The Philadelphia Phillies are looking to trade left-handed starting pitcher Cliff Lee, but are asking for a lot in return.
General manager Ruben Amaro is seeking multiple prospects and for the other team to take on Lee’s salary, according to CBS Sports.
“He’s telling people it’ll take you three or four best prospects, plus you’d have to take all the money,” a team executive said.
Lee has 21 teams listed in his no-trade clause and has said he only wants to play for a contender.
That and the asking price could prevent Lee from being dealt.
Lee makes $25 million a year through 2015 and has a vesting option for 2016 with a $12.5 million buyout. He is guaranteed nearly $70 million.
The Dodgers claimed Lee off waivers last year but could not strike a deal for him. The Texas Rangers are also interested but are likely to seek offense in a trade. Other teams that could be interested in Lee, including the Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Angels and St. Louis Cardinals are either looking for hitting or the asking price is too high.