2009 Season - Defending WS Champion Philadelphia Phillies Thread

[hammersavage]

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.

So your pitching problems, Lidge and Moyer, are psychological? And Oswalt would be a much better fit.

[Earlshog]

This dosent sound good

The Philadelphia Daily News reports that Phillies starter Brett Myers is likely to require surgery that would sideline him for three to four months. The Phillies are awaiting a prognosis from hip specialist Bryan Kelly, but the expectation is that he will need to undergo surgery to repair a torn labrum.

[hammersavage]

Wow, this is the in injury huh? Everyone is getting it.

[K.C.]

I really hope the Phillies don't make a panic move and trade for a shitty pitcher immediately.

Call up KK or Bastardo, and give them four or five starts to see what they have.

One intriguing scenario I heard would be trading Lou Marson to the Red Sox for Clay Buchholz.

That's possibly a win-win for both teams. The Sox finally get their replacement for Varitek (the damage to the Phils is minimal, since Ruiz is locked in for three years of arbitration), and the Phils get a prime pitching prospect who's MLB ready (the damage to the Sox is minimal since they have a surplus of starters).

[scottinnj]

That kid for the Padres had a pretty good MLB debut 1rst inning. Gloucester Twp. NJ kid gone to the big show.
Now SHUT 'EM DOWN JOE!

[K.C.]

Good lord, Tony Gwynn Sr. is a fat bastard these days.

[scottinnj]

Uh-oh...and just like that we're only up by one.

[TripleSkeet]

They are really groovin now. Loved that push off the bag by Jimmy Rollins. Just awesome.

Tomorrow we see the debut of the pitcher with the greatest name in baseball.

[skyscraper]

Good lord, Tony Gwynn Sr. is a fat bastard these days.

you knew this was coming but.....http://http://www.homegameroom.com/catalog/cardboard/pics/SU-439.jpg
"throew me the ball and get into my belly!"

[K.C.]

Wild first, but Bastardo has a good fastball. Hit 95 MPH consistently on the gun.

[scottinnj]

Yeah, I'd like a little more control with the fastball, particularly to keep the HBP stats as low as possible, but I'm liking what I'm seeing.

What now, top of the third, he's got 3ks already?

[scottinnj]

4 Ks? ARE YOU SERIOUS?:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:

[K.C.]

Rauuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuullllllllllllll!!!

[scottinnj]

If they don't totally screw up it's gonna be nice to see Antonio Bastardo get a win for his first MLB appearance.

[scottinnj]

Rauuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuullllllllllllll!!!

X2

[K.C.]

Anyone have any interest in Glavine? Can't say I do, but he's supposedly furious at the Braves and desperately wants to pitch for the Phils to turn the screws on the Braves' chances this year.

Maybe in a different year, but I'd rather stick with Bastardo.

[KingGeno]

I saw Glavine and possibly Padilla. No on Glavine, too much risk. Padilla I guess we'll see.

Padilla's Flotilla was it?

[K.C.]

I saw Glavine and possibly Padilla. No on Glavine, too much risk. Padilla I guess we'll see.

Padilla's Flotilla was it?

I can't stand Padilla...I want no part of him.

He's a right handed Oliver Perez only worse.

[Pestz4Evah]

Cole Hamels is a bad, bad man.

[skyscraper]

Anyone have any interest in Glavine? Can't say I do, but he's supposedly furious at the Braves and desperately wants to pitch for the Phils to turn the screws on the Braves' chances this year.

Maybe in a different year, but I'd rather stick with Bastardo.

remember, he completely shit the bed on the last day of the season in 2007, gave up 7 runs to the braves, paving the way for our heroes to win the division. (I was at that phillies game, listening to the mets/braves on my xm inno, giving my section periodic updates before they had it on the scoreboard.)
no, time for glavine to hang it up.

[TripleSkeet]

remember, he completely shit the bed on the last day of the season in 2007, gave up 7 runs to the braves, paving the way for our heroes to win the division. (I was at that phillies game, listening to the mets/braves on my xm inno, giving my section periodic updates before they had it on the scoreboard.)
no, time for glavine to hang it up.

Im pretty sure the last game of the 2007 season the Mets played the Marlins, not the Braves. I could be wrong though, Im too lazy to check.

[hammersavage]

Im pretty sure the last game of the 2007 season the Mets played the Marlins, not the Braves. I could be wrong though, Im too lazy to check.

Correct

[cougarjake13]

last 2 yrs mets finished up vs the marlins

[Pestz4Evah]

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/.a/6a00d8341c630a53ef011570c7e07a970b-450wi

[Earlshog]

I saw Glavine and possibly Padilla. No on Glavine, too much risk. Padilla I guess we'll see.

Padilla's Flotilla was it?

Why is Glavine a risk? You get him for nothing. If he can suck up some innings great, if he gets hurt again or blows you can just cut his ass.

[PerryWinkle]

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/.a/6a00d8341c630a53ef011570c7e07a970b-450wi

that picture kind of looks...gay

Are they having a lemon party?

[hammersavage]

I guess Lidge sold his soul for only one season as a competent closer.

[Earlshog]

Thats about enough... Time for Madson to start closing some games

[K.C.]

Chan Ho's in....game over.

Man, I'm jonesing to get to the park, but I only have like one game for all of June this year.

I'm hitting up New Yankee Stadium for Yanks/Mets next week. Not sure whether to just pull for the Yankees, or to be 'that guy' who wears that shirt of a team that's not even playing there.

[K.C.]

The thing that's annoying is they should be putting the finishing touches on a sweep right now.

Those two losses this weekend were brutal.

[skyscraper]

Those two losses this weekend were brutal.

...and avoidable.

[KingGeno]

...and avoidable.

10 stranded runners didn't help....

[cougarjake13]

Chan Ho's in....game over.

Man, I'm jonesing to get to the park, but I only have like one game for all of June this year.

I'm hitting up New Yankee Stadium for Yanks/Mets next week. Not sure whether to just pull for the Yankees, or to be 'that guy' who wears that shirt of a team that's not even playing there.



http://thecriticalcritics.com/review/wp-content/images/top10/college/pcu.jpg

[KingGeno]

http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/phillies_zone/Lidge_to_DL.html

Brad Lidge sent to 15 day DL with Sprained Knee

Bout time. Been angry about this for weeks since they revealed that her had a knee injury and was wearing medical lifts on that shoe. Really angers me that we could still be on a winning streak.

[hammersavage]

http://www.philly.com/philly/blogs/phillies_zone/Lidge_to_DL.html

Brad Lidge sent to 15 day DL with Sprained Knee

Bout time. Been angry about this for weeks since they revealed that her had a knee injury and was wearing medical lifts on that shoe. Really angers me that we could still be on a winning streak.


Couldn't have waited to do this til Thursday? I was counting on that for one win. Now, I'm not so sure.

[KingGeno]

Couldn't have waited to do this til Thursday? I was counting on that for one win. Now, I'm not so sure.

A World Series winning closer makes decisions when it is necessary for the team to win. It is a smart move on his part.

World Series Winners are smart.

[K.C.]

Let's do this thing.

[KingGeno]

Look at all them Mets fans in the st................. oh wait, half the stadium is empty. Not surprised.

[hammersavage]

Look at all them Mets fans in the st................. oh wait, half the stadium is empty. Not surprised.

Seemed like plenty of them fighting over that homerun Wright just hit.

[KingGeno]

Seemed like plenty of them fighting over that homerun Wright just hit.

Of course they are. Few and far between.

[hammersavage]

Lot of people grabbing for that one too. :wallbash::wallbash::wallbash:

[KingGeno]

Lali Ho!


Phillies/Mets games either make me very angry or very happy. Up and down so far.

[K.C.]

Happ needs to keep his pitches down.

That Howard shot was a BOMB!

[hammersavage]

Happ needs to keep his pitches down.

That Howard shot was a BOMB!

That might be the farthest in the stadium's short history. He also hit a blast last series though, same spot.

[K.C.]

That might be the farthest in the stadium's short history. He also hit a blast last series though, same spot.

It really is every bit as favorable a stadium to pitchers as some of these bandboxes are to hitters.

Even the Beltran shot was crushed, but I think it ended up two rows deep in left center.

That ball is 15 deep in a lot of stadiums.

[hammersavage]

It really is every bit as favorable a stadium to pitchers as some of these bandboxes are to hitters.

Even the Beltran shot was crushed, but I think it ended up two rows deep in left center.

That ball is 15 deep in a lot of stadiums.

David Wright has 4 home runs this year. I think they had 36 as a team entering today. The injuries haven't helped but it sure is a big ballpark. Smart when you have Jose Reyes healthy, not so smart when he isn't.

[KingGeno]

David Wright has 4 home runs this year. I think they had 36 as a team entering today. The injuries haven't helped but it sure is a big ballpark. Smart when you have Jose Reyes healthy, not so smart when he isn't.

I wanna get up to Citi Field for a game soon. Your ballfield looks REAL nice.

[hammersavage]

I wanna get up to Citi Field for a game soon. Your ballfield looks REAL nice.

Great seats available! haha


It's beautiful, just don't sit in the upper deck in fair territory. Can't see the fence beneath you which is a disaster. Great food, very beautiful. Light years better than the last shit hole, but don't you ever disparage it.

I'll be there tomorrow.

[K.C.]

Rauuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuulll llllll!!!!!!!

Somebody get this man a gold glove!

[KingGeno]

Sheffield looks like he ate a bucket of lead for breakfast.

[hammersavage]

I think he'd be on the DL any other season. His hammy is killing him. But they are so thin he really can't.

[KingGeno]

j-roll!!!!!!!!!

[K.C.]

MVP delivers!!! What a comeback!
:drunk:

[hammersavage]

Now THAT should have been gone.

This game hurts.

And how long can you call him MVP? Forever?

[K.C.]

And how long can you call him MVP? Forever?

At least until Raul wins it this year.

[hammersavage]

Its so true I want to slit my wrists.

[K.C.]

Howard to Ruiz!!!

Defense wins championship! Defense wins championships!


...what sport is this again...
:tongue:

[hammersavage]

Wish we could review that. Even I saw that

[K.C.]

