We learned yesterday that a Toronto Blue Jays scout had to go to four cities and spend 10 days just to see Phillies closer Jonathan Papelbon on in a save situation. Two teams have been long-rumored to be interested in Papelbon, the Chicago Cubs and the Blue Jays. But apparently the Phillies are getting interested from more teams.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reports:
Source: Heavy scouting presence as Papelbon averaged 94.1 mph yesterday in nine-pitch save. Other teams inquiring beyond #BlueJays, #Cubs.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) June 19, 2015
The more teams interested, the better the chance the Phillies can move him.
Besides Papelbon, two more closers could be on the market: Oakland Athletics righthander Tyler Clippard and Milwaukee Brewers righthander Francisco Rodriguez. Papelbon has the best track record of the three. Whoever trades for Rodriguez will likely be on the hook for 2016; Rodriguez's deal is guaranteed, while Papelbon's is a $13 million vesting option.
