As if there weren’t enough obstacles for the Phillies in regards to trading closer Jonathan Papelbon, “Cinco Ocho” just added one more. Joel Sherman of the New York Daily News is reporting that Papelbon is unwilling to waive his no-trade clause to go to a team who plans on using him as anything but a closer.
The good news is Papelbon can only veto trades to eight different teams. The bad news however is that there aren’t many teams looking for closers. Even with Papelbon’s solid season, his contract could present an issue. Papelbon is owed $13 million next season, with an obtainable vesting option for 2016. Combine his demands to be a closer for a perspective team, and his contract, it could be difficult for the Phillies to move Papelbon before the July 31st non waiver deadline.
The Phillies closer has gone on record as criticizing fellow teammates for not wanting to waive their no-trade clauses to go to a potential winner. So while Papelbon wants to go play for a winner, he wont do so as a set up man. The Phillies are most likely chomping at the bit to get rid of the five time All Star and begin the Kenny Giles era. I think the Phillies best chance to get rid of Papelbon will come after July 31st during the waiver trade deadline.
