When the Hamels Deal Will Get Done
By Matt Veasey
Along with the Red Sox, one of the leading contenders for a Hamels deal going all the way back to winter. The main reason? It’s Hamels’ hometown. It’s also a great place to pitch, the antithesis to Citizens Bank Park. The Padres went out and improved their lineup this off-season, but are still sitting just at the .500 mark. They are 5 back in the NL West, trailing both the Dodgers and Giants, but are also just 3.5 out of the 2nd Wildcard. This season is still there for the hometown faves. If they part with catcher Austin Hedges, an outfielder from among Hunter Renfroe, Rymer Liriano, or Michael Gettys, and an arm or two such as Casey Kelly or Colin Rea. There is a deal to be made here as well.