Phillies trade rumors: Orioles, Giants among ‘top contenders’ for Jeremy Hellickson

The Orioles and Giants are “among the top contenders” for Phillies starter Jeremy Hellickson, according to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi.

However, Jerry Crasnick of ESPN and Baseball America reported that the Giants are “not in the mix” for Hellickson.

Baltimore has been seeking starting pitching help since the end of June and is weighing its options in advance of the non-waiver trade deadline. The Orioles’ rotation has pitched to a 5.02 ERA, which ranks 12th in the American League.

The Orioles entered play Sunday a half game behind the Blue Jays in the American League East.

While the Orioles have been connected to starting pitching depth, the Giants were thought to have turned their focus to addressing their bullpen after acquiring Eduardo Nunez.

San Francisco’s starting staff has posted the fourth-best ERA in the National League.

With Drew Pomeranz and Andrew Cashner off the market, Hellickson is one of the more established starting options known to be available.

Hellickson, 29, has pitched to a 3.70 ERA and 4.11 FIP over 131.1 innings this season. He is an impending free agent and is having his best season since 2012.

Earlier this week, the Phillies were reportedly seeking at least one top five prospect in a deal for Hellickson. Following the Pomeranz and Cashner trades, the price for Hellickson has likely increased.