2009 Season - Defending WS Champion Philadelphia Phillies Thread [Archive] - Page 12

KingGeno

11-07-2008, 05:42 AM

Phillies Rumors: Baldelli, Hairston, Mench (http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2008/11/phillies-rumo-1.html)

MLB.com's Ken Mandel says the Phillies have Rocco Baldelli, Jerry Hairston Jr., and Kevin Mench on the radar in the event they don't re-sign Burrell. The Phillies have long liked Baldelli, though the Rays hope to talk contract soon. Reds GM Walt Jocketty recently met with Hairston's agent, and feels he made progress. And the Hanshin Tigers hope to lure Mench to Japan.

9:38am: Checkin' in on the Phillies...

* GM Ruben Amaro Jr. had an informal five-minute talk with Casey Close, who represents Ryan Howard and Joe Blanton.
* Talks have not yet begun with free agents Pat Burrell, Jamie Moyer, and Scott Eyre. Conversations will begin soon with Moyer and Eyre.
* Curt Schilling would be open to returning to the Phillies if he pitches next year. Amaro says he hasn't even considered the possibility yet. He would make a nice fifth starter if they can re-sign Moyer.
* The Phillies control setup man Ryan Madson through 2009, but he's represented by Scott Boras. Boras compared Madson to Mariano Rivera circa 1996, so don't look for an affordable long-term deal.
* Amaro talked to at least 27 other GMs at the meetings.
* No word yet from the Philly writers on Andrew Baggarly's rumor that the Phils will listen on Jimmy Rollins.

cougarjake13

11-07-2008, 04:21 PM

rollins for holiday straight up (whether or not this makes sense for the rockies or not, just for arguments sake)

philly fans do you do this ??

skyscraper

11-10-2008, 11:39 AM

so much for getting Holliday....
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3694100

cougarjake13

11-10-2008, 02:12 PM

so much for getting Holliday....
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3694100

at least you still got the title

scottinnj

11-12-2008, 05:41 PM

K.C.

11-12-2008, 08:15 PM

Magglio Ordonez from the Tigers to replace Burrell? IDK, but ESPN's Bob Klapisch is suggesting such a thing.

Ordonez won't save us any money, and even though his numbers are better the Burrell's, he's two years older then Pat and costs a million more bucks a season.

Actually $5 million more in '09 than Burrell costed in '08, which puts his at $18 million for 2009 and then two $15 million options for '10 and '11.

I think the Phillies would pay the contract, even though 18 is a little more than they probably want to spend to fill the position this year, because it bumps down to 15 in '10, and the Phillies will essentially clear that amount off the books when Eaton and Jenkins are up after the '09 season.

There's a couple problems that would prevent this move:

1) Committing that much to Ordonez makes it less likely that they will sign Hamels and Howard to long-term deals this offseason.

2) I think the Phillies would pay the money if it was a salary dump trade. I don't think they'd give up prospects like Carrasco, Marson, and Donald in addition to paying Ordonez's contract.

My guess is that will be the asking price they start with. Whether or not it comes down a bit and maybe the Phillies end up getting a bargain deal, we'll see.

Ultimately, I'd say it's unlikely. Speaking of the Tigers, though, Dontrelle Willis could probably be gotten for nothing on the heels of his complete meltdown last season.

I might take a flyer on him, although he has two years left on his contract.

TripleSkeet

11-13-2008, 07:23 AM

According to Bill Conlin, dont expect the Phillies to get any big name free agents. The bottom line is they have alot of players up for arbitration and even without Burrells money, their payroll is gonna be going up.

They arent the Yankees or Red Sox. They arent gonna spend more to stay good. The one thing I will continue to hate about this ownership group.

Hopefully Oakland will be out of it early and will trade us Holliday before the all-star break for nothing before they lose him to free agency. I have a feeling he will not be very good in Oakland. He benefits from playing in a hitters park, and Oakland is definitely not that.

And KC, Carrasco may be great in a few years but Id rather not wait. We have most of the pieces in place now, so Id rather take advantage and add what we need to continue making a run.

K.C.

11-18-2008, 05:44 AM

The Phillies should actually look long and hard at Jake Peavy (if he'd accept a trade).

I've been reading up on the San Diego situation and it's pretty bad.

Ownership is going to dump him no matter what; they're just looking for some semblance of an offer that they can sell as having gotten something in return.

The rumored deal the Braves were attempting to offer was Jo-Jo Reyes, Yunel Escobar, and Gorkys Hernandez.

If the Phillies threw a package of J.A. Happ, Kyle Kendrick, Greg Golson, and Jason Donald, I think they could get it done.

That would still leave the best chips in their minor league system in tact, as well.

As far as salary goes, there would be no immediate concerns. Maybe at the very back end of the contract.

cougarjake13

11-18-2008, 10:30 AM

spadanko

11-18-2008, 11:16 AM

that braves deal looked good, wonder why it feel through ??

Braves GM Frank Wren bowed out of the long-running trade talks involving Padres star pitcher Jake Peavy a few days ago, but Wren didn't appear to completely shut the door on Peavy and at least one National League executive said he still believes the Braves remain the most likely destination for Peavy.
"He'll wind up a Brave or Padre,'' that exec predicted.

K.C.

11-18-2008, 11:51 AM

Braves GM Frank Wren bowed out of the long-running trade talks involving Padres star pitcher Jake Peavy a few days ago, but Wren didn't appear to completely shut the door on Peavy and at least one National League executive said he still believes the Braves remain the most likely destination for Peavy.
"He'll wind up a Brave or Padre,'' that exec predicted.

Translation: They're trying to hold up the Padres, because they know that the Padres are absolutely trading Peavy, because of the financial situation around the team.

Which is why now's the opportune time for a team like the Phillies, or Mets, or someone whose name hasn't been mentioned in the discussions to overbid that Braves deal by just a little bit and snatch him while everyone else is posturing.

KingGeno

11-18-2008, 11:54 AM

We were standing next to this asshole right before the parade started, almost dropped his kid off of the car he was standing on. Cops pulled him down shortly after. Father of the Year.

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cougarjake13

11-18-2008, 11:56 AM

what a dumbass

K.C.

11-20-2008, 09:42 AM

Ouch.

Utley to Have Hip Surgery, Out 4 to 6 Months
Chase Utley will have right hip surgery, and will miss the next four to six months.

The Phillies said in a news release that since the end of the World Series, Utley "has had several diagnostic studies in regards to right hip symptoms that he had during the 2008 season." He has been evaluated by team physician Michael Ciccotti at the Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and Dr. Bryan Kelly at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York.

The release said, "Based on the diagnostic studies and examinations, it has been recommended that Utley have surgery on his right hip, which is scheduled for next week. The procedure will be an arthroscopic evaluation with treatment of any labral or bony injury. The recovery will allow for the initiation of baseball activities between three and four months, however, the total recovery time may require four to six months."

Four to six months means Utley could be back as early as the beginning of the season and as late as June.

I asked Ruben Amaro Jr. about Utley's hip last week. He said, "There's really not much to say about it, other than we're monitoring it." Asked about any scheduled surgeries, Amaro said: "Not at this time. At least at this time we don't view it as an issue."

Turns out it was.

Jason Donald will be the starting 2B on Opening Day.

If I had to guestimate, Utley will make his first appearence around April 30th.

KingGeno

11-20-2008, 09:45 AM

I was just reading this. As long as he gets himself better I'll be happy.

K.C.

11-20-2008, 07:15 PM

Phillies deal Golson to Rangers
Texas outfield prospect Mayberry headed to Philadelphia

By Ken Mandel / MLB.com
PHILADELPHIA -- Greg Golson put down the paint-dipped roller and answered his phone, unsure who was on the other side of "unknown caller."

Within a minute of taking the call from Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., Golson learned that he was heading to the Rangers for John Mayberry Jr. in a swap of Minor League outfielders and former first-round Draft picks.

Less than a month after riding on a flatbed truck as part of the team's celebratory parade down Broad Street, Golson will begin anew with a nice memory.

"I was grateful to get a chance to see that before I left," Golson said. "I'm definitely shocked now. It's a weird feeling, and I haven't had a whole lot of time to process it."

When he does, he might realize his good fortune in having been dealt to a team in Texas roughly 250 miles from his hometown, Austin. The 23-year-old graduated from John Connally High School.

"My family is going to be a lot closer to me now, so that's a good thing," he said. "If I have to go somewhere, this is a good place to go."

Selected in the first round of the 2004 First-Year Player Draft, Golson spent the season at Double-A Reading and hit .282 with a .333 on-base percentage, 13 home runs and 23 stolen bases in 426 at-bats.

He is heading to Texas in what Amaro called a "speed for power" swap, with the Rangers adding a piece they sought and the Phillies acquiring a corner outfielder/first baseman with power pop.

The son of former Royals slugging first baseman John Mayberry hit .264 with 20 homers and 71 RBIs in 135 games and 519 at-bats combined at Double-A Frisco and Triple-A Oklahoma. Texas selected him in the first round in 2005.

With Philadelphia potentially needing a left fielder to replace Pat Burrell, Mayberry at least could emerge as an option on some level, though he's a long shot to break camp with the Phillies.

"We'll see," said Amaro.

In acquiring Mayberry, the Phillies have added a potent right-handed bat in exchange for a player they felt was expendable. Though Dominic Brown, D'Arby Myers and Michael Taylor are power-hitting outfielders developing in the low Minors, Mayberry is more advanced.

Golson and Mayberry know each other from when Golson visited Stanford University on a college recruiting trip and Mayberry showed him around campus. Golson ended up signing out of high school.

Golson leaves for Texas searching for his first Major League hit. He debuted as a pinch-runner and stole a base but went 0-for-6 in six September at-bats. He made his first and only Major League start on Sept. 28, against the Nationals, in the Phillies' final regular-season game.

Mayberry was assigned to Triple-A Lehigh Valley and had his contract purchased by the Phillies, who added him to the 40-man roster. Philadelphia also added right-handers Carlos Carrasco and Drew Naylor, lefty Sergio Escalona and catcher Joel Naughton to the 40-man roster, bringing the total to 37.

So there's a couple points on this one:

#1 - Golson, for all his physical tools, was an abysmal hitter. And the more I saw of him in the minors, the more convinced I became that this guy was never going to be more than a 4th OF, or a late inning pinch runner.

#2 - Mayberry has some big time power. 20 HRs and 71 RBI between AA and AAA last season is solid. He's still a bit of a project, too, though. He has some improvements to make on his splits.

But, he's much, much, more refined than Golson as a hitter, and while Golson probably has more physical tools, Mayberry's numbers easily suggest that he projects as a better MLB player.

I think Ruben Amaro stole one, on this deal. Mayberry is a guy who could come in and compete for some limited playing time next season. Plus, he'll be working with Charlie, who's one of the best managers at coaching hitting in baseball.

So I like this deal. I still think they'll sign another outfielder. But Mayberry is a dark horse guy to win a roster spot out of the Spring.

K.C.

11-27-2008, 05:32 PM

Anybody's who's renewing, or picking up season tickets, prepare to get ass-raped.

Apparently, there's such a demand for Phils' season ticket plans this year, that they're not guaranteeing Opening Day tickets to holders this year.

Instead, you have to renew your tickets by a certain date, to get your name put in a lottery with other season ticket holders, to get the opportunity to purchase Opening Day tickets (limit of two).

And if you don't have season tickets...don't even bother.

That's fucking ridiculous. Can't they at least do something like a seniority thing with how long you've had your tickets in terms of who they let get in on Opening Day? A bunch of bandwagon jumping assholes decide to pick up tickets this year, because the Phils won the World Series, and I get screwed out of precious Opening Day tickets.

And if I get none...I may burn that place to the ground.

K.C.

11-28-2008, 06:24 AM

Sources: Righthander Koplove signs with Phillies

By DAVID MURPHY
Philadelphia Daily News

dmurphy@phillynews.com
Last December, a little known free agent named Chad Durbin signed with the Phillies and went on to establish himself as one of the key components in a bullpen that finished the regular season ranked as the best in the National League East.

