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Here’s a name we haven’t heard too much in trade rumors– Hunter Pence. 

Bow-tie man Ken Rosenthal writes the following: [FOX Sports]

The Phillies continue to signal to clubs that they are eager to move right fielder Hunter Pence, who could earn $13 million to $14 million next season in his final year of arbitration.

Pence, 29, is batting .268 with a .789 OPS, 17 homers and 57 RBI. His value could be enhanced by the signings of the San Diego PadresCarlos Quentin and Toronto Blue JaysEdwin Encarnacion and their respective removals from the trade market. But few teams are willing to assume high salaries and part with significant prospects. 

 

Trading Pence, who is in the prime of his career and under the Phillies’ control next season, would, to me, symbolize a rebuilding effort a bit more extensive than previously thought. As we’re seeing now, Pence is a very valuable player when guys like Chase Utley and Ryan Howard are hitting around him.

via Hardball Talk