Sox Have Shot Down Multiple Hamels Trades

(Associated Press Photo)

According to multiple media reports, the Red Sox have already shot down a couple of trade proposals from the Phillies for their left-handed ace Cole Hamels. Reportedly, Philadelphia has demanded at least three of Boston's "elite" prospects—including emerging stud starter Henry Owens. Despite the rebuffs from Yawkey Way, the channels of trade communication are still open—and Hamels remains an option if Boston is unable to land free agents Jon Lester, Max Scherzer or James Shields. In our view, a prospect-laden trade for Hamels should only be a last resort—if every other free agent avenue is exhausted.