This year, Mike Koplove will try to do the same.

Two sources familiar with the situation confirmed yesterday that the Phillies agreed to terms with the 32-year-old righthander on a contract that includes an invitation to spring training.

Unlike Durbin, who signed a 1-year, $900,000 contract, Koplove, a Philadelphia native, must prove himself next spring to make the roster of his hometown team.

Koplove was a first-team Daily News All-City selection as a senior Chestnut Hill Academy in 1995. He played at the University of Delaware and has pitched in parts of seven big-league seasons, six of them for the Diamondbacks.

He has appeared in only seven major league games since 2005, when he went 2-1 with a 5.07 ERA in 44 appearances for Arizona, but will likely get a chance to win a roster spot this spring as the Phillies look for another arm capable of pitching multiple innings of relief.

In 222 career appearances, he has pitched 254 2/3 innings, going 15-7 with a 3.82 ERA with 175 strikeouts, 103 walks, and an average of 1.312 walks/hits allowed per inning pitched.

A 29th-round draft pick of Arizona in 1998, Koplove broke into the big leagues in 2001, then went 6-1 with a 3.36 ERA in 55 appearances in 2002. He saw significant action in 2003 (3-0, 2.15 ERA in 31 games), 2004 (4-4, 4.05 ERA in 76 games), and 2005. He appeared in only two games in 2006, eventually signing free-agent contracts with the Marlins, Indians and Dodgers.

Koplove spent last season in the Dodgers system, going 2-1 with a 3.46 ERA and a .213 opponents' batting average for Triple A Las Vegas. He was a member of the bronze medal-winning U.S. Olympic team in Beijing, where he was teammates with Phillies minor leaguers Jason Donald and Lou Marson.

Koplove likely will be assigned to Triple A Lehigh Valley, but will be invited to big-league spring training in Clearwater, Fla.

Meh....maybe he turns out to be the team's next Chad Durbin.

Actually, I'd be slightly surprised if he made the 25 man roster.

I've got to pull for a former UD guy, though, so I hope he can get on the team.

K.C.

11-30-2008, 07:42 AM

There's a couple conflicting reports about whether the Phillies will offer Burrell arbitration tomorrow.

They'd be crazy not, too. You have to get the draft picks if he signs somewhere else. But apparently they're a little concerned that if he accepted it, he would get over the $14 million he made last season.

They still have to do it, though. Best Case scenario, you get the draft picks. Worst Case scenario, you overpay Burrell for one more year to be your left-fielder, and that problem is taken care of. It's not all that bad of a proposition.

K.C.

12-04-2008, 01:18 PM

Phils: Waiting on Moyer, pursuing Lowe

The Phillies can't figure out why free-agent left-hander Jamie Moyer is proving so difficult to re-sign. Hence, they're exploring other options -- most notably, free-agent right-hander Derek Lowe.

The only way the Phillies would sign Lowe is if they lost Moyer. They have discussed Lowe with his agent, Scott Boras, "pretty extensively," according to a source familiar with the club's intentions. The Boston Globe reported on Thursday that the Phillies already have made Lowe an offer.

Moyer, who went 16-7 with a 3.71 ERA in 196 1/3 innings in the regular season, then won Game 3 of the World Series, might simply be exploring a relatively thin free-agent market for left-handed starters. After CC Sabathia, the top lefties available are Oliver Perez, Andy Pettitte, Randy Wolf and Randy Johnson.

The Yankees, faced with the possible loss of Pettitte, are monitoring all of those pitchers except Johnson, who had a rocky run with them in 2005 and '06. The Dodgers have shown interest in Pettitte, and conceivably could turn to others in the above group, including Moyer.

Lowe, 35, obviously would command a far bigger deal than Moyer, 45, forcing the Phillies to structure his contract creatively — and likely pursue an inexpensive replacement for free-agent left fielder Pat Burrell.

Ten Phillies are eligible for salary arbitration, and their combined raises likely will total between $25 million and $35 million. Thus, one year of Moyer — even at an increase from his $5.25 million average salary — would be more affordable than say, a three-year, $42 million contract for Lowe. The Phillies also have spoken to Darek Braunecker, the agent for free-agent righty A.J. Burnett, but Burnett's price figures to be even higher than Lowe's.

The Phillies did not offer salary arbitration to Moyer, preferring to stay flexible in their off-season maneuvering. They would not receive a high draft pick if they lost Moyer as a free agent. They would lose one if they signed Lowe or Burnett.

This is an interesting turn of events.

There's one school of thought that the Phillies are just using their 'interest' in Lowe as leverage to pressure Moyer in to signing his contract.

The other is that the Phillies have decided that since Moyer's taking too long, and they've moved on.

Lowe is on the cusp of affordability for the Phillies. He could be bid out of their price range.

He'd be a good fit, though.

spadanko

12-08-2008, 10:33 AM

According to Paul Hagen of the Philadelphia Daily News, the Phillies have inquired on Twins outfielder Delmon Young. Hagen believes the Twins would want shortstop prospect Jason Donald in return.

K.C.

12-09-2008, 02:59 PM

Ahhhhhhh...

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K.C.

12-09-2008, 04:55 PM

Dec. 9 -- MANUEL'S CONTRACT EXTENDED | 8:36 PM

BY SCOTT LAUBER

LAS VEGAS -- Deadline for The Paper is creeping up, but Ruben Amaro Jr. just let us know (so, we'll let you know) that Charlie Manuel has received a contract extension. The Phillies picked up Manuel's 2010 option and tacked on an extra season. So, now, Manuel is under contract to lead the Phillies through 2011.

We've spent most of the day monitoring the Jake Peavy trade situation, which may have expanded to four teams. It sounds like the Phillies are poised to make some sort of a move, just waiting for a "yes" from one or more of the teams that they've been talking to.

Stay tuned.

Couldn't be happier. Charlie fan since Day 1.

He had a rough go of things with the fans & media up until the end of '07, but he's a folk legend now.

http://media.philly.com/images/081029_charlie_win.jpg

There's an absolutely great story on him by Tom Verducci on CNNSI.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/magazine/specials/sportsman/2008/11/30/verducci.manuel/index.html

skyscraper

12-10-2008, 08:33 AM

anyone concerned about k-rod playing for the mets?
I'm not. I think he's overrated. the nl east is a much tougher division than the al west.

KingGeno

12-10-2008, 08:35 AM

anyone concerned about k-rod playing for the mets?

Nope.

K.C.

12-10-2008, 01:48 PM

Nope.

Me neither.

tbagnu

12-10-2008, 03:59 PM

Me neither.

same here...just like when they got santana last year..ho hum

cougarjake13

12-10-2008, 05:08 PM

anyone concerned about k-rod playing for the mets?
I'm not. I think he's overrated. the nl east is a much tougher division than the al west.

Nope.

Me neither.

same here...just like when they got santana last year..ho hum

if he even saves half of the wins the mets bullpen blew for santana then we win the division so some cocnern should be warranted

hammersavage

12-10-2008, 05:10 PM

You are the World Champs so you worry about yourselves. But the Mets did get better with the signing.

K.C.

12-10-2008, 05:46 PM

if he even saves half of the wins the mets bullpen blew for santana then we win the division so some cocnern should be warranted

Nope.

KingGeno

12-10-2008, 05:49 PM

You are the World Champs so you worry about yourselves. But the Mets did get better with the signing.

Yup. We are, and we are.

We dunno if the Mets got any better, because you did nothing last year. And the year before.

We won't know until the season starts.

K.C.

12-10-2008, 05:50 PM

Dec. 10 -- HERE'S THE DEAL: PHILS ACQUIRE CATCHER | 9:04 PM

BY SCOTT LAUBER

LAS VEGAS -- So, it seems the "small trade" mentioned by Ruben Amaro Jr. will be a swap of catchers. The Phils will send Class AAA catcher Jason Jaramillo to the Pirates for Ronny Paulino, a .278 hitter in parts of four seasons.

Paulino, 27, is a major-league-caliber catcher, so this figures to fuel the speculation that Chris Coste will be packaged in a trade, perhaps the multi-team deal that would bring Mark DeRosa to Philly.

This is an odd little move.

From the Pirates end, Jaramillo is a good defensive catcher. They already have a good offensive catcher in Doumit. I think they look at him as someone who can bounce between the Majors and AAA and work with the young pitchers.

The Pirates' manager also coached him when he managed the Phils' AAA team.

I don't know what to make of the Phillies' end. Seems that they project Marson as starting in AAA this season, which was kind of expected.

I wonder if this means Coste is on his way out. It almost has to mean that, because they're not carrying three catchers. Then again, Paulino could end up in the minors.

It's worth noting that Coste was one of the rumored parts of the Cubs-Padres-Phillies trade. But then again, if the Padres were to get a veteran catcher back in the deal, I would think Paulino would be more appealing, so maybe the Phillies acquired him to move him elsewhere.

KingGeno

12-10-2008, 05:52 PM

K.C. beat me to it.

Think this guy may be part of another trade?

K.C.

12-10-2008, 06:02 PM

K.C. beat me to it.

Think this guy may be part of another trade?

Yeah, if I had to bet, I'd say either him or Coste are gone fairly soon.

It just doesn't make a ton of sense.

The Wilmington News Journal article on it followed up by saying that Amaro says Marson's going to take Jaramillo's old spot in AAA this year, so someone is out.

I'd say Kendrick, Paulino, and a prospect get moved in the three way deal, and the Phils get DeRosa.

K.C.

12-11-2008, 03:03 AM

The Phillies are close to signing free-agent right-hander Chan Ho Park, according to Yahoo Sports.

The club has not confirmed or announced anything regarding Park.

Park, 35, went 4-4 with a 3.40 ERA over 95 2/3 innings in 2008, making five starts among his 54 appearances for the Dodgers.

The Phillies are expected to look at him as a starter and the deal likely will be for one year.

John Schlegel is an executive editor at MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

I want it made clear that I hate Chan Ho Park immensely.

That said, I've heard several GMs talking kind of quietly that whoever gets him could be getting a nice bargain this year.

I imagine he slots into the 6th inning, Durbin & Romero split the 7th, Madson the 8th, Lidge the 9th.

Foxsports.com reported yesterday that the Phillies have let all teams know that righthander Adam Eaton can be had by anyone willing to pick up $1 million of his contract. The Phillies would be responsible for the remaining $7.5 million he'll make in 2009 plus the $500,000 buyout of his option

That's just funny.

cougarjake13

12-11-2008, 03:17 PM

park hasnt been the same since he signed that contract with the rangers

K.C.

12-11-2008, 08:04 PM

I'm not sure if this market favors, or doesn't favor, getting Hamels and Howard long term extensions.

On one hand, the arbitration process just became a much more attractive money maker for players, since it's a guaranteed raise.

On the other, as players move toward free agency, the likelihood of a big deal seems less.

Howard has three arb years left, including this year. Hamels has four.

I'd offer Howard a 7yr, $160 million (23 million per year) contract extension; buy out his three arb year and four of his free agent ones.

For Hamels, I'd go 7yrs, $105 million (15 million per year).

Both are more than reasonable, and the salaries fit a traditional long-term buying out of arbitration.

If Howard says no, and keeps thinking he's getting A-Rod money, then fuck him...his ass gets traded after '09.

hammersavage

12-12-2008, 07:24 AM

I hate Raul Ibanez. Very happy you guys go him over the Mets. Although, I'm sure he'll beat us in a few spots now.

K.C.

12-12-2008, 07:45 AM

I hate Raul Ibanez. Very happy you guys go him over the Mets. Although, I'm sure he'll beat us in a few spots now.

I'm not a fan of this move, unless they're dumping Jenkins. Too many lefthanded bats.

K.C.

12-12-2008, 02:50 PM

So, I looked into this move a little more, and I've come around on it.

Ibanez can hit lefties a little bit. The lineup is overloaded left-handed, but Howard's really the only lefty in the lineup that doesn't hit lefties well.

