Phollowing the Phillies

Reports: Rollins re-ups for three (maybe four) years with Phils

2011-12-17T15:00:00.009-05:00

The staring contest is over. Jimmy Rollins will be putting on the only major league uniform he's ever known come April 5 in Pittsburgh.

According to reports, first from ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, the Phillies have inked their long-time shortstop to a three-year, $33 million deal. The contract includes a vesting option for a fourth year, likely tied to games played or plate appearances.

Rollins, a free agent for the first time in his career, was limited to 230 games in the last two seasons, including a career-low 88 games in 2010 due to leg injuries. If he's healthy, Rollins can make his new contract a four-year deal.

Rollins' recent spell of health combined with his age (he turned 33 last month) likely hurt his chances to get the five-year deal he asked for just after he filed for free agency earlier this offseason.

After a flurry of activity with shortstops moving before, at and just after the winter meetings - with Jose Reyes, Alex Gonzalez and Rafael Furcal all finding landing spots - it was Rollins and Rollins alone as the remaining, legit, starting shortstop on the market. And the Phillies were the last team ready and able to invest money into a starting shortstop.

Believed to be on path to continue their relationship all along, Rollins and the Phillies made it official Saturday. Although the team has not made comment or announced the deal, Rollins sounded off on Twitter.

"I see you all know by now," Rollins wrote. "Gotta deal with me for 3 (4) more years!"

Bush gets spring training invite from hometown team

2011-12-09T18:50:00.003-05:00

Dave Bush will get another opportunity to pitch for his hometown team.

Bush, a 1998 graduate of Conestoga High, was among three players the Phillies signed to a minor league contract with invitations to major league camp Friday. The 32-year-old Bush first joined the Phillies system in August after being released from the Chicago Cubs organization.

Bush, who had a 5.79 ERA in 17 games with the Texas Rangers at the beginning of the 2011 season, finished the year at the Phillies Triple-A affiliate in Lehigh Valley. Bush went 1-2 with a 3.91 ERA in four starts with the IronPigs.

A veteran of eight major league seasons, Bush has career major league record of 56-69 with a 4.70 ERA in 210 games (187 starts) for Toronto (2004-05), the Milwaukee Brewers (2006-10) and Texas. In 2008, Bush held the Phillies to one run in 5 1/3 innings to earn the victory for Milwaukee in Game 3 of the National League Division Series.

Bush was selected in the second round of the 2002 draft by Toronto, where he was converted from a relief pitcher to a starter. A catcher in high school, Bush became a closer at Wake Forest University.

In addition to Bush, the Phillies also signed catcher Steven Lerud and left-handed pitcher David Purcey to minor league contracts with invitations to big league camp at spring training in Clearwater.

Polly wins Gold Glove

2011-11-01T22:50:00.005-04:00

Major League Baseball and ESPN decided to turn the Rawlings Gold Glove Awards into a TV show. Not really surprising, since everything is a TV show nowadays (even the MLB and NHL drafts!).

It's probably only surprising that it took until the 55th year of the Gold Glove Awards for it to turn into a TV show.

It got of to a tremendous start, thanks to the genius of ESPN. They slotted the "live" award show for 10 p.m. EST. (A perfect time slot for the kids interested in the game, no?)

And not only at 10 p.m. EST, but after a football game that began at at 7 p.m. And, of course every football game lasts exactly three hours. [rolls eyes]

Thanks to a terrific MAC football game (and by terrific, I mean a game that lacked defense altogether - the IRONY!) and ESPN's not-so-smart scheduling, the first Gold Glove Award, to Baltimore catcher Matt Wieters, was handed out at 10:54 p.m. Only 54 minutes after the program was scheduled to begin. Nice.

OK, enough with a rant about awards that have lost a lot of luster in the last decade anyway, given some of the curious choices. (We're looking at you, Bobby Abreu.... and you too, aging Derek Jeter). ***

As a part of the new, TV show-format, three nominees per position were announced Monday. Three Phillies were nominated: catcher Carlos Ruiz, third baseman Placido Polanco and center fielder Shane Victorino.

The Phils had just one winner.

Polanco made history by winning the Gold Glove in the NL. Polanco is just the second player in baseball history to win the award at two different positions.

Polanco won Gold Gloves as a second baseman with the Detroit Tigers in 2007 and 2009. Polanco and former Angel Darin Erstad are the only two players to win Gold Gloves at two different positions.

Placido Polanco is the first player in baseball history to win Gold Gloves at two different infield positions.

Polanco is the third Phillies player to win a Gold Glove at third base, joining Mike Schmidt (10-time winner), Scott Rolen (four Gold Gloves with Phils). In the 55 years Gold Gloves have been handed out, a Phillies third baseman has won 15 times.

Click here for a complete history of National League Gold Glove winners.

***Coaches and managers vote for the Rawlings Gold Glove Awards

Gold Glove nominees

2011-10-31T16:47:00.003-04:00

The annual Gold Glove winners will be unveiled on Tuesday night at 10 p.m. on ESPN2. For the first time, there are nominees per position.

Three Phillies made the cut.

Here's the complete list of Gold Glove nominees:

Pitcher

AL:
Mark Buehrle, CWS
Dan Haren, LAA
Fausto Carmona, CLE

NL:
Clayton Kershaw, LAD
Hiroki Kuroda, LAD
Kyle Lohse, STL

Catcher

AL:
Matt Wieters, BAL
A.J. Pierzynski, CWS
Alex Avila, DET

NL:
Yadier Molina, STL
Brian McCann, ATL
Carlos Ruiz, PHI

First Base

AL:
Adrian Gonzalez, BOS
Casey Kotchman, TB
Mark Teixeira, NYY

NL:
Joey Votto, CIN
Gaby Sanchez, FLA
James Loney, LAD

Second Base

AL:
Dustin Pedroia , BOS
Robinson Cano, NYY
Ian Kinsler, TEX

NL:
Brandon Phillips, CIN
Neil Walker, PIT
Omar Infante, FLA

Shortstop

AL:
Erick Aybar, LAA
J.J. Hardy, BAL
Asdrubal Cabrera, CLE

NL:
Troy Tulowitzki, COL
Ronny Cedeno, PIT
Alex Gonzalez, ATL

Third Base

AL:
Adrian Beltre, TEX
Kevin Youkilis, BOS
Evan Longoria, TB

NL:
Placido Polanco, PHI
Daniel Descalso, STL
Pablo Sandoval, SFG

Left Field

AL:
Alex Gordon, KC
Brett Gardner, NYY
Sam Fuld, TB

NL:
Gerardo Parra, ARI
Ryan Braun, MIL
Matt Holliday, STL

Center Field

AL:
Jacoby Ellsbury, BOS
Austin Jackson, DET
Peter Bourjos, LAA

NL:
Matt Kemp, LAD
Shane Victorino, PHI
Chris Young, ARI

Right Field

AL:
Nick Markakis, BAL
Torii Hunter, LAA
Jeff Francoeur, KC

NL:
Andre Ethier, LAD
Carlos Beltran, NYM/SFG
Jay Bruce, CIN

Phillies medical updates

2011-10-28T12:35:00.000-04:00

This, directly from Phillies media relations dept:

. First baseman Ryan Howard (ruptured left Achilles) had his stitches removed on October 25 and has progressed to partial weight bearing. He has begun a rehabilitation program in Philadelphia.

·         Third baseman Placido Polanco (sports hernia) had a follow-up exam with Dr. William Meyers on October 26 and is continuing his rehabilitation in Miami.

·         Left-hander Cole Hamels had stitches removed from his left elbow (loose bodies) on October 27 and is continuing his rehabilitation program in Philadelphia. He had a follow-up exam for his hernia surgery today with Dr. Ernest Rosato and has been cleared to progress back to his off-season program as tolerated.

·         Right fielder Hunter Pence (sports hernia) continues his rehabilitation program in Philadelphia. He will have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Meyers next week.

·         Right-hander Jose Contreras (right forearm strain) was seen by Dr. Michael Ciccotti on October 20 and will begin isometric forearm strengthening next week. He is on track to progress to regular strengthening in the beginning of December and initiate throwing at the beginning of January.

·         Ross Gload (hip) was evaluated by Dr. Bryan Kelly in New York on October 18. Dr. Kelly did not feel an arthroscopic procedure was warranted at this time. Gload was set up with an off-season rehabilitation program.

Howard could be back by April

2011-10-12T19:09:00.003-04:00

Ryan Howard had successful surgery to repair a torn left Achilles on Wednesday and is eyeing a return to the Phillies lineup in April.

Howard had the procedure performed in Baltimore by Dr. Mark Meyerson, a foot and ankle specialist who confirmed a full tear. Howard also had a PRP injection.

Afterward, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. laid out an optimistic timetable for Howard’s recovery.

“It’s going to be five-to-six months from the surgery until he can play at his accustomed level,” Amaro said.

Howard, who had been battling left foot pain since August, tore his Achilles on the final play of Friday’s Game 5 against the St. Louis Cardinals at Citizens Bank Park. If he stays on course with Amaro’s timetable, it’s possible Howard could be in the Phillies lineup for the first game of the 2012 season on Thursday, April 5 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.

“A lot depends on how he recovers,” Amaro said. “The start of the season could be impacted, but I still hope he makes his first at-bat of the season.”

The team said Howard will be immobilized for a week or two. He could begin weight bearing and strengthening in the next month, depending on how quickly he recovers from surgery.

Amaro's time table actually meshes pretty well with what Dr. David Rubenstein, head of sports medicine at Lankenau Medical Center and team orthopedic surgeon for both the 76ers and the Philadelphia Soul, told me over the weekend. Here's that story.

Jimmy Rollins talks free agency

2011-10-11T14:59:00.005-04:00

The Phillies season ended Friday.

In about two weeks, the World Series will be over, too. The conclusion of major league baseball's season - the day after the last game of the World Series - is the first time players can officially file for free agency.

For the first time in his career, Jimmy Rollins will file for free agency.

He spoke to the media today (you can watch two videos shot from the press conference here).

The two key points: Rollins wants a five-year contract and he will almost certainly test the free agent market, even if the Phils present an offer before he files for free agency.

Here's a sampling of what he had to say....

Question: What are your priorities as free agency nears?

Rollins: Obviously, winning is always number one. We've only won one championship so far. Maybe its two less than I would have liked, given the opportunities that we've had here. But what is important? Being the leader, always inspiring my teammates to go out there and give their best, finding a way to win and obviously my performance. But knowing that this city is definitely loving the Phillies again. You'll see a lot of green around, you'll never change that. But there's a lot of red, a lot of red. You don't have to worry about other teams being chanted in our ballpark anymore because of the product on the field every single day was something that people could be proud of around here. So we definitely did a lot of changing of minds and turned it back into a baseball city like it was a long time ago. It took a lot of work and that's something that I'm proud of. Maybe that's something I can continue.

Q: What's you gut feeling... will you be back?

Rollins: Gut feeling... Charlie has some great gut feelings and they obviously work out. Mine have been known to be pretty successful. But at the same time, the gut feelings don't always make great business decisions. And it is a business, no matter what you feel or what you want. Things have to be negotiated, worked out and agreed upon. I see that there's a good chance that things will work out.

Q: Will the fact that you've played here for so long impact decision?

Rollins: I've been here since 1996. That's a long time in this organization. It's the only one I've known. I've never thought about having to go anywhere else. That's a good thing- that means there's been a healthy relationship with organization and vice versa. But I don't think spending a lot of time in one place makes you say this is the place I want to be. Accomplishing what we've accomplish here as a team- that definitely makes you want to see it through to the end. There will be an opportunity for that to happen. They are going to have first shot before anyone else to get something done. Hopefully, we'll get something done. I love the fans. We have an interesting relationship and that would be something that would be fun to continue. But it is still a business, so you've got to understand the other side of it also.

Q: You've seen teammates move to greener pastures, not better circumstance. Will that play a role and will dollars or years be more important to you?

Rollins: I've seen teammates go other places and get a lot of money, which is great for them and their family. Obviously, if I was to go somewhere else, it would be for money and for years and to another good team. I'm not just going to go to another team just for money. It has to be the right circumstance. It has to be a team that is winning now or a team that will be winning in three months. I can't be waiting too long. I'm not used to losing anymore. But it has to make sense for both parties. You can't say what's more important. I'll be OK either way. I've been able to live a lovely lifestyle through this sport and entertaining people. When it comes down to it, when the offers is on the table, first from the Phillies and see how that goes. If it doesn't work out the way we'd like it to, we'll weigh all the other options then and see what makes sense for me and my family and to see what I want to do for the rest of my career.

Q: The reports are you want five years... what would it take to come back? Would you take fewer years to stay here?

Rollins: If I was older, I'd take a shorter term. But I'll be 33 when I get the contract. That means I have good six years left to perform at a high level and maybe even more. My father has been in great shape, so I know how to keep myself in shape. There's no doubt about that. As far as life, you are starting to become a grown man and what it takes every single day and what you are able to do. I'm looking at five years. But if its going to be shorter, it would have to be a fifth year option or something like that. My option.