A hell of a play by Johan. There's very few pitchers that can do that nowadays.

[hammersavage]

Johan is just great all around. Reasonable pitch count to go 8. If he can get the outs, of course.

I really don't think the dropoff between Reyes and Cora is that big. Can't steal like him but he's a goddamn professional hitter who plays good D. I love him

[KingGeno]

Phillies are playing some garbage thug music on teh rejoiner, and they let "shit" slip by.

[hammersavage]

Much like the curse fest that the parade day was. Don't you people adhere to the FCC?

[KingGeno]

Much like the curse fest that the parade day was. Don't you people adhere to the FCC?

World Series Winners are allowed to bend the rules from time to time.

[hammersavage]

World Series Winners are allowed to bend the rules from time to time.

I think Strawberry used the term 'cuntwagon' on PIX in '87. You may be right.

[KingGeno]

There is a chick sitting up and to the right of the batter's box (Wearing a bright gree shirt) that looks like HTG.

[K.C.]

http://www.wearyourbeer.com/images/Goonies_Never_Say_Die_Black_Babydoll.jpg

[hammersavage]

This game is giving me cancer. Coors east!

[K.C.]

How ballsy is Jerry Manuel...Santana points the ball at him and you can read on his lips that he's saying "I want this ball" and Jerry takes him out.

God help him if the Mets blow it in the 'pen.

[KingGeno]

First pitch. Whore.

[hammersavage]

How ballsy is Jerry Manuel...Santana points the ball at him and you can read on his lips that he's saying "I want this ball" and Jerry takes him out.

God help him if the Mets blow it in the 'pen.

Its off him now.

[K.C.]

First pitch. Whore.

Especiallly against Feliciano who throws him nothing but sliders.

[K.C.]

Its off him now.

Yeah, whatever K-Rod does, it's not on Jerry.

[KingGeno]

Antacid in hand

[hammersavage]

This feels bad.

[hammersavage]

Great slide JRoll.

[KingGeno]

Should have had a lawn chair out there for Dobbs. Way to not swing, cheezdick

[hammersavage]

Fantastic game fellas. Good talking. Mets got the one they should have.

[K.C.]

Fuck...I'd be more pissed, but that was actually fantastic game.

Wasted opportunity for the Phils, but they played a good game. Pitching just didn't hold up.

[hammersavage]

Maybe if I post in here I'll hippo jinx

[KingGeno]

Maybe if I post in here I'll hippo jinx

It worked! :clap:

[hammersavage]

It worked! :clap:

And inning later. I don't count it. These games have a great atmosphere. it's taking years off my life, but great none the less

[KingGeno]

And inning later. I don't count it. These games have a great atmosphere. it's taking years off my life, but great none the less

My heart was pounding out of my chest. No other rivalry does that for me. Well maybe the Eagles Giants, but mostly this nowdays.

[hammersavage]

And we are pretty much the first generation to go thru this. They've only both finished with a winning record 8 times and 4 have been in the last 4 years. The Braves in the late 90's was intense but didn't have the proximity. This gets bigger every year.

[TripleSkeet]

I agree, I love this rivalry.

You can tell its a real one too. These 2 teams arent fond of each other. In my opinion that makes a rivalry truly great.

[cougarjake13]

I agree, I love this rivalry.

You can tell its a real one too. These 2 teams arent fond of each other. In my opinion that makes a rivalry truly great.




and theres a bunch of guys on both teams around the same age so we've got this for at least another 5+ years

[KingGeno]

and theres a bunch of guys on both teams around the same age so we've got this for at least another 5+ years

That is a really good point.

I need to start doing more cardio to strengthen my heart.

[K.C.]

He's a god, I tell ye!!!!

A god!!!!

Rauuuuuuuuuuuulllll!!!!

[KingGeno]

That guy is a nut. So awesome ><

[PigShitIrish]

Beating them in extra innings has to hurt their psyche a lot more than if they would have been blown out two games in a row.

[TripleSkeet]

Just got a free ticket to the game today. Nice.

[spoon]

If anyone still wonders why I can't hate the Phils, just think about this much needed series for the Jays and 1993!

On a less dicky point, I loved the new stadium as I took in the 8-3 10 inning game on Tuesday. We sat right behind the Jay's dugout and heckled my own team the whole fucking game. Oh man did I lay into Nick Leyva and Alex Rios on that terrible display of baserunning and the whole fucking team batting with the bases juiced like Ibanez.

[spoon]

Wow.

Say what you want, but Philly fans are just fucking hilarious!

Bravo Philly fans, bravo!

Santan's page on baseball ref sponsored by... (http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/santajo02.shtml)

:lol::lol::lol::lol:

[K.C.]

I want to vent a little.

Ryan Howard basically has swine flu, walk out of the hospital, onto the field and hits a pinch hit go ahead home run in the 8th.

This is Roy Hobbs Natural shit...

And then stupid Madson gives up a home run to fucking B-ROB...are you kidding me????????

[hammersavage]

Any of you guys have season tickets that don't want to go on July 3rd? I'll buy them.

[hammersavage]

well I got tickets. I hope I don't get beat up, but when you are up 14-1 I don't think I'll be cheering that loud.

[TripleSkeet]

well I got tickets. I hope I don't get beat up, but when you are up 14-1 I don't think I'll be cheering that loud.

Its not like an Eagles game. As long as youre not obnoxious and being an asshole you wont have anything to worry about.

[hammersavage]

Its not like an Eagles game. As long as youre not obnoxious and being an asshole you wont have anything to worry about.

See, that's the thing.....


Nah, I've been a few times. I know its fine

[cougarjake13]

Its not like an Eagles game. As long as youre not obnoxious and being an asshole you wont have anything to worry about.

cant say much about the new stadium but i never had any problems at the vet during mets-phillies games, went to about 20 over the years

[K.C.]

well I got tickets. I hope I don't get beat up, but when you are up 14-1 I don't think I'll be cheering that loud.

You'll be fine.

Winning last season took away quite bit of the angriness that used to permeate throughout the stands.

I've only seen a couple ejections during Phils/Mets games this year. It used to be in the dozens on a nightly basis.

[Mattt1120]

When the fuck is raul coming back im so worried we suck right now
Hamels isnt pitching real well

We need a good starter perhaps a John Garland, or Cliff Lee

[hammersavage]

it had been a few years, but i forgot how nice your park is. Citi Field is very much in the same vein. some taunting but nothing too far.


one young lad had the brilliant quote of 'last year was just another example of God showing it was ok to be a Phillie fan' to which I replied 'name another example in your lifetime'. he stammered.

[hammersavage]

Does Pedro put you out of the Halladay race? If so, fantastic move.

[hexy68]

Does Pedro put you out of the Halladay race? If so, fantastic move.

Halladay wouldn't pitch here anyway..but Pedro???????? You MUST be kidding me...the Mets don't even want him! :thumbdown:

[hammersavage]

Halladay wouldn't pitch here anyway..but Pedro???????? You MUST be kidding me...the Mets don't even want him! :thumbdown:

well you just signed him for $4 million, pro rated obviously.

[K.C.]

Does Pedro put you out of the Halladay race? If so, fantastic move.

No.

If anything it means they're more in it, because now they can trade Happ without creating another hole in the rotation.


And I like this move a lot. Pedro reportedly was hitting 88-91 on the gun. They'll get him for about 12 starts. If he has that fastball they're reporting, he'll be a huge help.

At the very least, he'll be better than Rodrigo Lopez, but I have a suspicion he'll be pretty sharp down the stretch.

[hammersavage]

No.

If anything it means they're more in it, because now they can trade Happ without creating another hole in the rotation.


And I like this move a lot. Pedro reportedly was hitting 88-91 on the gun. They'll get him for about 12 starts. If he has that fastball they're reporting, he'll be a huge help.

At the very least, he'll be better than Rodrigo Lopez, but I have a suspicion he'll be pretty sharp down the stretch.

Good stuff, thanks. I love the guy but I can't root for him now. But I won't root against him

[K.C.]

Glad they found a practical use for Chan Ho Park

http://www.csnphilly.com/images/42652.jpg

[TheMojoPin]

The word now is that if the Jays trade Halladay they want whoever wants him to take Wells and his mess of a contract, too. That really limits the teams that can do that. If the Jays are adamant about moving him to the NL I figure it comes down to the Mets, Dodgers or Phillies.

[hammersavage]

The word now is that if the Jays trade Halladay they want whoever wants him to take Wells and his mess of a contract, too. That really limits the teams that can do that. If the Jays are adamant about moving him to the NL I figure it comes down to the Mets, Dodgers or Phillies.

it won't be the Mets

[K.C.]

The word now is that if the Jays trade Halladay they want whoever wants him to take Wells and his mess of a contract, too. That really limits the teams that can do that. If the Jays are adamant about moving him to the NL I figure it comes down to the Mets, Dodgers or Phillies.

Neither of those three teams would take Wells. Phillies and Dodgers can't afford him...it's debatable whether the Mets could.

If Wells is a must, then he's either going to the Yanks or Sox.

[TheMojoPin]

Neither of those three teams would take Wells. Phillies and Dodgers can't afford him...it's debatable whether the Mets could.

If Wells is a must, then he's either going to the Yanks or Sox.

Eh, if they have no option to trade him except in the AL, I could see the Angels being the only team able to take Wells' contract and that the Jays would be willing to Halladay trade to them. No way they trade him to the Sox or Yanks unless they absolutely had to, and they don't at this point.

At this point I think the most likely option is that they hold on to him.

[K.C.]

Eh, if they have no option to trade him except in the AL, I could see the Angels being the only team able to take Wells' contract and that the Jays would be willing to Halladay trade to them. No way they trade him to the Sox or Yanks unless they absolutely had to, and they don't at this point.

At this point I think the most likely option is that they hold on to him.

I agree that I don't think he gets traded...I thought this has been blown out of proportion all along. Danny Knoebler of CBS Sportsline started this whole thing with a quote from Ricciardi saying they would listen to offers...

Of course Ricciardi would say that...they'd be stupid not to...but it is absolutely no indication of him being moved, yet the media ran with it because it's something to talk about.

