Phillies Show Interest In Chamberlain, And Willing To Deal Young/Ruiz

According to Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News, the Philadelphia Phillies are interested in Joba Chamberlain. It's not a surprise that the Phillies are looking for bullpen help, as their relievers currently have the highest ERA in the National League (4.63).

Although this is the second team (it was reported that the Braves were looking into him a couple of weeks ago) that's shown interest in Chamberlain, I still can't believe they are serious. While Joba's shown glimpses of great stuff, it's rare that he doesn't put at least one man on base. Since April 26th, spanning 13 appearances, Joba has only once not put at least one runner on base. So until a deal moving Joba elsewhere happens, I'm taking these reports with a rather large grain of salt.

Speaking of the Phillies, it's Feinsand also said that Philly is willing to trade Michael Young and Carlos Ruiz, two players that would fill needs that the Yankees currently have. Although it's strange that Mark says Philly is looking to move them in a salary-dump, because it's not as if Philadelphia is strapped for cash. I would imagine they'd want somebody in return that could help them down the road. Maybe that's where Chamberlain fits in.