Jonathan Papelbon’s trade value could be rising.
While Papelbon’s contract has been viewed as an impediment to a potential trade over the last two seasons, the Philadelphia Phillies closer continues to thrive. Teams across Major League Baseball evidently are taking notice with the non-waiver trade deadline a little over a month away.
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Papelbon entered Friday with a 1.01 ERA and 13 saves in 26 appearances spanning 26 2/3 innings. The 34-year-old right-hander had a strong 2014 season, too, but his success has gone under the radar largely because the Phillies have been so bad. He posted a 2.04 ERA and 39 saves last season.
Papelbon has a $13 million option for next season that vests with 55 games finished in 2015 or 100 games finished between 2014 and 2015. He entered Friday having already finished 24 games this season and 76 games over the last two seasons, meaning the vesting option is well within reach.
Papelbon, who signed a four-year, $50 contract with the Phillies after the 2011 season, has long been seen as overpaid, especially when one considers his polarizing personality. He really hasn’t fit in since leaving the Boston Red Sox, which even he acknowledged earlier this season.
Perhaps the league-wide perception is changing a bit with Papelbon pitching and behaving well. It’s reasonable to think he’ll be in demand leading up to July 31.
Papelbon has a limited no-trade clause that would allow him to block trades to 17 clubs.
Thumbnail photo via Charles LeClaire/USA TODAY Sports Images
