ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Cole Hamels’ locker was still intact in Philadelphia’s clubhouse, as was Matt Harrison’s in Texas’ locker room.
An expected deal that would send ace left-hander Hamels and reliever Jake Diekman to the Rangers for Harrison and a package of prospects still wasn’t announced Thursday. But players on both sides were already talking like they lost beloved teammates.
Phillies outfielder Ben Revere says it’s “definitely deflating” losing Hamels and that the Rangers are getting a great pitcher.
Shortstop Elvis Andrus says it will be a boost to have Hamels in the Rangers rotation, but still “really sad” that Harrison will no longer be in Texas.
Two people familiar with the deal say the Phillies have agreed to trade Hamels, the 2008 World Series MVP, to Texas. Both people spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the trade had not been finalized.
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AP Sports Writer Rob Maaddi and AP freelance writer Aaron Bracy contributed to this report from Philadelphia.
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