Q: How do you view your skills at this point?

Rollins: It's slower getting up in the morning and I eat breakfast a little later. But the skills are where they have always been. They haven't gone anywhere. I know you guys like to make me feel old at times, but that's simply not the case. In '07, I had a fantastic season that I had a lot to live up to and a lot to prove and I was able to do it. Prior to that and after that, I've been the same consistent player barring a couple of injuries.

Q: ...And compared to other guys in the league?

Rollins: You guys can do that, man. That's the fun part.

Q: As a first time free agent, would you rather have a quick resolution or test the process?

Rollins: That will play itself out. You are prepared for everything. You are prepared to get it done here and get it done in Philadelphia if it works out. That would be No. 1. If it doesn't, we'll see what happens on the open market. If everything is the same, I won't go anywhere. If it is something crazy, then it is something that I will think about.

Q: If Phils make an offer - sign now or wait for the market?

Rollins: As a business person, it makes more sense to come in and start some kind of war to raise the dollar sign up. But if they made an offer now that was great for both sides, it would be a no-brainer. There wouldn't be too much to think about because I've been here and I've liked it here. It's been a great place to play right now. It's a great product every single day. The players, the community every single day. If that doesn't happen, we'll see what happens. Off the top, definitely, if they made an offer and we said it is what we are looking for, then it would be done.

#Phillies injury updates

2011-10-08T21:01:00.001-04:00

This is straight from the Phillies PR staff:

First baseman Ryan Howard’s MRI revealed a rupture of the left Achilles tendon. He cannot have surgery until the swelling resolves and it has not been determined who will perform the surgery. Recovery time won’t be known until after the surgery is complete and there is no guarantee he will be ready for spring training.

· First baseman Ross Gload will have his right hip re-examined by Dr. Bryan Kelly. Gload will likely have arthroscopic hip surgery.

· Right fielder Hunter Pence and second baseman Placido Polanco will both have MRIs to evaluate the extent of their sports hernias. Polanco will likely have surgery and Pence’s plan will be determined following the MRI.

· Left-hander Cole Hamels will have loose bodies removed from his left elbow on October 14. He also has an inguinal hernia and surgery for that is scheduled for a week later.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

A worse ending for Ryan Howard

2011-10-08T01:11:00.003-04:00

The image of Ryan Howard watching Brian Wilson's third strike to end the 2010 NLCS was etched into the memory of every disappointed Phillies fan last winter.

For Howard, somehow, the NLDS ended worse. Howard, who went hitless in his final 15 at-bats against the St. Louis Cardinals, believes he tore his left Achilles when he ran out of the batter's box to run out the final out of the 2011 season, a ground ball to second base.

Howard will have an MRI Saturday.

Here's what he had to say after the game:

"I hit the ball and I’d have to watch the tape. It felt like my bat came around and hit the back of my Achilles. I was trying to run and I just felt this pop. The whole thing just went numb, like it was on fire. Just tried to keep going and went down and literally felt like I was on a flat tire. I don’t know. I tried to get caught, and just couldn’t go."

Do you think it's torn?

"That’s what they think it may be. Get an MRI tomorrow and see and if so, then probably have surgery."

Was it a risk since you were playing on a bad left foot?

"It’s the playoffs man. No. I didn’t know. I think it might have been just one of those freak things where going out there on it, the way that it was…just didn’t really have any pain. Think it might have been one of those freak things. I think it was flexed when I was trying to come out of the box and the bat I think it hit. I’d have to watch the replay and kinda see. Just tried to go and it felt like there was a platform underneath my heel and just straight-up flat tire."

Tougher to hear Cardinals celebrating as you were down in pain?

"I mean I heard. I thought I hit the ball better than what it was. I thought the ball was in the outfield and had tripped and was trying to get up, but the adrenaline was trying to keep going and I kinda looked up and I saw Punto had the ball and was thrown it and I just couldn’t go. I heard. I couldn’t really feel anything in my ankle."

5 for 5: A Look at a Handful of Keys to Do-or-Die Game 5

2011-10-07T12:10:00.013-04:00

There's a rather important game at Citizens Bank Park tonight.

All that hinges on Game 5 of the NLDS is the next step in a World Series-or-bust season and, well, a bust season.

The expectations from the time the Phillies arrived to spring training with a star-studded starting pitching staff up until they won a franchise record 102 games last week are that Charlie Manuel and Co. should be in the World Series. But, in the next 12 hours, that magical season could abruptly end in the first round, the earliest exit for a Phillies team since '07.

So how can the Phillies prevent that from happening? What's worth keeping a close eye on tonight as you bite your fingers, sit on the edge of your recliner and curse at the TV?

Here are five things I jotted down as I thought about Game 5:

1. "Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown." Ryan Howard is and will always be the most criticized person in the Phillies organization. Why? Oh, well, there are only 125 million reasons.

The man with the biggest paycheck will always be the one who has to produce more than anyone else, and, if he doesn't he will hear about it more than anyone else. Heck, last year Howard hit a team-high .303 with a team-best four extra-base hits... but he still received the most criticism because of the way the season ended, with him staring down strike three in the NLCS.

Howard isn't having that kind of success this postseason. While we shouldn't ignore the fact that he almost single-handedly won a game this series - his three-run home run in Game 1 was just as vital to the Phillis still being alive as Ben Francisco's pinch hit bomb three nights ago - Howard has done almost nothing since.

After the home run, Howard has gone 1-for-12 (.083) with three RBIs (a sac fly and a two-run single) and six strikeouts.

Howard will have to get out of his funk early on Friday. Tony LaRussa is the king of playing lefty-righty matchups late and Howard has been helpless vs. lefties in the series: 0-for-6, 4 strikeouts.

2. What's up, Doc (in the first inning)? Roy Halladay is probably the last person you should concern yourself with entering tonight. When it comes to talent and preparation, he's unmatched by anyone in baseball.

But Halladay is human. Like superheroes, he's not without at least one flaw. The three-run home run he gave up to Lance Berkman in the aforementioned Game 1 win revealed that flaw to the masses.

Of the 11 home runs Halladay has given up in 2011, five have come in the first inning. If the Cardinals have a chance to get to Halladay, it will most likely have to come early.

In the regular season, Halladay had a 3.66 ERA in the first inning. In innings two-through-nine, he had a 2.14 ERA.

There are similar results if you break down Doc's pitch count.

In the first 25 pitches he's thrown in games in the regular season, Halladay has surrendered 15 extra-base hits (including 5 of the 10 home runs), and opponents have hit .277 against him. In pitches 51 through 75, opponents have hit .204 with 7 extra-base hits.

In pitches 76-100, opponents are hitting just .188 off Halladay.

3. The New Guy. Hunter Pence was supposed to be the savior of the Phillies offense when he arrived in July, the missing piece to replace the right-handed hitting power vacated by departed free agent Jayson Werth.

And there's no doubt Pence was just that in the first two months he suited up in a Phillies uniform. His 113 total bases in August and September led all Phillies players.

But Pence's power has been missing in action in October. All four of his hits have been singles.

In fact, Pence is the only No.3 hole hitter in the postseason (including teams that have already been eliminated) without an extra-base hit.

Albert Pujols has three (all doubles), Ryan Braun has four (three doubles, a home run), Delmon Young has three (three home runs), Justin Upton has one (a home run), Robinson Cano had four (two doubles, two home runs) and Evan Longoria had one (a home run). Pence enters tonight with zero.... so it's safe to say he's due.

4. Bottoms Up. While much of the attention -- see two of the first three items on this list -- has been dedicated to examining the bigger names in the middle of the respective lineups, you could argue that the reason the Phils and Cards are knotted at 2-2 in the series is a direct result of the production, and lack thereof, from the bottom of the respective lineups.

Albert Pujols, Lance Berkman and Matt Holliday have been out-hit by the less-heralded players in the bottom of the Cardinals batting order while Carlos Ruiz and Placido Polanco have been less effective than anyone else in the Phillies order.

Here's how the number shake out:

-Polanco and Ruiz, the two players who have hit seventh and eighth in the first four games, are a combined 3-for-30 (.100) with six strikeouts and one walk in the first four games. The three hits have been singles.

-Jon Jay, Ryan Theriot, David Freese and Skip Schumaker are hitting .462 (12-for-26) with a home run, three doubles, four strikeouts, three walks and seven RBIs when they've started in the seventh or eighth spot in LaRussa's mix-and-match lineup.

5. The Other Cy Young Winner: Chris Carpenter had more earned runs (four) than innings pitched (three) in his pitching line after Game 2. But we'll give him a pass since it was the first time in his 14-year career that he's pitched on short rest.

Roy Halladay, Carpenter's close friend and former teammate, deserves all of the hype he gets. He's one of two pitchers in the history of the sport to throw a postseason no-hitter, after all.

But Carpenter deserves similar respect. The 2005 Cy Young Award winner, who has finished in the top three of the voting two other times, is more than capable of throwing his own postseason gem. In 2006, when the Cardinals won the World Series Carpenter went 3-1 with a 2.78 ERA in five starts; the Cardinals won four of the five games he pitched that fall.

The Phillies career regular season numbers off Carpenter aren't great: the regular, every-day eight is hitting a combined .242 with 17 strikeouts and eight extra-base hits in their respective regular season careers off the Cards ace. (Howard is 3-for-11 with a home run and three strikeouts, Pence is 5-for-23 with a triple, a home run and five strikeouts).

Perhaps it will be the only player with moderate success off Carpenter that leads the Phils tonight. Chase Utley is 7-for-15 with a double, two walks and one strikeout vs. Carpenter.

If needed, Cliff Lee will be available out of the 'pen

2011-10-05T16:34:00.003-04:00

Cliff Lee hasn't pitched out of the bullpen since 2007, the year before he turned into a Cy Young-winning starting pitcher.

All four of his relief appearances came in September of 2007, his last four games in a season that involved both injuries and a demotion to the minor leagues.

Lee allowed three earned runs in 5 2/3 innings that September. He struck out six and walked one.

But those stats and the very small sample size - he's thrown 1,641 2/3 career innings, all but those 5 2/3 as a starter - shouldn't be used to gauge just what Lee could provide if he's called upon to pitch out of the bullpen this month.

Beginning tonight, it's at least a possibility the Phillies could use their $120 million pitcher as a reliever.

Lee pitched on Sunday night and would normally throw a between-starts bullpen side session two or three days after a start.

Depending on if the Phils have to play a Game 5 on Friday, Lee wouldn't be needed to start a game until Sunday at the earliest. If the Phils avoid Game 5, he wouldn't be needed until Monday.

In a perfect world for the Phillies, Roy Oswalt will throw seven or eight shutout innings tonight and Charlie Manuel can turn to Ryan Madson, Antonio Bastardo and his normal bullpen arms.

But, Manuel almost sounded giddy to use Lee if the situation presents itself.

"He's available," Manuel said with a smile before Wednesday night's Game 4.

Manuel thinks Lee's temperament and personality lends to being just as effective as a reliever than in his normal, starting role.

"I think who he is and how he looks at things... it's give me the ball and get out of my way," Manuel said. "If he's uptight or anything, he doesn't show it. He thinks he can get everybody out. And when he talks, if you listen to him, he definitely holds himself responsible for everything he does. I think he's a good fit for the pen, really."

LINEUPS:

Phillies:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Chase Utley, 2B
3. Hunter Pence, RF
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Shane Victorino, CF
6. Raul Ibanez, LF
7. Placido Polanco, 3B
8. Carlos Ruiz, C
9. Roy Oswalt

Cardinals:

1. Rafael Furcal, SS
2. Skip Schumaker, 2B
3. Albert Pujols, 1B
4. Lance Berkman, RF
5. Matt Holliday, LF
6. Yadier Molina, C
7. David Freese, 3B
8. Jon Jay, CF
9 . Edwin Jackson, P

Spring Break '12

2011-10-05T13:58:00.003-04:00

The 2012 regular season schedule was released a few weeks ago.

Quietly, the 2012 spring training schedule must have come out recently, too. (It's listed as a "tentative" schedule, so, technically, games or game times could be changed. But that rarely happens).

The first game of the spring schedule is on Leap Year day: Wednesday, February 29 vs. Florida State.

The Grapefruit League schedule opens three days later, on Saturday, March 3 at Clearwater's Bright House Field against the New York Yankees. It's a home-and-and-home three game series with the Yankees, actually.

The Phils are in Tampa on Sunday March 4 (at the place formerly known as Legends Field) before playing host to the Yankees again on Monday, March 5.

For the second straight spring, there are no night games on the docket. (Although that is always subject to change, I'm sure).

The last game of the spring sked is on Sunday, April 1 at Disney World against the Braves. The next day - Monday, April 2 - the Phils return to Citizens Bank Park to host the first of two exhibition games against Pittsburgh.

The 2012 regular season begins on Thursday, April 5 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.

