Phillies go without a trade, Amaro explains
Aug 8, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr announces a contract extension for second baseman Chase Utley (26) during a press conference after the game against the Chicago Cubs at Citizens Bank Park. The Phillies defeated the Cubs 12-1. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Heading into Thursday’s non-waiver trade deadline the Philadelphia Phillies were in last place, aging and had a restless fan base trending #FireRuben on Twitter. After the deadline, none of that changed.
The Phillies were open to listening to trades on just about everyone on their roster, including ace Cole Hamels who was originally off the trade block. The rumors were plentiful and talks between the Phillies and other clubs took place. The deals didn’t.
Amaro was "surprised other teams weren't as aggressive, we have some pretty good players."
— Ryan Lawrence (@ryanlawrence21) July 31, 2014
The Phillies clearly had offers, but Amaro and company were not “comfortable” with any of them. Some rumors suggested Hamels was available for the right price, namely three top prospects in the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.
More Amaro: "We weren't asking for exorbitant paybacks, I think we were very reasonable."
— Ryan Lawrence (@ryanlawrence21) July 31, 2014
Amaro said he believe teams have been overvaluing prospects. Asked if he was doing that w/ own players, said they're proven MLB players.
— Ryan Lawrence (@ryanlawrence21) July 31, 2014
It’s expected the Phillies will look to make deals via waivers in August. Several players mentioned in trade rumors may end up on waivers in August, including closer Jonathan Papelbon.
Papelbon said Ruben assured him team will strive to put contender on field next year. Byrd's phone blew up at fake trade reports.
— Jim Salisbury (@JSalisburyNBCS) July 31, 2014
Salisbury also reported that after talks with the New York Yankees about a trade involving Marlon Byrd, it fell apart shortly before the 4 p.m. deadline. A report that Byrd had been traded turned out to be a hoax. He was put in the Phillies lineup well before the deadline. Several players on the Phillies trade block, including Byrd and A.J. Burnett, have player options on their contracts which may have kept them out of contention for trades. Amaro said he did not think the contract structures were a problem.Amaro spoke with media for about 20 minutes at Nationals Park.