PHILADELPHIA -- Jeremy Hellickson has not been traded yet.
But a deal seems likely. The Phillies announced Friday night that Hellickson has been scratched from his scheduled start against the Braves at Citizens Bank Park. A source told MLB.com that no trade has been finalized, but the combination of trade talks and a potentially wet mound because of rain put Hellickson on the bench.
Jake Thompson started in Hellickson's place.
It is no secret the Phillies have been trying to trade Hellickson, who will be a free agent following the season. He is 6-5 with a 4.73 ERA in 20 starts. He also makes $17.2 million, but the Phillies have told teams they are willing to pay some of the remaining salary to facilitate a deal.