Roy Oswalt Rumors: Phillies Not Focused on Oswalt

Roy Oswalt remains a free agent, and the veteran right-hander could be nearly ready to sign on with a contending club.  However, the Philadelphia Phillies, Oswalt’s former club, are not focusing on the free agent at this point, reports Todd Zolecki of MLB.com.  When asked about Oswalt, Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said that Philadelphia has “other fish to fry right now”.

Amaro didn’t seem to be exactly locked into Oswalt-watch based on his comments regarding the 34-year-old.  When asked about Oswalt, Amaro said that the Phillies “think he’s throwing” and added that he guesses he probably is.

Amaro continued on, saying that he is currently comfortable with the starters the Phillies have.  Amaro admitted that pitching depth is an issue for the team, and that if Vance Worley’s injury proves more significant the club could be forced to look outside the organization for help.

Amaro did say that if he and the Phillies get to a point where they’re not comfortable with his current starters and/or their health, the trade and free agent markets are certainly something the club could explore.  But for now Amaro is “happy” with his options.

Oswalt figures to be connected to several teams in need of pitching in the coming weeks.  It’s been rumored that Oswalt wouldn’t sign until mid-season or at least after June 1.  With the end of May approaching, the Roy Oswalt rumor mill figures to start churning once again.

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