Personally, I think Ricciardi is likely to be fired this offseason., unless the Jays make a miracle comeback. So with that a factor, he can't trade Halladay for anything short of a package so rich that it's painfully obvious to everyone the Jays win the deal running away or else Ricciardi is essentially signing his own pink slip.

And what they reportedly are asking corroborates this line of thinking. In a LA Times artcle today, they reportedly told the Angels they want Jered Weaver, Howie Kendrick, Brandon Wood, and a top pitching prospect.

No one in their right mind would give up that much.

The only other type of deal that would possibly save Ricciardi is if he could dump Wells. I'm not sure about the Angels' flexibility...the Yanks and the Sox could do it. No one in the NL could afford it right now.

[TripleSkeet]

well you just signed him for $4 million, pro rated obviously.

Actually they didnt. They are still negotiating. I dont see the Phils paying him 4 million. And if they do Im betting its incentive laden.

I think hes done. His arm is shit. But the Phils were never interested in trading for a big named pitcher like Halladay or Peavy. Theyve said that from the beginning. They dont want their payroll going up that much. I wouldve preferred a Bedard or something similar. I dont think Pedro is going to be much help. I dont even think he would play for at least 3 weeks.

[hammersavage]

Actually they didnt. They are still negotiating.

They did according to Candela Deportiva (http://candeladeportiva.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1881:exclusiva-pedro-firma-con-los-filis-por-4-millones&catid=19:grandes-ligas&Itemid=68) And there is NO more reliable source than Candela Deportiva

[KingGeno]

Chris Coste to the Astros. Ibanez back, and five Phillies deservedly going to the All Star game. Feels pretty great thier whole outfield will be there.

[TripleSkeet]

How you like that motherfucking 9th inning????

[MC Pee Pants]

How you like that motherfucking 9th inning????

Language.

[K.C.]

Language.

How you like that motherfucking 9th inning, good sirs!

[K.C.]

9-1 homestand....10 games over at the break....

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[KingGeno]

How you like that motherfucking 9th inning, good sirs!

I was at the game last night. That was the best. Love Phillies summer baseball and big come backs like that.

Really happy how the team is doing now, and hope they keep the homestand turn around goin.

[K.C.]

Pedro signed...should be announced today.

[skyscraper]

Pedro signed...should be announced today.

meh. this will not be the solution to the pitching problems. not a bad stopgap, if he's been as good in the D.R. as reports say he has, but it's no long-term solution.
now roy halladay, he could be a big problem solver. I would trade major prospects for him. I figure, by the time most of our prospects are ready to be major leaguers, most of our core will be past their prime and the window will be shutting. so we should focus on this season and the next one or two in terms of being serious about winning the world series again.

[KingGeno]

Pedro will help if we end up trading Happ and prospects for Halladay.

[Marc with a c]

makes me sick pedro is a phillie, he's my favorite pitcher ever and know i have to see this nonsense.

if he's healthy he'll be good, probably mildly inconsistent, byt good overall. no god damn good reason the mets didn't give him a shot.

[hammersavage]

makes me sick pedro is a phillie, he's my favorite pitcher ever and know i have to see this nonsense.

if he's healthy he'll be good, probably mildly inconsistent, byt good overall. no god damn good reason the mets didn't give him a shot.

What about Ugueth Urbina? Let's see you talk about him.

[K.C.]

3-1 with a 2.57 ERA and 32 Ks in 28 inning in five starts when he came back for the Mets in September 2007 (probably the last time he was completely healthy).

If he can go 4-2, 5-2 in 12 starts with an ERA around 4, in 12 starts, it'll be completely worth it.

They said he was throwing between 88-91, which is better speed than he showed when we last saw him with the Mets in 2008.

And it's been my experience that when Pedro has had a fastball around 90-91 MPH in the last few years, that's when he's been most effective.

He could always get hurt, which no one can control, but I think the guy definitely has motivation, and he SEEMS to have the stuff he needs to be effective, based on reports.

We'll see.

Right now, I'd take 4-2 with like a 4.10 ERA and call it a success.

[K.C.]

http://media.philly.com/images/7152009_pedro3_600.jpg

[KingGeno]

That was a fun press conference. Didn't know he was such a character.

[PD]

That was a fun press conference. Didn't know he was such a character.

really?
the guy who used to travel with a midget?

he's a notorious character (and generally a good guy)

[TripleSkeet]

Pedro will help if we end up trading Happ and prospects for Halladay.

Id give up anyone but Drabek. But I have a feeling they will be trying to dump Vernon Wells on whoever takes Halladay. His contract is fucking pathetic. Plus word has it the Blue Jays arent even taking any offers until the final day of the trade deadline. THEN he has to waive his no trade clause.

I have a feeling he will go to Anaheim. They have a pitchers park, and lose a shitload of salary next year when Vlad and Abreau come off the books so they can afford that dead weight Wells.

[K.C.]

-eight up on ATL in the loss column
-nine up on FLA in the loss column
-ten up on NYM in the loss column

One more good week could really cement the possibility of running away with this thing over the final two months.

The only thing that even remotely concerns me right now is Lidge. I might think about adding a bullpen arm and getting rid of Durbin by the deadline.

Hamels showed signs of regaining his good form last start...everyone else has been pitching well lately.

Happ has been ridiculous.

If they could find a right-handed bench bat so they can send Mayberry down to get him some regular work in Triple-A, that'd be a good move too.

[K.C.]

Tonight: 7:05 PM ET

Philadelphia Phillies vs. Bankrupt Laughing Stock Of Baseball

[epo]

Id give up anyone but Drabek. But I have a feeling they will be trying to dump Vernon Wells on whoever takes Halladay. His contract is fucking pathetic. Plus word has it the Blue Jays arent even taking any offers until the final day of the trade deadline. THEN he has to waive his no trade clause.

I have a feeling he will go to Anaheim. They have a pitchers park, and lose a shitload of salary next year when Vlad and Abreau come off the books so they can afford that dead weight Wells.

Toronto seems to be doing a very good job of trying to get capital p PAID on Halladay, as well they should. They'll play the teams against each other to get great compensation...so if you want Halladay, you'll likely give up Drabek +.

[TheMojoPin]

Tonight: 7:05 PM ET

Philadelphia Phillies vs. Bankrupt Laughing Stock Of Baseball

Now I know never to go to you for financial advice.

[K.C.]

Now I know never to go to you for financial advice.

Chicago Cubs Bankruptcy Looms as Way to Finish Sale by Tribune
Share | Email | Print | A A A

By Greg Bensinger and Gadi Dechter

July 13 (Bloomberg) -- The Chicago Cubs may become the first Major League Baseball team in 39 years to file for bankruptcy as Tribune Co. seeks to sell the franchise after months of negotiations.

Tribune sought Chapter 11 protection in December. It is contemplating a separate filing for the Cubs to expedite the team’s estimated $900 million sale to interested bidders, including Incapital LLC Chairman Tom Ricketts, according to four people familiar with the plan.

A brief Cubs bankruptcy would be a legal maneuver to clear the team from any future liability in the Tribune bankruptcy, according to two of the people familiar with the matter. Sam Zell, chief executive officer of Chicago-based Tribune, pledged the company’s interest in the Cubs as collateral when he negotiated the deal to take the publisher private in 2007, according to one of those people.

“You take it in the front door, and it’s just like you’re getting radiation,” said Michael J. Cramer, a former president of the Texas Rangers who teaches sports business at New York University. “It comes out the other door about a half minute later. It’s clean.”

Richard Levin, a spokesman for Major League Baseball, and Ricketts through a spokesman, Dennis Culloton, both declined to comment. “The company doesn’t comment on any potential transactions,” Gary Weitman, a Tribune spokesman, said in an interview yesterday.

The Cubs weren’t a part of Tribune’s bankruptcy filing. The people familiar with the matter said it remained possible the sale would close without the team filing as well.

Millions of Fans

While Denise Brown, a Tribune spokeswoman, said the company doesn’t disclose the finances of individual units, the club is one of the most popular franchises in baseball. It drew more than 3 million spectators to 95-year-old Wrigley Field in each of the past five seasons.

Sale of the Cubs is subject to approval by Major League Baseball. The move could guarantee that the Cubs are sold free and clear of Tribune’s creditors, Cramer said.

“This would make sense for Major League Baseball,” he said. “They would like to see that asset be stand-alone, very clean, not tied up in other issues.”

People familiar with the negotiations said a Cubs bankruptcy filing would be designed to allow for the fast disposition of the team’s assets. It could be accompanied by a motion to sell the team with an agreed-upon bidder. The entire process could take as little as 20 days, said Gregory A. Cross, the attorney who heads the bankruptcy practice at Washington- based Venable LLP and isn’t involved.

Coyote Ugly

Not all bankruptcy sales move as fast. The National Hockey League’s Phoenix Coyotes filed a Chapter 11 case in May with plans for a quick transaction, only to have it descend into a legal fight about whether the team may be sold and moved without the league’s consent.

While no buyer is likely to try to move the Cubs out of Chicago, a speedy sale would be derailed if a Cubs auction ended with a winner that baseball’s other owners refused to accept, Thomas J. Salerno, the Coyotes’ bankruptcy attorney, said in an interview.

Tribune’s creditors, which are owed $13 billion, would have the right to object because of their claim to the company’s assets. Lawyers for the creditors committee didn’t return phone calls. James Conlan, the lawyer leading Tribune’s bankruptcy, didn’t return phone calls or respond to an e-mail message.

A bankruptcy filing for the 133-year-old team could be the final twist in Tribune’s attempt to sell one of baseball’s trophy properties.

Bankrupt Franchise

The last Major League Baseball bankruptcy occurred in March 1970 when the Seattle Pilots went broke, said Jim Gates, librarian at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. The Pilots were bailed out by Bud Selig, the current MLB commissioner, and became the Milwaukee Brewers.

Bankruptcy touched another MLB team in 1993, when the Baltimore Orioles were sold for a then-record $173 million in a court auction brought on by owner Eli Jacobs’s personal bankruptcy filing.

