Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels, an impending free agent, headlines a strong group of starting pitchers who could be traded before next week's deadline. But while Hamels may be dealt, there's also a chance he could re-sign with the Phils, the only team for which he's played. Here's the latest:
- The Phillies at least floated the idea of a six-year, $140MM extension to Cole Hamels, a rival MLB official told Joel Sherman of the New York Post (Twitter link). Hamels hasn't said 'yes,' which increases the likelihood of a trade, as Sherman points out. The Phillies offered Hamels six years and about $135MM, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports (on Twitter). The left-hander is still trying to decide whether to accept the offer or hit free agency.
- The Rangers won't insist upon negotiating a contract extension with Hamels should they get deep into trade discussions with the Phillies, reports Buster Olney of ESPN.com (via Twitter).
- There has been some progress between the sides, which has prompted optimism within the Phillies that a deal can get done, writes Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com. But obstacles remain to hammering out a deal.
- The Phils and Hamels are working to bring discussions to a head so that they can proceed accordingly, a source tells Jayson Stark of ESPN.com.
Boras is just running out the clock. The longer it goes, the less time the Phillies have to make a trade. That may make them more desperate to keep him and force them to raise their offer.
Just about every bit of that is false, right down to Hamels not being represented by Boras.
Gentlemen, you are all correct. I meant to type Boggs but was reading Heyman, who often is an outlet for Boras. Max, I still think the rest of it is correct. It’s the agent’s job to maximize the return for his client, and time does not work in the Phillie’s favor. If this doesn’t work, they need to make the best trade, and that takes time.
Negotiations are coming to a head, the Phillies will set some sort of deadline and proceed from there. There’s a reason they came with their last best offer in the last few days – to give themselves time to make a trade if they need to. They’ve got plenty of time.
John Boggs is cole hamels agent
Boras is not Hamels’ agent. His agent is John Boggs
Boras is not Hamels’ agent
If he wont take 6/140 get rid of him. Nice knowing u hamels…
If he doesnt jump on 6/140 get rid of him. Nice knowin ya hamels….
Phillies should trade him, the way it’s looking that division is for the Nats to lose for the next 3 or 4 seasons.
There’s also two Wild Cards and he’d be signed for 6 years.
I’d agree with that assessment though. Nats/Braves for the next 2-3 years.
Nats yes, Braves…maybe. Until their players prove durable they’re not a lock to win anything
Hamels wants that CC money. Unless Boston and LAD get into a bidding war for him, I don’t see it happening.
Cole to st louis
So is Hamels watch the top story this trading season?
Rosenthal just tweeted they are about to extend him 6 years for more than $137.5 million
Hamels stays with Phils according to Rosenthal