Phillies rumors: Howard, Ruiz clear waivers

By Brandon Apter, Sports Talk Philly editor

The final two pieces of the Philadelphia Phillies 2008 World Series Championship run are nearing the end of their respective tenures in red pinstripes and one of the two could be on the move before the season ends.

Sources say Ryan Howard & Carlos Ruiz both cleared waivers. Heard of 2 teams mulling Ruiz. Howard virtually certain to stay in Philly.

— Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) August 24, 2016

In order to be eligible for postseason play for another team, the Phillies would need to make a deal within the next week.

While it seems a virtual lock that Ryan Howard stays with the team, the same can't be said for Carlos Ruiz. The 37-year-old has hit .348 since the All-Star break in limited action and could provide a team with valuable veteran catching depth down the stretch. With his contract up at the end of the season, the Phillies would be smart to take almost any deal that nets them a prospect in return for Ruiz at this point. He's owed a $500,000 buyout on a $4.5 million club option for 2017. 

Howard, 36, has expressed his intent to try and play in 2017, but this season could very well be his last if he doesn't get any bites over the winter. He's put together an impressive month of August, hitting .378 with two doubles, five homers, 13 RBIs and nine runs scored. Howard has a $10 million buyout that he'll likely receive from the Phillies for his club option next season.

Although both Howard and Ruiz have cleared waivers, they can block a trade to any team due to the 10-and-5 rights that they earned.