Oswalt retiring? Not so fast

2011-10-04T15:06:00.003-04:00

The last time Roy Oswalt pitched at Busch Stadium, he faced 11 batters. He threw only 37 pitches.

He was out of the game before it was three innings old.

Oswalt's back pain was so bad on that night - June 23 - that he talked openly about his uncertain future. Oswalt, who turned 34 last month, was at a crossroads that night, knowing his back pain had been around before and wondering if it would ever go away for good.

He would be sidelined for the next six weeks.

But Oswalt returned to the Phillies rotation the first week of August. He went 5-4 with a 3.59 ERA in 11 games (10 starts).

But more important than the numbers was the strong and healthy feeling he had when he took the mound. In his most recent start, Oswalt felt so good that he hit 95 miles-per-hour on the radar gun in the sixth inning of last week's win at Turner Field.

From the last time he was in Busch Stadium to this week, it's safe to say Oswalt has a completely different outlook on what lies ahead for his baseball career beyond 2011.

"I'd like to play for a while longer for sure," Oswalt said Tuesday. "I feel like I can still compete. When you get to the point where you don't feel like you can compete, that's when you start doubting yourself. But I feel like my stuff is still good enough to compete. When I'm healthy, I feel like I can do anything I did when I was 21. I know a lot more about pitching now than I did. I actually have a few more pitches than I did when I first started. I feel like I can do it another three or four or five years."

Here's video of Oswalt talking about the future today.

Game 3 lineups

2011-10-04T14:24:00.002-04:00

The sun out, the sky is a perfect shade of blue and there is a cutout of the famous arch carved into the outfield grass at Busch Stadium.

Welcome to St. Louis and the all-important Game 3 of the NLDS. It's really a must-win game for the Phillies.

Why?

Because they're coming off a deflating loss in Game 2 that evened the series at 1-1 and took away their home field advantage. Lose tonight and suddenly they're playing an elimination game in a hostile environment on enemy ground. (OK, that sounds a little too dramatic, but you get the point.)

Here are the lineups:

PHILLIES

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Chase Utley, 2B
3. Hunter Pence, RF
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Shane Victorino, CF
6. John Mayberry Jr., LF
7. Placido Polanco, 3B
8. Carlos Ruiz, C
9. Cole Hamels, P

CARDINALS

1. Rafael Furcal, SS
2. Allen Craig, LF
3. Albert Pujols, 1B
4. Lance Berkman, RF
5. David Freese, 3B
6. Yadier Molina, C
7. Ryan Theriot, 2B
8. Jon Jay, CF
9. Jaime Garcia, P

The rest of the NLDS schedule

2011-10-02T19:56:00.003-04:00

With wins by the Texas Rangers and Detroit Tigers in the last 24 hours, both American League opening round series will go at least four games.

Why should the Phillies care? Well, it's why the Phils will not be in prime time when their series shifts venues to Busch Stadium this week.

After Detroit's win over the Yankees today, MLB released the rest of the schedule for the opening round playoff series.

The Phillies will play the Cardinals at 5:07 p.m. (EST) on Tuesday night for Game 3 of the NLDS. If a Game 4 is necessary, it will be played at 6:07 EST on Wednesday.

If a Game 5 is necessary, it will be played at 8:37 p.m. in Philly on Friday. (The time moves to 8:07 p.m. if the other NL series is over by then.

The Phillies also got the earlier games most likely because the other LDS series, between the Diamondbacks and Brewers, shifts to Arizona this week. The way the TV networks see it, they'll have both NL games in prime time at some point in the markets where the games are being played.

The Phils, by the way, will fly to St. Louis on Monday morning and work out at Busch Stadium at 5 p.m.

Before Game 1, Cliff Lee looks forward to his '11 postseason debut in Game 2

2011-10-01T13:16:00.007-04:00

The most pivotal game of a five-game postseason series is arguably Game 2.

The winner of Game 1 can either take a commanding 2-0 lead, moving one game away from the NLCS, or the loser of Game 1 can get the series back even, and turn it into a best-of-three series.

The pitching matchup for Sunday's Game 2 is also the best of the series: St. Louis ace Chris Carpenter against postseason stud Cliff Lee, a battle of former Cy Young Award winners.

Lee met with the media shortly after noon today. Among other things, he was asked about his cult status in South Philly, where his every move, be it running out a ground ball out or fielding a sacrifice bunt, is cheered wildly. Lee elicits a response unlike any other player in recent memory.

"I'm aware that the fans cheer me," Lee said. "I'm aware that they cheer when I fly out and things like that. You can't not hear the fans. But I honestly try not to let it affect anything really.

"It's definitely better than being booed, no doubt about it. But even if I was getting booed, I would still try to have the same mentality. I would try to not really get caught up in that and focus on the opposing hitters and stay locked in what I do.

"I know the fans respect the way I play the game and respect the fact that I came back here and stuff like that. And that's good. But I think what makes me is my ability to focus on what I'm doing and stay locked into the game and what I need to do to be successful, and I think the fans respect that."

........................................................

Here's the Phillies Game 1 lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins SS
2. Chase Utley 2B
3. Hunter Pence RF
4. Ryan Howard 1B
5. Shane Victorino CF
6. Raul Ibanez LF
7. Placido Polanco 3B
8. Carlos Ruiz C
9. Roy Halladay P

And the Cards:

1. Rafael Furcal, SS
2. Allen Craig, RF
3. Albert Pujols, 1B
4. Lance Berkman, LF
5. David Freese, 3B
6. Yadier Molina, C
7. Skip Schumaker, 2B
8. John Jay, CF
9. Kyle Lohse, P

The Playoff Schedule

2011-09-29T14:11:00.005-04:00

The wait is over.

The eight months of buildup from the time players reported until spring training through the long, winding road that is the major league baseball regular season is over. The favorites to represent the National League in World Series - and the likely favorite to win that World Series - will begin the 2011 postseason early Saturday evening at Citizens Bank Park.

The Phils will play host to the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 1 of the NLDS at 5:07 p.m. on Saturday. Roy Halladay will take the mound for the Phillies; the Cards starter is currently TBD, but the best bet is it's lefty Jaime Garcia.

The Phils and Cards will meet at Citizens Bank Park again on Sunday for Game 2 at 8:07 p.m. That will be Cliff Lee's first playof game as a Phillie since Game 5 of the 2009 World Series against the Yankees.

There is no time for Game 3 (Cole Hamels' start) on Tuesday in St. Louis, because by that point, one or both of the American League Series could be over... or could be still going on. So don't expect those game times until it's clear how many games will be played on Tuesday. (If both AL series are finished, the Phils would almost certainly be back in the prime time slot, after 8 p.m.).

If a Game 4 (Roy Oswalt) is necessary in the Phils-Cards series, that will be played in St. Louis on Wednesday, with a Game 5 on tap for Friday at Citizens Bank Park (should that be necessary, too).

If you really want to look ahead:

The NLCS begins on Sunday Oct. 9 at the team with home field advantage. Game 2 of the NLCS is the next night, Monday, October 10.

Game 1 of the World Series will take place Wednesday, October at the highest National League seed left standing.

But let's not get ahead of ourselves; the Philiies will have their work cut out against the Cards.

There are lots of great story lines, including Ryan Howard going home (he's a .368 hitter with a 1.207 OPS, 9 home runs and 35 RBIs in 26 career games at Busch Stadium), old Houston buddies and veterans without World Series rings Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman going head-to-head (they were teammates for 9 1/2 years with the Astros up until two Julys ago) and, of course, the matchup no one in Philadelphia is excited to see, Brad Lidge against old playoff nemesis Albert Pujols.

Personally, I'm looking forward to what we'll see early on in Game 1: the best pitcher of the last decade (Halladay) against the best hitter of the last decade (Albert Pujols).

Again, Game 1 starts at 5:07 p.m. Pack a sweatshirt, it's supposed to cool down this weekend in South Philly.

If you're not going to the games, they will be televised on TBS.

-----------------------------

I know most of you care about the Phillies and only about the Phillies, but if you want the other game times for the first few games, here goes:

Friday, Sept. 30: Game 1, Rays at Rangers at 5:07 p.m.
Game 1, Tigers at Yankees at 8:37 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 1: Game 1, Diamondbacks at Brewers, 2:07 p.m.
Game 1, Cards at Phils at 5:07 p.m.
Game 2, Rays at Rangers (on TNT) at 7:07 p.m.
Game 2, Tigers at Yankees at 8:37 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 2: Game 2, Diamondbacks at Brewers, 4:37 p.m.
Game 2, Cards at Phils at 8:07 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 3: Game 3, Rangers at Rays at 5:07 p.m.
Game 3, Yankees at Tigers at 8:37 p.m.

Meet me in St. Louis: Phils to play Cards

2011-09-29T00:41:00.002-04:00

Has there ever been a wilder finish to any regular season in the long, storied history of the game of baseball than what went on September 28, 2011?

Does Bud Selig really think an extra playoff round and an extra wild card would improve the game?

Anyway, I digress.

The Phillies knocked the Braves out of the playoffs on Wednesday night and sat and stood, huddled around the big screen TV in the visiting clubhouse at Turner Field, watching the end of the Boston-Baltimore game. They roared when Baltimore tied the game and then won it.

The Boston Red Sox, thought to be the AL favorites to get to the World Series once upon a time, won't even be in the playoffs.

The Phillies, the NL favorites to get to the World Series, will face the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Division Series, beginning Saturday at Citizens Bank Park. (Game times had not been announced as of 1 a.m. Thursday morning).

Here's a little from Ryan Howard following tonight's game.

"This last day of the regular season has been just absolutely crazy," Howard said. "You never knew who was going to do what, but it’s good to see that it’s clear now, who we’re going to play so we can get focused on it. It’s going to be exciting. It’s going to be a fun series, so we’re ready for it."

Any more special to play St. Louis for you since that's home?

"I don’t think it’s really set in yet, but I think it will once we actually get it going and get it back to St. Louis," Howard said. "I remember what it was like when I won the Hank Aaron award back in ’06 and I was there to get the award when they were playing Detroit. There was a lot of energy in St. Louis. It’s going to be an exciting series and it’ll be fun to be able to go home."

They're the hot team right now. Is that a good challenge?

"They’ve been playing some great ball," Howard said. "They had to scratch and claw to make it to this point at the end of the season, so they’re a very dangerous team. You can’t take them lightly. For us we just need to do our thing, just focus on ourselves, pitch well, hit well, play good defense."

#Phillies on SI cover, again

2011-09-28T13:07:00.001-04:00

It's the third time this year, following the all aces cover in spring training and Chooch cover over the summer.

And it's another Gary Smith story. Should be a good one.

Updated: Here's Smith's story, the third installment of his season-long series on the Phillies.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Halladay in Game 1, right?

2011-09-27T17:49:00.005-04:00

When the Phillies begin the 2011 playoffs on Saturday at Citizens Bank Park, Roy Halladay will take the mound. When the Phillies begin the 2011 playoffs on Saturday at Citizens Bank Park, Cliff Lee will take the mound.

So which of those two sentences is correct?

You'll have to read tea leaves or the minds of the Phillies coaching staff to figure it out.

But it's probably a safe guess to assume Roy Halladay will take the ball in Game 1, with Cliff Lee following in Game 2.

For the last month, it's been Halladay followed by Lee. Halladay had his most recent start, Sunday at Citi Field, cut short at 77 pitches.

With just four days away from Game 1 of the NLDS, Charlie Manuel wasn't ready to announce it. Then he said he shouldn't have to.

"I think if you’re good baseball people you should able to see how we’re setting it up," Manuel said. "I shouldn’t have to answer that."

So Halladay, right?

Halladay threw a no-hitter in Game 1 of the NLDS last season. He started Opening Day this year, with Lee following in the second game of the season.

Unofficially, Halladay is the ace of the Phillies ace-laden pitching staff. But the numbers for Halladay and Lee this season have been frighteningly close.

In 32 starts, Halladay is 19-6 with a 2.35 ERA in 233 2/3 innings. He has a 1.04 WHIP (walks and hits per innings pitched), 220 strikeouts and 35 walks, and he leads all NL pitchers with a 6.29 K/BB ratio and with eight complete games. He also has one shutout.

In 32 starts, Lee is 17-8 with a 2.40 ERA in 232 2/3 innings. He has a 1.03 WHIP, 238 strikeouts, 42 walks and a 5.67 K/BB ratio. He has six complete games and a NL-best six shutouts.

In September, Halladay is 3-1 with a 1.70 ERA in five starts. In September, Lee is 2-1 with a 1.42 ERA in five starts.

Even if Lee is arguably the hotter hand right now, it's pretty close and probably not worth having him hop ahead of Halladay in the current order of the rotation.

But it is interesting that the decision hasn't been made yet.

"We don't even know who we're playing yet," pitching coach Rich Dubee said on the delay. "It’s a real tough decision. But I don’t know if it’s a tough decision as much as it’s a good decision."

With two games remaining in the season, the Phils most likely first round opponent is the Arizona Diamondbacks. That matchup would become official if the Braves and Brewers win tonight and the Cardinals and D-backs lose.