A bankruptcy filing by the Cubs wouldn’t indicate that it’s having trouble paying bills, Cross said.

“You do not have to be insolvent to be in bankruptcy,” he said. “All you need is a legitimate business reason.”

Section 363 of the federal bankruptcy code allows a company to sell assets “free and clear” of a lender’s lien and without the creditors’ consent under certain circumstances, he said.

Tribune reported $13 billion in debt and $7.6 billion in assets when it filed for bankruptcy.

Ricketts Deal Possible

Tribune reached a $900 million agreement with the Ricketts family last week for the Cubs and Wrigley Field, a person familiar with the negotiations said at the time.

After predicting a sale as early as January, Zell said in a May 28 interview on Bloomberg Television that the Cubs deal was taking longer than expected because the potential buyer was having trouble raising the money in tight credit markets.

Tribune bought the team in 1981 from the Wrigley family for $20.5 million.

A self-styled “grave dancer” who specializes in distressed companies, Zell, 67, bet on Tribune in the wake of his triumphant exit from the U.S. office market at its peak in February 2007. He sold Equity Office Properties Trust to Blackstone Group LP for $39 billion, including debt, in the largest leveraged buyout at the time, a sale that earned Zell about $900 million.

Ten months later, he made the “mistake” of acquiring Tribune, Zell told Bloomberg Television in April.

A $900 million Cubs purchase by Ricketts would be the highest price paid for a Major League Baseball team, topping John Henry’s $700 million acquisition in 2002 of the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park and an 80 percent stake in the New England Sports Network.

To contact the reporters on this story: Gadi Dechter in Washington at gdechter@bloomberg.net; Greg Bensinger in New York at gbensinger1@bloomberg.net.
Last Updated: July 13, 2009 00:01 EDT


Technicality or not...one more reason to laugh at the lovable losers.

[TheMojoPin]

I suppose, if one isn't too bright and basically making something up to do so.

[Ritalin]

Radio psychic: Cubs sweep, with Big Z hitting the game winning homer in game 3.

[TripleSkeet]

Toronto seems to be doing a very good job of trying to get capital p PAID on Halladay, as well they should. They'll play the teams against each other to get great compensation...so if you want Halladay, you'll likely give up Drabek +.

Or take Wells. They wont have to do both.

[K.C.]

I suppose, if one isn't too bright and basically making something up to do so.

Yeah, because having to finagle the legal system so your ownership can auction off your team is always something to be proud of.

No stigma there...not at all...

But enough about the GM of Baseball...it's time to settle in and watch the Champs.

[K.C.]

http://www.apexchange.com/Content/preview/2009/20090419/21/9fa91aaa39c248be88ccf1a5452514ac.jpg

#25!

[Ritalin]

Yeah, because having to finagle the legal system so your ownership can auction off your team is always something to be proud of.

This doesn't even make sense. What's next, the socks they're wearing?

[K.C.]

This doesn't even make sense. What's next, the socks they're wearing?

So the Tribune Company isn't taking the Cubs to a separate bankruptcy to auction it off??? What exactly doesn't make sense about that?

For a baseball team to be sold like that...not exactly the most dignified manner.

[SuperKarateMonkeyDeathFez]

So the Tribune Company isn't taking the Cubs to a separate bankruptcy to auction it off??? What exactly doesn't make sense about that?

For a baseball team to be sold like that...not exactly the most dignified manner.

They sold for just under a billion dollars. That's a ton of "dignity" right there. The bankruptcy thing should be clear to anyone that it's a tactic just to get the Cubs away from the Tribune, which is actually bankrupt, so the sale can go through quicker. The franchise itself is obviously not financially bankrupt and isn't even close to being so. The franchise is just effectively being lumped in under the umbrella of the Tribune's bankruptcy to expidite the sale, even though the franchise is not actually bankrupt.

I was annoyed I had to miss this game for class tonight, but now...not so much. Ibanez doing what he's doing is ridiculous. Talk about lucking into a signing. That said, even without him the Phillies' lineup is beastly.

[K.C.]

They sold for just under a billion dollars. That's a ton of "dignity" right there. The bankruptcy thing should be clear to anyone that it's a tactic just to get the Cubs away from the Tribune, which is actually bankrupt, so the sale can go through quicker. The franchise itself is obviously not financially bankrupt and isn't even close to being so. The franchise is just effectively being lumped in under the umbrella of the Tribune's bankruptcy to expidite the sale, even though the franchise is not actually bankrupt.


Christ, between you three, you guys really suck the fun out of ball-busting.

All I was angling for with my first post was a quick stupid "you have the worst franchise in professional sports history" fire back from Mojo, but instead, I get roped into a discussion about the merits of bankruptcy court.

I'm going to have to start including appropriate smilies at the end of all posts to indicate demeanor of the post.

[SuperKarateMonkeyDeathFez]

I am Mojo, you loon.

Good Lord, this is a drubbing. The home plate ump has been horrible for both teams, but sadly only one is able to deal with it.

[K.C.]

I am Mojo, you loon.

Good Lord, this is a drubbing. The home plate ump has been horrible for both teams, but sadly only one is able to deal with it.

Harden vs. Blanton tomorrow....Cubs have a decent shot to rebound, although Blanton's been a little better as of late.

Soriano is a terrible fielder.

[SonicAssault]

Just finished watching the local philly feed for this game. This is not a knock against the guy, loved what he did during the World Series run and this year included, but do they have to interview Carlos Ruiz right after the game. You cannot understand a thing he says and they try to get some kind of insight about the game or a particular pitcher out of him. It just doesn't work.

[K.C.]

I'm interested to see what the Phils do with Rodrigo Lopez if he has a couple more good starts, with Pedro looming.

I can't foresee any circumstance in which the Phillies bump Pedro. They could stick Rodrigo in the back of the 'pen, designate him for assignment, or shop him for anything they can get.

If he gives them two more starts like he has in his first three, he'd have an ERA under 3 after five starts...you figure you might be able to get an A-ball guy who projects as a future Eric Bruntlett type from some pitching starved team.

I'd take that deal. If you can get anything for a guy that no one wanted, it's a plus...you can never have enough organizational depth.

[TheMojoPin]

Harden vs. Blanton tomorrow....Cubs have a decent shot to rebound, although Blanton's been a little better as of late.

Soriano is a terrible fielder.

He's definitely not an ideal fielder, but mistakes THAT disastrous are pretty few and far between. I'm more focused on his offensive numbers from the last 2 weeks:

.370/.469/.667/1.135

That's obviously way above his head even at his best, but I'm just praying it means he's snapped out of that baffling 2+ month-long slump he had been in. I'll happily take the iffy defense if he goes back to being the usual streaky Soriano that can basically carry a team when he's hot every other two weeks.

With this series I just want the Cubs to win one so they can go home with a 5-2 road trip. I'm thinking their best shot is with Harden since despite his struggles he's been pretty amazing in his road starts.

Gotta give props to the Phillies again: that is one badass lineup.

[Ritalin]

Radio psychic: Cubs sweep, with Big Z hitting the game winning homer in game 3.

well, that didn't take very long

[TheMojoPin]

well, that didn't take very long

You Hippo'ed the whole thing!

[K.C.]

Fantastic game tonight.

Harden pitched unbelievably and Blanton pretty much matched him. Obviously a favorable pitcher's ump tonight, but both guys had good stuff.

[TheMojoPin]

I'll be stunned if this goes into extras.

That said, Marmol has some insane heat tonight.

[K.C.]

I'll be stunned if this goes into extras.

That said, Marmol has some insane heat tonight.

He handled the Phils pretty well.

Feliz probably had the best swing off him in the two innings, and Fuku made a great read on the ball.


All bets are off with Chan Ho in this game.

[K.C.]

Rauuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuulllllllllllll!!!!!!!!!

What a catch!

I really hope he gets some consideration for the gold glove this year. He's played a fantastic defensive LF this year, which is a amazing, considering he was always viewed as a horrendous fielder.

[TheMojoPin]

Please just end this. The Cubs aren't going to do squat if they can't score more than 1 run in 11 innings vs. 3 mediocre at best pitchers.

[TheMojoPin]

Your team better end this shit right now.

[TheMojoPin]

Finally. Jesus Christ. Talk about prolonging the inevitable.

[TripleSkeet]

Man this is fun.
http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/3402/img1149v.jpg (http://img142.imageshack.us/i/img1149v.jpg/)

[K.C.]

Can I get a mummurs strut in honor of the 10 game win streak that was?

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ruu7bO-qLT4&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ruu7bO-qLT4&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[K.C.]

I am horrifyingly embarassed by Philadelphia tonight.

So...I went to the game today with a friend of mine who was a Cards fan.

We had a great time...people busted his balls...whatever.

We went to McFaddens about the 7th inning and literally a minute after we walked in, a gigantic fight erupted.

It had something to do with a bachelor's party and insulting some girl...not sure of the exact rationale, but literally like 50 people (guys and chicks) are just fighting in the bar (all the while, me and my buddy are watching the chaos at the bar with our drinks).

So this gigantic guy gets thrown out of the commotion near us, and my friend is just telling him "dude, it's not worth it...just relax a minute"

And the guy turns and sees my friend and pretty much looks like he's about to murder him where he stands, but then gets hit with something, so he jumps back into the giant fight.

Finally, the cops and security eject half the bar...apparently the fight continued once everyone got thrown out and and someone got murdered in the parking lot with another person in critical condition.

Seriously, this is the most horrific thing I've ever seen happen at a baseball game, and it is one of the worst black marks on Philadelphia as a fan base ever.

[foodcourtdruide]

Wow kc, glad you and your friend made it out ok. That is just horrific.

[TheMojoPin]

Is this a bar in the stadium?

[hammersavage]

I am horrifyingly embarassed by Philadelphia tonight.

So...I went to the game today with a friend of mine who was a Cards fan.

We had a great time...people busted his balls...whatever.

We went to McFaddens about the 7th inning and literally a minute after we walked in, a gigantic fight erupted.

It had something to do with a bachelor's party and insulting some girl...not sure of the exact rationale, but literally like 50 people (guys and chicks) are just fighting in the bar (all the while, me and my buddy are watching the chaos at the bar with our drinks).

