January 23, 2015
In recent weeks, there have been several reports that the Phillies have discussed trading lefty Cole Hamels, but another pitcher could be moved first.
According to a report from ESPN, the Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers are in talks about a trade involving closer Jonathan Papelbon.
From ESPN.com:
A source told ESPN that Papelbon can block a trade to the Brewers, but would waive that if the vesting option for 2016 is guaranteed.
The Phillies' desire to trade Papelbon is no secret as they start a massive rebuild that already has seen more than $40 million shaved off their estimated opening day payroll.
The 34-year-old Papelbon had 39 saves and a 2.04 ERA last season, but his flagging velocity and perceived negative attitude -- Papelbon was suspended for seven games last September after grabbing his crotch following a blown save -- led to them looking for a trading partner.
Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com is reporting that the talks are not that far along, as the team has yet to approach Papelbon about waiving his no trade clause:
#Phillies’ Papelbon has not been approached about waiving no-trade to #Brewers, per source. Sign that talks are not in advanced stage.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 23, 2015
Another reason the team could be looking to move Papelbon is the emergence of Ken Giles, 24, as a legitimate option as a closer. In 44 games last season, his first with the Phillies, Giles - known for his ability to hit triple digits on the radar gun - had a 1.18 ERA while averaging 12.6 strikeouts per nine innings and finished fourth in Rookie of the Year voting.
