Oswalt becomes Phillies' latest ace

"He's obviously been a pretty important person in my life," Amaro said. "I think when you have a comfort with someone, it makes it a little bit easier."

Wade was also extremely familiar with the Phillies' system. Happ was drafted under Wade in 2004. Earlier this year, Wade personally scouted single-A Lakewood, where Villar played. He had his scouts closely watch Happ and Gose in the final weeks leading up to the trade.

All the ingredients were there. In the last three to four days, the deal really started to materialize, Amaro said. The Phillies reviewed Oswalt's medical records and consulted a back specialist to analyze Oswalt's history of back problems. There was no structural damage, Amaro said.

The deal was agreed upon Wednesday night and presented to Oswalt shortly thereafter. It was the first deal put in front of Oswalt, his agent, Bob Garber, told the Houston Chronicle.

In the end, his friend Lidge said, the chance to win was too much to pass up.

"It gives us three top-of-the-rotation guys," including Halladay and Hamels, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. "That's hard to find in the major leagues these days."

Halladay said he was impressed with the Phillies' aggressiveness. So, too, were other players in the clubhouse.

"Obviously, this team is dedicated to winning," Halladay said. "They're not going to rest. It's great."

To acquire Halladay, Oswalt and $17 million in cash over a calendar year, the Phillies have traded prospects Jason Knapp, Carlos Carrasco, Jason Donald, Lou Marson, Travis d'Arnaud, Kyle Drabek, Michael Taylor, Gose, and Villar, along with Lee and Happ.

"I know we've spoiled ourselves a little by acquiring pitching the last several years," Amaro said. "But I can assure you, this is not easy and it's not going to happen all the time."

When Lidge heard the deal was done, he sent a text message to Oswalt: "It's going to be fun. I can't wait to see you."

Contact staff writer Matt Gelb

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