Philadelphia Phillies unlikely to trade AJ Burnett

The Philadelphia Phillies understandably would like to move on from pitcher AJ Burnett but they’ve found that task a bit more difficult than they expected.

More from MLB Trade Rumors

• Shohei Ohtani trade rumors live tracker: Every update so far
• NY Mets leave Justin Verlander in the dark at trade deadline
• This White Sox-Dodgers trade for bullpen help could lead to LA reunion
• Braves Rumors: Cubs trade, Vaughn Grissom targeted, Duvall’s conflict of interest
• MLB Trade Grades: Dodgers reunite with familiar face in Red Sox deal

Burnett, who pitched for the Pittsburgh Pirates last season was a late addition to the Phillies roster this past offseason as they convinced the veteran not to retire and to take their lucrative one-year contract with a mutual option on the second year. It was an offer too good for AJ Burnett to pass up though the Phillies are understandably have second thoughts.

Things haven’t went as planned for Burnett this season as he’s struggled, especially as of late. The Philadelphia Phillies did what they could to trade him before the non-waiver deadline but found limited interest, namely because of his cumbersome deal.

Combine that with his recent poor play and Philly.com believes a trade is doubtful.

"The Phillies still have pitchers to trade, but A.J. Burnett no longer looks like an attractive commodity.Burnett tied a season-high by allowing 11 hits. He was charged with five runs in six innings, marking the third time in his last five starts that he has given up at least five runs. Burnett has a 6.66 ERA since the All-Star break. Cue the horror music."

The Pittsburgh Pirates and Baltimore Orioles were said to have some interest in Burnett before the non-waiver deadline, though couldn’t get assurance that he’d retire at season end. Neither team had interest in paying Burnett his hefty deal which only increases next year with additional starts this season.

Expect Burnett to remain with the Philadelphia Phillies moving forward.