If the Philadelphia Phillies are kicking the tires on the possibility of a reunion with veteran lefty Cole Hamels, the interest is definitely mutual.
Over the weekend, the Texas Rangers pitcher discussed the idea of returning to the Phillies, with whom he spent the first ten seasons of his MLB career, making three All-Star teams and winning a World Series title in 2008.
“I think that’s kind of the pipe dream of it,” said Hamels, per Scott Lauber of the Philly Inquirer. “That’s the perfect scenario. Everything has to cross.
“If something like [a trade] does happen, I think it would be a blessing,” the 34-year-old added. “You do look back. And Philly has a great group of guys that they’re bringing up and the future of a world championship team.”
Hamels, who is 5-8 with a 4.36 ERA in 19 starts this season, is a major trade candidate ahead of the Jul. 31 deadline with the Rangers in last place in the American League West. Reports emerged earlier this month that the Phillies might potentially be looking at bringing him back.
The southpaw was a fan favorite during his time in Philadelphia and took home World Series MVP honors during that championship run in 2008. If he isn’t traded by the Rangers, Hamels still become a free agent after the season if they decline his $20 million club option for 2019. Thus, it’s possible that a Phillies homecoming may be happening sooner or later regardless.