If you're curious, Halladay is 0-1 with a 3.00 ERA in one start against Arizona this season (you may recall it was the game he lost a 2-1 lead in the ninth inning). Lee, meanwhile, was 1-1 with a 3.86 ERA in two starts vs. the Diamondbacks this season.

Charlie Manuel lets loose following 8th straight loss

2011-09-24T23:15:00.004-04:00

The Phillies have lost eight straight games for the first time since Terry Francona's final season as manager.

In the 2000 season, the Phillies lost 97 games. It was one of the worst teams in the long, losing history of Phillies baseball.

The 2011 season has seen the Phillies run away with the best record in baseball and collect their 5th straight NL East division title with relative ease.

For the 2000 Phillies, losing eight straight was almost expected. For the 2011 Phillies, who hadn't lost more than two games in a row in a three month stretch this summer, dropping eight in a row is crazy talk.... especially a week before the playoffs begin.

A team once on pace to cruise past the 100-win plateau and surpass the franchise record of 101 wins, set in 1976 and '77, has been stuck at 98 wins for the last week.

With that, here is Charlie Manuel, unedited, following back-to-back losses to the Mets.

"I’m sitting there watching it. I don’t know what I can do about it. I’d say our team is out of sync. We’re definitely out of focus. You guys see how we’re playing. The teams we’re losing to, if you look at our record against them this year – there ain’t too much going our way right now.”

“I don’t know what to say. I sit there and watch and I put the lineup in. We’ve had – actually when you start messing with your lineup – I’ve said this over and over and you guys have heard me for five years – always talking about rest players, do this, do that – all of a sudden we want to get our guys who are hurting well, stuff like that. All of a sudden we start giving them two and three days off, on one, off one, start deciding when to play them. Look around, and pretty soon you lose your mojo. You lose your time and you lose your rhythm. I know what I’m talking about. I’ve been in the damn game for 50 years. I know exactly what I’m talking about. I preach about it every day. People hear it but they look at me like I’m stupid or crazy. Maybe I am.

But that’s what’s happening. That’s what you’re seeing. We’re out of sync. We’re out of focus. We’re searching and nothing’s going right. We jump out there tonight and get six guys on base the first two innings and we score two runs. The other night we got five straight hits and we scored two runs. What the heck? We’re supposed to be scoring three or four runs in a situation like that, but we make mistakes. When we do score two or three runs, then our pitching falls apart. We’re way better than that. Really. We’ve showed we’re better than that. We’ve got 98 wins. We were set to have the biggest year of any Philly team and we got out of sync.

If you want to know the truth with our lineup? It’s like you’ve got seven relievers down there and you keep changing relievers and everything, they’ll find somebody to beat. Does that make sense? That’s kind of like our lineup is. We keep bouncing around, we keep doing things, we keep getting well and all of that – we’ve played all year with people hurting. Every day you play the game of baseball, you hurt. Somehow, you hurt. You have aches and pains – ankle, knee, elbow, whatever. Headaches. Believe me. You can ask anybody who ever played this game. I played this game for 20 years, I can tell you. When you lose focus and you get out of sync, you’ve got to get it back.

Do we have time? I don’t know. We’ll see. But also, too, it’ll be a test of how good we are. How about that? This will be a good test. This is the first time this year that we’ve actually gone bad. And it’s not a real good time to go bad. But at the same time – we’ll see. This is a good measuring stick for us. You might not like it, but it is. We created that ourselves, so we’ll see. That’s all I’ve got to say."

Wheeww. Take a breath.

You can't watch video of the majority of Manuel's soliloquy right here.

Pence not concerned with left knee tendinitis

2011-09-20T22:58:00.003-04:00

Hunter Pence had played in every inning of every game since joining the Phillies two months ago. Charlie Manuel planned on keeping that streak alive on Tuesday, when the Phillies hosted Washington in a day-night doubleheader at Citizens Bank Park.

But in the sixth inning of the matinee with the Nats, Brandon Moss pinch ran for Pence in the sixth inning of a scoreless game. Pence sat out game Game 2, too.

The diagnosis: left patella tendinitis.

Pence will have a precautionary MRI today. He appeared to have tweaked his left knee while running out an infield single in the first inning of Tuesday’s matinee against the Nationals.

“I’ve had patellar tendinitis for forever so it just flared up a little bit,” Pence said. “They want me to go get an MRI. I didn’t really feel it necessary, but I’m going to do what they want me to do.”

Pence believes he can return as soon as tonight.

“It’s fine,” Pence said. “This is the first day in Philadelphia it’s flared up – it’s one of those things. It’s part of the game. I don’t even really like to talk about it because there’s a difference between injuries and being hurt. Pain is something that you deal with and you don’t talk about. It’s not that big a deal.”

Pence's first time out of the starting lineup resulted in the Phillies fourth straight loss. It's the first time all season they've lost four straight at home.

The Phils haven't lost five straight anywhere - home or away - this season.

Without Pence - or Ryan Howard, who remains sidelined after getting an anti-inflammatory shot on his ailing left foot Monday - the Phils were shut out for the second time in three days. They've scored three runs or less in 12 of their last 13 games.

"I don’t think any of us like the way it’s going right now," Pence said. "Hopefully it’s a little bit of a wake-up call and I think that could ultimately be a good thing to go through this now and come out of it. We’re going to find a way to make it better."

"There’s intensity. We’re not the best losers here. The Phillies, they want to win. Charlie wants to win – all these guys. I think it’s going to pick up here pretty soon because ultimately it’s embarrassing to go out and play like that."

Hunter Pence sits. Is he hurt?

2011-09-20T18:21:00.002-04:00

Hunter Pence legged out an infield single in the first inning of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Nationals.

Immediately after the play, Pence appeared to be hobbling a bit. When he went out to play right field in the top half of the second, Pence still did not to appear to be at full strength.

But Pence remained in the game until the sixth inning, when Brandon Moss pinch ran for him.

In between games, Charlie Manuel said his starting right fielder was fine.

"He's a little tight and sore. He said he's fine," Manuel said. "He's all right. His knee is a little sore or something from sliding and things."

So will Pence play in Game 2?

"Yeah, he'll be in there," Manuel said.

About 90 minutes later, when the lineups were unveiled, Pence's name was not in the Phillies starting nine. It was the first time he has not in the starting lineup in 49 games since arriving to the Phillies on July 30.

Before he came out of the first game in the sixth inning Tuesday, Pence had played every inning of every game (428 2/3 innings) since joining the Phillies.

Pence, who went 2-for-3 in the matinee game, gave reporters the thumbs up in between games, saying he was fine.

Since the Phillies have clinched a playoff berth, the NL East and home field advantage, it really doesn't make any sense to play anyone if they don't have to at this point. So perhaps it's no big deal.

Stay tuned.

Howard out again, will get anti-inflammatory shot

2011-09-18T17:39:00.003-04:00

To the victors go the spoils.... and the chance to rest their starters before the playoffs.

But Charlie Manuel's lineup on Sunday, the day after the Phillies clinched their fifth straight NL East division, was full of regulars. In part because he wants to keep his players sharp and in part because the Phils want to give the Cardinals, who are vying for the Wild Card, their very best.

But the Phillies lineup had one notable exception: Ryan Howard.

Howard was out of the starting nine for the fifth time in the last 12 games and the sixth time since August 23 with left foot bursitis.

Since there is 13 days before the playoffs begin, the Phils are attempting to rid Howard of the problem once and for all: Charlie Manuel said Howard will have an anti-inflammatory shot Monday.

"He'll probably miss two or three games," Manuel said. "That should help him some for the rest of the season."

Since the first time he was out of the lineup because of his left foot, Howard has hit .222 (16-for-72) with a .912 OPS, seven home runs, and 17 RBIs in his last 22 games.

------

Here's tonight's lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Shane Victorino, CF
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Hunter Pence, RF
5. Raul Ibanez, LF
6. Placido Polanco, 3B
7. Ross Gload, 1B
8. Brian Schneider, C
9. Cole Hamels, P

Phillies clinch fifth straight NL East crown

2011-09-17T23:33:00.004-04:00

The pitching.

It's always been about the pitching.

From the first days of spring training, when Roy Halladay threw on a mound next to Cole Hamels, when Cliff Lee and Roy Oswalt traded pitching and hunting stories, until the the time the 2011 season officially comes to an end, it will be about the pitching staff the Phillies have showcased in arguably the best summer in the franchise's 129 years of existence.

Roy Oswalt, the only name of the above quartet that isn't on the short list for the National League Cy Young Award consideration, threw seven shutout innings as the Phillies steamrolled over St. Louis 9-2 on Saturday night and clinched the National League East crown for the fifth straight season.

The Phillies 3.00 team ERA leads baseball. Their starting pitchers' combined ERA of 2.86 also leads baseball (it's a good ways ahead of San Francisco's 3.18 ERA).

But what about just the quartet of Halladay and Lee (two former Cy Young Award winners) and Oswalt and Hamels (two former postseason MVPs)? That foursome is 56-29 with a 2.66 ERA in 110 starts this season.

They've combined for seven shutouts and 17 complete games.

Three of Phillies starters - Hamels, Lee and Halladay - rank in the top seven in the NL in ERA. That same trio ranks first, third and fourth, respectively, in the NL in WHIP (walks and hits per inning pitched).

The Phillies have played 150 games. In 110 of those games, they've sent an ace to the mound.

It's just as they drew it up in spring training.

“I think they’re better than what was advertised,” proud pitching coach Rich Dubee said Saturday night. “It’s one thing sot say you’re capable of doing certain stuff. But the way these guys have been gone at it the whole year, they’ve gone beyond those expectations and taken it to a new level.”

"They’ve lived up to the hype and more,"said Raul Ibanez, who capped Saturday's win with an eighth-inning grand slam. "They have been phenomenal. One day we’ll be able to tell our grandkids we were a part of a team with a staff like this."

Throw rookie Vance Worley into the mix and the numbers are just as stellar: the fivesome of Halladay, Hamels, Lee, Oswalt and Worley is 67-31 with a 2.69 ERA.

Howard sits again; cortisone shot a possibility

2011-09-16T18:18:00.004-04:00

Ryan Howard has been bothered by bursitis in his left ankle since early August.

On Friday, he was out of the Phillies starting lineup for the fourth time in the last 10 games.

While he said the days off help, Howard doesn't believe his ankle will get completely better until he has a full offseason to rest. And he didn't rule out the possibility of getting a cortisone shot before the postseason begins in two weeks.

"That cold be a possibility," Howard said. "Right now it's still early enough to where hopefully we can clinch (the NL East) and we'll discuss that and see if it's the best option. "The pain is probably the most constant thing. Some days the range of motion in my ankle will be looser some days than other days. The pain is probably the biggest constant."

Howard's game-winning RBI double in the 10th inning Thursday night gave the Phils a 2-1 win over Florida. Howard had been hitless in 16 at-bats before that at-bat.

Howard is hitting .255 with a .950 OPS, four home runs and 10 RBIs in 15 games this month.

#Phillies 2012 Schedule

2011-09-14T11:13:00.004-04:00

Click on that image to make it bigger. Click on it twice to make it even BIGGER.

In interleague play, the Phils will host Boston (May 18-20) and Tampa (June 22-24). They'll travel to Baltimore (June 8-10), Minnesota (June 12-14) and Toronto (June 15-17).

For the third straight year, they close out the season on the road: three game in Miami, then the final three at Washington.

They'll open 2012 at PNC Park in Pittsburgh on Thursday, April 5.

The big winner here? Baltimore. I don't believe the Phils have played there since 2006.

We've seen Phillies fans take over Washington in recent years. It's safe to say a weekend series at Camden Yards will do pretty good business for Peter Angelos and Co.

Shorthanded at shortstop

2011-09-11T12:47:00.006-04:00

Michael Martinez and Pete Orr will start at shortstop and second base, respectively, when the Phillies attempt to finish off a four-game sweep at Miller Park today.

The backup second baseman today? Third baseman Placido Polanco. The backup third baseman? Catcher Carlos Ruiz. The backup shortstop? Jimmy Rollins.

Rollins, whose last start came three weeks ago today, made his first appearance in a game in 20 days on Saturday night. He replaced Wilson Valdez in the top of the 10th inning, two innings after Valdez suffered a left hamstring injury.

The plan for Rollins is to return to the starting lineup Monday in Houston; he's available to play today, but Charlie Manuel wanted to give his starting shortstop one more day.

Valdez may also be available tomorrow. He was in good spirits Sunday morning.

"I think maybe tomorrow," Valdez said of when he's be able to play.

Of course, Chase Utley isn't even with the team; he's back in Philly - and may remain there for the rest of the trip - following Wednesday's concussion.

If anyone out there thought way back in spring training that Michael Martinez and Pete Orr would start at second and short on Sept. 11, when most teams are in the middle of a pennant race, well.... no one thought that.

