"The top guys are definitely gone," assistant general manager Mike Arbuckle said, "but we're continuing to be aggressive. I think we can win with what we have. Ideally, we'd like to upgrade. But it doesn't make sense to make a move just to make a move."

Last Sunday, general manager Pat Gillick said he was optimistic the pitching-needy Phillies would obtain a "B-list" starter to bolster their rotation or a late-inning reliever. And, after Sabathia, every other pitcher on the market was on the Phillies' B-list.

Arbuckle said the Phils made an "aggressive" offer for Sabathia that involved their few top prospects. But, ultimately, the Indians wanted Brewers outfield prospect Matt LaPorta, rated among the top minor-leaguers in baseball.

The Phillies like Harden's ability and got an up-close look June 26 when he tossed eight shutout innings against them in Oakland. But Harden's career has been marred by injuries, making the Phillies less reluctant to part with top prospects.

So, who's left for the Phillies?

Blue Jays right-hander A.J. Burnett and Mariners left-hander Erik Bedard are two of the best pitchers remaining on the trade market. Burnett will be a free agent after the season, but Arbuckle said the Phils may be willing to deal top prospects for a rent-a-pitcher if they believe they can get a difference-maker who could put them in the World Series.

CARDINALS 2, PHILLIES 0: Cole Hamels allowed a pair of solo home runs, and the slumping Phillies offense was blanked for the sixth time this season in the opener of a three-game series at Citizens Bank Park. The Phillies mustered only six runs against Cardinals starter Joel Pineiro and two relievers. Three double plays killed potential rallies for the Phillies. Hamels allowed only three hits in seven innings to suffer the hard-luck loss.