Report: Dodgers Interested in Cole Hamels

Jul 24, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cole Hamels (35) in action in the second inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Eileen Blass-USA TODAY Sports

It’s a new day and the Dodgers are involved in another juicy rumor.

According to Jon Morosi of FoxSports.com, the Phillies have made their ace Cole Hamels available for a trade, and lists the Dodgers and Cardinals as most likely landing spots for him. While no trade is imminent, it’s worth noting that the Cardinals and Dodgers are among the nine teams in which Hamels cannot block a trade to. Hamels grew up in Southern California, so it’s not surprising he would approve a trade to the Dodgers.

Hamels is in the midst of another terrific season. In 122.1 innings, he has pitched to a 2.72 ERA and 3.02 FIP, while being worth 2.4 Wins Above Replacement according to FanGraphs. His 9.2 K/9 and 47.5 GB% are the second-highest of his career, and he simply isn’t showing any signs of declining.

However, the asking price for Hamels is said to be “astronomical”. ESPN’s Jayson Stark notes that the Phillies are asking for 3-4 top prospects, and will only eat $10 million of the remaining $90 million+ on Hamels’ contract. If his report is true, the Dodgers would have to part ways with Joc Pederson, Corey Seager, Julio Urias, and then some, plus the remaining $80 million+ of his salary. In my opinion, that’s way too much to give up for Hamels. By no means should the Dodgers give up their three best prospects, and then proceed to eat the vast majority of his contract. The Phillies will undoubtedly have to come down with their demands in order for a trade to work, whether it’s taking on more salary or accepting a lesser prospect in return.

With three days till the Trade Deadline, expect the Dodgers to be involved in more blockbuster rumors like this one. Whether they make a move or not, remains to be seen.