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.
Left-hander Cole Hamels and the Atlanta Braves are in agreement on a one-year, $18 million deal, sources tell ESPN.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 4, 2019It 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.
Hamels, who was being pursued by the #Phillies, #WhiteSox, #SFGiants and others, told teams he was interested in only one year, but he wanted close to $20 million.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) December 4, 2019Speaking 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.
