Report: Rangers scouting Hamels

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Ten games out of first place, the Phillies could look to become sellers between now and the July 31 trade deadline, though general manager Ruben Amaro said otherwise on Saturday after trading Jim Thome to the Orioles (see story).

A fire sale could include Saturday's losing pitcher, Cole Hamels, and surely there would be plenty of suitors. According to Fox Sports, the Texas Rangers are scouting Hamels and Brewers starter Zack Greinke.

Hamels contract ends after this year, and he is seeking a long-term deal similar to that of Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay.

The report points out that the Rangers' top prospect, Mike Olt, could fill a gap that will be present in the Phillies' lineup in the coming future at third base. Current third baseman Fourteen-year veteran Placido Polanco is hitting .278 with 18 RBIs in the final year of his contract.

The Thome trade is not a clear sign that the Phillies will become sellers at the deadline, but "many in the industry" believe in that possibility, according to the report.

The Phillies have a depleted farm system after trades that have brought in Hunter Pence, Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee (for his first stint with the team), and Roy Oswalt.

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