According to a report from Jon Paul Morosi, the Rangers and Phillies are “having ongoing dialogue about Cole Hamels.” And he is apparently willing to waive his no-trade rights and will approve a trade to the Rangers.

Morosi explained the Rangers “view Hamels as an elite upgrade with pursuing” even with Martin Perez, Matt Harrison and Derek Holland expected back this season.

Updated 2:30pm CDT – Jon Paul Morosi corrected his report from earlier in the day. The Rangers are not on Hamels’ no-trade list. Cole Hamels included Texas in the list of teams he would not have to approve when he submitted his list for the 2014-15 non-waiver period.

The Rangers are one of the few teams that have the prospects to acquire Cole Hamels, even without building a package around Joey Gallo or Jorge Alfaro. Speculation Tuesday pointed to Texas being able to use prospects such as RHP Jake Thompson, OF Nomar Mazara, OF Nick Williams and OF Lewis Brinson as pieces that could help land Hamels.

It is believed the Rangers stepped up their pursuit of Cole Hamels in Spring Training when Yu Darvish was lost for the season. The Rangers were reportedly one of the teams that talked to Ruben Amaro Jr. throughout the off-season about Hamels. But like every other team, Daniels was not willing to send the prospects Amaro Jr. asked for and take back his entire contract.

The Rangers interest in Cole Hamels cooled with the slow start to the season. But with Texas only three games back of the Astros in the AL West, Daniels sees an opportunity to improve his team for this season and beyond.

The Cubs continue to be connected to Cole Hamels as the front office pursues starting pitching. The Dodgers, Cardinals, Red Sox, Yankees, Blue Jays, Padres and Astros are also believed to be interested in Hamels. Houston might not be a fit because reports have suggested he will not waive his no-trade clause and approve a trade to the Astros.

Cole Hamels missed his last start with a mild hamstring strain. Hamels completed a bullpen session Sunday without any problems. Hamels said last week he was being cautious more than anything and he would not miss more than Friday’s start. Hamels is scheduled to face the Yankees in the Bronx on Wednesday night.

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