While the Phillies have been unable to find a trade suitor for premiere left-hander Cole Hamels, they stated today that they would be willing to eat more of Hamels’ contract to make the price a little less steep. However, they have not backed down on their demand for top-tier prospects.
The 31-year-old will make $22.5 million this season, $67.5 million over the next three seasons, and has a 2019 club option worth $20 million. While the club hasn’t stated how much they would be willing to eat, unlike their statement regarding Ryan Howard back in March, interested teams who may have been wary before can revisit possible options, and negotiate an appropriate price with the Phillies’ front office.
Hamels has been excellent this season with a 5-4 record and a 2.91 ERA over 74 1/3 innings pitched, which leads the NL. His only issue this season has been the long ball, as he has given up 10 so far.
With a record of 19-33, the Phillies have no reason to keep Hamels around. The club needs to part ways with their former World Series MVP. Ruben Amaro Jr. won’t just trade Hamels to get him off his hands, however. The return needs to be suitable, or the Phillies’ future will look even more bleak.
Hopefully their willingness to eat more of Hamels’ salary will make the process easier.