So this gigantic guy gets thrown out of the commotion near us, and my friend is just telling him "dude, it's not worth it...just relax a minute"

And the guy turns and sees my friend and pretty much looks like he's about to murder him where he stands, but then gets hit with something, so he jumps back into the giant fight.

Finally, the cops and security eject half the bar...apparently the fight continued once everyone got thrown out and and someone got murdered in the parking lot with another person in critical condition.

Seriously, this is the most horrific thing I've ever seen happen at a baseball game, and it is one of the worst black marks on Philadelphia as a fan base ever.

Yea, that sounds like Philadelphians. Glad you made it out alive though, buddy

[K.C.]

Is this a bar in the stadium?

Yeah...McFadden's is a bar/restaurant connected to the ballpark that is opened year round.

If you're at the game you can go back and forth between the stadium and the bar with your ticket, but it's open to the public for free during games (they just post people to scan tickets by the bar-to-stadium entrance).

It's actually a really nice setup and a fun place to watch a game, but I've never seen anything like what happened yesterday.

[K.C.]

Man, 22, killed in fight outside Phillies stadium

Philadelphia police last night were investigating the death of a man who was involved in an altercation outside Citizens Bank Park in South Philadelphia.
The 22-year-old man suffered fatal injuries when he was beaten by several men in a fight that spilled out of a stadium restaurant and into the parking lot at Seventh Street and Pattison Avenue. The man was taken to the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where he was pronounced dead at 7:25 p.m., police said.

A 30-year-old man was taken to Methodist Hospital, where he was in stable condition last night, police said.

The fight happened as the Phillies played the St. Louis Cardinals.

Police did not identify either victim, and investigators were trying to piece together what happened.
- Bonnie L. Cook


Somebody will sue McFaddens or the Phillies over this and they'll be forced to crack down even further on tailgating outside before games and alcohol sales inside.

[TheMojoPin]

Keep it up, Phillies. If you guys win and the Cubs hold their lead they slide into 1st place.

[TripleSkeet]

Seriously, this is the most horrific thing I've ever seen happen at a baseball game, and it is one of the worst black marks on Philadelphia as a fan base ever.

Overreact much? Its a terrible thing and all but I wouldnt use these fucking retards to classify a "fanbase". It was bachelor party. The same thing couldve happened if it was at Chickie & Petes or some other bar. Dont get me wrong, I dont know how the fuck you let a fight get to the point where you and your friends murder someone, but lets not jump on the stupid media bashing of Philly sports fans for this, ok?

[hammersavage]

Overreact much? Its a terrible thing and all but I wouldnt use these fucking retards to classify a "fanbase". It was bachelor party. The same thing couldve happened if it was at Chickie & Petes or some other bar. Dont get me wrong, I dont know how the fuck you let a fight get to the point where you and your friends murder someone, but lets not jump on the stupid media bashing of Philly sports fans for this, ok?

that coulda been snoogans 10 years ago. then how would you feel?

[K.C.]

Overreact much? Its a terrible thing and all but I wouldnt use these fucking retards to classify a "fanbase". It was bachelor party. The same thing couldve happened if it was at Chickie & Petes or some other bar. Dont get me wrong, I dont know how the fuck you let a fight get to the point where you and your friends murder someone, but lets not jump on the stupid media bashing of Philly sports fans for this, ok?

No, I don't think it's overreacting at all.

These knuckle-draggers are all over the park every night. You can say it's not the "fanbase," but the fact is that they've drawn 35,000-40,000 a night the last three years or so, and at least 10,000 of those people on any given night are people my age who go to get hammered. Now, most of those people can handle it on any given night.

But the problem is that you get the few who buy into this "we can say and do whatever the fuck we want" Philly fan image that permeates these fanbases then you add some booze into the equation and you get stuff like this.

Honestly, I haven't been to a game this year where I haven't seen at least two ejections of people who are drunk, someone spills some beer on a chick by accident, or someone's heckling too obnoxiously, and the other dude just starts swinging, and I've been to like 20 games already this year.

I'm really surprised it's the first time this has happened.



And the reason I'm so pissed about it, on a personal level, is because I love to drink and tailgate at the ballpark, and I know that people like myself, who is pretty harmless when I drink, are going to pay the consequences when the Phillies, and the city crack down significantly on the tailgating after this family sues probably McFaddens, the Phillies, and the City.

Don't be surprised if the effects are felt at Eagles games, too.

It sucks and it's embarrassing, because there's a good chance it'll significantly alter what was a pretty sweet setup in hanging out at the park.

Honestly, I don't think it's out of the question that someone tries to get alcohol banned outside the stadium altogether...there's going to be a lot of shit over this.

[TripleSkeet]

No, I don't think it's overreacting at all.

These knuckle-draggers are all over the park every night. You can say it's not the "fanbase," but the fact is that they've drawn 35,000-40,000 a night the last three years or so, and at least 10,000 of those people on any given night are people my age who go to get hammered. Now, most of those people can handle it on any given night.

But the problem is that you get the few who buy into this "we can say and do whatever the fuck we want" Philly fan image that permeates these fanbases then you add some booze into the equation and you get stuff like this.

Honestly, I haven't been to a game this year where I haven't seen at least two ejections of people who are drunk, someone spills some beer on a chick by accident, or someone's heckling too obnoxiously, and the other dude just starts swinging, and I've been to like 20 games already this year.

I'm really surprised it's the first time this has happened.



And the reason I'm so pissed about it, on a personal level, is because I love to drink and tailgate at the ballpark, and I know that people like myself, who is pretty harmless when I drink, are going to pay the consequences when the Phillies, and the city crack down significantly on the tailgating after this family sues probably McFaddens, the Phillies, and the City.

Don't be surprised if the effects are felt at Eagles games, too.

It sucks and it's embarrassing, because there's a good chance it'll significantly alter what was a pretty sweet setup in hanging out at the park.

Honestly, I don't think it's out of the question that someone tries to get alcohol banned outside the stadium altogether...there's going to be a lot of shit over this.

Yes theyll may try but it wont work. I guess you forget a few years back after an Eagles game when this same exact thing was being said after a guy wearing an opposing teams jersey was put into a coma after being beaten by a wooden horse barricade.

Stop with the fan bashing. Yes people go to the games and get drunk, this happens EVERYWHERE. This specific case was a group of guys at a bar for a bachelor party. They werent fighting someone because they were rooting for another team or any dumb shit like that. The same thing couldve happened at the same bar in December. Would you still be characterizing the Phillies fans?

Drunk people get into stupid fights. Sometimes those fights get out of hand. Theres no reason to jump on board with the bullshit stereotypes of the fans, thats all Im saying. They arent going to stop your tailgating. They would have to have the entire Philly police force out there every Sunday in the winter to do that and they arent going to. Besides if thats your biggest worry Id say its kinda fucked up that your biggest concern about a 22 year old kid dying is your ability to have a beer in the parking lot.

[K.C.]

The same thing couldve happened at the same bar in December. Would you still be characterizing the Phillies fans?

Drunk people get into stupid fights. Sometimes those fights get out of hand.

Which is the exact reason they will crack down...because I guarantee if you ask the Phillies, they don't want to be compared to some bar in Fishtown in December in regards to their clientele.

The Eagles are a little different because the Eagles will never NOT sell out anytime soon. But the Phils draw a lot of families, and a lot of people who bring their kids, and I guarantee you there's more people, who if they were actually asked, would want to see major changes down there.


Theres no reason to jump on board with the bullshit stereotypes of the fans, thats all Im saying. They arent going to stop your tailgating. They would have to have the entire Philly police force out there every Sunday in the winter to do that and they arent going to.

I think I'm very realistic about the fans. A lot of the stuff that's been said about them over the years is pretty stupid, but I don't think there's any denying that there's is an edge to the fanbases around here that does not exist most places.

I don't know whether it's because Philadelphia is such a parochial city, or because it's really blue collar, or where that exactly comes from, but I think you have to admit it exists.

And I'm not even necessarily saying it's a bad thing...just that exists, and obviously it doesn't mix well with alcohol.

But you keep saying "group of guys at a bachelor's party at a bar"...you don't think that groups of guys in their 20s drinking all night outside and inside the stadium is a sizeable portion of the crowd on any given night? That's a pretty big component of their fanbase.


Besides if thats your biggest worry Id say its kinda fucked up that your biggest concern about a 22 year old kid dying is your ability to have a beer in the parking lot.

No, that's not my biggest concern. People being able to go to these games and not end up in the middle of this is...the tailgating is just a sidebar.

And like I said, I was in McFadden's when this went down...there were a lot of bystanders, including girls, that got sucked into this thing and I'm sure more people got hurt than the death that was reported and the guy that was in stable condition.


And I guess that's my point. You should be able to have a dichotomy of people who want to go to have a good time and party a little bit, and people who want to take their family, or people who are casual observers who want to go there and feel some relative form of safety while they're there.

And while this started at a bar, the guy was murdered in a parking lot outside the stadium where any number of people (including young kids) could have seen, or gotten potential involved in it.

[TripleSkeet]

Which is the exact reason they will crack down...because I guarantee if you ask the Phillies, they don't want to be compared to some bar in Fishtown in December in regards to their clientele.

The Eagles are a little different because the Eagles will never NOT sell out anytime soon. But the Phils draw a lot of families, and a lot of people who bring their kids, and I guarantee you there's more people, who if they were actually asked, would want to see major changes down there.



I think I'm very realistic about the fans. A lot of the stuff that's been said about them over the years is pretty stupid, but I don't think there's any denying that there's is an edge to the fanbases around here that does not exist most places.

I don't know whether it's because Philadelphia is such a parochial city, or because it's really blue collar, or where that exactly comes from, but I think you have to admit it exists.

And I'm not even necessarily saying it's a bad thing...just that exists, and obviously it doesn't mix well with alcohol.

But you keep saying "group of guys at a bachelor's party at a bar"...you don't think that groups of guys in their 20s drinking all night outside and inside the stadium is a sizeable portion of the crowd on any given night? That's a pretty big component of their fanbase.



