In the postseason, he pitched six shutout innings in the Phillies' 3-2 win in Game 3 of the National League division series.
Following the season, Hamels had minor surgery to remove loose bodies from his left elbow.
Boggs said Hamels had pitched with the loose bodies, essentially bone chips, all season. He said the surgery went well, and the lefty is progressing fine while rehabbing in Philadelphia.
If the Phillies and Hamels are unable to ink a deal before the start of the season, he will receive arbitration. Hamels avoided arbitration before the 2009 season by signing a three-year contract worth $20.5 million.
"I think the calendar is going to take care of itself," said Boggs. "Because at some point it has to be an issue. If not, after the 2012 season he becomes a free agent."
The Southern California native was drafted by the Phillies in the first round of the 2002 entry draft.
He spent the first few years of his career as the Phillies ace. Now, he's ace No. 3 on a staff that includes Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee.
What would it mean for Hamels to sign a long-term deal and stay in Philadelphia?
"I'm sure it would be great," said Boggs. "He's been a Phillie from beginning to end. We just have to see how that plays out."
Hollins promoted. The Phillies website reported Tuesday that Dave Hollins has been promoted to the job of Major League scout vacated when Jim Fregosi Jr. left to work for the Kansas City Royals last month.
Also, longtime assistant trainer Mark Andersen has resigned.
Contact staff writer Matt Breen at mbreen@phillynews.com or @matt_breen on Twitter.
Staff writer Bob Brookover contributed to this article.
