With the MLB trade deadline looming, all attention has shifted to Cole Hamels who put on an excellent showcase on Saturday for scouts as he tossed a no-hitter against the Chicago Cubs. The Philadelphia Phillies have had Hamels on the market for some time now and with the deadline approaching in just a few days, the pitcher is getting more attention than ever as the Los Angeles Dodgers begin to build their trade package.
According to Jayson Stark of ESPN, the Dodgers and Texas Rangers lead the Hamels' race as a deal could come as early as Tuesday. This report follows the one by Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports who reported that the Phillies were now upping the price tag of Hamels following his no-hitter as they want less cash and more quality players in a deal. Philadelphia is likely very thankful for that game on Saturday because now they can get something great in return for the pitcher who still has three years remaining on his contract.
According to Stark, the Dodgers had a scout at Hamels' game Saturday, but it is unclear exactly what they will offer for the pitcher. The team has a big need for him. As injuries pile up this season, next year the rotation could easily be Clayton Karshaw and a bunch of question marks as Zack Grienke can opt out of his current deal. Getting Hamels who is locked in for a few more years would offer the Dodgers some stability.
Early reports had the Dodgers offering Yasiel Puig to the Phillies. That would give them a quality young outfielder to begin building the team around. However, the Los Angeles Times is reporting that is false and the Dodgers have not considered dealing Puig. The team also has no interest in dealing prospects like Corey Seager or Julio Urias. That could leave Los Angeles out of the picture and targeting short-term options instead.
The Dodgers like the idea of Hamels because he is locked in for longer. Players like David Price, Jeff Samardzija and Mike Leake are all available for free agency in the coming year and the Dodgers would be at risk of losing them for nothing in return. That could push the team to deal Puig if they feel the Phillies will accept the trade deal. Many believe Hamels is the best fit for the Dodgers, but fans will have to wait and see if a deal can really be made.