No, that's not my biggest concern. People being able to go to these games and not end up in the middle of this is...the tailgating is just a sidebar.

And like I said, I was in McFadden's when this went down...there were a lot of bystanders, including girls, that got sucked into this thing and I'm sure more people got hurt than the death that was reported and the guy that was in stable condition.


And I guess that's my point. You should be able to have a dichotomy of people who want to go to have a good time and party a little bit, and people who want to take their family, or people who are casual observers who want to go there and feel some relative form of safety while they're there.

And while this started at a bar, the guy was murdered in a parking lot outside the stadium where any number of people (including young kids) could have seen, or gotten potential involved in it.

Youre missing my point. The fans absolutely have an edge. But fandom has nothing to do with this instance. Its not like when they beat up the Giants fan on MNF. Its not like when they threw batteries at JD Drew. Its a group of guys from Philly that got into a fight with another group of guys from Philly in a bar and it spilled out into a parking lot. End of story. Im tired of people trying to lump in every instance as "Phillies fans disgracing the city". Its a fucking bullshit non-story and as a Philly fan you shouldnt fucking do it.

Guess what? Theres a bar in the stadium. That means young people will drink and get out of hand sometimes. Id rather deal with the random fights that sometimes happen then have them take the bar away completely to make the park friendly to JUST families. Its nice to have a fun place for adults to go too. Even if some of them cant handle there liquor.

[KingGeno]

I think the majority of people at the park are very nice. But when the garbage comes in, it is really bad garbage. Usually white trash scumbag fucks causing problems, specially the ones wanting to be black. I don't even bother with McFadden's anymore because of it. That place sucks because of the crumbs. White suburban trash are ALWAYS the problem. Wish there was a way to ban these scumbags from coming in.

And I don't get this whole "sounds like typical philadelphians". That's complete bullshit, and a boring boring thing to say. It's fuckin' stupid, and people who say it need to get a life.

[K.C.]

Well, looks like we're at an impasse on this, so let's get back to on the field stuff.


This intrigues me:

For the first time in almost two years, Scott Mathieson is back pitching in games that mean something.

Mathieson, who has missed most of the last two seasons after undergoing two Tommy John surgeries and an ulnar nerve transposition, returned to competitive baseball in late June pitching for the Phillies Gulf Coast League squad as part of his rehab.

Friday, after hitting the mid-90s on the radar gun and reaching as high as 96 during his GCL outings, Mathieson was activated and assigned to Clearwater of the Florida State League.

The hard-throwing right-hander made eight starts with the Phillies in 2006 after jumping from Reading, where he was 7-2 with a 3.21 ERA. He underwent his first Tommy John procedure on Sept. 29 that year.

He made seven rehab appearances, pitcing a total of eight innings, in August of 2007 before being shut down and undergoing the nerve surgery Sept. 24. The second elbow surgery came the following spring.

If Mathieson, who was the organization's fifth-rated prospect in 2005, eventually makes it back all the way, one club exec says he could be considered this year's first-round draft pick. The Phillies forfeited their first-round pick for signing Raul Ibanez.

He has almost his entire velocity back and since this article was written, he's pitched four games going 5.0 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 2 BB, 7 SO, .211 BAA.

To put this in perspective, not very many guys come back from two Tommy Johns...but so far so good...if he gets back to what his talent was when he was originally coming up, he could be as good or even a little better a reliever than Madson is.

He always had better pure stuff and at one point in time, the Phillies had him pegged as their future closer. They kept him as a starter, he got hurt, and everyone knows the rest.

[TripleSkeet]

Id give up anyone but Drabek. But I have a feeling they will be trying to dump Vernon Wells on whoever takes Halladay. His contract is fucking pathetic. Plus word has it the Blue Jays arent even taking any offers until the final day of the trade deadline. THEN he has to waive his no trade clause.

I have a feeling he will go to Anaheim. They have a pitchers park, and lose a shitload of salary next year when Vlad and Abreau come off the books so they can afford that dead weight Wells.


I changed my mind. I think I want Halladay. Fuck it. Give them Drabek.

[KingGeno]

Confirmed: Carrasco, Knapp, Marson and Donald to Indians for Cliff Lee and Francisco.

Got a Cy Young winner and a Rightie bat AND kept Drabek, Happ, and Brown. Pretty damn great.

Of course I wanted Halladay, but this trade is much better.

[TheMojoPin]

Wow, excellent trade for both teams involved. The Phillies get a young starter with a ton of talent who is cheap and they control through next season while holding onto Drabek, Brown and Taylor and the Indians get 4 highly rated top 10 prospects in the Phillies' system.

Oh yeah, Ben Francisco is involved, but nobody gives a shit.

Nice deal for everyone.

[El Mudo]

Wow, excellent trade for both teams involved. The Phillies get a young starter with a ton of talent who is cheap and they control through next season while holding onto Drabek, Brown and Taylor and the Indians get 4 highly rated top 10 prospects in the Phillies' system.

Oh yeah, Ben Francisco is involved, but nobody gives a shit.

Nice deal for everyone.



I guess this means Halladay's going to Boston

[TheMojoPin]

I guess this means Halladay's going to Boston

I'm still of the mind he's likely not going to be moved at all this season.

[KingGeno]

I'm still of the mind he's likely not going to be moved at all this season.

I feel the same way, unless the Jays upper management say: "Wow...we shit the bed on the Phils deal...let's move this bastard asap." But I doubt that will happen.

[TheMojoPin]

I feel the same way, unless the Jays upper management say: "Wow...we shit the bed on the Phils deal...let's move this bastard asap." But I doubt that will happen.

Nah, they'd be pretty dumb if they thought that. Lee is very good but a package for Halladay would and should have been much more costly for the Phillies, or any other team. I don't think Halladay is moved unless the Jays are blown away with an offer or it's a decent offer and someone is picking up Wells' contract.

[PD]

Nah, they'd be pretty dumb if they thought that. Lee is very good but a package for Halladay would and should have been much more costly for the Phillies, or any other team. I don't think Halladay is moved unless the Jays are blown away with an offer or it's a decent offer and someone is picking up Wells' contract.

exactly.
If you hear what Jays were looking for (Happ from Phils, Kershaw from Dodgers) you see what it would take.

[El Mudo]

Since the Phils didn't give up anyone the Jays wanted for Lee, would it still be possible for them to make the Halladay deal?

A rotation with Hamels, Halladay, Lee, and (if they can keep him) Happ would be pretty lights out awesome

[K.C.]

Since the Phils didn't give up anyone the Jays wanted for Lee, would it still be possible for them to make the Halladay deal?

A rotation with Hamels, Halladay, Lee, and (if they can keep him) Happ would be pretty lights out awesome

Possible, but they wouldn't do it.

This deal was ridiculously good for the Phils. When I was tracking it as it developed today, I couldn't believe the Indians weren't asking for Happ in the deal just to sell some major league talent to their fanbase.

The Phils gave up nothing they needed in that deal.


But speaking of Happ, Jayson Stark was just on the radio and is already saying Happ will end up in the bullpen in two weeks because the Phillies won't risk a Pedro outburst after they promised him a rotation spot.

[El Mudo]

Possible, but they wouldn't do it.

This deal was ridiculously good for the Phils. When I was tracking it as it developed today, I couldn't believe the Indians weren't asking for Happ in the deal just to sell some major league talent to their fanbase.

The Phils gave up nothing they needed in that deal.


But speaking of Happ, Jayson Stark was just on the radio and is already saying Happ will end up in the bullpen in two weeks because the Phillies won't risk a Pedro outburst after they promised him a rotation spot.


....and he'll be right back in the rotation when Pete's arm falls off

[TripleSkeet]

Poor Mojo.

[K.C.]

Another great article on Mathieson's attempted comeback:

Phillies prospect Mathieson says 'so far, so good' of rehab

By BOB COONEY
Philadelphia Daily News

cooneyb@phillynews.com

READING - When the top of the seventh inning of Wednesday's Double A game between the host Reading Phillies and the Trenton Thunder began, many of those in the record crowd of 9,953 started making their way out of FirstEnergy Stadium. They had seen what they came for - an impressive outing by Pedro Martinez, his final tuneup before going back to the bigs.

It was kind of ironic that Scott Mathieson replaced Martinez on the mound, as Mathieson is attempting the biggest comebacks a pitcher possibly can make.

Mathieson, a 17th-round pick by the Phillies in 2002, is attempting a second return from Tommy John surgery. He will be the first to say that his journey is just beginning - again. Yet, his numbers can't help but make you think that maybe Mathieson, 6-3, 190, will be warming up at Citizens Bank Park, the same place where he heard that first dreaded pop in his right arm nearly 3 years ago.

The second of his Tommy Johns was performed in May 15, 2008 by renowned surgeon Dr. James Andrews. After rehabbing his injury in Clearwater, Fla., Mathieson, 25, returned to action in late June and since has pitched in the Gulf Coast League, the Florida State League and now with Reading. He has thrown a total of 20 innings, allowing 10 hits and nine walks. He has allowed one earned run and struck out 21.

His third pitch against Trenton on Wednesday was clocked at 98 mph, and none of the fastballs he threw in two scoreless innings were slower than 95.

"So far, so good, knock on wood," Mathieson said, smiling from the Reading dugout after getting in his stretching and running before the Trenton game. "I expected it to feel like this but in the back of your mind you're always worried that you might still feel it and you never know.

"Throwing, I feel great now. Sometimes it gets stiff on bus rides, or when I wake up in the morning I'm achy. But throwing or whenever I'm doing an exercise or doing activities, it feels great. When I first came back I was a little nervous about my slider a little bit, but that's completely gone. I get up there and I'm right on it and I don't have any hesitation; my fastball, I'm just going through the motions and the velocity seems like it's been coming back."

Perhaps the euphoria is exaggerated a little due to the long and often agonizing rehabbing Mathieson has had to endure the past few years.

The Phillies called him up in June 2006 and he made nine appearances, including eight starts. It was his last start against the Atlanta Braves, on Sept. 2, when he heard that pop after six pitches. A few weeks later he was having his first Tommy John surgery.