Following Saturday night's extra-inning win over the NL Central-leading Brewers, the Phils hold a 12-game lead in the NL East - the largest lead of any division leader in baseball. Because of that, they can afford to continue to play it safe with an assortment of injuries. (Ryan Howard has rested his left foot in two of the last three games).

And this is pretty funny, too: the Phils can clinch a spot in the postseason with a win and a Cardinals loss today... with Martinez and Orr at short and second.

Magic number to clinch a playoff spot: 2

Magic number to clinch NL East: 7

An Utley Update

2011-09-09T18:28:00.003-04:00

While the Phils prep to play their second game of a seven-game road trip in Milwaukee, Chase Utley remains in Philly.

Utley will have an ImPACT test on Saturday, which will test the severity of the concussion he suffered when he was hit by an Eric O'Flaherty pitch on the side of his helmet on Wednesday night at Citizens Bank Park.

Although GM Ruben Amaro Jr. initially said he thought it was a "very, very mild" concussion, the Phils clarified Friday that they won't know the severity until they get results from the ImPACT test.

In addition they said Utley has not experienced headaches on the night of or in the days since the injury.

A report on CSNPhilly.com earlier today said Utley might not rejoin the Phillies until next weekend, when they start a four-game series with St. Louis at Citizens Bank Park.

Since the Phils enter Friday with a magic number of 4 to make the playoffs and 11 to wrap up both the division and home field throughout the playoffs, there is obviously no need to rush a concussed player back onto the field.

No Utley, no Rollins, no Howard

2011-09-08T18:25:00.005-04:00

The Phillies, the best team in baseball, begin a four-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers, the second best team in the National League, tonight at Miller Park.

But before we go on with the "PLAYOFF PREVIEW" angle, let's consider this: Brewers ace and former Cy Young Award winner Zack Greinke will not pitch in any of the four games.

But before you go feeling like the Phils must be living good because of that, let's look at today's lineup:

1. Shane Victorino, CF

2. Wilson Valdez, SS

3. Placido Polanco, 3B

4. Hunter Pence, RF

5. John Mayberry Jr., 1B

6. Carlos Ruiz, C

7. Ben Francisco, LF

8. Michael Martinez, 2B

9. Cole Hamels, P

Yup, no Chase Utley, no Ryan Howard and no Jimmy Rollins.... because of a concussion, left foot bursitis and a right groin injury, respectively.

According to assistant GM Scott Proefrock, Utley is not likely to play at all in Milwaukee. Utley was hit in the head with a pitch Wednesday night.

He is getting checked out by a concussion specialist in Philly today. And he also needs to have an impact test, which are done 48 hours after the injury. So stay tuned for an update on Utley's status sometime this weekend.

Rollins was activated off the DL today, but he isn't 100 percent back from his groin injury. Charlie Manuel said he has Rollins as his disposal to hit in the pinch tonight, but he would have to use a pinch runner for Rollins.

The Phils activated him just to have an extra body with Utley out.

As for Howard, he's been suffering from left foot bursitis for the last month. Since the Phillies are facing a left-hander (Chris Narveson), Manuel figured it was a good day to get Howard off of his foot.

Howard is 0-for-4 with 2 strikeouts and 2 walks in his career against Narveson. Howard has struggled against left-handers in general all season.

Howard in 121 games vs. right-handers: .261 BA, .920 OPS, 28 home runs, 80 RBIs.

Howard in 85 games vs. left-handers: .233, .652 OPS, 3 home runs, 28 RBIs.

Thanks to our research staff (David Hale of the Wilmington News Journal), it's the first game that Howard, Utley and Rollins have been out of the lineup since the last game of the 2009 regular. Since that game wasn't exactly meaningful, the last time before that was on Sept. 12, 2004.

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If you're already looking ahead to the big series in Houston - we kid, the Astros are the worst team in baseball - it should be a fun first two games.

On Monday, Roy Oswalt's first career game as a visitor in Houston will come against long-time Phillies pitcher Brett Myers.

On Tuesday, it's an all-lefty affair: former Phils pitcher J.A. Happ vs. Cole Hamels.

As #Phillies head to Milwaukee, Utley stays in Philly

2011-09-07T23:44:00.001-04:00

From Jack McCaffery:

PHILADELPHIA --- Chase Utley left the Phillies' 3-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves Wednesday with a possible concussion, and he will not play for at least the next two games, according to general manager Ruben Amaro Jr.
“The way to describe it is that he didn't really feel 100 percent after getting hit,” Amaro said. “He felt OK right afterward. Then he started feeling a little fuzzy. And so we took the precaution to get him out of the game.”
Utley was hit in the sixth inning, but played in the field in the seventh and eighth before being pinch-hit for by Ben Francisco.
The Phillies will begin a four-game series in Milwaukee tonight. Utley did not make the trip, according to the Phillies, and will see a doctor Thursday.
“He's going to be out a couple of days at least,” Amaro said, adding, “we think this is very, very mild, but we are going to be very cautious with him, obviously.”
Amaro said the Phillies will reactivate Jimmy Rollins (groin) from the disabled list, but are planning to utilize him only as an emergency infielder while Utley undergoes impact tests.

“As I told Chase,” Amaro said, “we're not going to mess with the heart and we are not going to mess with the head. When you get a 90-plus-mile-an-hour fastball off your melon, it's not going to be good. You have to be cautious about it, regardless of what kind of gear you are wearing.”

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Assistant GM LaMar resigns

2011-09-06T22:31:00.004-04:00

Nearly an hour after the Phillies began their game with the Braves and almost three hours after the game was supposed to begin, the team issued an oddly-times press released.

The Phillies announced they had accepted the resignation of assistant general manager Chuck LaMar. LaMar, who joined the organization as the director of pro scouting in October of 2007, has worked for the last three seasons as one of three assistant GMs under general manager and senior vice president Ruben Amaro Jr.

LaMar, a former general manager of the Tampa Bay Rays, oversaw the player development and scouting departments as an assistant GM with the Phillies. Benny Looper and Scott Proefrock are Amaro’s other two assistant GMs.

‘We had a meeting this morning, Benny, Chuck and I,” Amaro said during the fourth inning of Tuesday night game’s. “After that it seemed for Chuck the best situation for him was to go ahead and re-sign.”

Amaro didn’t elaborate much further on the details of LaMar’s departure.

“He’s had some solid contributions to our organization over the last several years,” Amaro said. “I guess the feeling was we gave him the opportunity to pursue other pursuits, either in the game or outside the game.”

Amaro said the Phillies plan on filling the vacancy, but they’re not in any rush.

One name to keep an eye on is Mike Ondo, who has risen through the player development side of the organization’s baseball operations wing. Ondo is currently the team’s director of professional scouting.

Amaro wouldn’t comment when asked whether either the team planned on having LaMar in the organization beyond the 2011 season, labeling such questions as “speculative.”

The Instant Replay Rules

2011-09-04T15:17:00.003-04:00

Here is how instant replay rule is defined by MLB:

Instant Replay Rules: Instant replay applies on home runs calls – fair or foul, where the ball left the playing field or whether a fan interfered with the ball.

The decision to use replay is made by the umpire crew chief, who is also responsible to determine whether or not a call should be reversed.

The standard used by the crew chief is whether there is clear and convincing evidence that the decision on the field was incorrect.

The Stopper

2011-09-04T11:58:00.003-04:00

When Cole Hamels was asked about what happened in the Phillies game Saturday night, his answer was pretty typical... and the end of the answer was also pretty revealing.

"I think we have a ton of confidence in the bullpen, but sometimes it doesn’t happen. When you play 162 games, it’s going to happen," Hamels said. "You don’t want to see it, but that’s the way it goes. We’ll get back on it tomorrow, and with Doc pitching, we’ll probably see nine (innings).”

The Phillies are very aware when Roy Halladay's turn is coming up in the rotation and it's hard to imagine any team (save the Detroit Tigers with Justin Verlander) that has more confidence going into a game than the Phillies do with Halladay.

Of course there's good reason for that, namely the two Cy Young Awards that top a decade-long resume of dominance.

But there's more: Halladay prevents losing streaks. Since joining the Phillies, he has been the very definition of a stopper.

Entering Sunday, Halladay has taken the mound 27 times this season. In more than half of those games (14), the game was preceded by a loss.

The Phillies are 12-2 in Halladay starts following a loss. They've won nine straight games when Halladay pitches following defeat. (The last loss: April 15 at Atlanta).

In the two years they've had him atop the rotation, the Phillies are 20-6 in Halladay starts following a loss.

It's not hard to figure out why the Phillies have lost more than two games in a row just twice this season: they send one of their aces to the mound at least four times in a week. That formula begins with Halladay.

Overall, the Phillies are 21-6 in Halladay starts this season.

The Phillies are 43-17 (.717) in the 60 starts Halladay has made since arriving from Toronto 21 months ago.

Halladay will try to add to those gaudy numbers this afternoon in the Phillies final game at Sun Life Stadium, which is being replaced in 2012. Of course, Halladay has had some success in this ballpark, too.

Putting the Phillies 88 wins into perspective...

2011-09-03T17:38:00.010-04:00

The Phillies will take the field tonight at Sun Life Stadium with 88 wins in their first 134 games - it's the fastest to 88 wins in franchise history.

To put that number into perspective, consider the Phillies of 10 years ago.

In 2001, under first-year manager Larry Bowa, the Phils won finished with 86 wins - 20 more wins than they had in 2000. Bowa was voted National League Manager of the Year.

It was really the turnaround season, the year that was the first chapter to an 11-year run where the team finished 1st or 2nd in the division in 8 of 10 seasons. It was the first time in eight seasons that the Phils had a winning record.

And those Phillies won 86 games, two fewer than the current Phillies had entering Saturday night.

But let's stay with the 2001 season for a minute. The same summer that saw Bowa mold the Phils into winners, Lou Pinella's Seattle Mariners reeled off 116 wins.

In order for the Phillies to reach 116 wins this season, they'd have to win every game from here on out. Beginning tonight, they would have to win 28 straight games.

Through their first 134 games, Seattle already had 96 wins and held an eye-popping 18-game lead in the American League West.

Mike Cameron, who is starting for the Marlins tonight, was the center fielder on that Mariners team, which lost to the Yankees in the ALCS.

"They won't catch it," Cameron laughed Saturday. "I see some of the similarities over there (Phillies). I think the biggest thing for us in 2001, we had about four guys that had career years offensively. Over here, these guys are just dominating on the mound every night, so they only have to get a few runs every night.

"Their starting pitching is a little more strong because they have the power pitching advantage. We only had one guy that was a power pitcher, Freddy Garcia. That played a big factor in everything. I just don’t see anyone that can match up with them."

The Phillies club record for wins in a season is 101. The Phils can play .500 baseball for the rest of the season (14-14) and srtill reach a franchise record 102 wins.

If they win their next two games, they'll return home for a three-game series with the Braves with 90 wins.

Rollins "not likely" to return Tuesday

2011-09-01T11:34:00.005-04:00

Jimmy Rollins took time out of his Thursday morning to catch up with an old friend.

Dontrelle Willis was four years behind Rollins in school; both graduated from Encinal High in Alameda, Calif.

Rollins, who lauded Willis' toughness as a skinny kid on the basketball court playing with older guys as a kid, was disappointed he didn't have the chance to face Willis for the first time in a regular season game since 2007.

But Rollins is in no rush to return from a right groin strain.

Rollins has been taking light ground balls and batting practice this week in Cincinnati. But he hasn't gone through any fielding work that requires him to move to the left or right... and he did some jogging Wednesday, but hasn't run yet.

Rollins is eligible to return from the DL Tuesday.

"Is it possible? Anything is possible," Rollins said of returning Tuesday. "But it's not likely."

Like general manager Ruben Amaro said earlier this week, the goal isn't to get Rollins on the field by any particular date; the goal is to get him back on the field when he's healthy.

With 20 games left before the postseason, the Phillies can't afford to have any setbacks with their Gold Glove-winning shortstop. With a 7 1/2 game lead in the NL East, they can afford to be patient.

#Phillies trading for a bat?

2011-08-31T00:39:00.001-04:00

Michael Schwimer walked by Michael Stutes following tonight's game in Cincinnati and the veteran rookie gave the newer rookie a confused look.

Schwimer told Stutes what the beat crew found out prior to Charlie Manuel's post game meeting with the media: the Phils optioned Schwimer to Triple-A Lehigh Valley and a corresponding move would come Wednesday.

Like Stutes, some of us were a little confused. No one was getting ready to be activated off the DL and the Phils, who had three days off in four days prior to yesterday, didn't have an overtaxed pitching staff in need of a fresh arm from Lehigh.

So the move had to be related to Wednesday's midnight deadline to make a trade for a player who clears or is claimed off waivers. In addition, a player can only be postseason eligible if he's in an organization before Sept. 1.

So, again, the corresponding move had to be someone acquired from another team.

CSN Philly's Jim Salisbury has uncovered who that someone is: Pirates reserve John Bowker, a left-handed hitting first baseman/outfielder.