He's had some very, very productive seasons in a cavern of a stadium, on some bad teams.

If you slot him sixth, he could be a very big run producer on this team.

His defense sucks, but it can't be worse than Burrell's.

Biggest loss is the walks Burrell used to draw. All in all, though, I think he'll be solid. A lot less streaky than Burrell was, too.

K.C.

12-12-2008, 03:21 PM

1. Rollins SS (S)
2. Victorino CF (S)
3. Utley 2B (L)
4. Howard 1B (L)
5. Werth RF (R)
6. Ibanez LF (L)
7. Feliz 3B (R)
8. Ruiz C (R)

I can deal with it.

12-12-2008, 05:37 PM

I'm not a fan of this move, unless they're dumping Jenkins. Too many lefthanded bats.

last year was a bit of an aberation for Ibanez as far as hitting lefties.
the biggest thing he does is he's a "character guy".

He's good, but thats it.

skyscraper

12-12-2008, 05:46 PM

Biggest loss is the walks Burrell used to draw. All in all, though, I think he'll be solid. A lot less streaky than Burrell was, too.

don't forget the way burrell used to kill the fucking choke artist mets. I'll miss that. Burrell drawing walks doesn't do much for me; he couldn't run, and since he hit after Howard and Utley, he couldn't rely on power to hit get him in.

K.C.

12-12-2008, 08:33 PM

don't forget the way burrell used to kill the fucking choke artist mets. I'll miss that. Burrell drawing walks doesn't do much for me; he couldn't run, and since he hit after Howard and Utley, he couldn't rely on power to hit get him in.

Ibanez is .333 lifetime against newest choke artist Francisco Rodriguez. He'll fit in fine.

mothershucker

12-12-2008, 08:38 PM

Ibanez is .333 lifetime against newest choke artist Francisco Rodriguez. He'll fit in fine.

Yeah, I hear he is a real douche bag. He will fit in just fine.

KingGeno

12-12-2008, 08:58 PM

Yeah, I hear he is a real douche bag. He will fit in just fine.

So you are calling a Phillies repeat? Cool.

K.C.

12-12-2008, 09:20 PM

last year was a bit of an aberation for Ibanez as far as hitting lefties.
the biggest thing he does is he's a "character guy".

He's good, but thats it.

2006

vs. LHP
Ibanez - .243 AVG, 4 HR, 36 RBI, 16 BB, 43 SO, .301 OBP, .362 SLG
Burrell - .290 AVG, 11 HR, 25 RBI, 37 BB, 38 SO, .440 OBP, .572 SLG

vs. RHP
Ibanez - .308 AVG, 29 HR, 87 RBI, 49 BB, 72 SO, .375 OBP, .580 SLG
Burrell - .244 AVG, 18 HR, 70 RBI, 61 BB, 93 SO, .365 OBP, .472 SLG

RISP
Ibanez - .337 AVG, 12 HR, 93 RBI, 30 BB, 32 SO, .424 OBP, .627 SLG
Burrell - .222 AVG, 4 HR, 53 RBI, 40 BB, 43 SO, .376 OBP, .346 SLG

RISP w/ two outs
Ibanez - .377 AVG, 4 HR, 31 RBI, 16 BB, 14 SO, .506 OBP, 656 SLG
Burrell - .167 AVG, 2 HR, 20 RBI, 24 BB, 25 SO, .363 OBP, .256 SLG

2007

vs. LHP
Ibanez - .256 AVG, 2 HR, 23 RBI, 8 BB, 28 SO, .294 OBP, .356 SLG
Burrell - .255 AVG, 10 HR, 33 RBI, 40 BB, 36 SO, .418 OBP, .532 SLG

vs. RHP
Ibanez - .305 AVG, 19 HR, 82 RBI, 45 BB, 69 SO, .371 OBP, .528 SLG
Burrell - .257 AVG, 20 HR, 64 RBI, 74 BB, 84 SO, .391 OBP, .489 SLG

RISP
Ibanez - .328 AVG, 7 HR, 78 RBI, 23 BB, 15 SO, .411 OBP, .569 SLG
Burrell - .258 AVG, 6 HR, 61 RBI, 39 BB, 30 SO, .411 OBP, .477 SLG

RISP w/ two outs
Ibanez - .324 AVG, 5 HR, 34 RBI, 11 BB, 7 SO, .425 OBP, .618 SLG
Burrell - .255 AVG, 3 HR, 25 RBI, 18 BB, 13 SO, .438 OBP, .473 SLG

2008

vs. LHP
Ibanez - .305 AVG, 7 HR, 37 RBI, 18 BB, 41 SO, .368 OBP, .497 SLG
Burrell - .279 AVG, 7 HR, 20 RBI, 35 BB, 36 SO, .351 OBP, .492 SLG

vs. RHP
Ibanez - .288 AVG, 16 HR, 73 RBI, 46 BB, 69 SO, 353 OBP, .470 SLG
Burrell - .238 AVG, 26 HR, 66 RBI, 67 BB, 100 SO, .351 OBP, .492 SLG

RISP
Ibanez - .327 AVG, 5 HR, 82 RBI, 23 BB, 22 SO, .397 OBP, 480 SLG
Burrell - .234 AVG, 7 HR, 54 RBI, 27 BB, 36 SO, .358 OBP, 469 SLG

RISP w/ two outs
Ibanez - .324 AVG, 3 HR, 30 RBI, 10 BB, 14 SO, .407 OBP, .479 SLG
Burrell - .183 AVG, 3 HR, 22 RBI, 16 BB, 19 SO, .341 OBP, .366 SLG

So what do we learn from this?

#1 - Ibanez is an INSANELY good hitter with RISP. Burrell blew at that.

#2 - Ibanez strikes out significantly less than Burrell (meaning more balls in play for a team that thrives on speed).

#3 - Ibanez crushes righties. In 2007 and 2008, he hit for higher average than Burrell against lefties, although Burrell had more productive numbers against lefties in 2007. Still, Ibanez held his own.

And now we consider the following factors:

#1 - Ibanez played at Safeco Field the past three seasons, on three bad Mariners teams. Burrell's numbers are the product of playing at Citizens Bank Park, in the most prolific offense in baseball, behind the most feared hitter in baseball (a role Ibanez now assumes).

#2 - Ibanez moves to a significantly weaker division and league pitching wise, with few real dominant lefties in the NL East.

It's very easy to make the case for Ibanez over Burrell based solely on RISP production. Ibanez is a flat out professional hitter.

But his new situation offers enormous potential. It's not out of the question that a guy who averages 20-25 HR and 100 RBI bumps up to 25-30 HR and 120 RBI next season.

The Phillies easily upgraded from this move. Easily.

Burrell's struggles with RISP were an enormous source of frustration the better part of the last nine seasons.

cougarjake13

12-14-2008, 12:06 PM

Ibanez is .333 lifetime against newest choke artist Francisco Rodriguez. He'll fit in fine.

you cant call him a choke artist yet he wasnt a part of any of them

if they do it again this year then you can lump him in there with the rest

cougarjake13

12-15-2008, 10:37 AM

phils resign jamie moyer

and

sign chan ho park http://www.hotinhollywood.tv/photos/uncategorized/2007/11/29/touch02301.jpg

Earlshog

01-06-2009, 08:49 AM

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3812334

K.C.

01-07-2009, 04:48 PM

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=3812334

It sounds like MLB screwed him pretty badly.

K.C.

01-07-2009, 04:52 PM

Phillies ink Giles to Minor League deal
Second baseman could provide depth behind injured Utley

By Alden Gonzalez / MLB.com
The Phillies added some much-needed depth on Tuesday, when they signed second baseman Marcus Giles to a Minor League contract, team sources confirmed. According to the Denver Post, the deal is worth $600,000.

It's been a bittersweet Tuesday for Philadelphia. On a day when Major League Baseball announced one of the Phillies' top relievers, J.C. Romero, was suspended 50 games for violating the league's Drug Policy after using an over-the-counter substance, the Phillies officially announced the signing of Chan Ho Park and then added Giles.

Giles will go into Spring Training in Clearwater, Fla., with a chance to compete for a spot on the 25-man roster. If he claims one, he can add a bit of insurance at second base while Chase Utley recovers from offseason hip surgery. Giles, 30, also gives the Phillies a right-handed bat they sorely lack.

In 2008, Giles didn't play a single game in the Major Leagues after starting off the season with a Minor League contract from the Rockies. Colorado released him before the start of the season.

His last season in the Major Leagues was 2007, when the San Diego native hit .229 with four home runs and 39 RBIs in 116 games for the Padres. Over his last five seasons in the Major Leagues, Giles' batting average has steadily dropped, from .316 in 2003, to .311, .291, .262 and .229 in '04, '05, '06 and '07, respectively.

Giles' contract calls for $13,000 a month in the Minors, and he can request his release if not on the 25-man roster by July 1, according to the Post.

Alden Gonzalez is an associate reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

I like this move.

Obviously, Giles was one of the steroid guys, which explains why he dropped off a cliff in terms of production, but by the same token, he's playing for his career this year, basically, and the guy did have some talent.

For a minor league deal, it's a smart low-risk move.

K.C.

01-07-2009, 04:57 PM

This is my projected 25-man roster right now:

C - Carlos Ruiz
1B - Ryan Howard
2B - Chase Utley
3B - Pedro Feliz
SS - Jimmy Rollins
LF - Raul Ibanez
CF - Shane Victorino
RF - Jayson Werth

Bench:
OF - Matt Stairs
OF - Geoff Jenkins
IF - Eric Bruntlett
IF - Greg Dobbs
C - Chris Coste

SP - Cole Hamels
SP - Brett Myers
SP - Jamie Moyer
SP - Joe Blanton
SP - J.A. Happ

CL - Brad Lidge
SU - Ryan Madson
MR - Chad Durbin
MR - Scott Eyre
MR - Chan Ho Park
LR - Clay Condrey
LR - Sergio Escalona (lefty out of the minors to replace Romero)

All in all, I like it. They could stand to dump one out of Stairs and Jenkins, and add a righty in that person's place, but I can live with the unbalanced lineup. LHP is scarce in the NL East. They'll rake against the division this year.

skyscraper

01-08-2009, 04:37 AM

Earlshog

01-08-2009, 05:47 AM

News: The Phillies invited infield prospect Jason Donald, left-hander Antonio Bastardo, right-hander Yorman Bazardo, outfielders Jason J. Ellison and Jeremy Slayden, and catchers Tuffy Gosewisch and Paul Hoover to spring training. Second baseman Marcus Giles and reliever Gary Majewski were also invited to camp.

vjr97

01-08-2009, 06:01 AM

so the phillies won their 2nd world series in a 140 years so u still suck.......its all about the yankees

Earlshog

01-08-2009, 06:01 AM

I like it all, except for Happ in the starting rotation. I would much rather the phillies go for a more seasoned starter, like a derek lowe, and put happ in where you have escalona.

I agree 100% on Happ... they're going to have to start laying our some major cash soon for some big name their players but if they can afford Lowe as well it not only gives them a rock solid number three starter it keeps him away from the Choke Artists.

KingGeno

01-08-2009, 06:03 AM

so the phillies won their 2nd world series in a 140 years so u still suck.......its all about the yankees

Way to go, champ. Internet tough guys are so tough, specially with tough guy shirtless pics.

Earlshog

01-08-2009, 06:05 AM

so the best team in baseball the world champion phillies won their 2nd world series in a 140 years so u still suck.......its all about the yankees

fixed that up for ya

skyscraper

01-09-2009, 06:36 AM

so the phillies won their 2nd world series in a 140 years so u still suck.......its all about the yankees

yes, the yankees came oh-so close last year to winning-
oh, wait, that's right, they didn't even make the playoffs.
the phillies have won more world series in this century than the yankees. think about that.
and don't tell me about the 26 they have won, that's ancient history. live in the present. what have they done lately?

Furtherman

01-09-2009, 06:41 AM

so the phillies won their 2nd world series in a 140 years so u still suck.......its all about the yankees

It took you three months to come up with that winner?

