It appears as if the Phillies could have their closer opening filled soon.
According to baseball sources, the Phillies are in active negotiations with free agents Ryan Madson and Jonathan Papelbon and could have a deal with one of them in the coming days.
Madson and Papelbon are both hard-throwing righthanders. While Madson came into his own as a closer with 32 saves for the Phillies in 2011, Papelbon has had a longer run of success as a closer, averaging 36 saves for the Boston Red Sox over the last six seasons.
Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. made it clear from the outset of the off-season that he wanted to re-sign Madson, and if he couldnt he would pursue a proven closer. There have been reports that negotiations with Madson have heated up over the last day. That could be a result of the Phillies making progress with Papelbon.There were reports Tuesday night that the Phils were close toan agreement with Madson. But a source close tothepitcher said there was"no deal" and"negotiations are ongoing."
Madson has spent his entire career with the Phillies. Over the weekend, Madsons agent, Scott Boras, said he was having good dialogue with the Phillies. He added that his client was comfortable in Philadelphia and that it was a great place to play.
Madson turned 31. Papelbon turns 31 on Nov. 23.
Papelbon was 4-1 with 31 saves and a 2.94 ERA in 2011. He struck out 87 and allowed just 50 hits and 10 walks (one intentional) in 64 13 innings.
MLB
Madson was 4-2 with a 2.37 ERA in 2011. He struck out 62 and allowed 54 hits and 16 walks (eight intentional) in 60 23 innings.
E-mail Jim Salisbury at jsalisbury@comcastsportsnet.com