Surely not the headline-grabbing name like Jim Thome or Jason Giambi, but with Ross Gload limited (and unproductive since the All-Star break) with a hip injury, perhaps Bowker can give the Phils a better left-handed option off the bench.

According to Salisbury, Bowker is expected to join the Phillies on Wednesday. As long as this deal is official in 23 hours or less, Bowker will be eligible for the postseason roster.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Shane Victorino, NL MVP candidate?

2011-08-30T17:08:00.010-04:00

For whatever reason, Shane Victorino isn't the name anyone puts out there as an MVP candidate when such predictions are prognosticated each spring.

The Phillies obviously have an abundance of big names with resumes worthy of such praise when it's doled out each preseason.

Ryan Howard has won an MVP award and has finished in the top 5 three other times. Chase Utley is a popular pick each spring, perhaps moreso than Howard. Jimmy Rollins has won an MVP. Roy Halladay, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, is also a unique name to throw into the mix.

Even though Victorino hit over .290 in both 2008 and 2009, he still couldn't put himself onto the radar ahead of his more popular teammates.

But not anymore.

As the season closes in on September, Victorino has been the most valuable and most productive position player on the Phillies. And since they're the best team in baseball, the best position player on the team is a candidate almost by default.

Victorino's problem, if he has one, is he doesn't have the two, traditional flashy stats that the older generation still values come MVP time: home runs and RBIs. I point that out for the sake of pointing it out, not because I agree with it.

To keep that line of thinking going, I tried to think of an MVP winner in the last five years who was not a "traditional" MVP candidate. Someone who wasn't a power hitter, but was still highly productive.

It didn't take me long to come up with the name: Boston's Dustin Pedroia, who won AL MVP honors in 2008.

Since Victorino's full stat line is staring me in the face here at Great American Ball Park (we're two hours from game time but they're already ready for the leadoff hitter), I'll use that and then post Pedroia's 2008, too.

Victorino in 2011:

.308 BA, .381 OBP, .544 SLG, .925 OPS, 399 ABs, 79 runs, 123 hits, 21 doubles, 14 triples, 15 home runs, 53 RBIs, 41 walks, 17 SBs.

Pedroia in 2008:

.326 BA, .376 OBP, .493 SLG, .869 OPS, 653 ABs, 118 runs, 213 hits, 54 doubles, 2 triples, 17 home runs, 83 RBIs, 50 walks, 20 SBs.

(It should also be noted: both play(ed) Gold Glove caliber defense).

One of the numbers that jumps out to me is "200 hits," simply because it's one of the traditional plateaus for a top hitter (like a 20-game winner on the pitching side, kind of, sort of).

Victorino isn't going to reach 200 hits. But that doesn't necessarily discount his candidacy. What it points out, if anything, is that his numbers have been hurt by two stints on the disabled list.

But the Phillies still have 32 games left in the next 30 days and Victorino's numbers, unlike Pedroia's, are not complete. If he can maintain his lofty numbers in BA/OBP/OPS and reach the 100-run plateau, he will surely be in the final mix when NL MVP ballots are being filled out a month from now.

----------------------------

Here's another Victorino stat, courtesy of the Elias Sports Buraeu:

Victorino's two-run home run in the 8th inning on Monday night was his fifth in Late-Inning Pressure Situations this season, one more than he hit in L.I.P.S. over 7 previous seasons combined (4 HR in 375 AB coming into 2011).

(Late-Inning Pressure Situations are defined by Elias as any at-bat in the 7th inning or later, with the batter's team trailing by 3 runs or less or 4 runs if the bases are loaded.)

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A postscript: I purposely did not include the other NL MVP candidates (Ryan Braun, Prince Fielder and Justin Upton are among the worthy) because I was examining Victorino more as an MVP candidate than as an MVP winner.

Rollins on the road to return

2011-08-29T17:19:00.002-04:00

How did Jimmy Rollins spend close to 48 hours in Cincinnati without a baseball game?

He went shopping, naturally. Rollins took a few teammates to an upscale department store, picked up the bill and came away with some cologne (fun fact: he's bought three difference fragrances since the season began).

But you're far more interested in when Rollins might return to the Phillies lineup, right?

Rollins, who was placed on the DL with a right groin strain a week ago today, said he planned on going through a series of lateral movements before batting practice tonight.

"Some hop, skipping and jumping," Rollins said. "See how I feel. And graduate from there I guess"

Sure enough, both Rollins and Raul Ibanez (left groin) are going through those movements out on the warning track in left field as I type these words. Frankly, they look like they're backround dancers in a M.C. Hammer video.

Rollins said he'd take ground balls (the ones that are hit right at him) if the lateral movement stuff goes well.

Rollins can be activated from the DL a week from tomorrow. It sure sounds like he's going to be ready by then, although the Phillies will surely practice some caution given Rollins' history and the fact that games in October are slightly more important than bringing Rollins back in one week or two weeks from today.

"That first day (after I injured it), (last) Monday, I was like, 'No way,'" Rollins said. "And then Tuesday it was 100 percent better than it was Monday. The next day is usually (the worst)... but after the first day I got worked on, I was, it felt much better than I thought it would. Then I got worked on the next day, and I was like, ‘Wow, this is going pretty good.” And Dr. Ciccotti came in... (did some testing) and I was moving around and it didn’t hurt anymore. He was pretty happy about that."

Rollins didn't sound too keen on going on a rehab assignment before returning, but that isn't entirely his decision, of course.

"If I’m going to get hurt, I’ll do it up here," Rollins said. "But I don’t plan on getting hurt anymore."

Ibanez was out of the lineup for the fifth straight game. But he could be ready to resume active duty Tuesday.

It should be interesting to see how Charlie Manuel works Ibanez back into the lineup, since the guy playing for him, John Mayberry Jr., has arguably been the most productive Phillies hitter in August.

Irene chases Phillies out of town

2011-08-27T14:27:00.004-04:00

There is no joy in Mudville. It was a lost weekend of baseball at Citizens Bank Park.

The early arrival of Hurricane Irene washed away Saturday afternoon's Phillies-Marlins game about 15 minutes after it was was supposed to start.

Originally the Phils were supposed to play three games - on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

But on Thursday, they moved up Sunday's game to Saturday afternoon to prep for Irene. On Friday, they postponed Saturday night's game when they learned Irene was scheduled to arrive a little earlier to the party.

Then on Saturday the "series" against the Marlins ended with just one game. A heavy rain began to fall shortly after 11 a.m. and didn't let up.

The Phils will play a split-admission doubleheader on Sept. 15 (first game at 2:35 p.m., second at 7:35 p.m.) to make up the two lost games. That date was originally the team's only day of in September.

To close out the regular season, the Phillies will play 33 games in 31 days.

The pitching schedule going forward:

Monday in Cincy: Cole Hamels

Tuesday in Cincy: Roy Halladay

Wednesday in Cincy: Cliff Lee

Halladay, on tap to pitch Saturday, instead threw an intense, 40-pitch bullpen session indoors.

"I think they just want to go out there and play," said pitching coach Rich Dubee, the only uniformed member of the Phils organization that spoke after Saturday's game was called. "Doc threw a bullpen like he just pitched today. He vented a little in the cage. But he’ll be ready to go Tuesday.

"It’s just pretty hard to get guys slotted in on their fifth day, but we have got to deal with it. We’re not the only people dealing with it, so you just have to move and deal with it the best way you can. We’ll be fine."

When the Phils left Citizens Bank Park Saturday, they were still trying to stay ahead of the hurricane: the plan was to fly to Cincinnati.

Irene wreaks more havoc on Phillies schedule

2011-08-26T17:34:00.003-04:00

About 24 hours after moving Sunday's game to Saturday, setting up a day-night doubleheader at Citizens Bank Park, the Phils scratched that plan, too.

The nightcap of that doubleheader - the game originally scheduled for Saturday at 7 p.m. - has been postponed until Sept. 15 due to Hurricane Irene's projected arrival in Philadelphia.

The Phillies earlier game Saturday - the 1:05 start that was originally scheduled for Sunday afternoon - will go on as scheduled. Weather permitting, of course.

Roy Halladay will start Saturday's game.

Pitching coach Rich Dubee was was noncommittal on who would follow in the rotation. Cole Hamels was originally on tap to come off the DL and start Monday in Cincy; but Cliff Lee was first on tap for Sunday, and then on Saturday before the second game was scratched.

Dubee sounded like he wasn't too keen on pushing Hamels back any further.

General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said the Phillies still plan on flying to Cincinnati following Saturday afternoon's game. As long as the FAA allows flying through a hurricane, of course.

Phillies to play doubleheader to avoid Irene

2011-08-25T14:27:00.003-04:00

As the weather forecaster showed the projected trajectory of Hurricane Irene, people at the Jersey shore began making preparations to get the heck out of town.

The Phillies also changed their weekend plans, too.

With the eye of Hurricane Irene scheduled to bare on the Jersey shore beaches and impact the rest of the Philadelphia area, too, come Sunday morning, the Phillies have decided that it would be best to not attempt to play a baseball game that day.

Instead, they'll play two Saturday.

The Phils game against the Marlins originally scheduled for 1:35 p.m. Sunday has been moved up to 1:05 p.m. Saturday. The Phillies and Fish will play a day-night, split-admission doubleheader.

After Roy Halladay takes the mound in the afternoon, Cliff Lee will start the nightcap at 7:05 p.m. All tickets for Sunday's originally scheduled game will be honored for Saturday's afternoon game.

It's the second time this week the Marlins will play a doubleheader that was scheduled ahead of time to avoid Irene. They played two games against Cincinnati in Miami on Wednesday since the storm was scheduled to touch down in South Florida today.

Dubee explains Hamels move

2011-08-23T17:13:00.002-04:00

First a bunch of injury updates:

- Jose Contreras won't pitch again in 2011. GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said Contreras, who has battled forearm soreness all season, will undergo exploratory surgery before the end of the month. The goal is to have Contreras ready for spring training.

- Ryan Howard is out of tonight's lineup against the Mets. He has bursitis in his left foot. Amaro said Howard would be able to play through it if the Phils were in the playoffs, but they're not and resting him on a Tuesday in August against the Mets (and left-hander Jonathan Niese) isn't going to kill them.

- Raul Ibanez is out of the lineup for the second straight game with a hernia injury. Ibanez might have an anti-inflammatory shot (ala Polanco) but his injury right now is a day-to-day thing.

- Joe Blanton threw a bullpen session Monday. But he's still in the beginning stages of his throwing program, so don't expect him back too soon. (Late September would be an educated guess if he doesn't suffer any setbacks).

Now to Cole Hamels, who was placed on the 15-day DL today. As I suspected earlier, this doesn't have as much to do with Hamels as it does with the makeup of the rest of the team right now (injured position players, starting pitchers on unusually long rest). To illustrate that last point, Roy Halladay has been on an NFL schedule lately: his last two starts were on Sundays and, before today's change, he was on tap for this Sunday.

By placing Hamels on the DL, all the did Phils was simply move him back three days. He'll pitch Monday.

In the time being, the Phils have called up utility man Pete Orr to add depth to a beat-up roster of position players.

Here's how pitching coach Rich Dubee explained the move:

"Cole just threw a bullpen today and was absolutely fabulous. Right now, he’ll be on tap for Monday in Cincinnati," Dubee said. "But he’s great. He threw the ball really, really well today. He’s feeling strong, no arm discomfort. Really good command of everything, no hesitancy. He’d be able to go on Friday, but it’s a way to set up the other 3 or 4 guys.

"Fortunately I had a chance to laugh with those guys last night in the dugout. I’ve had about 15 different rotations set up. You have one guy on long rest, another guy close to normal rest... one guy comes and says, ‘I feel too good for that much rest” and then you change it around and the next guy says, ‘I can’t get that much rest.” So we sat down, and with Raul’s leg what it is, a day or two, we can get an extra player up here. Cole has been rested anyways so it’s not going to hinder him any. It helps us get (Roy) Oswalt, (Roy) Halladay and (Cliff) Lee (on schedule)."

The rotation going forward:

Tonight: Vance Worley
Wednesday: Kyle Kendrick
Thursday: off
Friday vs. Florida: Roy Oswalt
Saturday vs. Florida: Roy Halladay
Sunday vs. Florida: Cliff Lee
Monday at Cincy: Cole Hamels

Hamels to the DL

2011-08-23T13:32:00.002-04:00

The Phillies placed Cole Hamels on the 15-day disabled list this afternoon with left shoulder inflammation.

Pete Orr was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to assume Hamels' spot on the 25-man active roster. Hamels was scheduled to throw a bullpen session today; he hasn't pitched in a game since August 12.

Hamels had been tentatively on tap to pitch this Friday.

I'll preface the following by saying I haven't spoken to pitching coach Rich Dubee or manager Charlie Manuel or GM Ruben Amaro Jr. yet - that'll come later today - but the feeling here is that this isn't that big of a deal.

Just look at the following sentence in the press release: "Hamels, who is eligible to come off the disabled list on Sunday August 28, is scheduled to start the Phillies series opener the next day in Cincinnati on August 29."