Next time, take your time. Don't hurt yourself.

skyscraper

01-09-2009, 06:44 AM

so the phillies won their 2nd world series in a 140 years so u still suck.......its all about the yankees

oh, and it's only 126 years, not 140.
typical yankee fan; don't let the facts get in the way of your big mouth.

scottinnj

01-09-2009, 05:59 PM

It took you three months to come up with that winner?

Next time, take your time. Don't hurt yourself.

It took him that long to remember his password to login.

FACE!

TripleSkeet

01-09-2009, 09:51 PM

cougarjake13

01-10-2009, 09:54 AM

phils are interested in nomah strainegroinaparra

K.C.

01-10-2009, 10:54 AM

Id REALLY REALLY REALLY rather see Lou Marson in there instead of Coste.

Not going to happen. Ruben's already said Lou's a virtual lock to start the season in Triple-A.

You may see Ronny Paulino in there, instead of Coste, though.

I think Paulino was brought in to compete with Coste for the backup job. Whoever loses likely gets traded.

K.C.

01-10-2009, 10:56 AM

phils are interested in nomah strainegroinaparra

I like it if he's going to accept a backup role.

He can still hit a little bit.

PerryWinkle

01-10-2009, 10:56 AM

I like it if he's going to accept a backup role.

He can still hit a little bit.

is he better than marcus giles? i believe so

K.C.

01-10-2009, 10:59 AM

is he better than marcus giles? i believe so

I'm a firm believer that if your prospects aren't going to see regular playing time, you keep them in the minors so they're playing everyday.

So instead of bringing up Marson to be the backup catcher, and Donald to be a backup/utility player off the bench, I'm fine with guys like Coste, Paulino, Giles, Garciaparra.

Garciaparra would actually solve the right-handed bench problem. You KNOW he can still hit. Can't say that about Giles.

PerryWinkle

01-10-2009, 11:10 AM

I'm a firm believer that if your prospects aren't going to see regular playing time, you keep them in the minors so they're playing everyday.

So instead of bringing up Marson to be the backup catcher, and Donald to be a backup/utility player off the bench, I'm fine with guys like Coste, Paulino, Giles, Garciaparra.

Garciaparra would actually solve the right-handed bench problem. You KNOW he can still hit. Can't say that about Giles.

exactly. you can't bring up donald to be a utility guy. let allentown have someone good to watch this year:laugh:

nomar could be ok. he can probably still handle spot time at the corners and at second yet

K.C.

01-10-2009, 04:06 PM

Just decided I'm going to Spring Training this year.

I've never been before, so I'm hoping it'll be a good time.

What's there to do in Clearwater? (other than the obvious drinking and talking to broads...which may consume 95% of the time there).

TripleSkeet

01-10-2009, 10:41 PM

Not going to happen. Ruben's already said Lou's a virtual lock to start the season in Triple-A.

You may see Ronny Paulino in there, instead of Coste, though.

I think Paulino was brought in to compete with Coste for the backup job. Whoever loses likely gets traded.

Why???? Thats fucking stupid. The kids ready to play in the majors now. He helped team USA win the silver and the one game he played he went 3-4 with a homer. Hes better offensivly then either of our catchers. But id keep him behind ruiz just because he calls a good game.

I dont get it. They vetoed every trade involving the kid last year. If youre not gonna trade him then fucking give him a chance to play. Im sorry but Coste really isnt worth the spot on the team that could go to whats supposed to be our "catcher of the future".

K.C.

01-13-2009, 05:19 PM

Why???? Thats fucking stupid. The kids ready to play in the majors now. He helped team USA win the silver and the one game he played he went 3-4 with a homer. Hes better offensivly then either of our catchers. But id keep him behind ruiz just because he calls a good game.

I dont get it. They vetoed every trade involving the kid last year. If youre not gonna trade him then fucking give him a chance to play. Im sorry but Coste really isnt worth the spot on the team that could go to whats supposed to be our "catcher of the future".

Because Ruiz can catch Lidge's slider.

And that's pretty much the crux of it.

Everything else you said is 100% true about Marson.

But, where I disagree, is that if he's not playing everyday (or at least at a 50/50 split), he should be in Triple-A. He still needs to learn certain things.

cougarjake13

01-14-2009, 05:35 PM

K.C.

01-18-2009, 06:43 AM

Hamels gets 3-year, $20.5M extension

By Jon Heyman, SI.com

Ace left-hander Cole Hamels and the Philadelphia Phillies have reached agreement on a three-year extension worth $20.5 million, SI.com has learned.

The new deal will pay the Phillies' World Series hero $4.35 million this coming season, then $6.65 million in 2010 and $9.5 million in 2011.

Hamels' base salary also will increase by $500,000 in any season after he wins a Cy Young Award and by $250,000 if he finishes second or third in Cy Young balloting.

Hamels, 24, went 14-10 with a 3.39 ERA in 2008, then dominated in the Phillies' march to a World Series title, winning four of his five postseason starts. In the Series itself, he went 1-0 with a 2.77 ERA in 13 innings over two starts (with a no-decision in the Phillies' clinching Game 5).

In three major league seasons, the lefty is 38-23 with a 3.43 ERA and 518 strikeouts in 543 innings.

The deal means Hamels and the Phillies will avoid arbitration this year. The Phillies went through a painful arbitration with another star, Ryan Howard, last year, and wanted to avoid a repeat. Howard beat the team that time, winning $10 million.

It's a nice deal for the Phillies, in that they probably saved a significant chunk of money compared to if Hamels went to arbitration each year.

It carries him up until his final arbitration year, at which point I imagine they'll try and sign him to another extension.

Financially, the Phillies look to be in decent shape over the next three seasons, as long as they keep in the neighborhood of a 120-125 million payroll.

Howard is the one piece of the puzzle they still need to deal with, but at the very least, if they don't sign him long-term, they still have him for three more years.

cougarjake13

01-18-2009, 07:07 AM

It's a nice deal for the Phillies, in that they probably saved a significant chunk of money compared to if Hamels went to arbitration each year.

It carries him up until his final arbitration year, at which point I imagine they'll try and sign him to another extension.

Financially, the Phillies look to be in decent shape over the next three seasons, as long as they keep in the neighborhood of a 120-125 million payroll.

Howard is the one piece of the puzzle they still need to deal with, but at the very least, if they don't sign him long-term, they still have him for three more years.

i get why the philies would do it but why would hamels do it ??

depending on how he pitched he could get more money during those arbitration years

although i do love when players arent so selfish and take less money or forgoe the chance at more just for the sake of staying with a team they wanna be with

TheMojoPin

01-18-2009, 07:14 AM

i get why the philies would do it but why would hamels do it ??

depending on how he pitched he could get more money during those arbitration years

although i do love when players arent so selfish and take less money or forgoe the chance at more just for the sake of staying with a team they wanna be with

Yeah, I'm sort of baffled by Hamels' motivation in this, too. I understad team loyalty, but he still could stay with them when his arbitration negotiations came up and give them a break but still make more for himself.

Great deal for the Phillies.

K.C.

01-18-2009, 08:14 AM

Yeah, I'm sort of baffled by Hamels' motivation in this, too. I understad team loyalty, but he still could stay with them when his arbitration negotiations came up and give them a break but still make more for himself.

Great deal for the Phillies.

The only thing I can figure is that the contract situation kind of messed with his head early in the year last season, and he didn't get off to a great start.

He admitted that it bothered him later on.

So, I guess it's possible he was just looking to get a fair deal so he's locked in and can focus solely on putting together three very good full season, where he's not worried about the contract situation.

And if he does that, then he can go back to the Phillies and basically name his price, or get a huge payday on the market the year afterwards.

K.C.

01-19-2009, 07:56 AM

Tadahito Iguchi Set To Join Chiba Lotte Marines
By Tim Dierkes [January 19 at 7:47am CST]

According to Kyodo News, second baseman Tadahito Iguchi is set to join the Chiba Lotte Marines in Japan. A few weeks ago they reportedly offered three years and over $6MM.

In other Japanese baseball news, Kyodo reports that lefty Koji Mitsui will stay with the Seibu Lions after he was posted twice and no MLB team made a bid.

Godspeed, Tadahito.

One of Gillick's diamonds in the rough, the year he pretty much bought him from the White Sox after Utley got hurt.

KingGeno

01-19-2009, 07:59 AM

I just want to take the time to say I will miss So Taguchi. :glurps::glurps: It's still REAL to me dammit!

K.C.

01-19-2009, 09:17 AM

I just want to take the time to say I will miss So Taguchi. :glurps::glurps: It's still REAL to me dammit!

hahaha...who could forget his big....uh....well, I mean his clutch....uh...

Ah forget it.

In other news:

Phillies Sign Madson To Three-Year Extension
By Tim Dierkes [January 19 at 11:07am CST]

According to Jim Salisbury of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Phillies signed reliever Ryan Madson to a three-year extension worth $12MM plus incentives. The deal buys out his final arb year and two free agent years. It was previously thought that Madson, a Scott Boras client, might test the free agent market after the '09 season.

Madson, 28, posted a 3.05 ERA in 82.6 innings of relief this year.

Very nice deal!

Ruben's doing a great job of locking these guys in to cost-effective contracts.

hexy68

01-21-2009, 11:17 AM

Jason Werth avoids arbitration resigns with Phils...only Howard and Durbin are left unsigned

KingGeno

01-21-2009, 11:21 AM

hexy68

01-21-2009, 11:34 AM

XM MLB just announced Durbin has resigned with the Phils...1 yr i think

KingGeno

01-21-2009, 11:39 AM

Phils locking it up.

K.C.

01-21-2009, 04:02 PM

Signed Victorino also -- $3.125 million, 1 year

Arbitration:

Howard -- Wants $18 million, Phillies offering $14 million
Durbin -- Wants $1.95 million, Phillies offering $1.35 million

Going to be interesting to see what happens with the arbitration talks up until February 20th. Howard is asking for record arbitration money there.

We'll see.

There's a lot of speculation that the Phils will win this one over Howard, but I don't know if I see it.

The problem with Howard is there's no precedent for him in the arbitration process.

I could literally see the outcome of this case determining whether he ever signs a long-term deal.

If he get 18, he'll get 22 or 23 the next year, and maybe 26 or 27 the year after that.

He'll completely blow up the salary structure, and the Phils will never sign him.

Whereas, if he gets the 14, I think he's much more likely to come to the table if the Phils offer him a five year, $100 million extension, or 7 yrs / 140.

This is going to be another landmark case.

hammersavage

01-23-2009, 10:28 AM

In an article for The Philadelphia Inquirer, the Phillies are pursuing free agent Moises Alou “pretty hard”.

Should I laugh at the old players you are trying to sign? Or give you credit that its probably a small deal with an upside and not make a big deal about it.

TripleSkeet

01-23-2009, 11:17 AM

Its alot btter when a good team signs one of those kind of vets to add some grit and pitch in here and there then when a shitty team signs one hoping for a miracle.

TheMojoPin

01-23-2009, 11:26 AM

Its alot btter when a good team signs one of those kind of vets to add some grit and pitch

This means absolutely nothing.

K.C.

01-23-2009, 02:01 PM

Should I laugh at the old players you are trying to sign? Or give you credit that its probably a small deal with an upside and not make a big deal about it.

I'd point and laugh if they signed him and said he was going to play.

That's not the case.

That is the case, for now, with some of the retreads the Mets have signed.

hammersavage

01-23-2009, 02:27 PM

Yeah, you were dead on about Casey Fossum. He's getting the #2 slot I heard.

K.C.

01-23-2009, 03:09 PM

http://media.philly.com/images/012309-phillies-600.jpg

K.C.

01-25-2009, 06:01 AM

According to Vegas -- all-knowing, all-seeing Vegas -- the Phillies are the most likely team from the National League East to win the World Series. Their odds to repeat as champions are 17-2. That makes them the fourth choice, behind the Yankees (11-4), Cubs (11-2) and Red Sox (15-2). Directly behind the Phils are the Mets and Dodgers, both at 10-1. All of which seems reasonable enough, I guess, given how much money the Yankees just spent. But didn't anybody else see the Cubs in the playoffs last year?

