The Ted Lilly rumors are heating up. Earlier today we heard the Minnesota Twins were in on Lilly. The Dodgers may also make a run for Lilly, despite their limited financial resources.

Today, Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports says the Phillies are interested in the Chicago Cubs left-handed pitcher. It’s possible that the Phillies are using the media as a method to create negotiation leverage to acquire Roy Oswalt. Think of it like a person playing “hard-to-get”. The Phillies want Oswalt, but rather than give away the kitchen sink for Oswalt they flirt with Lilly with the hopes that Oswalt will lower his price. If Oswalt drops his price at the last minute, Lilly could be left standing at the alter. (Sounds vaguely familiar ladies and gentlemen?)

Another team that’s targeting Lilly is the New York Mets, but according to Rosenthal, they are “waiting on direction from above.” Not quite sure what that means – they may wait to see what the Twins, Dodgers and Phillies are doing. Or they it could be a call by management. We’ll find out soon.

Related posts:

1. Ted Lilly Rumors: New York Yankees interested in Lilly?
2. FanHouse on MLB Trade Deadline Rumors: Brett Myers, Roy Oswalt, Ted Lilly, Cody Ross, Scott Downs
3. Ted Lilly and Dan Haren rumors: Will they waive their no-trade clause?
4. Update-Ted Lilly Rumors: Cubs plan to trade him before next start?
5. Roy Oswalt Rumors: Phillies remain top contender for Oswalt