Since that sentence was in the press release, the feeling here is the Phils thought they could benefit putting an extra player on the roster and giving Hamels a few (three) more days. Since Hamels hasn't pitched since August 12, the DL stint was backdated until August 13.

So Hamels will still be back relatively soon. And with injuries to a few position players lately - Placido Polanco just came off DL, Jimmy Rollins just went onto the DL and Raul Ibanez was scratched from last night's lineup with a groin injury - moving Hamels back allows the Phils to add another position player for a bit of insurance. (Factor in that Ross Gload has been limited all season with a hip injury, too).

There's also this: the never-ending run of rain delays (and one rain out) has thrown the rotation out of routine in the last 10 days. Roy Halladay, for example, had been tentatively schedule to start three straight Sundays, which would be two times two days of extra rest.

Since starting pitchers are creatures of routine and habit, moving Hamels back allows the Phils to keep Halladay, Lee and Oswalt and a more normal schedule.

Last thing: although Hamels would have likely started in Cincinnati either way, it might not be such a bad thing to have his first start off the DL come at Great American Ball Park. Hamels is 3-0 with a 1.67 ERA in four career regular season starts in Cincy.

And that doesn't include his one postseason start there: on Oct. 10 last season, Hamels clinched the Phils trip to the NLCS when he threw a five-hit shutout at Great American Ball Park in a 2-0 win over the Reds.

Rollins headed to DL

2011-08-22T14:34:00.003-04:00

As I wrote about 24 hours ago, just when the Phillies get one injured player back, another player goes down. It's been like clock work for the better part of the last two years.

Jimmy Rollins left yesterday's game with a right groin strain. He had an MRI today.

In the modern age of social media, Rollins broke the news himself via twitter (@JimmyRollins11). He announced he had a mild Grade 2 strain and would be going on the 15-day disabled list.

"Gone til September.....," Rollins tweeted. He appeared to suffer the injury on a Gold Glove-caliber play, fielding a ground ball up the middle in the second inning of Sunday's game in Washington.

The Phils haven't announced a roster move, but Placido Polanco is expected to be activated off the DL today, taking Rollins' place on the active roster.

Rollins, who has started 119 of the Phils' 125 games this season, would be eligible to return to action on Sept. 6.

Hamels update

2011-08-19T18:06:00.002-04:00

When the news came out earlier this week that Cole Hamels would miss a start, pitching coach Rich Dubee was noncommittal on when his 27-year-old left-hander would get back on the mound.

He joked that we'd know when the helicopter did a flyover.

On Friday afternoon in DC, many of us writer-types suspected Hamels was throwing a bullpen session today. (Hamels inferred the other day that today could be his first day back on a mound).

But Dubee said that wasn't the case; he said Hamels would throw a light bullpen session Saturday.

About 20 minutes later a helicopter flew over.

"That's just a practice run," Dubee said. "He's getting ready for tomorrow."

Dubee said Hamels would throw off the mound twice before returning to the Phillies rotation. In all likelihood, that means Hamels won't be back until the Phils begin a three-game series with the Marlins next weekend at Citizens Bank Park.

As the rotation currently falls, Cliff Lee would be on tap to pitch Monday vs. the Mets, followed by Vance Worley and Roy Oswalt.

Following a day off Thursday, Kyle Kendrick, who has stepped in for Hamels, would be due back up Friday vs. Florida. As long as he doesn't suffer a setback in the next week, it would be a logical move to swap Hamels back in for Kendrick a week from today.

Chooch out

2011-08-17T17:42:00.004-04:00

On a day when the Phillies placed on player on the DL (Placido Polanco) and said another would miss his turn in the rotation (Cole Hamels), one of their most indispensable players suffered one of the more painful injuries on a baseball field.

In the sixth inning of an eventual 3-2 loss to the Diamondbacks, catcher Carlos Ruiz was hit with a foul ball in his groin area. The game was briefly stopped to let Chooch catch his breath. And he remained in the game.

But on Wednesday afternoon when the Phillies clubhouse opened, the starting lineup was not up yet.

"Is Chooch playing?" manager Charlie Manuel was asked.

"Chooch is getting check out, from where he got hit," Manuel said.

The response was mostly silence - and a little giggling.

"He kind of got hit in the family jewels," Manuel said of Ruiz, who has fathered two sons.

A reporter then asked Manuel if he knew how is catcher was doing.

"I didn't check him out," Manuel said. "I was holding that for you."

Ninety minutes before game time, Ruiz wasn't even at the ballpark yet. He was still at or returning from his doctor's visit.

Brian Schneider is starting in Chooch's place.

UPDATE: Ruben Amaro Jr. said the injury is a "testicle contusion."

Here's the lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Shane Victorino, CF
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Hunter Pence, RF
6. John Mayberry Jr., LF
7. Wilson Valdez, 3B
8. Brian Schneider, C
9. Cliff Lee, P

(lineup corrected. Earlier I had Schneider 7th accidentally)

Game off!

2011-08-14T11:11:00.002-04:00

A steady downpour of rain is falling down at Citizens Bank Park while I'm seated in the press box at 11:11 a.m. It's not supposed to let up any time soon, either.

The Phillies have postponed today's series finale with the Nationals. The game will be made up at 1:05 p.m. on Sept. 20 as part of a split-admission doubleheader.

The Harry Kalas statue unveiling ceremony originally scheduled for today will take place this Tuesday instead. Roy Halladay, scheduled to pitch today, will also go Tuesday, with Cliff Lee following him Wednesday.

Both the Nationals and Phillies had scheduled days off Monday. So why not use that day to make up the game?

Because off days are treated like gold in a six-month season when teams play 162 games in a 180-day span. Players prefer playing twice on one day rather than forfeit an off day.

Dubee not worried about Hamels

2011-08-13T17:43:00.002-04:00

One of Rich Dubee's strengths as a pitching coach is his meticulous planning.

You're just as likely to see him peering down at a binder or at a computer screen - with reading glasses to complete the look - as you are at seeing him hitting the links taking part in his favorite off-day hobby.

Dubee takes great care in maintaining the schedules for his pitchers.

So it only made sense to ask the pitching coach about the subject after Cole Hamels battled through shoulder stiffness in the Phillies 4-2 loss to the Nationals on Friday.

"He's had it before... guys go through stretches where they get tired," Hamels said. It's not a natural thing to throw a baseball the way they do. Shoot, there's not a guy in this clubhouse who hasn't gone through it, a tired or dead arm at some point in a season."

Roy Halladay, Cole Hamels and Cliff Lee rank 1, 2 and 3 in the National League in innings pitched. At the rate they're each going, they could flirt with 200 innings a piece before the calendar turns to September.

Is there anything Dubee can do to combat that, like add a sixth starter to the mix (Kyle Kendrick?) to give everyone extra rest before what looks like an inevitable postseason run?

"We might," Dubee said. "We might. That's not out of the question."

For now, he plans to take advantage of the three off days in the schedule the Phillies have in a the two-week period from August 11 to August 25.

As for Hamels, Dubee sounds confident his 27-year-old lefty can pitch through it.

"The funny thing is he warmed up in San Francisco and he said, 'Boy my arm is heavy,'" Dubee said. "So we just talked about angling the ball and he goes out and he pitches a gem. Then his side session in between then and now was fabulous. His arm rebounded, felt great. So it's a combination of workload, (traveling), just everything building up."

What about Polly?

2011-08-12T18:51:00.002-04:00

The Phils just laid out the red carpet as we get ready for the beginning of alumni weekend at Citizens Bank Park, which begins with John Kruk's induction into the Wall of Fame.

When that's over, the Phils, fresh off the best 10-game road trip in franchise history, will take on the Nationals.

So it's safe to say everyone is in a positive mood here at CBP. Except for the guy who has been out for a week.

Placido Polanco, who last played Friday in San Francisco, wasn't in the lineup Friday against the Nationals and sounded unsure if he'd be able to avoid the DL and rejoin the Phillies before the end of the homestand.

Polanco had a cortisone shot Tuesday to combat a sports hernia injury. GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said Polly will likely take batting practice Saturday.

Here's what Polly had to say Friday afternoon:

Q: What's your gut tell you - play through it?

Polanco: "I don’t know how much better I’m going to get. That’s why I had the shot, to try to play through it. We’ll see how it goes the next couple days... the next of days I think will be important."

Q: Feel if when you're running?

Polanco: "Running, bending. Like right now talking to you I feel it. It’s like a cramp. It’s better than before."

Q: Any part of you that says maybe I should just have surgery now?

Polanco: "Yeah, a little bit. I know I’m going to need it, so why not get it over with. What’s preventing me from having it? Maybe the fact that we’re playing for something and you can take it for granted. You don’t know when we’re going to be in the playoffs again and we have a pretty good chance, and I don’t want to miss it. It’s fun."

Q: I guess there's always risk in surgery. Ruben said not a guarantee you’d be back in a month. That’s why you aren’t definitely having it?

Polanco: "Yes. That’s why the next couple days will determine whether I can or I can’t. If I can’t, there’s no choice. You just take your chances and try get the surgery. If you have the surgery next week, then we have two weeks in August and four weeks in September. That’s 6 weeks, that’s probably the top. I’ve heard 3 weeks, and I heard six weeks. That takes me to the last two weeks of the season."

Q: Is there a day in your mind when have to have decision?

Polanco: "Without a doubt, Tuesday. I don’t want to keep waiting and waiting and waiting. Another option that I don’t really like is ---but they’re the trainers and they’re the ones that know --- is DL me. That would be 15 days, but again there’s no guarantee that will heal me. I might be feeling good the 15th day or the 16th day, but I’ll come back and run and feel it again and then we lost 2 weeks. It’s a little complicated situation."

Q: Is it something you thought could play through but got worse and worse?

Polanco: "I had the pain (initially) and on a scale of 1-10, it was a 2. In San Francisco, it went to probably 9. Now it’s like 6. Two I can manage, three even. But 6?"

Oswalt ready for return

2011-08-01T21:09:00.003-04:00

Roy Oswalt threw 90 pitches in six innings tonight at PNC Field in Moosic, Pa.

Afterward, he announced he was "ready to go."

Oswalt, who hasn't pitched in a big league game since June 23, will likely rejoin the Phils ace-stacked rotation this weekend in San Francisco.

The Phils could decide to keep him on his normal day, Saturday, and give Cole Hamels an extra day of rest. Hamels will likely be second in the NL in innings pitched after tonight.

Either way, one of them will pitch Saturday and the other Sunday, in place of Kyle Kendrick.

Oswalt threw pain-free Monday in Moosic. And he looked healthy and strong.

His fastball topped out at 92 MPH and he ended his six innings by getting a strikeout on a 91-MPH fastball.

Oswalt also gained command of his curve ball and changeup nicely as the game went on. He was most encouraged, though, with how hitters reacted to his fastball.

"The way that the guys were responding to the fastball... I only had one guy hit one fastball on the barrel," Oswalt said. "Most of the other guys were hitting jam shots or off the barrel. I could tell the ball was getting on some guys. That's what I was looking for more than anything. I wanted to see if my fastball was coming back to life."

This was just Oswalt's second game in five weeks. His arm strength should only increase with more reps, which is good news for the Phillies and bad news for the rest of baseball.

Click here for video of Oswalt following his game tonight.

Hunter Pence Arrives in Philly

2011-07-30T18:04:00.005-04:00

Hunter Pence will make his Phillies debut today.

He's starting in right field, batting fifth in the lineup. Here is his complete Q & A session with the media, what he called his first-ever press conference.

Q: What have the last 24 hours been like, and now joining the team with best record in baseball?

Pence: "It’s a pretty big swing. I think I am really happy to be a part of a team that is in a playoff race. A lot of people never get this opportunity and I have never been a part of it yet. I would sacrifice a lot for this. I am thrilled to be here and ready to go."

Q: What did you hear about Philly from other?

Pence: "Most everyone knows this is a baseball city, a very big sports city. Roy and Brad told me there is nothing like it: the crowd, the fans. It’s a packed house 150-something games in a row. That says something about the atmosphere every night. They said you’re in for a treat. Have fun and go place baseball."

Q: Did you follow the trade rumors?

Pence: "I was trying to block it out, but it became apparent that I was going somewhere. But no one told me where, but it’s one of those things that it’s a relief to finally know where I’m going to be playing baseball for a while. Just get it all over with. All the speculation and the rumors, there is no way to avoid it. every single day people are asking where are you going, where are you getting traded? I didn’t know until you guys knew. I am happy I landed in a good home where people want me, where we got an unbelievable baseball team around me."

Q: You had a conversation with Roy Halladay at All-Star Game?

Pence: "It’s kind of ironic. I think everyone knows in baseball there is a lot of respect for Roy Halladay. I went up to him, he’s kind of soft-spoken guy. I just went up to him and told him Roy, when we face you and compete at the highest level, we know we are competing against the best. I just wanted to tell him I respect what you do and it’s amazing to be in this league and to compete against someone of your caliber."