Ok, I can see the Yankees...but F the Cubs. What is it, the big So Taguchi signing that's going to put them over the top this year??

Although...I learned long ago, that the lines on all Chicago teams are kind of skewed, because there's so much more action in Vegas, that comes out of Chicago, and surrounding areas on Chicago team, than anywhere else.

cougarjake13

01-25-2009, 10:26 AM

Ok, I can see the Yankees...but F the Cubs. What is it, the big So Taguchi signing that's going to put them over the top this year??

Although...I learned long ago, that the lines on all Chicago teams are kind of skewed, because there's so much more action in Vegas, that comes out of Chicago, and surrounding areas on Chicago team, than anywhere else.

well they should easily win the central again so that'll put em in the playoffs and once you get there ya never know, nobody saw the phils or rays going there last year outside of those respective cities and fans

TripleSkeet

01-25-2009, 03:29 PM

This means absolutely nothing.

Youre right. Adding a guy like, say....Matt Stairs on your team would never pay off.

TheMojoPin

01-25-2009, 03:36 PM

Youre right. Adding a guy like, say....Matt Stairs on your team would never pay off.

Fortunately for your team, the smart people in charge added him due to what he had actually shown he could do with his bat in the past as opposed to adding him because he's a "gritty veteran."

K.C.

01-25-2009, 04:42 PM

Fortunately for your team, the smart people in charge added him due to what he had actually shown he could do with his bat in the past as opposed to adding him because he's a "gritty veteran."

Man, someone's a semantics nazi.

It was pretty obvious he meant what you just defined when he said 'grit'

...that, or he meant this:

http://i234.photobucket.com/albums/ee230/districtbelle/grits-revised.jpg

Maybe they made a change in the clubhouse buffet in late September.

TheMojoPin

01-25-2009, 04:52 PM

Semantics, shmemantics. "Grit" means squat.

cougarjake13

01-26-2009, 03:47 PM

grits are nasty

KingGeno

02-08-2009, 09:23 AM

http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090208&content_id=3809228&vkey=news_phi&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi

Howard agrees to $54 million contract

Phillies come to terms on three-year deal with 2006 NL MVP

There will be no salary arbitration hearing later this week between the Phillies and Ryan Howard.

On Sunday, the Phillies and Howard reached an agreement on a three-year, $54 million contract.

The deal buys out the remaining three years of Howard's salary arbitration eligibility, which means financial security for Howard and cost certainty for the Phillies. It means no more worries of possibly contentious talks at the arbitration table. It means Howard can show up to Spring Training the next three years and focus on baseball.

It means Howard won't have to worry about another contract until after the 2011 season, when he becomes a free agent.

"I'm happy to have this done and to know that I'll be in Philadelphia for at least another three years," said Howard. "Both sides are happy and now I'm just focused on getting the season started and having fun."

It is unclear how much Howard will make this season, or how the contract breaks down over the next three years. But when the Phillies and Howard's party exchanged numbers for a potential arbitration hearing, Howard had requested $18 million, while the Phillies had offered $14 million.

"We're very pleased to have avoided the arbitration process, not just for this year, but also for the next two," said general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. "Ryan is clearly one of the top power hitters and run producers in the Major Leagues and is a very important part of our championship club."

Howard won a record $10 million at the arbitration table last spring, the largest sum awarded to an arbitration-eligible player.

Howard, the 2005 National League Rookie of the Year and 2006 NL Most Valuable Player, has hit a Major League-leading 153 home runs and 431 RBIs over the past three seasons. My man nipples are diamonds.

epo

02-08-2009, 09:26 AM

http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090208&content_id=3809228&vkey=news_phi&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi

My man nipples are diamonds.

Great deal for the Phillies. My only question is the article....didn't Howard have two years of arbitration left....and the Phillies actually bought his first free agent year in the deal? In which case, its an even better deal for them.

K.C.

02-08-2009, 09:29 AM

Great deal for the Phillies. My only question is the article....didn't Howard have two years of arbitration left....and the Phillies actually bought his first free agent year in the deal? In which case, its an even better deal for them.

I thought he had three years left of arb, because he was a Super 2 originally.

So they just bought out his arb years.

It's a great deal for the club, though, because it comes out to roughly 18 mil a year. If Howard won his arb case this year, he would have gotten 18, and well over that the next two years.

Howard's camp must have thought they'd lose at the table.

epo

02-08-2009, 09:37 AM

I thought he had three years left of arb, because he was a Super 2 originally.

So they just bought out his arb years.

It's a great deal for the club, though, because it comes out to roughly 18 mil a year. If Howard won his arb case this year, he would have gotten 18, and well over that the next two years.

Howard's camp must have thought they'd lose at the table.

I didn't know that he was a Super 2. That makes sense then.

cougarjake13

02-08-2009, 12:37 PM

I didn't know that he was a Super 2. That makes sense then.

super 8 motel ??

spadanko

02-08-2009, 07:48 PM

He had 3 years left for arbitration.. he gets 15 next year, 19 the year after, 20 in the final year...

K.C.

02-09-2009, 03:25 PM

I'm hoping they get Garciaparra done, trade one out of Jenkins and Stairs, and call it an offseason.

A preview of some of the Spring battles (not too many)

#1 - Backup Catcher - Chris Coste vs. Ronny Paulino (I'd give an ever so slight edge to Coste, because he knows the pitching staff more).

#2 - Fifth Starter - J.A. Happ vs. Kyle Kendrick vs. Chan Ho Park vs. Carlos Carrasco (If Park shows really good stuff, I think he's the favorite to win it, otherwise Happ has a really good shot. If no one really distinguishes themselves, don't be surprised if they go back to Kendrick. He's a known quantity, and he wins games).

#3 - Bench Spot #1 - Geoff Jenkins vs. Matt Stairs (They won't keep all three of Jenkins, Stairs, and Dobbs, and Dobbs looks to be pretty safe. Ideally, they'd probably love to move Jenkins if someone will take part of his contract. If Jenkins can't be moved, though, Stairs is probably the odd man out. This spot won't be decided so much on the field, as it will be on the finance sheet).

#4 - Bench Spot #2 - Jason Donald vs. Marcus Giles vs. John Mayberry Jr. vs. the loser of the Coste/Paulino backup catcher race (Unless they sign Garciaparra, the extra RH bat will be one of these four. They'd probably like to see Donald play every day at Triple-A, so they would probably be reluctant to use him unless they were forced. It'd be a little surprising to see them carry three catchers. So this likely comes down to Giles vs. Mayberry).

#5 - LHP Bullpen Pitcher #2 - J.A. Happ vs. Sergio Escalona vs. Mike Zagurski vs. Antonio Bastardo (This is for J.C. Romero's spot for the first 50 games. If Happ loses the rotation spot, it'll likely go to him. If Happ is in the starting five, though, it could be any of the other three out of the minors. Keep an eye on Escalona. He's a nice sleeper pick to contribute out of the pen.

K.C.

02-09-2009, 06:23 PM

Forecasting the next three years:

http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/894/payrollwd6.jpg

The Phils basically have a three year window with this current group, and Amaro looks to have built it that way, as pretty much everyone is up after '11 except Utley, Hamels, and Lidge.

Now, they can replenish from within from year to year, especially pitching wise.

In '10, you probably see Marson, Donald, and Carrasco move up full time.

In '11, you may see Drabek, Savery, Naylor, Bastardo and Taylor.

But my guess is that Howard, Rollins, Ibanez, Vic, Madson, and Werth are all gone by the end of that season.

So they've got three years to win another WS with this core group, and, build the next group to take over so there's no period of futility after '11.

tbagnu

02-12-2009, 08:25 AM

just purchased tix for opening day!! section 143!!! my first opening day!!..phucking A!!!!:clap:

KingGeno

02-12-2009, 08:26 AM

How ya pull that? I'm still waiting to hear back from them for the season ticket holders and normal release...

skyscraper

02-12-2009, 08:33 AM

How ya pull that? I'm still waiting to hear back from them for the season ticket holders and normal release...

me too. I think they're announcing on March 2 about the lottery. I have the yellow season ticket plan, which includes the original opening day, that tuesday. but now that they're World Fucking Series champs, they get to open the season on monday night.
I go to opening day every year. I think it should be a city holiday, like it is in Cincinnnati.

edit: just got a message that I have been selected to purchase opening night tickets! woo hoo! so I bought 2, which is the max. sitting in section 137.

skyscraper

02-12-2009, 09:32 AM

me too. I think they're announcing on March 2 about the lottery. I have the yellow season ticket plan, which includes the original opening day, that tuesday. but now that they're World Fucking Series champs, they get to open the season on monday night.
I go to opening day every year. I think it should be a city holiday, like it is in Cincinnnati.

edit: just got a message that I have been selected to purchase opening night tickets! woo hoo! so I bought 2, which is the max. sitting in section 137.

sorry I meant they open the season sunday night.

tbagnu

02-12-2009, 01:08 PM

i too got the email that i was "selected"! i have plan b of the 17 game plan and look forward to this year as reigning champs!!..bring on the rest of the league!!

KingGeno

02-13-2009, 07:05 AM

I'll be at the game also! Just got the notice this morning, and purchased tickets. Love being a partial season ticket holder. :clap::thumbup::drunk:

Now I hope I can get tickets from the regular public release drawing.

tbagnu

02-13-2009, 10:23 AM

all of us boarders going should have a ron and fez pre-game party!!..what the hell! we should invite ron!!

skyscraper

02-13-2009, 10:25 AM

all of us boarders going should have a ron and fez pre-game party!!..what the hell! we should invite ron!!

I'm down wit dat.
I'm a C plan holder, meaning not only do I get opening night, but also the Tuesday after that which was supposed to be opening day.

K.C.

02-15-2009, 05:36 AM

I was looking at the WBC rosters this morning.

These are some of the Phillies and minor leaguers in it:

Austrailia
SP - Drew Naylor (A) (watch this guy...very good prospect)
C - Joel Naughton (A)
2B - Brad Harman (AA) (saw some time on the Phils last year)

Canada
OF - Matt Stairs (MLB)

Dominican Republic
C - Ronny Paulino (MLB)

Italy
OF - Mike Spidale (AA)

Netherlands
P - Mike Bolsenbroek (A? GCL? even I've never heard of this guy)

Panama
C - Carlos Ruiz (MLB)

Puerto Rico
RP - J.C. Romero (MLB)

USA
SS - Jimmy Rollins (MLB)
OF - Shane Victorino (MLB)

Venezuela
SP - Carlos Carrasco (AAA)

TripleSkeet

02-16-2009, 07:31 AM

Ill be at Opening Day at my usual spot. The outside bar at McFaddens drinking Capt. & Cokes and waiting for Larry Anderson to join me after the game.

cougarjake13

02-16-2009, 05:40 PM

Ill be at Opening Day at my usual spot. The outside bar at McFaddens drinking Capt. & Cokes and waiting for Larry Anderson to join me after the game.

the former mlb pitcher larry anderson ??

Kris10

02-16-2009, 07:13 PM

Here you go guys... I got this last week:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b380/KPeterson130/WStatrightafter.jpg

hammersavage

02-16-2009, 07:51 PM

If it was anybody else, I'd wish tetanus from that tattoo. But you are too nice a girl. So nice ink.

When (yes, when) the Mets get theirs, my brother and I will have one of our own.

K.C.

02-16-2009, 07:52 PM

Ill be at Opening Day at my usual spot. The outside bar at McFaddens drinking Capt. & Cokes and waiting for Larry Anderson to join me after the game.

Who are you kidding...LA will be hammered by the third inning on the radio broadcast, screaming about wanting to fight umpires.

I'd be surprised if he's standing in time for McFadden's after the game.

