Jonathan Papelbon rumors: Tigers, Red Sox, Cardinals potentially interested

Ruben Amaro Jr. stated that he doesn’t plan to “blow up” the Phillies, but acknowledged that moving Papelbon could help provide the team with some young players they need to retool, Carfado notes.

The Phillies are “scouting these teams with Papelbon in mind,” Carfado states, but the three teams have yet to comment on any interest in the closer. The Tigers have made no interest in pursuing Papelbon despite their struggles in the bullpen this season, John Lowe of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Papelbon has pitched well this season, posting a 1.46 ERA in 24 games, collecting 13 saves in 13 opportunities. The closer, however, has an expensive contract; he’s guaranteed $26 million over the next two seasons and has a vesting option for $13 million more in 2016. The Phillies will likely need to pay some of the contract if they want any significant players in return.

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