Jonathan Papelbon trade rumors: Philadelphia Phillies closer won’t waive no-trade clause to be setup man
The non-waiver trade deadline is rapidly approaching and the Philadelphia Phillies have until Thursday to find a taker for Jonathan Papelbon and his hefty salary.
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Papelbon, 25, has been mentioned in trade rumors dating back to last year but the rumors really became heated this month with the Phillies mired in last place in the National League east and Papelbon expressing a desire to play for a contender.
If the Phillies are successful in finding a team to take on Papelbon and the remainder of the $13 million he makes this season and is due to make in 2015. He has a vesting option for 2016 worth another $13 million depending on the number of games he finishes, but Papelbon also has a no-trade clause that could complicate things further.
According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, Papelbon told the Phillies he will only waive his no-trade clause if he will be the closer on his new team.
The Angels and Tigers had been mentioned in connection with Papelbon earlier in July, but each of those teams made trades to acquire a closer, so those teams would be ruled out as the Phillies are finding the market for Papelbon is awfully shallow.
Perhaps the San Francisco Giants and/or Los Angeles Dodgers could make a move to acquire the former All-Star closer to solidify the back of their bullpen as they make a push for the postseason.
The Phillies are in last place in the NL East with a 46-59 record through July 27.
Papelbon, 33, has 25 saves in 28 opportunities this season and a 1.83 ERA and .88 WHIP in 44 appearances.