...and since it's a night game this year, and people will basically be tailgating all day, he may be pounding Natty Ice with high school chicks all day.

K.C.

02-16-2009, 07:52 PM

Here you go guys... I got this last week:

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b380/KPeterson130/WStatrightafter.jpg

Nice!

Kris10

02-16-2009, 07:56 PM

If it was anybody else, I'd wish tetanus from that tattoo. But you are too nice a girl. So nice ink.

When (yes, when) the Mets get theirs, my brother and I will have one of our own.

LOL! Hammer, you know I adore you... but come on... you need to do more than choke the last week of the season. But thanks for the compliment and hopefully I'll pass on before the Mets win a WS and you and your bro can be like me and get inked as well.

hammersavage

02-16-2009, 07:57 PM

LOL! Hammer, you know I adore you... but come on... you need to do more than choke the last month of the season. But thanks for the compliment and hopefully I'll pass on before the Mets win a WS and you and your bro can be like me and get inked as well.

Fixed.

And thanks.

Kris10

02-16-2009, 08:00 PM

I was trying to be kind :lol::wub:

K.C.

02-23-2009, 07:47 PM

Bullpen to have own reality show
'The Pen' scheduled to debut June 1 on MLB Network

By Todd Zolecki / MLB.com
CLEARWATER, Fla. -- This won't be reality TV like many people know it.

There won't be any rose ceremonies or immunity challenges or Flavor Flav surprise drop-ins.

MLB Productions has been in Phillies camp the past week shooting footage for the debut episode of "The Pen," an inside look at the Phillies' bullpen, which is scheduled to debut June 1 on MLB Network. It will be MLB Network's first original programming.

"I think it'll be pretty neat," righty reliever Clay Condrey said.

MLB Productions chose the Phils' bullpen for a couple of reasons: First, it had tremendous success in 2008. And second, it has diverse personalities.

Six weekly episodes are scheduled to run through the All-Star break. The series is expected to show how a bullpen works, as well as how individual pitchers work together and rely upon each other throughout the course of the season. The show also will visit with the pitchers off the field to give viewers a sense of their personalities and interests.

Camera crews are expected to be with the team a few times a month, so they won't be followed everywhere (this isn't "Big Brother" or "The Real World").

And, hey, it just might make pitchers like Condrey a star.

"I ain't no star," Condrey said. "But it will be interesting to see the finished product."

Fucking. Awesome.

K.C.

03-08-2009, 05:17 AM

Caught the Phils in Dunedin on Friday, and in Clearwater yesterday (Howard and Mayberry hit two monster bombs yesterday).

Heading up to Disney to see Phils/Braves today.

Spring Training is heaven on earth...everything is so close, and the weather (compared to the Northeast) is great

cougarjake13

03-08-2009, 06:02 AM

K.C.

03-08-2009, 02:21 PM

I'm in transit to seem my last little bit of Tampa before we head back north tomorrow, but I figure I'll give my impressions of what I saw this weekend in the three games:

-Mayberry has a HUGE talent ceiling...the guy has tremendous power, and can cover ground in the outfield. His arm is so-so. It's hard to gauge how well he'll hit when he's looking at bona-fide MLB breaking balls, but he's raked off of these Quadruple-A guys. I would say he has a good shot to make the roster if he keeps up his performance.

-They're playing Marcus Giles at 3B a bit, and shifting Donald between 2nd and 3rd. He's had a nice string of games here, and I kind of have a feeling that if Feliz starts the season on the DL, Giles will get the call to platoon with Dobbs. I only think you'd see Donald if Utley misses significant time to start the season.

-Howard's in mid-season form.

-Carrasco looked awful today...Happ was so-so when I saw him....Park was decent, but unspectacular. Looks like Kendrick has the inside track to the starter's job.

-Ibanez looks good...Blanton was excellent today, as was Moyer yesterday.

-If you want a dark horse candidate to come out of nowhere and make the roster, keep an eye on Pablo Ozuna to supplant Eric Bruntlett as the utility guy. Not saying it's going to happen, but Ozuna has been on fire really since the spring began.

TripleSkeet

03-08-2009, 03:03 PM

Who are you kidding...LA will be hammered by the third inning on the radio broadcast, screaming about wanting to fight umpires.

I'd be surprised if he's standing in time for McFadden's after the game.

...and since it's a night game this year, and people will basically be tailgating all day, he may be pounding Natty Ice with high school chicks all day.

Yea I forgot it was a night game. My last opening days saw me at an outside bar at McFaddens all day downing Capt. & cokes until turning around about 8pm and seeing LA standing there hammered. Then some more drinks while discussing the nights out drinking in Sea Isle.

K.C.

03-14-2009, 09:37 AM

Kendrick's pretty much done in the 5th starter competition. So is Carrasco...he's heading to Triple-A.

It's down to Happ and Park.

The problem is that they've arguably been the best two looking pitchers this Spring. They're both going to make the team, obviously.

I think they'll probably go with Happ, although Park has certainly earned a shot.

K.C.

03-15-2009, 10:18 AM

Great game for Park.

4.2 IP, 3 H, 0 BB, 6 K

He had his new altered change that Moyer taught him working really well. He really only made two questionable pitches, as far as I could tell.

The one ball he struck out Pujols on in the first...Wheels was right....a couple weeks from now, Pujols launches that ball 500 feet.

And then he had one hard hit single.

Outside of that...very sharp.

hammersavage

03-16-2009, 09:35 AM

Level of concern about little Coley's elbow?

KingGeno

03-16-2009, 10:43 AM

Not really

K.C.

03-16-2009, 03:16 PM

Not really

x2.

KingGeno

03-17-2009, 07:37 AM

Hamels heading back to clearwater. Just a little bit of inflamation. :p http://www.delawareonline.com/blogs/2009/03/mar-17-hamels-update.html

No biggee. Wasn't worried anyway.

hammersavage

03-17-2009, 07:38 AM

Cool. I don't wish bad health even on someone on a team I hate. Good to hear.

K.C.

03-29-2009, 07:42 AM

Brett Myers = Kenny Powers.

cougarjake13

03-29-2009, 03:46 PM

who's kenny powers

TripleSkeet

03-29-2009, 06:07 PM

who's kenny powers

Check out the book-on-tape "Youre Fucking Out, Im Fucking In!" To learn all you need to know about Kenny Powers.

K.C.

03-29-2009, 06:25 PM

Check out the book-on-tape "Youre Fucking Out, Im Fucking In!" To learn all you need to know about Kenny Powers.

This one coach tried to put me on a weight training program, and I was all like "You and your weights can fuck off somewhere. I'm not lifting that shit. It's heavy! You tell me why I need strength training when I'm strong enough to throw a goddamn 100 MPH pitch. Fuck....that..."

If we were on an island with no weights and no running drills, who would be on top then? The guy with the talent.

K.C.

03-31-2009, 01:32 PM

TON of news today:

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2009
Park named 5th starter; Happ will compete for bullpen spot
Sorry, but something got lost in translation between here and Clearwater. Chan Ho Park has been named the Phillies' fifth starter. But lefthander J.A. Happ's future is still up in the air. He will be one of four pitchers competing for two spots in the bullpen. The others are righthanders Gary Majewski and Robert Mosebach and lefthander Jack Taschner.

Park has a Grapefruit League ERA of 2.53. He’s struck out 25, while walking only two, in 21 1/3 innings.

Happ has as ERA of 3.15. He’s given up 18 hits in 20 innings, walking six and striking out 14.

More details to come ...

To read our earlier post about the release of Geoff Jenkins, click here.

Posted by David Murphy @ 3:33 PM Permalink | 23 comments

Good for Park. The Phillies basically told him he had only a glimmer of a shot at winning the job when he signed, he busted his ass all Spring, gave up the WBC despite being a national hero, learned a great new changeup (Jamie Moyer is a god for what he teaches these guys...they need to freeze his brain when he dies), and pitched unbelieveable.

25 Ks in 21 innings...2 BBs?????? How the hell could they have NOT given him the job.

I feel bad for Happ, because he seems to always be on the short end doing exactly what's asked of him every time they've called on him. Ruben should let him stay up in the Majors in the pen. Who the fuck wants to be in AAA?

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2009
Phillies release Geoff Jenkins; Have interest in Sheffield
The Phillies have released outfielder Geoff Jenkins and are hoping to sign Gary Sheffield, who was released by the Detroit Tigers today. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said the Phillies have contacted Sheffield's agent and are in a wait-and-see mode.

Jenkins appeared in 115 games and hit .246 with nine home runs and 29 runs batted in. The lefthanded-hitting Jenkins signed a 2-year, $13 million deal as a free agent before last season and seemed likely to platoon with Jayson Werth in rightfield. Jenkins landed on the disabled list in August with a quad injury and was largely an afterthought for the end of the season and the playoffs. He will, however, be remembered for the double in the resumption of Game 5 of the World Series that led to the go-ahead run.

Jenkins seemed to get caught in the glut of lefthanded hitters coming off the Phillies bench.

"I knew there were a lot of left handed hitters so it seemed like somebody was going to be the odd man out at some point," Jenkins said. "So it's real tough. I care a lot about those guys in the clubhouse. We'll just deal with this. It's like anything else, and try to find a new spot. It's obviously something I've never had to deal with before. But I guess what doesn't kill you makes you stronger. But I don't regret anything from one moment that I was here."

The Phillies owe him the remainder of his $6.75 million salary for this season, plus a $1.25 million buyout for next season. Any team can pick him up, but they will likely owe him the veterans minimum of $400,000, which will be deducted from the Phillies' obligation.

Speaking with reporters moments ago, Jenkins said he was planning to take a couple of days to clear his head after flying back to his home in Arizona.

Jenkins said he had no hard feelings toward the Phillies.

"Absolutley not," he said. "What's there to be mad about? I picked a great year to be here. Obviously I wish things had worked out better and I coudl be with them. But I don't regret one minute. I wouldn't change a thing. Being with these guys, going what we went through last year, was tremendous."

The Phillies now have 29 players in the running for the 25-man roster. That 29 includes suspended reliever J.C. Romero, who will miss the first 50 games. The move to release Jenkins, for the moment, gives second baseman Miguel Cairo a spot on the squad, although the Phillies could still add a right-handed bat. Outfielders Wily Mo Pena and Gary Sheffield were both recently released by the Nationals and Tigers, respectively.

Not the slightest bit surprised. I've been saying all along only one of Jenkins or Stairs would be on the roster.

The Sheffield rumor is interesting. They could use him as a power bat off the bench and to spell Ibanez against tough lefties. But I wonder if he'd accept the role?

I tend to think it'll be Cairo, or they'll call Mayberry back.

cougarjake13

03-31-2009, 01:54 PM

sheff is kinda relegated to being a dh full time and occasional spot start now

PigShitIrish

04-01-2009, 10:01 AM

I heard a local reporter on the radio today saying that they are also looking at Andruw Jones.

tbagnu

04-01-2009, 11:17 AM

a'ight..who here is going on sunday and where will your respective asses be parked?..i will be in section 143 and will be there early to tailgate in the linc lot i do believe!!:drunk:

hammersavage

04-05-2009, 04:15 PM

That one land yet?

hammersavage

04-05-2009, 04:26 PM

That one land yet?

weekapaugjz

04-05-2009, 04:27 PM

brett myers for nl cy young!

hammersavage

04-05-2009, 04:30 PM

That one hasn't landed yet.

scottinnj

04-05-2009, 06:49 PM

Kevin

04-05-2009, 06:50 PM

Maybe the Mets shoulda signed Lowe instead of Perez..

Oh yea, Lowe is not Hispanic..

K.C.

04-05-2009, 07:40 PM

When the fuck are they going to learn that if Myers gets more then 1 run behind in the first inning, he's fucked and needs to be taken out.

Did he throw a fastball at the rookie? Then he walked the little prick. OMG-you are a World Series Champion pitcher-act like that and give the kid some chin music to introduce him to the show.

