Cole Hamels: 3 Prospect Packages That Could Pry Him Away from the Phillies

Cole Hamels is one of the top left-handed pitchers in the game today, which is ironic considering the fact that he's the No. 3 starter for the Phillies.

It's likely that he will be the most sought after free agent this winter, and he'll definitely command a large sum of money.

No matter what teams he is negotiating with, it's almost a guarantee that Matt Cain's eight-year, $139.75 million contract will be the starting point.

He'll probably be worth even more, as lefties have historically earned more than righties.

There's no guarantee that the Phillies will be able to resign him, as they already have two other $20 million pitchers in the rotation.

In addition, Shane Victorino is a free agent this winter. The Phillies would be wise to retain him. He is a catalyst in an aging lineup that doesn't have much else in the way of speed.

It's unlikely, but the Phillies could consider shopping Hamels at the deadline.

Boston Red Sox

The Red Sox pitching is already in well-documented disarray, and they will most likely be in the hunt for a quality pitcher come July's trade deadline.

Boston will be one of many team's that check in on Hamels' availability, and can offer a solid crop of top prospects in exchange for the left-hander.

Talks will start and end with third baseman Will Middlebrooks. If the Red Sox are unwilling to part with him, there probably won't be any further talks between Amaro and Ben Cherington.

Assuming the Sox agree to part ways with Middlebrooks, the Phillies were obviously ask for more in return.

Right-hander Matt Barnes will be a coveted player, as will outfielder Brandon Jacobs.

Barnes has the makeup of a front-end starter, and Jacobs as the potential to be a 20/20 player year in and year out.

New York Yankees

The Yankees will probably one of the first teams to come calling if Hamels is made available.

Luckily for the Phillies, New York has several prospects that would likely entice Amaro.

The centerpiece of a potential deal would probably be either Dellin Betances or Manny Banuelos, but it's more likely to see Betances shipped out of New York.

Catcher J.R. Murphy could also interest the Phillies. Even though he's very young, he's very expendable because of the Yankees depth in the minors at that position (Gary Sanchez and Austin Romine are both ahead of him).

Outfielder Slade Heathcott and third baseman Tyler Austin are other prospects that could be included in a potential deal.

Obviously, the Yankees would be able to lock Hamels up long-term if they were to acquire him. That may make them more inclined to give away more talent for him.

Milwaukee Brewers

Surprised to see the Brewers on this list?

Were you not also surprised when the Brewers acquired CC Sabathia a few seasons ago?

Well, there you go.

I'm in no way saying that the Brewers will acquire Hamels, but they most certainly have the prospects to get a deal done.

All talks with the Brewers would be centered around Wily Peralta (pictured), the team's top prospect.

A possible deal will hinge on Milwaukee's willingness to part with the highly-touted pitcher.

Pitcher Tyler Thornburg would also be included in the deal, as would third baseman Taylor Green.

To sweeten the deal, the Brewers may have to throw in Chris Narveson so the Phillies have someone to fill Hamels' spot in the rotation for the rest of the season.