Dodgers Reportedly Join Red Sox In Pursuit Of Cole Hamels
Although the Los Angeles Dodgers have a need for starting pitchers, they’ve yet to truly address the deficiency. In recent days, the Dodgers traded for Mike Bolsinger and Juan Nicasio though each move is more about filling out organizational depth.
With the Dodgers in the market for pitching, they’ve entered the group of teams pursuing Philadelphia Phillies southpaw Cole Hamels, according to Bill Nightengale of USA Today Sports:
The Los Angeles #Dodgers now also in pursuit of #Phillies ace Cole Hamels, joining #Redsox and others.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 24, 2014
According to reports, the Dodgers expressed an interest in Hamels prior to last season’s trading deadline and were asked for Joc Pederson, Corey Seager and Julio Urias. Although the Phillies are believed to be sellers this offseason, the level of interest in Hamels could lead to them sticking with high demands in a potential trade.
Hamels made 30 starts last season and finished 9-9 with a 2.46 ERA and 1.15 WHIP. While the Dodgers may not be willing to part with their elite prospects, they could prove to be an intriguing trade partner for the Phillies if they’re also willing to take Jimmy Rollins.
The left-hander will turn 31 years old on Dec. 27 and is owed $67.5 million over the next three seasons. Hamels’ contract also includes a $20 million vesting option for 2019; it vests if he reaches a combined 400 innings pitched in 2017 and 2018 with 200 innings coming in 2018, and if he is not on the disabled list with an elbow or shoulder injury at the end of the 2018 season.
Hamels holds a 108-83 career-record with a 3.27 career-ERA and 1.24 WHIP. Hamels was the 2008 National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player, along with being named the 2008 World Series MVP. As a team with World Series aspirations, Hamels would bring experience and a career 7-4 record, 3.09 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in 13 postseason starts.
