Hellickson stars - as trade bait?

I hope Phillies fans got a chance to take in - and appreciate - the effort put forth last night by starting pitcher Jeremy Hellickson.

They may not have many more chances.

Hellickson dominated a pretty good Marlins lineup, allowing just one run on five hits over 8 solid innings in propelling the Phils to a 4-1 win, in the process snapping a three-game losing skid.

But Hellickson is also very likely the No. 1 trade chip the Phils currently have.

The right-hander is 29, and it's unlikely he will be around when this young nucleus of Phillies starts to really flex its muscles.

The trade deadline is July 31. Hellickson could possibly squeeze in one more start before then.

It's unlikely anything he does will be more impressive to scouts - several of whom were in attendance last night. It's very likely Hellickson will be added to a team making a stretch run.

That does not mean what he has done this year for the Phillies should not be appreciated.

Rob Parent was at the game last night and has Hellickson's reaction to his outing - as well as all the trade talk.

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