He pitched briefly in 2007 in the farm system, but again started feeling pain in the arm.

"I was out there throwing and we had kind of a long delay because of an argument or something, then I started throwing again and I felt something," he said. "But I pitched through it and then I remember hearing a pop.

"They said it was a nerve, so I went and got [nerve surgery] done and it really didn't get any better. That's a 4-month recovery, they say, and at 4 months I couldn't even throw 60 feet. My arm was killing me still."

Then came the visit to Dr. Andrews and another surgery named for the former Dodgers and Yankees pitcher, in May 2008.

The rehab was a long, familiar and bumpy road. And the odds of a return to baseball were seriously diminished compared to the first time he had the procedure.

"Dr. Andrews told me the stats and said stats don't lie," Mathieson recalled with a smile. "But most guys that have a second Tommy John surgery are older guys or guys that might not have the chance to get back. I'm trying to take advantage of my age. Right after surgery I'm laying in bed and I have casts on both my arms. There was, I won't say doubt, but there were concerns. It was the mental aspect. Driving to Clearwater every day [from his home in Pasco County for rehab] was hard. And after the 600th day of doing it, I was wondering what I was doing it for. It felt like I had taken 10 steps backwards and zero forward. I thought of Plan B, but never thought of giving up [baseball].

"Dr. Andrews was pretty confident before the second surgery. He said, 'I'll fix you, I'll fix your arm. Your elbow will be perfect but it's going to be up to you to get back and pitch. Structurally and mechanically your arm will be fine. The problem is you never know how you'll rehab or how you'll come back.' When I went back to see him about a year after the surgery and told him I was throwing bullpen and feeling great, he said, 'Wow, I guess it really did work.' "

The native of Aldergrove, British Columbia, is affable, endearing and overjoyed to be where he is, even if it isn't how he envisioned it. He says he has a new appreciation of what it takes to play the game at its highest level, and is enjoying the hard work it is taking him to try to return there.

"Making it up there that first time was pretty memorable and something no one can ever take away from you," he said. "It was a dream to do that. To get back there now, I think, is even a bigger feat after what I went through. I want to prove myself and prove that I can really contribute up there. Last year after watching the World Series it was almost a bittersweet thing. I know everybody on the team. It's great to see it, but I wanted to be up there so bad. It makes me that much hungrier to get back.

"When I signed, my dad told me never to have any regrets and to have fun. I always think that I would kick myself if I didn't give it my best. I want to go out on my own terms. I don't want to have to retire because of injury and never know what could have been."

His 98 mph fastball and his penchant for strikeouts have Phillies fans still wondering what might be.

Throwing 95-98 and he's been pretty much dealing since he started pitching in the minors again.

It's not out of the question he gets a September call-up with how well he's pitched, but the Phils are still probably leaning towards next Spring with him.

His minor league totals spanning the GCL, A, and AA are:

15 games, 2-0, 0.86 ERA, 1 SV, 21.0 IP, 12 H, 2 ER, 9 BB, 21 SO, 1.00 WHIP

If he has a dominant next two weeks, Ruben will be in a bind...they could use the relief help, and Mathieson has MLB stuff and experience, but still, you don't want to ruin this guy.

[K.C.]

All in all, I'm really satisfied with everything on the team right now except for Hamels.

Even Lidge has shown progress, I think...he blew the save the other night, but there were at least six to seven pitches that were absolutely strikes, that he wasn't getting. He got squeezed horribly. I thought he had good stuff, and just needs a little better fastball command.

Hamels is the enigma, though. His selection is horrible, and he has control problems with pretty much everything. It doesn't even look mechanical, which is alarming, because that could be fixed.

That said, Lee is as advertised, Blanton and Happ have been as steady as any pitchers in the NL over the last month and a half, and I was encouraged by Pedro's start.

They've got plenty of pitching, and of course they have enough hitting. If they get a productive Hamels down the stretch into the playoffs, that's the one thing that I think would seal another NL Pennant.

[K.C.]

Myers to pitch for Class A on Saturday
Manuel, Phillies hope to have righty back for stretch run

By Adam Rosenberg / MLB.com
ATLANTA -- A key part of the Phillies' success last season, pitcher Brett Myers may be on his way to help the team for this year's stretch run. Just what his role will be if he's able to return remains to be seen.

Myers will pitch one inning in a rehab assignment for Class A Clearwater against Tampa on Saturday, after throwing several simulated outings. Myers has been out of action since undergoing surgery on his torn right labrum in early June.

Myers went 10-13 for the Phillies as a starter last season, but doesn't seem to figure into a crowded rotation if and when he is able to return this season. Manager Charlie Manuel was hesitant to project what Myers' role would be this season.

"When he's ready, we'll use him," Manuel said before Friday's game against the Braves at Turner Field. "We'll use him wherever he fits. We have to see how good he's throwing."

The Phils have already sent one starter, Jamie Moyer, to the bullpen this season to make room for Pedro Martinez. It seems certain that Myers' role would be out of the 'pen, but it's uncertain if he would be used in long relief, middle relief or in a setup role.

No matter what role Myers might fill, Manuel views the righty's possible return as a valuable pickup for the stretch run.

"I guess you could look at it like getting a new player," Manuel said. "If we get him back, I'm excited. If he could come out of the bullpen like he did a couple of years ago, he could help us."

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

If Myers pitches well, he could be insurance for Lidge.

[K.C.]

Pedro watch: Game #2

[TripleSkeet]

Cliff Lee...another gem. Man what a great trade.

I enjoyed that Pedro / Moyer combo Tuesday night too. Just wish Moyer would cheer up a little.

[K.C.]

I think you're going to find out that Moyer is pissed, not necessarily because he was taken out of the rotation, but because the Phillies signed Pedro Martinez because they thought they weren't making a deadline trade based on the price.

Then Cliff Lee fell in their lap, and they made the deal, rendering the Pedro signing kind of pointless.

Yet, because they promised Pedro he could start, it cost Jamie his job, because they didn't want to risk upsetting Pedro and being accused of misleading him.

So I don't think it's because he got bumped...it's because the Phillies organization showed loyalty to someone that had no history with the team over Jamie.

I think he considered it a slap in the face with the way it was handled.

[KingGeno]

Agreed. Didn't he say he was given an agreement, maybe a gentleman agreement, that he would be starting? It does bother me that Moyer got bumped, and Martinez has been no better. And what happens when Myers comes back? I know he can possibly close, but why?

K.C., what the hell is wrong with Lidge? Is it his knee ya think?

[K.C.]

Myers won't touch the closer's role. If he comes back, he's a 5th to 6th inning guy, who maybe can give them two innings an appearance.

I'm not convinced he's coming back.

With Lidge, it's really hard to pinpoint...one thing of interest that I remember from the beginning of last year is that Lidge actually credited his knee injury last Spring as the reason he had such great control, because he had to compact his delivery for fear of putting too much stress on the knee.

It really showed, too, if you compare his delivery and control last year to when he was in Houston.

He swears he's healthy, and I tend to believe him...but wouldn't it be odd if the thing that's messing up his mechanics is the fact that he's healthy and having that comfort to use his knee as normal is what's messing up his control.


It looks 90% mechanical to me, but it's not an easy fix like arm slot...it has something to do with the weight on his delivery.

The other 10% is pitch selection. He doesn't have the control, so he scared to throw certain pitches in certain situations from time to time.


They're riding with him the whole way, though. I don't see them removing him. Charlie did say today he may use Madson from time to time for a spot save, but Lidge was his guy.

[TripleSkeet]

If Moyer didnt want to go to the pen, he shouldve gotten his ERA Below 5 or 6. (Not sure what it was before he got bumped but definitely above 5.5 if not higher).

I dont think it was a slap in his face, I think it was trying to improve their pitching. If Pedro cant do it, Moyer can come back. In the meantime we can use him in long relief.

As far as Myers goes, dont think they wont keep him as a closing option if he can go and Lidge doesnt improve. They arent going to let Brad Lidge cost them a playoff series. He needs to get his shit together, otherwise, they could replace him in the playoffs with Madsen, Myers, shit considering it would be a 4 man rotation maybe even Pedro.

[K.C.]

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[zildjian361]

ya got YESnetwork:tongue:

[K.C.]

Come on, Pedro...put the final nail in the coffin of their miserable season!

[K.C.]

choooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo ooooooooooch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!

[KingGeno]

Weird first inning to this game. Phillies are the best though.

Watching the Mets suck this bad is so sweet.

[TripleSkeet]

Welcome to the Hall of Fame Eric Bruntlett. Make some room Morandini.

[TripleSkeet]

Im so fucking over Brad Lidge.

[cougarjake13]

Im so fucking over Brad Lidge.

be thankful for the lidge you got last year no one expected that, this is the lidge everyone expected

[TripleSkeet]

be thankful for the lidge you got last year no one expected that, this is the lidge everyone expected

I was thankful. Now Im over him.

[skyscraper]

they better get it back together against the nationals this week or they are really in trouble. like 1964-type trouble.

[K.C.]

Pretty much can wrap this thing up with a good next six games.

I think you have to go, with the playoff rotation:
1) Hamels
2) Lee
3) Blanton
4) Martinez

Moyer makes it as your long relief guy, Happ's your lefty specialist.

[K.C.]

3

[KingGeno]

This team......

[K.C.]

It's a crawl to the finish, to be sure.

They really need this thing wrapped up by Wednesday at the latest so they can set their rotation, rest some guys, and get some bench guys at-bats.

I have no clue what the hell the playoff roster will be.


Your locks to make it are:
Position Players
1) Ryan Howard
2) Chase Utley
3) Jimmy Rollins
4) Pedro Feliz
5) Raul Ibanez
6) Shane Victorino
7) Jayson Werth
8) Ben Francisco
9) Matt Stairs
10) Greg Dobbs
11) Eric Bruntlett
12) Paul Bako

Pitchers
13) Cole Hamels
14) Cliff Lee
15) Joe Blanton
16) Pedro Martinez
17) J.A. Happ
18) Ryan Madson
19) Brad Lidge
20) Clay Condrey
21) Chad Durbin


So there's four spots...one will either be Carlos Ruiz, if he's healthy, or Paul Hoover (who will not play a second...just there as insurance).

