We're another day closer to the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, and we've got another fun little rumor to pass along. The Philadelphia Phillies, who aren't completely sold on trading ace left hander Cole Hamels, have three members of the organization, and two executives, scouting the Hickory Crawdads, Texas' South Atlantic League (A ball) affiliate.
I knew there would be some #Phillies heat here to see Hickory. Three guys here, including two execs.
— Josh Norris (@jnorris427) July 11, 2012
Though you may be unfamiliar with Norris, he covers the Trenton Thunder and is certainly a reputable source. Hickory is taking on Lakewood, who just happens to be Philadelphia's SAL affiliate.
There are certainly some interesting names on Hickory's roster, including Wednesday's starter, Victor Payano. Unfortunately for the Rangers, Payano laid an egg, giving up nine earned runs on nine hits in just three and 1/3 innings of work.
Still, as with most of Texas' farm system, there's a good bit of talent on Hickory, and that Philadelphia had executives there illustrates that the Rangers are serious about trading for Hamels.