As the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches - check back here to get all the latest news and rumors on the Phillies and where they could be headed.

Chase Utley

Could we be seeing the end of Chase Utley in a Phillies uniform?

Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe reports that the Toronto Blue Jays and San Francisco Giants are "taking their best shot" at trading for Utley, but the second baseman is unlikely to be dealt due to his 10-and-5 trade veto rights, plus Utley doesn't appear eager to leave Philadelphia just yet.

Cole Hamels

Cafardo also reports that the Phillies "have been discouraged" by what they're hearing from other teams on Cole Hamels.  In the report, it says that Hamels will be traded if the Phils can get a team to cover his entire contract while also surrendering three top prospects.

ESPN's Buster Olney reports that the Phillies have told teams to this point that Cole Hamels is unavailable.

Cliff Lee

Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com reports that Cliff Lee can be traded to the Braves, Indians, Astros, Marlins, Twins, Mets, Padres, Rays, and Nationals without his consent.

A.J. Burnett

Jon Morosi of FOX Sports reports that the Phillies and Orioles have had preliminary discussions on a trade involving Burnett and Matt Gelb of the Philadelphia Inquirer reports that the Pirates had a scout at Burnett's last start on Friday in Atlanta.

FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal reports that Phillies right-hander A.J. Burnett would prefer to be dealt to the Pirates and that Pittsburgh players are lobbying for his return.

According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN, Phillies right-hander A.J. Burnett can be traded to the Orioles, Red Sox, Reds, Royals, Mets, Yankees, Pirates, Cardinals, and Nationals without his consent.

Jonathan Papelbon

FOX Sports' Jon Morosi and Ken Rosenthal report that the Tigers are "keeping tabs on all relievers, including Jonathan Papelbon."

A couple of other quick Phillies trade rumors to dish out.

Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com reports that the Reds are interested in Marlon Byrd and Antonio Bastardo.  The Blue Jays could consider pitcher Kyle Kendrick if they aren’t able to make a higher-profile trade, Salisbury writes.

Meanwhile, Morosi reports that the Royals are interested in Marlon Byrd.

Either way, it looks like it could be a busy trade season for the 43-55 last place Phillies.

 

 

 

 

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