Ryan Howard hit his first homer of the year. Joe Blanton pitched another strong game, giving up just two runs on six hits as the Phils won their third in a row. Roy Halladay returns to the mound tonight for the first time since going on the DL in May 27.
Things are looking up for the Phils, right?
Well, maybe not quite “up” enough.
That’s because a couple of reports indicate Phillies G.M. Ruben Amaro Jr. is ready to offer soon-to-be free agent pitcher Cole Hamels a contract worth $120 million.
That’s not going to get it done. Most people think Hamels likely will get at least $150 million.
And when did you ever think that offering a player $120 million would qualify as getting “low-balled.”
Welcome to big-time pro sports.
Amaro is walking a high-wire in this case. With Halladay returning tonight and the Phils starting to play better, no doubt there will be those who believe they can still scratch their way back into playoff contention.
I have my doubts.
But I still think they should sign Hamels.
The trade deadline is July 29. This one will take plenty of twists and turns before then.
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