I thought he actually pitched ok after the first two innings. The worst pitch he made to me was the first ball fastball to Francoeur. He looks, and swings for it, almost every at-bat. I don't know if Ruiz or Myers called it, but it was stupid.

Doesn't matter, though...they weren't touching Lowe tonight. He was ridiculous.

On the positive side, I liked what I saw out of the bullpen. And Taschner had a solid inning in his debut.

Marc with a c

04-05-2009, 07:42 PM

I thought he actually pitched ok after the first two innings. The worst pitch he made to me was the first ball fastball to Francoeur. He looks, and swings for it, almost every at-bat. I don't know if Ruiz or Myers called it, but it was stupid.

Doesn't matter, though...they weren't touching Lowe tonight. He was ridiculous.

On the positive side, I liked what I saw out of the bullpen. And Taschner had a solid inning in his debut.

don't try to spin it. time to rebuild.

SP1!

04-05-2009, 08:10 PM

Maybe the Mets shoulda signed Lowe instead of Perez..

Oh yea, Lowe is not Hispanic..

I thought he actually pitched ok after the first two innings. The worst pitch he made to me was the first ball fastball to Francoeur. He looks, and swings for it, almost every at-bat. I don't know if Ruiz or Myers called it, but it was stupid.

Doesn't matter, though...they weren't touching Lowe tonight. He was ridiculous.

On the positive side, I liked what I saw out of the bullpen. And Taschner had a solid inning in his debut.

Yeah lowe was probably the best pitcher to get signed this off season even though others got more press, if we can get just a few quality starts out of the other guys we will be ok.

Oh and francoeur has completely changed his swing and it showed this spring, hes taking more pitches and completely killed with it this spring, he did so good they traded away his backup.

K.C.

04-06-2009, 01:19 PM

don't try to spin it. time to rebuild.

I wonder what kind of prospects they can get for Hamels.

K.C.

04-06-2009, 01:22 PM

Yeah lowe was probably the best pitcher to get signed this off season even though others got more press, if we can get just a few quality starts out of the other guys we will be ok.

Oh and francoeur has completely changed his swing and it showed this spring, hes taking more pitches and completely killed with it this spring, he did so good they traded away his backup.

I think the Braves rotation will be good all year. With them, I don't see the offense.

I'm sure that's the word on Francoeur coming out of this spring, but I'll believe it when I see it for a prolonged period.

Anderson was a decent pick up, but he's part-time at this point in his career...Chipper is still Chipper...McCann rapes the Phillies. I'm not sold on Escobar as a star offensive force (although his defense is sick).

Francoeur's really the key for me, I guess, with that team. If he goes .280, 25-30, 100 RBI, they've got a hell of a shot to win the division. I'd be surprised if he hits those numbers, though. That said, he CAN'T be worse than last year. It's just not possible.

TripleSkeet

04-06-2009, 01:47 PM

The new outside bar at McFaddens is nice.

K.C.

04-06-2009, 06:50 PM

Pre-game ceremony pics (not great quality - iPhone pics)

http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/59256256282b47acac35c3b4311f5397
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/64b8f72ac1ca469d96ff98c6f81e3bf0
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/53e95ce96be742c496cbebbd022ccd96
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/4d16a4ef51a24f35ab363e062637a6b4
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/eec80c0f40524b5b9395e9bec3963566
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/da2f3b7d3d9d4405a170d7094dcb931b
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/0dbee05b5c6b4ce0b3e521f5eb6c9f28
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/11c3c720dc7848d5b8fe898ec5706c4c
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/6c200ccb3aa14ccc9de2f75301448710
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/c935e9415e45444e97c026db0196ef24
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/741b37e43bbc4fbd9303dd361d752670
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/cca7da142adb4544b97485c137161455
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/e15423e62ff0404a823c87b195b926ca
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/e5a298dc5b61461facedc02e9a7c1270
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/22012138a89e408dbfccd0dab7e18079
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/8b8fafdcda48413fa29d0082cee8ed98
http://api.photoshop.com/home_4f97dc8858d44ad8aac392553a9e36ee/adobe-px-assets/8534df6029b242ec8a45e9ffdd676210

Marc with a c

04-06-2009, 06:54 PM

this thread is still open?

K.C.

04-06-2009, 07:08 PM

this thread is still open?

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Earlshog

04-07-2009, 07:01 AM

Thanks for sharing the pics KC... Those are great... Repeat 2009!

TripleSkeet

04-07-2009, 08:04 AM

KC whats was up with the 5-1-09 sign? Any idea what that meant?

Anyone else going to the ring ceremony tomorrow?

K.C.

04-07-2009, 01:10 PM

KC whats was up with the 5-1-09 sign? Any idea what that meant?

Anyone else going to the ring ceremony tomorrow?

No fucking clue.

Do they play the Mets that day or something?

I have tickets tonight. None for tomorrow. Entertaining the idea of trying to get standing room.

scottinnj

04-07-2009, 05:23 PM

No fucking clue.

Do they play the Mets that day or something?

I have tickets tonight. None for tomorrow. Entertaining the idea of trying to get standing room.

Who's next in our rotation?

scottinnj

04-07-2009, 05:26 PM

Do they play the Mets that day or something?

5.1.2009? Yes, that's the Mets. My boss has tix for that night, and I'm going to the Saturday afternoon game the next day. Section 418 I think.

SP1!

04-07-2009, 05:35 PM

I think the Braves rotation will be good all year. With them, I don't see the offense.

I'm sure that's the word on Francoeur coming out of this spring, but I'll believe it when I see it for a prolonged period.

Anderson was a decent pick up, but he's part-time at this point in his career...Chipper is still Chipper...McCann rapes the Phillies. I'm not sold on Escobar as a star offensive force (although his defense is sick).

Francoeur's really the key for me, I guess, with that team. If he goes .280, 25-30, 100 RBI, they've got a hell of a shot to win the division. I'd be surprised if he hits those numbers, though. That said, he CAN'T be worse than last year. It's just not possible.
Well that offense has done well so far and the guys are making good contact as well so its a lot better than they did last year and francoeur looks like a completely different batter up at the plate so far this year, hell hes taking pitches now. Escobar believe it or not was kept up a few years ago because of his offense so I expect that to be a non-issue since he will probably end up one of the best all around SS by the end of the year.

Their pitching looks great this year, as long as their bullpen can hold it together, I just hope they stay off the injured list.

scottinnj

04-07-2009, 05:58 PM

http://aarondelay.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/good_grief.gif

K.C.

04-07-2009, 06:11 PM

http://aarondelay.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/08/good_grief.gif

Ehhhhh....it's a typical Phillies April.

At least you didn't have to watch in 30 degree weather.

hammersavage

04-07-2009, 07:30 PM

Any chance this 81 run pace plays out?

hammersavage

04-08-2009, 12:39 PM

Is Brian McCann officially a Phillie killer?

Earlshog

04-08-2009, 01:44 PM

Is Brian McCann officially a Phillie killer?

Yes!

hammersavage

04-08-2009, 02:02 PM

I guess I'm rooting for this.

K.C.

04-08-2009, 02:11 PM

I guess I'm rooting for this.

You will root for it and you will LIKE it!!!!!

What a comeback!

hammersavage

04-08-2009, 02:12 PM

It's easy when a bunch of retards hand it to you.

God I love that Braves bullpen.

K.C.

04-08-2009, 02:15 PM

It's easy when a bunch of retards hand it to you.

God I love that Braves bullpen.

It's a shame THAT bullpen never shows up when you guys play them.

What, are they like 800-2 vs. the Mets over the last 20 years???

K.C.

04-08-2009, 02:32 PM

K.C.

04-08-2009, 02:36 PM

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2111/2430824380_294e967837.jpg?v=0

KingGeno

04-08-2009, 03:36 PM

What an awesome comeback! So happy to get that first win under the belt, very 2008 Phils with that comeback.

Oh and the rings are huge. I wants one. This season ticket holder glass and 2008 red pennant doesn't satisfy the hunger.

scottinnj

04-08-2009, 03:43 PM

SP1!

04-08-2009, 05:45 PM

Is Brian McCann officially a Phillie killer?
McCann is going to be a bad ass in the coming years, he cant hit anything and will most likely get moved to first base in a year or two.

It's easy when a bunch of retards hand it to you.

God I love that Braves bullpen.
Yeah it needs to gel or it will kill us this year, our starters are going to have to go 8 innings a night to win, fucking amazing.

Still all we need to worry about is the phillies, the mets always seem to blow it.

cougarjake13

04-08-2009, 06:18 PM

McCann is going to be a bad ass in the coming years, he cant hit anything and will most likely get moved to first base in a year or two.

Yeah it needs to gel or it will kill us this year, our starters are going to have to go 8 innings a night to win, fucking amazing.

Still all we need to worry about is the phillies, the mets always seem to blow it.

if memory serves me correctly the mets didnt blow it in 69, 73, 86, 88, 99, 2000, and 06

yeh they didnt win the world series in all those years but they won divisons and wild cards so that kinda blows your always blows it theory out of the water

now i know you'll prob come back with well i meant recently but you didn't put it in your original post so i'm going with the fact that you mean always as in all time

PigShitIrish

04-08-2009, 06:41 PM

Notre Dame's Own:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2111/2430824380_294e967837.jpg?v=0

I was at the game, and that 7th inning is one of the best times I've ever had at a Phillies game in my life! It was only made better that it was me and my dad going batshit together.

K.C.

04-10-2009, 12:16 PM

Whoa...it took me forever to find today's game. Way to update the channel listing, Comcast. It's on CN8.

And it took me even longer to find CN8 HD.

199 on my package.

SP1!

04-11-2009, 08:31 PM

if memory serves me correctly the mets didnt blow it in 69, 73, 86, 88, 99, 2000, and 06

yeh they didnt win the world series in all those years but they won divisons and wild cards so that kinda blows your always blows it theory out of the water

now i know you'll prob come back with well i meant recently but you didn't put it in your original post so i'm going with the fact that you mean always as in all time

No Im going with most times, but especially in recent memory they seem to blow seemingly insurmountable leads in the division.

This is too funny, I was just going to google it but they are second when you type in blown division titles in baseball (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=blown+division+titles+in+baseball&btnG=Google+Search&aq=f&oq=)

Not trying to be huge smartass but you gotta admit that is funny.

Also Hammels looked awful, did they kill him last year? If hes done the phils will have a tough road this year.

K.C.

04-12-2009, 05:37 AM

Also Hammels looked awful, did they kill him last year? If hes done the phils will have a tough road this year.

He didn't pitch most of the Spring, so he's still not quite ready yet. He'll be fine after another start or two.

cougarjake13

04-12-2009, 10:34 AM

No Im going with most times, but especially in recent memory they seem to blow seemingly insurmountable leads in the division.

This is too funny, I was just going to google it but they are second when you type in blown division titles in baseball (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=blown+division+titles+in+baseball&btnG=Google+Search&aq=f&oq=)

Not trying to be huge smartass but you gotta admit that is funny.

Also Hammels looked awful, did they kill him last year? If hes done the phils will have a tough road this year.

its funny but first has to be the cubs or phillies

SP1!

04-12-2009, 07:30 PM

its funny but first has to be the cubs or phillies

Maybe in terms of overall blown leads but nobody chokes like the mets lately, its sad if youre a mets fan but true.

KingGeno

04-13-2009, 09:31 AM

610 reporting that Harry Kalas collapsed at Nationals stadium. No further updates were given, or his status.
Just heard it through the grapevine. Hope it isn't true. Saying a prayer. :/

hammersavage

04-13-2009, 09:32 AM

For all my Phillies hate, I love Harry Kalas. Hope he pulls thru.

