This may or may not be big news but Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins has cleared waivers. It doesn’t mean a thing if he’s not willing to waive his no-trade clause, which Rollins told the Phillies he had no intention of doing, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.
But since it’s not uncommon for a player to change his mind, especially when he knows his current team is actively trying to trade him to a top contender. The current state of the Phillies could also be a concern for Rollins, who is under contract for $11 million next season with an $11 million vesting option for 2015.
The team has not committed to a youth movement, but barring a strong offseason by general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., the Phillies could once again struggle in 2014.
The 34-year-old could possibly use his no-trade clause as leverage to get his vesting option guaranteed. It should be noted, though, that he’s not having a very good season (.660 OPS, 5 HR, 15 SB) and any team acquiring him would be hoping a change of scenery and a jump in the standings can get him going again.
At the least, a team would be acquiring a clubhouse leader with plenty of postseason experience to help down the stretch. Here are four contending teams, three from the same division, that are most in need of an upgrade at shortstop.