Here we go again: the Phillies are pursuing Roy Halladay

You knew it was only a matter of time before this rumor started up again: according to Jim Salisbury of the Inquirer, the Phillies are interested in acquiring Blue Jays ace Roy Halladay. Yep, that's the same Roy Halladay the Phils pursued at the trade deadline last year before they balked at Toronto's high asking price and instead went with Cliff Lee at a discounted rate, a move that certainly worked out well.

If you recall, in July, the Blue Jays were asking for J.A. Happ, Kyle Drabek, Domonic Brown and Anthony Gose from the Phillies in exchange for Halladay. The Phillies didn't have to give up any of those pieces to get Cliff Lee, so it only makes sense that talks could start back up again if the Phillies wanted more starting pitching. With the price likely to fall this winter, the Phillies wouldn't have to give up such an extravagant package to get Halladay this time around.

Of course, one has to wonder if starting pitching should be the Phillies top priority this offseason. While a starting rotation of Lee, Halladay, Hamels and Blanton would be awesome, the team clearly needs a new third baseman and some help in the bullpen. I wouldn't put too much stock in this rumor but it sure is fun to dream. That's what the hot stove is all about, anyway.