KingGeno

04-13-2009, 09:37 AM

Phillies TV man Kalas taken to hospital

<script type="text/javascript">var stobj = SHARETHIS.addEntry({ title:"Phils%20broadcaster%20Kalas%20taken%20to%20 hospital%20in%20D.C.", url:"http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=4064793", published: "2009-04-13" }); stobj.attachButton(document.getElementById("espnst link")); </script>
<cite class="source"> Associated Press
</cite>
WASHINGTON -- Philadelphia Phillies (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/clubhouse?team=phi) president David Montgomery said team broadcaster Harry Kalas has been taken to a hospital after passing out in the broadcast booth before Monday's game at the Washington Nationals (http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/clubhouse?team=was).
Montgomery said he thinks "it's serious."
Kalas, who turned 73 on March 26, was found by the Phillies director of broadcasting at about 12:30 p.m. ET.
The Phillies have closed the visitors' clubhouse at Nationals Park.

:glurps::glurps:

TripleSkeet

04-13-2009, 09:38 AM

That blows.

KingGeno

04-13-2009, 09:55 AM

Phillies beat writer Todd Zolecki reporting Harry Kalas - DEAD

:(

http://twitter.com/tzolecki

Snoogans

04-13-2009, 10:01 AM

Said he died in the booth gettin ready for the game. Thats fuckin sad

epo

04-13-2009, 10:03 AM

Phillies beat writer Todd Zolecki reporting Harry Kalas - DEAD

:(

http://twitter.com/tzolecki

CBS is also reporting it. Thats really too bad, I always like Kalas' voice as an announcer.

KingGeno

04-13-2009, 10:03 AM

Just blows my mind I won't hear 'Outta here!' anymore....... so sad so sad....

drjoek

04-13-2009, 10:04 AM

Said he died in the booth gettin ready for the game. Thats fuckin sad

Actually wouldnt that be the way he'd want to go out?

Loved Harry Kalas what a great voice!!!

hammersavage

04-13-2009, 10:05 AM

The voice of football for me. Awful news.

Freitag

04-13-2009, 10:07 AM

Such a sad story. Harry was a great voice. RIP.

Earlshog

04-13-2009, 10:10 AM

The Phils sent him off right last year... tough league to get a hit in.... A true legend! RIP

04-13-2009, 10:11 AM

Yes.
Harry was a great broadcaster; it's only fitting he was preparing for a game.

RIP Harry.

Marc with a c

04-18-2009, 06:33 PM

finally

K.C.

04-19-2009, 09:26 AM

The Mike Schmidt 500th Home Run call gives me chills every time, but the '93 NL Pennant call is my favorite non-World Series one.

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KingGeno

04-19-2009, 12:37 PM

HUGE win. That Ibanez is fantastic.

Now they have to work on that pitching.......hmm.

K.C.

04-21-2009, 04:16 PM

I'm liking what I'm seeing out of Moyer.

As soon as these starters settle in, this team is off to the races this year.

KingGeno

04-21-2009, 05:22 PM

Yea I agree. Once these guys start getting back in their groove it will be ok. Need J-roll to starting hitting, Myers to stop giving up home runs, etc.

Great game tonight so far. Can't watch it because it got bounced by the Flyers on Comcast, and is on CN8. I'm on Verizon, but the positives outway that negative. But still.... :(

K.C.

04-26-2009, 06:43 AM

This team just doesn't go down easily.

Two late inning comebacks in a row.

K.C.

04-26-2009, 10:35 AM

Tom McCarthy just laid out that if the Phils hold on today, Moyer will be going for win 250 against the Mets next Saturday.

Some added excitement for that series.

K.C.

04-27-2009, 06:16 PM

raul!!!!

hammersavage

04-27-2009, 06:20 PM

A Citizen's Bank special

K.C.

04-27-2009, 06:24 PM

A Citizen's Bank special

The more accurate description would be New Yankee Stadium South.

TripleSkeet

04-27-2009, 07:43 PM

GOD-DAMN that was impressive. Talk about a team you can never count out.

scottinnj

04-27-2009, 08:15 PM

Two grannies in one night for the Phils.

K.C., when did they pull that off last? Or have the Phightins ever done that before?

KingGeno

04-27-2009, 08:17 PM

Two grannies in one night for the Phils.

K.C., when did they pull that off last? Or have the Phightins ever done that before?

Yes they've done it before. Ibanez and Howard became the Fourth duo in Phillies history to hit two slams in a game.

September 9, 2003 - Tomas Perez & Jason Michaels in a rout of the Braves 18-5
Ralph Miller and Lee Meadows were the first on April 28, 1921, followed by Billy McMillon and Mike Lieberthal on Aug. 18, 1997.

Whatta damn game tonight. too many home runs given up though......................

I'll be there Saturday for Jamie Moyer's try for his 250th win and watching those scumbag douche Mets sulk and crybaby.

scottinnj

04-27-2009, 08:25 PM

I'll be there Saturday for Jamie Moyer's try for his 250th win and watching those scumbag douche Mets sulk and crybaby.

So am I! This is gonna be great! Bringing the whole family!

scottinnj

04-28-2009, 04:33 PM

He rolled his left foot all the way over. That's a lot of pain, it's happened to me once. Hopefully he didn't tear anything inside, and it's just sprained.

Knowledged_one

04-28-2009, 04:49 PM

Im glad i spent 6 bucks on utley and howard in my fantasy draft

K.C.

04-28-2009, 06:25 PM

He rolled his left foot all the way over. That's a lot of pain, it's happened to me once. Hopefully he didn't tear anything inside, and it's just sprained.

X-Rays were negative. He's day-to-day but I see a 15-day DL stint in his future.

I was down at the park tonight. Fantastic night for a game. Ibanez is quickly becoming a folk legend down there.

PigShitIrish

04-29-2009, 08:49 AM

I saw Hamels walking down 16th st. today with his wife, and he was limping pretty bad.

KingGeno

04-29-2009, 09:03 AM

I saw Hamels walking down 16th st. today with his wife, and he was limping pretty bad.

He had a nasty ankle turn. Not surprised.

perhaps he needs a nice pair of pump cleats.

http://sneakernews.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/air-jordan-3-white-cement-cleat-02.jpg

K.C.

05-02-2009, 03:26 PM

Sean Green looks oddly familiar to me:

http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/blog/ah.jpg

K.C.

05-05-2009, 06:52 PM

This was Comcast Sportsnet's retrospective they aired on Harry after the week he died.

It's a nice little wrap up...the games are still extremely weird to watch without him.

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K.C.

05-12-2009, 03:35 PM

Holy shit, I can't believe I found this on Youtube.

Memories of my youth!

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K.C.

05-12-2009, 05:34 PM

Werth stole home! Werth stole home!!!
:clap::clap::clap::clap:

hammersavage

05-13-2009, 04:13 PM

Is the old man done? He seems to be getting hit really hard.

TheMojoPin

05-13-2009, 06:51 PM

Is the old man done? He seems to be getting hit really hard.

Yeah, someone needs to put the Swami down.

Yes, I know who you're actually talking about.

K.C.

05-19-2009, 04:02 PM

Hey, whaddaya know, the Phils backed into first place last night.

And now Kid Cole is putting on a clinic. The Phils had the worst pitching in baseball the first month and a half...the rest of the NL East missed a golden chance to bury them.

It only gets better from here on out.

TheMojoPin

05-19-2009, 04:05 PM

OK, Juicebox McHomerunville.

K.C.

05-19-2009, 04:08 PM

OK, Juicebox McHomerunville.

How's Milton Bradley working out?

I've been too blinded by Raul Ibanez's 162 RBI pace to notice inferior free agent signings.

TheMojoPin

05-19-2009, 04:11 PM

Hey, I'm not the lunatic making ridiculous proclamations about a team in May despite some really ridiculously obvious flaws. You and epo should start a club.

TheGameHHH

05-19-2009, 04:15 PM

tonight is my first night as a cole hamels owner, so go sillies!!!

and f Jay Bruce

K.C.

05-19-2009, 04:16 PM

Hey, I'm not the lunatic making ridiculous proclamations about a team in May despite some really ridiculously obvious flaws. You and epo should start a club.

Well, all I said was the NL East wasted a golden opportunity to bury the Phils when they were statistically the worst pitching team in baseball.

Even if their pitching is mediocre the rest of the year, it's not going to be THIS bad.

The fact that they're in first place right now despite that...I'd say that's pretty significant at this point.

Obviously, Hamels' shoulder could explode with his next pitch and change some things around, but they're in extremely good shape to not be chasing a 4-5 game lead right now.

K.C.

05-19-2009, 04:18 PM

tonight is my first night as a cole hamels owner, so go sillies!!!

and f Jay Bruce

He's thrown a lot of pitches. This has no-decision written all over it tonight if Cueto keeps dealing.

TheMojoPin

05-19-2009, 04:23 PM

Well, all I said was the NL East wasted a golden opportunity to bury the Phils when they were statistically the worst pitching team in baseball.

Even if their pitching is mediocre the rest of the year, it's not going to be THIS bad.

The fact that they're in first place right now despite that...I'd say that's pretty significant at this point.

Obviously, Hamels' shoulder could explode with his next pitch and change some things around, but they're in extremely good shape to not be chasing a 4-5 game lead right now.

I don't think it was realistic to think anyone could have "buried" the Phillies at any point given their offense.

TheGameHHH

05-19-2009, 04:27 PM

He's thrown a lot of pitches. This has no-decision written all over it tonight if Cueto keeps dealing.

two very talented pitchers no doubt. as long as the stats are there i dont care about the decision all too much, ill get him again on sunday so maybe i can get a W there.

Bossanova

05-24-2009, 05:08 PM

All of you can still go fuck yourselves. Brad Lidge looks awesome this year. I know my team sucks cock, but you faggots are not winning the east

K.C.

05-24-2009, 05:51 PM

All of you can still go fuck yourselves. Brad Lidge looks awesome this year. I know my team sucks cock, but you faggots are not winning the east

http://csnphilly.com/images/23278.jpg

hammersavage

05-24-2009, 05:52 PM

http://csnphilly.com/images/23278.jpg

There has to be a photoshop with a cock in that first pic.

Bossanova

05-24-2009, 05:54 PM

You forget that I am an Eagle fan, so the Met collapses don't surprise or hurt me. Keep posting pics and enjoy your paper championship.

Bossanova

05-24-2009, 05:54 PM

There has to be a photoshop with a cock in that first pic.

Im sure KC just cut a hole out in his mouth so he can fuck it every night

K.C.

05-26-2009, 06:43 PM

Lidge looked much better tonight.

The prevailing wisdom around the league about him right now is that he's had god awful pitch selection.

There's a degree of truth to that. In both Yankees games this past week, when he chose to throw his fastball was just abysmal. You start with the fastball early in the count, and close hitters out with the slider.

He was starting with the slider, and using his fastball as the out, as if he was trying to surprise hitters by thinking they were sitting on the slider.

Lidge also needs to establish the inside corner with his fastball to set up the slider low and away, yet he's been throwing the fastball middle in and high, or aiming at the black on the outside corner.

So the short of it is he's just not showing good psychology.

Now, I do think he's lost a little off his slider from last year. It's still very good, but last year, it was flat out sickening.

He'll get straightened out.

Other than that, Champs are looking good. Big Joe Blanton finally putting it all together tonight is a good sign.

You've now had a turn through the rotation where Myers, Happ, Hamels, and Blanton have all pitched excellent.

Even Moyer wasn't atrocious last time out, although he's the weak link at this point.

skyscraper

05-27-2009, 09:01 AM

K.C.

05-27-2009, 01:23 PM

Moyer is done for the year. I doubt he'll make it to the trading deadline (which is also my birthday!) or even the all-star break.
what do you guys think: trade mayberry for Jason Marquis? I think they are definitely showcasing Mayberry for this kind of trade. they said they'd keep him on the bench for now instead of sending him back down.

I don't believe Moyer is done. He's got mechanical problems with his arm slot and it's affecting his location.

His stuff and his psychology still looks the same as it's always been to me. He's just getting too much of the plate.

You could argue, that psychologically, he's having the mechanical problems because he's trying to pitch too fine because he doesn't trust his stuff anymore, but he's never came across as a guy bothered by that.

I don't like Marquis. And really, I'm not ready to trade Mayberry yet.

The only guy I'd move on right now if he was available was Oswalt.