MLB Rumors: Philadelphia Phillies willing to trade anybody?
By Bryan Rose
The Philadelphia Phillies had high hopes coming into the 2014 season.
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With what was believed to be a solid pitching staff and a mildly re-vamped offense, many thought Philadelphia could challenge the Atlanta Braves for the National League East crown.
Unfortunately for the Phillies, health has again been an issue and the sub-par play now has them sitting in last place, seven games behind the division leader.
There’s of course still time to make up ground but with the Phillies current roster, which is marred with old and overpriced veterans, it appears as if the franchise has decided the time to sell is now as Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe hints that Philadelphia is willing to move just about anybody.
“The Phillies have made it known that anyone on their roster is for sale.”
Philadelphia doesn’t have a shortage of talent as there are plenty of teams who could and will likely show interest in big names like Cliff Lee, Chase Utley, Cole Hamels and more. However, trading them isn’t going to be easy given their salary.
No acquiring team is going to want to pay the albatross of a contract while giving up some of their top farm prospects, so if the Phillies are going to re-build (as they should) by trading away their veterans they’re likely going to have to throw money into the deals as well.
It’s a hefty price to pay for Philadelphia, but it’s clear the organization needs to be a seller, allowing them to eventually return to their former glory.