The other three are all bullpen arms. It'll be between Eyre, Romero, Myers, Moyer, Walker, and Park.

If all of them are healthy, it'll be Eyre, Romero, and Park.

If one's down, then I think Walker gets in (although Walker's pitched so well, he should really replace Durbin).

Next guy on would probably be Moyer.

I can't see Myers making the roster unless they need a body at this point.





Then they have to decide who closes and who the fourth starter is.

I'd be shocked if Madson isn't the closer at this point, even though he's been almost as bad as Lidge in the role.

The fourth starter depends on Eyre and Romero. If they're healthy, Happ gets the start, Pedro to the pen. If they're not, Pedro gets the start, Happ to the pen.

[K.C.]

1


Tonight could be the night...

[KingGeno]

I'm going ot the game TOMORROW night. :( Shame they'll clinch tonight, but it's better to get it done. Still have to bust their asses to get Home Field advantage. Specially with the Dodgers tankin' recently.

[KingGeno]

Moyer out for the rest of the season. Sucks..... http://tinyurl.com/y9sbhka

Braves losing 5-0 and Phils are up two.

[K.C.]

http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-6719917dt.jpg

[K.C.]

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[KingGeno]

Hats are kinda weird, but that's ok!

:D

[K.C.]

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[K.C.]

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[TheMojoPin]

Hats are kinda weird, but that's ok!

:D

Yeah, it seems oddly generic, or even like it was meant for the White Sox and they just slapped a "P" on it. Is that really the finished design?

[KingGeno]

Yeah, it seems oddly generic, or even like it was meant for the White Sox and they just slapped a "P" on it. Is that really the finished design?

Yea. Weird.

[TheMojoPin]

Yea. Weird.

Definitely. Ah well, I'm just jealous of any team going to the playoffs, so I'd happily take a shitty hat design to be in that position again.

[KingGeno]

Definitely. Ah well, I'm just jealous of any team going to the playoffs, so I'd happily take a shitty hat design to be in that position again.

They are all the same design.

I'm thinking we'll see Colorado first round?

[TheMojoPin]

They are all the same design.

Is that how it's been every year for a while now?

I'm thinking we'll see Colorado first round?

I know a lot of things can happen in a short series, but your guys should kick the living shit out of the Rockies.

[Jericholic51]

Here we go again this ones for you Harry!!!

[K.C.]

I know a lot of things can happen in a short series, but your guys should kick the living shit out of the Rockies.

We thought that in 2007, too, so I'm a little wary of going that far with it, but they do match up unbelievably well with the Rockies this time around.

The only real intriguing matchup in the NL would be Phils/Cards.

Two great right-handed aces vs. a left-handed heavy lineup.

On the flip side, two great lefty aces vs a right-handed heavy lineup.

Both teams have bullpen problems right now...it'd be a great NLCS if both teams got that far.

[TheMojoPin]

We thought that in 2007, too, so I'm a little wary of going that far with it, but they do match up unbelievably well with the Rockies this time around.

The only real intriguing matchup in the NL would be Phils/Cards.

Two great right-handed aces vs. a left-handed heavy lineup.

On the flip side, two great lefty aces vs a right-handed heavy lineup.

Both teams have bullpen problems right now...it'd be a great NLCS if both teams got that far.

If it does you guys better murder the holy fuck out of the Cardinals.

[A buck 380]

feels good but strange. at 32 i remember the sad times of the late 80's and late 90's. I get the feeling we're spoiled

[cougarjake13]

feels good but strange. at 32 i remember the sad times of the late 80's and late 90's. I get the feeling we're spoiled


enjoy it while it lasts

you guys should have the division for the next 3 years at least

[K.C.]

enjoy it while it lasts

you guys should have the division for the next 3 years at least


I don't know, the Braves are on the cusp again. They've got a great core of pitching...if they can get a little more offense and a solid bullpen arm, they'd be tough.

Florida's only a nuisance for now, but after they get their new stadium in a couple years, it'll be interesting to see if it alters their business philosophy.

The Mets look like they're in trouble for 2010, but could be right back in for 2011.

Nats are awful.

The Phils should be the favorites for 2010, but after that, they start to run into some contract and payroll issues. So realistic expectations would be one more good year, and then a wait and see approach.

[TripleSkeet]

Nice to see another Division Title. I liked how Uncle Chollie through Lidge in there for the final out. Class all the way.

[cougarjake13]

I don't know, the Braves are on the cusp again. They've got a great core of pitching...if they can get a little more offense and a solid bullpen arm, they'd be tough.

Florida's only a nuisance for now, but after they get their new stadium in a couple years, it'll be interesting to see if it alters their business philosophy.

The Mets look like they're in trouble for 2010, but could be right back in for 2011.

Nats are awful.

The Phils should be the favorites for 2010, but after that, they start to run into some contract and payroll issues. So realistic expectations would be one more good year, and then a wait and see approach.


braves are def on the way back to being good again and contending but i think the phillies are in good shape even with the possible contract/payroll issues

[K.C.]

Roster is set:


Starting Lineup
1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Shane Victorino, CF
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Raul Ibanez, LF
6. Jayson Werth, RF
7. Pedro Feliz, 3B
8. Carlos Ruiz, C

Bench:
OF - Matt Stairs
IF - Greg Dobbs
IF - Miguel Cairo
OF - Ben Francisco
C - Paul Bako

Starting Rotation
1. Cliff Lee, LHP
2. Cole Hamels, LHP
3. (TBD)
4. (TBD)
(Phillies kept Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ, and Pedro Martinez on the roster...all three will be available out of the pen in the first two games).


Bullpen
RHP Brad Lidge
RHP Ryan Madson
LHP Scott Eyre
RHP Chad Durbin
RHP Kyle Kendrick
RHP Brett Myers
LHP Antonio Bastardo


So Bruntlett, Walker, and Condrey all get the boot...Bastardo's a surprise add, but I imagine they see him as a one-and-done lefty specialist. Colorado is terrible against lefties, so it's a percentage move.

If the Phils win the DS, I would guess Condrey or Walker would then make the roster and Bastardo may get dumped.

[TripleSkeet]

Roster is set:


Starting Lineup
1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Shane Victorino, CF
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Raul Ibanez, LF
6. Jayson Werth, RF
7. Pedro Feliz, 3B
8. Carlos Ruiz, C

Bench:
OF - Matt Stairs
IF - Greg Dobbs
IF - Miguel Cairo
OF - Ben Francisco
C - Paul Bako

Starting Rotation
1. Cliff Lee, LHP
2. Cole Hamels, LHP
3. (TBD)
4. (TBD)
(Phillies kept Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ, and Pedro Martinez on the roster...all three will be available out of the pen in the first two games).


Bullpen
RHP Brad Lidge
RHP Ryan Madson
LHP Scott Eyre
RHP Chad Durbin
RHP Kyle Kendrick
RHP Brett Myers
LHP Antonio Bastardo


So Bruntlett, Walker, and Condrey all get the boot...Bastardo's a surprise add, but I imagine they see him as a one-and-done lefty specialist. Colorado is terrible against lefties, so it's a percentage move.

If the Phils win the DS, I would guess Condrey or Walker would then make the roster and Bastardo may get dumped.

Im not a fan of Cairo being on the roster. Would much rather have had Bruntlett. We have zero speed off the bench.

[KingGeno]

Im not a fan of Cairo being on the roster. Would much rather have had Bruntlett. We have zero speed off the bench.

We need at least ONE first pitch swinger in the lineup at all times. You should know this.

I'll be at the game today. Can't wait!

[Furtherman]

I can't the Phills game online anywhere. WIP has two awful jocktobers on, 1210 blocks all games on-line and MLB.com charges $10. WTF!!??!!?

[disneyspy]

I can't the Phills game online anywhere. WIP has two awful jocktobers on, 1210 blocks all games on-line and MLB.com charges $10. WTF!!??!!?

did you try xm158?

[Furtherman]

did you try xm158?

Unavailable on XM online.

[disneyspy]

Unavailable on XM online.

sendin you a PM

[TripleSkeet]

I can't the Phills game online anywhere. WIP has two awful jocktobers on, 1210 blocks all games on-line and MLB.com charges $10. WTF!!??!!?

Sorry I got here late. Hopefully this will help for tomorrow.

http://www.atdhe.net/5546/watch-rockies-vs-phillies

Turned down free tickets to todays game because I had to watch the kids. Thats part of being a good dad. At least thats what I keep telling myself. Thankfully my daughter enjoys watching it on tv.

[K.C.]

Watched it on TV at work today...going to the game tomorrow.

MLB app on the iPhone has the postseason.tv thing which let's you watch from different camera angles.

It's solid but not the greatest thing.

[Furtherman]

TripleSkeet, you da man.

[Furtherman]

C'monnnnnnn Lee.....

[Furtherman]

...and there we go.



And by the way, those rally towels STILL SUCK.

[TheMojoPin]

And by the way, those rally towels STILL SUCK.

Potentially fucked up the shutout.

[K.C.]

If Hamels pitches well tomorrow, you have to figure Happ gets the Game 3 start...load up all the lefties.

[TripleSkeet]

If Hamels pitches well tomorrow, you have to figure Happ gets the Game 3 start...load up all the lefties.

I dont have a problem with that.

[jhoff]

great start today lee was great, we win this series its on to the show again, we can beat LA or ST louis, we have more offense and better starters, GO PHILLIES,!!

[K.C.]

I wish I had something to be pissed at in regards to today's game, but it was just a really well played game on both sides, and a lot of fun to be at.

Really just have to tip the hat to the Rockies.

Game 3 will be extremely nerve-racking. Sounds like the Phils will throw Blanton or Martinez. The Rocks are an extremely tough home team, and likely not having Happ for that game is a tough blow.

[Spagett]

Great game, was hoping the phils could pull it off in the 6th. My Dodgers are going to have to sit and wait a while longer to see who they will play

[KingGeno]

Don't forget it will be 36 with a chance of ice/snow also. Gonna be a fun game to watch.