Report: Cole Hamels Would Waive No-Trade Clause To Come To Yankees
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Phillies ace Cole Hamels would waive his no-trade clause and accept a deal to the Yankees if the two teams came to an agreement, the New York Post has reported.
"The opportunity to play for a team that could ultimately get to the World Series is what every guy hopes for and what every guy works for, starting with the offseason and spring training," the 31-year-old told the newspaper.
Hamels is making $23.5 million this season and is set to earn another $70.5 million from 2016-18. His contract includes a vesting option for 2019 worth $24 million. If it doesn't vest, however, it becomes a $20 million club option.
"There are certain periods in your career, which are your peak years, and that's where you want to make the most of your impact," Hamels told the newspaper. "And I think that's where the situation really is. To make the most of my impact, the opportunities have to be there. That's how you become even better."
The Phillies have the worst record in baseball at 25-47, and figure to be shoppers at the trade deadline. But it will ultimately come down to whether Yankees general manager Brian Cashman will take on Hamels' contract, and if the club has enough assets to get him.
There will be competition for the three-time All-Star's services. According to FOX Sports' Jon Morosi, the Yankees aren't the only team that Hamels would agree to go to.
Hamels has pitched well in 2015 despite his club's poor play. The 2008 World Series MVP is 5-5 with a 2.96 ERA in 14 starts.
A proven big-game pitcher, he owns a 7-4 record and 3.09 ERA in 13 postseason starts.
Hamels is scheduled to oppose Ivan Nova on Wednesday afternoon in The Bronx when the Phillies and Yankees wrap up their three-game set.
