The Philadelphia Phillies seem to be lessening their demands to trade some of their top players. The most recent being closer Jonathan Papelbon, who is more than likely to be dealt before the deadline and is garnering interest from the Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays.
Yesterday we wrote the Phillies had discussions with the Cubs and Blue Jays regarding a trade for Papelbon, but nothing is imminent just yet. Chicago signed Rafael Soriano to a minor-league contract earlier this week and the Blue Jays still have a tight payroll situation, which will likely make it difficult to assume the rest (or a majority) of the remaining dollars on Papelbon's contract.
However, rumors suggest the money is now becoming less of an issue.
"Over the past week, according to industry sources, the Phillies have called a number of contenders with potential need for a closer and told them the club would be willing to eat a portion of Papelbon's $13 million salary for this year, along with a portion of his $13 million vesting option for next season, if it brought them a better return in players," writes ESPN's Jayson Stark.
"Clubs that have spoken with the Phillies in the past say that until this month, they'd shown little interest in absorbing Papelbon's salary to facilitate a trade. However, sources familiar with the Phillies' thinking say they have softened that stance if it brings them better players back in any trade."
Stark also notes the Seattle Mariners, Tampa Bay Rays and Miami Marlins are in need of back end bullpen help, but the Mariners and Marlins would probably want to wait until closer to the deadline and make sure they're in contention if they were interested in making such an acquisition. As for the Rays, they would probably need the Phillies to cover most of Papelbon's contract.
Papelbon previously mentioned he would be interested in a trade to the Blue Jays, who the Phillies are more inclined to strike a deal with because they want to keep the closer out of the National League. However, Papelbon would need to approve a trade to Toronto, and another club perhaps appeals to him more.
"Sources close to the closer say he would be very interested in joining the Cubs," writes Jim Salisbury of CSN Philly.
Chicago has had issues with the back end of their bullpen and manager Joe Maddon is now using various relievers in the closer role because the club no longer has trust in Hector Rondon as their ninth-inning man. Soriano could be a solution to that problem, but he's not expected to join the team until after the All-Star break and he hasn't pitched since September.
Papelbon would provide immediate relief for the Cubs, but it likely depends where they stand at the trade deadline and how much the Phillies want in return.
Nonetheless, look for Papelbon to be out of Philadelphia before July 31.
