MLB Trade Rumors 2014: LA Dodgers' Matt Kemp, Philadelphia Phillies' Cole Hamels Could Be Dealt This Winter
Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Matt Kemp and Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels were mentioned in several trade talks before the deadline, but both players stayed on their respective clubs.
But while both players stayed put past the trade deadline, reports indicated that both Kemp and Hamels will likely not return to the Dodgers and Phillies, respectively, next season.
John Heyman of CBS Sports noted that Kemp recently cleared waivers, which makes him eligible to be traded to any team. But the fact that he went unclaimed might mean that teams aren't willing to take the $115 million contract left in his contract at this point.
The Dodgers are not expected to budge, either, since they are still determined to get the best offer in exchange for their outfielder. While Kemp remains tradeable, Anthony Castrovince of MLB.com is convinced that the trade will likely happen this winter.
Kemp is hitting .282 this season with 13 homeruns and 49 RBIs, which makes him an attractive trade asset. The Dodgers are reportedly planning to take advantage of his improved performance in the hopes of moving him, and giving way to top prospect Joc Pederson.
"Kemp is the only one coming anywhere close to proving his worth. He's been one of baseball's hottest hitters in the second half (1.130 OPS), and the Dodgers could parlay his suddenly revitalized bat into an opportunity to move him and make way for Joc," Castrovince wrote.
On the other hand, Hamels, who is 6-6 this season with a 2.42 ERA and 139 strikeouts this season, will also likely be moved this winter as the Phillies are also looking for the best trade package in exchange for the veteran pitcher.
"The Phillies could be much more active in August than they were in July, as they'd be wise to rid themselves of as many cumbersome contracts as possible," Castrovince wrote. "But Hamels is their best bet for an impact prospect haul, and the hunch is that they'll be more open to exploring that market in the winter."
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