This is annoying.
Former Phillies starting pitcher Cole Hamels, who has voiced his desire to return to Philadelphia, has signed a one-year deal worth $18 million with the rival Atlanta Braves, according to Jeff Passan.
It appears the Phillies have opted to stay away from Hamels for a price tag of near $20 million for one season, seeking other starting pitchers like Zack Wheeler, who Philadelphia is reportedly strongly pursuing.
Speaking with MLB.com's Todd Zolecki last month, Hamels said he would love to return to Philadelphia and is even open to signing a one-year deal.
"I know Philly is finally trying to make that push," Hamels told MLB.com. "They're building their roster. If I fit on their roster and their plans, I'd love the opportunity to come back. It's probably more on their end, though, to reach out and see if I actually do fit in their plans. It would be difficult for me to say, 'Hey, I want to play there, can you guys make it happen?' But I'm always willing to play for that team and city and attempt to win a World Series. That's where I am right now. I just want to have the opportunity to get to the postseason, just so that I can try to win."
Hamels, 35, went 7-7 with a 3.81 ERA last season with the Cubs. For his career, Hamels has a 3.42 ERA, a 1.183 WHIP, 8.5 SO9, and a 3.34 SO/W.
The four-time all-star, of course, helped lead the Phillies to the 2008 World Series Championship winning both the NLCS and World Series MVP that season.
