillies have needed a righty batter with pop since Jayson Werth signed with the Nationals over the winter.

Manager Charlie Manuel said Pence would bat fifth today against Pittsburgh and play right field.

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