While the Phillies may be preparing a large offer for Cole Hamels, other teams salivate on the sidelines, hoping that he may be available. They are also apparently doing their homework for potential trades. CSNPhilly's Jim Salisbury reports that the Angels, Dodgers, and Rangers are all scouting Cole Hamels' start today in Denver.
While the Phillies may be "trying like heck" to sign Hamels before the trade deadline, they must face the reality that the would need to trade him should they be unable to re-sign him. Salisbury points out Rangers scout Don Welke is sitting behind home plate and the Rangers "want Hamels bad".
Further, CBS Sports' Jon Heyman is reporting that Phillies scout Dave Hollins is in New York watching the Angels play the New York Yankees.
Another intriguing note from Jim Salisbury: The Dodgers could be scouting Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins. While Dee Gordon is a firecracker at shortstop for the Dodgers, he is hitting just .229 and injured his thumb sliding into a base.
Additionally, Juan Uribe has been a major disappointment at third base and they would like to upgrade at third base. When healthy, Gordon initially could slide over to third base for the Dodgers, or they could keep using Uribe. The Dodgers are close to playoff-ready but not close enough. Rollins would be a big help.
Salisbury also points out the Reds could be interested in Juan Pierre and Shane Victorino.
Stay tuned.
