Talks of the Philadelphia Phillies extending one of their aces, Cole Hamels, surfaced a few days ago. The Phillies are also ready to take action if a trade opportunity arises.
The extension would be worth at least $120 million, but some executives do not believe the deal will go down, which explains why the Phillies would be ready to mobilize the left-hander.
And there are suitors already available.
Hamels has been scouted by the Texas Rangers and Los Angeles Angels, both teams are competing for the title in the American League West.
It would make sense for the Rangers and the Angels to target the left-hander since they both are trying to make the playoffs. Hamels has playoff experience and a World Series ring.
He was the National League Championship Series MVP and World Series MVP in 2008. Hamels went 4-0 in the playoffs that season. He only gave up seven earned runs in 35 innings pitched. He finished the playoffs with a 1.80 earned runs average.
Also a piece the Phillies might look to move in outfielder Shane Victorino. The 31-year-old has struggled this season only hitting .239 with 8 homers and 38 runs batted in.
Both Hamels and Victorino have been an integral part of the Phillies team that won the division from 2007-2011. This year, however, the streak looks like it will come to an end.
Both players become free agents after the 2012 season is over.
