By Brandon Apter, Sports Talk Philly editor
It's just four days away from the Major League Baseball non-waiver trade deadline and the Philadelphia Phillies are standing pat in their talks with regard to right-hander Jeremy Hellickson, asking for a top prospect to complete a deal.
Teams talking to Phillies about Jeremy Hellickson say they want "one of your top 5 prospects" – or they'll keep him & take the draft pick
— Jayson Stark (@jaysonst) July 27, 2016
Although Stark mentions that the Phillies seem to have no issues keeping Hellickson if they don't get a top prospect, ESPN's Jerry Crasnick said on Tuesday that Hellickson was a "virtual lock" to be traded before the deadline.
The Miami Marlins have been the team mentioned most in Hellickson trade rumors. Their top five prospects consist of RHP Tyler Kolek, 1B Josh Naylor, LHP Jarlin Garcia, OF Stone Garrett and RHP Kendry Flores. A first base prospect could prove valuable for a position that isn't decided for the future. Rhys Hoskins is the lone first base prospect in the Phillies system of note.
Hellickson, 29, has made 21 starts, posting a 7-7 record with a 3.65 ERA, 107 strikeouts and a 1.12 WHIP. He will become a free agent following the 2016 season.