Throughout the offseason, we will take a look at the hottest news and rumors.
THE RUMOR: The Phillies are talking to the Blue Jays about a Jonathan Papelbon trade
REPORTED BY: Todd Zolecki, MLB.com.
MORE: New faces in new places | Brewers eye K-Rod after Papelbon pursuit stalls | Rox say Tulo, CarGo likely staying put
THE DETAILS: Papelbon is owed $13 million in 2015 and has a $13 million vesting option for 2016 should he finish 48 games. With the Phillies in rebuilding mode, they would need to pay much of Papelbon's salary and get the player to waive his no-trade clause if they were serious about a deal.
LAST SEASON: Papelbon was 2-3 with a 2.04 ERA and 39 saves in 43 opportunities. His 90.7 save percentage ranked sixth among 29 qualifying major league closers. His 0.90 WHIP ranked 19th out of 185 qualifying relief pitchers.
SN'S TAKE: Papelbon was reportedly mentioned in talks with the Brewers, who are in need of a closer with Francisco Rodriguez having hit the free-agent market, but those talks have died down while the Jays' interest seems a little fresher. Papelbon in Toronto would be a great addition for the Jays, who currently have Brett Cecil (six career saves) listed at closer. The Phillies have 24-year-old Ken Giles and his 1.18 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and 64:11 strikeout-to-walk ratio waiting should Papelbon get moved. The Phillies will be looking for young arms in return, which the Jays have. In fact, six of the Jays' top 10 prospects are pitchers.