Morning Marquee: Chicago Cubs still have interest in Cole Hamels

Talks between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Chicago Cubs may be picking up again in regards to Cole Hamels. The Cubs will be looking to bolster their pitching, and had claimed Hamels of revocable waivers in August, but could not work out a deal. With new manager Joe Maddon now in place, the club will look to solidify through free agent signings or trades this winter.

Former Major League pitcher Brad Halsey died last week in an apparent climbing accident. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the accident is under investigation, and no details will be released until the case is closed. Halsey died from a 100 foot fall, as the judge who ordered the autopsy told USA Today Sports. Halsey, 33, was drafted by the Yankees, while spending time with the Diamondbacks, A’s and Dodgers as well.

The Oakland Athletics will listen to offers of Jeff Samardzija, as well as Scott Kazmir this offseason. After being aggressive at the trade deadline, general manager Billy Beane acquired Samardzija and Hammel from the Cubs, and well as Jon Lester from the Red Sox. Hammel and Lester are free agents, while Samardzija is all that remains from those deals. Beane stressed they are not shopping either pitcher, just listening to possible offers.

The Los Angeles Angels were busy on Wednesday, as first they traded  C Hank Conger to the Astros for C Carlos Perez and RHP Nick Tropeano. Then later in the day they worked a deal sending RHP Mark Sappington to the Rays for LHP Cesar Ramos.

‘Cole Hamels, Chicago Cubs trade talks may be heating up’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Oakland Athletics will listen to offers for Jeff Samardzija, Scott Kazmir’ – Call to the Pen

‘Angels trade Hank Conger to Astros for Carlos Perez and Nick Tropeano’ – Halo Hangout

‘Cubs Edwards works on offerings in Fall ball’ – MLB.com

‘WAR, what’s it good for? Ranking free agents’ – MLB.com