Halladay Nears Deal To Become Phillies' Ace

Roy Halladay was in Philadelphia today with his agent, which likely will signify the former Toronto Blue Jays' ace arrival in Philadelphia and former ace Cliff Lee's departure.

The report was cited on ESPN.com.

Cliff, we hardly knew ya.

Seattle is the third team involved.

Along with Lee, according to Sport Radio 610-WIP on the Howard Eskin show, prospect Dominic Brown will be part of the deal from the Phillies.

I am not sure who Seattle gives up, but they probably get Brown in the deal.

What this comes down to is that while Halladay wants a long-term deal, Lee wants to test the market when he becomes a free agent after the 2010 season.

Lee was 7-4 with the Phillies and was outstanding in the postseason and World Series.

Lee is scheduled to make $9 million this year, which will go a long way to pay Halladay's scheduled $20 million a year as part of a five-year $100 million contract.

I have some disappointment in losing Lee, but realize that you couldn't take on both salaries.

Joe Blanton could also be moved to clear out more salary.

That would potentially leave a rotation of Halladay, Hamels, Happ, and a yet-to-be-named fourth starter.

I would like it better if they kept Blanton for a rotation of Halladay, Hamels, Blanton, and Happ.

Lee, 31, was 14-13 last year with the Indians and Phillies with a 3.22 ERA. For his career he is 90-52.

Halladay, 32, was 17-10 last year with the Blue Jays, with a 2.79 ERA and a career record of 148-76.

If they Phillies and Halladay cannot agree on money, the deal will not get done.

It would be nice to have a rotation of Halladay, Lee, Hamels, Blanton/Happ, but not likely.

Who do you think the Phillies are? The Yankees?