Phillies' Cole Hamels: I know winning is not going to happen here
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cole Hamelstold USA Today that he wants to be traded because he knows Philadelphia will not be a contender this season.
Hamels has been the subject of trade rumors for months, and on Monday Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said that four teams have made offers for the pitcher, including the Boston Red Sox.
"I just want to win," Hamels said. "That's all. That's all any competitor wants. And I know it's not going to happen here.
"This isn't what I expected. It's not what the Phillies expected, either. But it's reality."
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The Phillies have missed the playoffs in each of the last three seasons, including finishing with a 73-89 record in 2014.
Last week, Amaro said he wouldn't rule out trading Hamels soon, but expected him "to be in spring training" with the team when pitchers and catchers reported this week. Hamels arrived in Clearwater, Fla., on Monday.
USA Todayreports that the Phillies have had "plenty of talks" with teams like the Red Sox, Dodgers and Padres, but are waiting for an "acceptable proposal."
"I understand these things take time," Hamels said.
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Hamels, 31, went 9-9 with a 2.46 ERA with 198 strikeouts and 59 walks last season. He is signed through 2018 and is scheduled to be paid $22.5 million every season until the contract ends. The contract also calls for a $20 million club option or $24 million vesting option for the 2019 season.
- Molly Geary
