The MLB hot stove is cooling down, but the flame's not out. James Shields remains available on the free agent market, while up to six teams are reportedly still in the mix for Philadelphia Phillies ace Cole Hamels.
There are 5 to to 6 teams still trying to trade for #Phillies ace Cole Hamels but no one yet close to coming up with package Phillies covet.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) February 3, 2015
Last season Hamels' 9-9 record was a poor reflection of the quality of his pitching. He pitched 204.2 innings, compiling a 2.46 ERA and 1.15 WHIP with 198 strikeouts against just 59 walks. Hamels trade talks have been heating up and cooling down all offseason.
The left-hander has drawn significant interest from several clubs, but Phillies' general manager Ruben Amaro's asking price of multiple top-flight prospects has scared off suitors. The hottest rumor involved the San Diego Padres, whose busy offseason includes acquiring three new outfielders-All Stars Matt Kemp and Justin Upton as well as 2013 AL Rookie of the Year Wil Myers. As recently as January 31, Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal reported that the Padres were still in touch with Philadelphia's front office.
Preller clearly not done trying to upgrade. Also in touch with #Phillies on Hamels, though some doubt #Padres have enough to make deal. — Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 31, 2015
Previously Padres GM A.J. Preller has balked at coughing up elite catching prospect Austin Hedges, while the newly acquired Myers doesn't appear to be going anywhere. A source close to the Padres said they "acquired Myers to keep Myers, not to use him as a chip."
Myers had a terrible 2014, slashing .222/.294/.320 with just six home runs and 35 RBI. His bat is a good bet to rebound, but he will also have to contend with learning center field, which he's only played for 53 innings at the MLB level.
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