The Gerrit Cole sweepstakes have been viewed as a three-team race for much of the offseason, but one potential suitor that has kept its interest under wraps has apparently entered the mix for the right-hander.
That’s right, we have a “mystery team.”
According to Jon Heyman of Fancred, there is a fourth team pursuing Cole in addition to the Yankees, Angels and Dodgers. No one seems to have figured out which team that is.
Hear there’s a mystery team on Cole. Hard to imagine anyone thinks they are coming in late and outbidding the Yankees and 2 LA teams (even if one’s in Anaheim). No idea the identity of said team, but that’s why it’s a mystery.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 10, 2019
Assuming that is more than a predictable attempt from agent Scott Boras to drive up the price for his client even further, it’s possible the Phillies have become part of the equation. There are few teams in the league that can afford the $300 million contract Cole is expected to sign, but Philly would be one of them.
Anthony Rendon is said to be the Phillies’ top target this winter, which means they would have a lot of extra money to spend if the star third baseman signs elsewhere. It could be that Philly is staying in touch with Cole in case they miss out on Rendon.
Another reason the Phillies could be the mystery team is that they have played that role in the past, and it resulted in them landing a star pitcher. Cliff Lee was believed to have been choosing between the Yankees and Rangers back in 2010 before the Phillies signed him seemingly out of nowhere.
Cole is reportedly getting close to making a decision, and the Yankees look like the favorite. However, those who follow the MLB offseason know how quickly things can change.
