Yahoo Sports
Sources: Brewers in trade talks to acquire Jonathan Papelbon
The Philadelphia Phillies have engaged in serious discussions to send closer Jonathan Papelbon to the Milwaukee Brewers, sources familiar with the negotiations told Yahoo Sports.
Papelbon's contract, which calls for a $13 million salary this season with a $13 million option for 2016 that vests if he finishes 48 games this year, includes a no-trade clause that can block deals to 17 teams. It is unclear if Milwaukee is on the list.
The Phillies' desire to trade Papelbon is no secret as they start a massive rebuild that already has seen more than $40 million shaved off their estimated opening-day payroll. While the 34-year-old is coming off a typically excellent season, with a 2.04 ERA and 39 saves, his flagging velocity and perceived negative attitude – Papelbon was suspended for seven games last September after grabbing his crotch following a blown save in Philadelphia – led to them looking for a trading partner.
Milwaukee could be it. After sending Yovani Gallardo, who makes $13 million, to the Texas Rangers this week, the Brewers expressed interest in acquiring late-inning relief help.
After seven successful seasons in Boston, Papelbon joined Philadelphia on a four-year, $52 million deal. Over his 10-year career, he has a 2.37 ERA, 325 saves and 721 strikeouts in 627 1/3 innings.
