Murphy Clears Waivers, May Go to Phillies

Atlanta Braves outfielder Dale Murphy has cleared major league waivers for a possible trade to the Philadelphia Phillies, but the veteran slugger said there’s a lot of talking to be done before he agrees to a deal.

“I haven’t talked contract yet. No firm decisions have been made,” Murphy said. He is in the final year of a three-year contract and could become a free agent at the end of the season.

As a veteran of more than 10 years who has been with the same team for more than five years, Murphy has veto power over any trade.

“There are some discussions that have taken place. A lot of things have to be weighed. I really couldn’t tell you when something might happen,” the Atlanta Constitution quoted Murphy as saying in Houston, where the Braves open a series with the Astros today.

The trade talk says Murphy would go to Philadelphia for right-handed reliever Jeff Parrett and a second player.

Phillies General Manager Lee Thomas confirmed that such a trade has been discussed.

If completed, it would end a 14-year relationship between Atlanta and possibly its best-loved athlete of the ‘80s.

Parrett also cleared major league waivers Wednesday afternoon. Had any other team claimed either player, the trade would have been off.

Murphy, 34, joined the Braves in 1976.

He is a two-time National League most valuable player and a seven-time All-Star.