Cole Hamels: 3 Prospect Packages That Could Pry Him Away from the Phillies
April 19, 2012 by Kenny DeJohn
Filed under Fan News
Cole Hamels is one of the top left-handed pitchers in the game today, which is ironic considering the fact that he’s the No. 3 starter for the Phillies.
It’s likely that he will be the most sought after free agent this winter, and he’ll definitely command a large sum of money.
No matter what teams he is negotiating with, it’s almost a guarantee that Matt Cain’s eight-year, $139.75 million contract will be the starting point.
He’ll probably be worth even more, as lefties have historically earned more than righties.
There’s no guarantee that the Phillies will be able to resign him, as they already have two other $20 million pitchers in the rotation.
In addition, Shane Victorino is a free agent this winter. The Phillies would be wise to retain him. He is a catalyst in an aging lineup that doesn’t have much else in the way of speed.
It’s unlikely, but the Phillies could consider shopping Hamels at the deadline.