Q: What was it like being taken out of game last night, knowing you were no longer with the Astros?

Pence: "It was culmination of a long chapter in my life. Ii want to be good to everyone who gives me the opp. I think the Astros did a lot for me and I am grateful for that. all my teammates, we all been through a lot. I think that kind of adversity gives you a different type of asset that you can’t get unless you go through it. I know they are still vowing to turn that thing around and it’s emotional because I love those guys. I want the best for them. I think they are happy for me because I get this opportunity to play here. that’s just who I am. I am guy who cares about people and a guy who makes sure I can do right by who brought me. Now I am in a place they really want me with a chance to do something special. it’s an unbelievable opportunity and I couldn’t’ be more grateful."

Q: And when you saw Jason Michaels coming to take over for you...

Pence: "I was shocked. I knew it meant I was probably gone. That chapter was over. Looking back on it, I can still help the Astros in a way because I think they got some good prospects out of the deal. I guess the initial reaction was ok, get ready to move forward. There is a new path for you."

Q: You know you're picking up quite a few games in the standings...

Pence: "I was already talking about it. I was telling everyone I jumped 62 games in one day. I think that might be epic proportions. I don’t think anyone has beat that. it’s pretty cool."

Q: You've spent so much time in Texas, from growing up to college to Astros. What about playing in a new place like Philly?

Pence: "I think the longer you’re in major league baseball, you get to see different areas. You kind of just learn people are people. Everyone is the same. A lot of times coming up, you only know one place. You travel so much. You come to Philadelphia and play a ball game at this stadium as an opposing team, you see the passion. You come here and you want to play in those intense environments. Now those guys have my back and they are going to be on my throat if I am not playing the right way, which is how it should be. You want to be in town that exciting."

Q: How about playing in All-Star Game, not knowing you might be impacting World Series you could play in?

Pence: "I didn’t think there was going to be a trade. One thing I did think I did make a difference in the world series. You want to win. That’s the neat thing about the world series, teams that aren’t in contention still get to have an effect on what really happens. It’s unique twist. I like that baseball has it that way."

Q: How has it been moving your stuff, equipment and what not?

Pence: "Equipment, I am not really in all of my stuff. So I am a little uncomfortable. I am not going to have my spikes. In the end, the game is the game. That’s the only thing … we are used to flying. Not so used to flying and playing the same day, but it wasn’t too bad. I had a connector flight. Got in, came straight to the ballpark. Took care of me, had a driver come over here. just get some equipment and go play some baseball."

Q: So you don't have cleats?

Pence: "I am still looking. I have like 30 assortments of different sizes and colors, none of which are Reebok that I am supposed to be wearing. I get paid to wear their spikes. I am hoping there is not some big picture that shows up everywhere. I know that is going to be the case."

Pence excited to join Phillies

2011-07-29T23:37:00.002-04:00

New Phillies right fielder Hunter Pence spoke to the Astros media following tonight's game in Milwaukee.

Thanks for Zachary Levine of the Houston Chronicle for sharing:

"It's been a long chapter, and I've bled Astros for a long time, and I think everyone knows that I love all the guys here.

I've had a wonderful opportunity.

The realization that this day was going to come kind of hit me yesterday and now it's a reality and I think it's kind of a win-win. I think the Astros are going to get some great players. It's a new chapter for them and a new chapter for me. I'm on board with a team that's got the best record in baseball and unbelievable talent, so it's a wonderful thing for everybody I hope.

I was a kid when I was drafted here, and I've grown a lot and met a lot of great people. A lot of friendships that never end.

It's a shame I wasn't able to produce more playoff moments in the big leagues, but hopefully it all works out.

I'm really looking forward to just trying to be a part. I'm just going to play baseball and take whatever they ask of me and give my heart and soul like I always do."

Reports: Phillies close to landing Pence

2011-07-29T21:02:00.006-04:00

According to reports from foxsports.com and ESPN.com, the Phillies are about to etch another All-Star into their lineup.

The Phillies could announce as soon as tonight a trade for Houston Astros outfielder Hunter Pence. According to both reports, the Phillies would send four minor leaguers to the Astros for Pence, led with their top pitching prospect, Jarred Cosart, and their top hitting prospect, Jonathan Singelton.

Domonic Brown is not in the trade.

Pence was pulled from the Astros-Brewers game at the start of the sixth inning at Miller Park.

More later...

Being Domonic Brown

2011-07-29T18:08:00.004-04:00

Back in spring training, there was a movement among some of the Phillies minor leaguers to get Domonic Brown on Twitter.

The movement didn't last long. Brown didn't want any parts of signing up for the social media website.

Can you blame him?

Nearly every year at the trading deadline, beginning in 2009 when the Phillies first pursued Roy Halladay, Brown's name has been in the cross hairs.

Should the Phillies trade Brown?

The Phillies label Brown an "untouchable."

Could Brown get the deal done?

Nearly every day there's a different rumor this time of year, and somehow Brown was right in the middle of everything.

This year has been no different. The Phillies are in hot pursuit of Houston's Hunter Pence. They're willing to part with young talent. For most of the last week, Brown's name has been once again debated as a possible trade piece.

Before ESPN.com's Buster Olney issued this tweet -- "As of 5:15 p.m., NL source says the Phillies have no intention of putting Domonic Brown in a deal for Pence" --- it appeared Brown could be on the move, at least if you read every trade rumor as if its a fact.

Here's Brown's take on dealing with trade deadline madness:

"I'm definitely used to it by now. You really don't know what's going to happen. I just have to keep going out and doing what I've been doing: playing, having fun and that’s it."

"It's all just a bunch of rumors. It's not finalized until they tell me you're gone. So I'm not worried about it. I'm just going to go out and do my job, and if it happens, it happens."

And, yes, he stays away from the internet.

"I don't mess with that. (laughs). That's playing with fire. I don't do that."

Hunter Pence... Domonic Brown.... Shane Victorino?

2011-07-29T14:02:00.008-04:00

Major League Baseball's non-waiver trade deadline is 50 hours away. (Sunday, 4 p.m. EST).

But Ruben Amaro Jr.'s pursuit of his top target, Houston Astros All-Star outfielder Hunter Pence, has reportedly reached a fever pitch. The Astros want to maximize the value of Pence; the Phillies appear to be ready to overpay to add an impact bat to an underachieving offense.

According to good pal Jayson Stark of ESPN.com (@jaysonst on Twitter), the Phils are offering their top pitching prospect (Jarred Cosart), their top hitting prospect (Jonathan Singleton). Domonic Brown's name is also in the mix, but according to Stark and others, might be spun to a third team to get more pitching prospects for the Astros.

There's a lot to examine here.... like why the Phils would suddenly be willing to deal Brown, a player they labeled an untouchable two years ago when they tried to trade for the best pitcher in baseball (Roy Halladay), a pitcher whom they intended to re-sign to a long-term deal.

But here's another question worth asking: is Pence worth that expensive price? The Phillies have a nucleus of players that are in their 30s and are built to win now and next year. So from that perspective, Pence is better than Brown and the others reportedly in the deal are at Class A Clearwater, and thus, a few years away from the big leagues.

But is Pence good enough to be the savior to this offense? Can he provide the punch Manny Ramirez gave to the Dodgers a few years ago and that Carlos Beltran provided to the Astros in '04?

I'm not so sure.

To steal Charlie Manuel's words when talking about Giants pitchers Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain, Pence is a very good player. A great player? Not so sure.

Here's a test, looking at two players since the beginning of the 2008 season:

Player A has hit .284 with an .801 OPS, 51 HR, 223 RBIs, 185 walks, 250 Ks in 517 games.

Player B has hit .285 with an .805 OPS, 86 HR, 307 RBIs, 163 walks, 418 Ks in 561 games.

Player A? Shane Victorino.

Player B? Hunter Pence.

So Hunter Pence is Shane Victorino, with a little more pop... but maybe not this year, since he has 11 HR in 99 games vs. Victorino's 9 HR in 77 games. (Vic's slugging this year is .510; Pence's is .472). It's really debatable, then, whether the guy you're getting to hit fifth in this lineup is better than the guy currently hitting fifth.

So Pence is more complementary piece, right? Is that worth the price of your top two prospects and a guy who was an untouchable 24 months ago?

If the Phils parade down Broad Street this fall.... you'll have a clearer answer.

Beltran never approached about Phillies

2011-07-28T17:25:00.002-04:00

Carlos Beltran will likely be the biggest name moved during this year's trade deadline season.

Sure he's a free agent in a few months. But he's also an All-Star having a great season and a guy who has had playoff success.

Beltran joined the San Francisco Giants in Philadelphia on Thursday. He'll bat third against Kyle Kendrick and the Phils tonight.

Before the game, Beltran met the media - both from San Fran and Philly.

He was asked a few questions pertaining to the Phillies. The first revealed a bit of news: the Phils pursuit of Beltran never got close enough to where he might have to approve a deal.

Q: Was Philly ever a realistic option from what you know?

Beltran: "Actually, when I supplied the teams I was willing to go, actually I said to the Mets that any team that was in contention, I was willing to go to that team, so I never got involved in the negotiations between the Mets and the teams they were dealing with, so they never approached me about Philadelphia. The only team they approached me about was the Giants yesterday. Of course i said yes. After what these guy, this organization did last year, their pitching, they're in first place, so it was an easy decision for me to make."

Q: While you were with Mets, Phillies beat you guys in division a couple of those years. Is this a chance to get revenge against them this year?

Beltran: "Well you know what this actually isn't about the Phillies. It's about me being a part of the Giants now and helping them try to win ballgames. We're in a different division. I know the Phillies are having a great season and are dominating in the National League East, they're in first place and they have a great team, great pitching. So I'm just looking forward to helping the Giants. And if we meet in the playoffs, we'll see what happens."

Q: If you were to meet Phils in postseason, how much would your familiarity with their pitching staff give you an edge?

Beltran: "Well, I don't think I'd call it an edge. When you face guys like (Roy) Halladay, (Cole) Hamels and (Cliff) Lee, you know, they have a great pitching staff also. Maybe I'd have an idea of what to look for, but you still have to get it done at the plate.

Trade winds blowing in

2011-07-27T18:04:00.003-04:00

It happens ever year: after the All-Star Game, every fan base of a contending baseball team gets antsy. They want to see action.

If they had a remote control to operate the baseball season, they would fast forward to July 31. "OK, who'd we get??"

The trade market finally showed some signs of life Wednesday. First, the White Sox and Blue Jays made a trade involving oft-traveled right-hander Edwin Jackson. And then St. Louis got involved and made Jackeson even more oft-traveled.

The bigger move came down a couple of hours later: just as Giants players began arriving to Citizens Bank Park, they learned their team make the first big move for a bat among NL contenders, acquiring Carlos Beltran from the Mets.

Your move, Rube?

Phils GM Ruben Amaro Jr. is not discussing trades, which is no different than the last two years at the deadline. Could Ruben be moving more aggressively toward acquiring the apple of his eye this summer, Houston's Hunter Pence?

It's definitely possible.

But let's look at this briefly from the other team's perspective: if you're Houston, why deal your top player now if you can't get the player you want most (Domonic Brown)?

It's actually eerily reminiscent of the Phillies-Blue Jays talks exactly two years ago. The Phillies really, really wanted Roy Halladay. The Jays wanted Domonic Brown, Kyle Drabek and Anthony Gose.

No deal. The Jays didn't HAVE to make a move at the time. So they waited. Eventually they got 2/3 of those players.

So from Houston's perspective, they might be best served by waiting. Why simply settle for what they can get now when the market for teams interested would be bigger in the winter anyway?

Don't think the Phillies don't realize this, however. The Beltran move and the fact that Houston does not HAVE to move Pence now might mean the Phils could step up their pursuit.

Just read the words of newly enshrined Hall of Famer Pat Gillick this afternoon:

Gillick was asked about trade deadline strategy. His answer was pretty revealing when interpreted while looking at Phillies current agenda:

"You have to evaluate what your needs are, what this player will do for your club, you take it all into consideration," Gillick said. "Probably most of the time, with a club like ours, you have to be prepared to overpay a little bit. Sometimes, to get what you want, you have to overpay a bit."

Polly, Oswalt take steps in right direction

2011-07-24T12:06:00.004-04:00

A quiet morning at Citizens Bank Park saw at least three Phillies take the field before Sunday's matinee with San Diego.

After Cole Hamels threw a morning bullpen session, Roy Oswalt followed and Placido Polanco trotted out to his position at third base, too.

Polanco, who had anti-inflammatory shots on his ailing back Thursday, played catch and fielded ground balls. He said he would also take about 50 swings before the game.

Polanco added that the plan was to take batting practice with the team Monday and Tuesday, with the idea of beginning a minor league rehab assignment on Wednesday. It's possible Polanco could be activated some time next weekend.

Roy Oswalt is on a somewhat similar path: both he and Polanco could jump into the Lehigh Valley IronPigs lineup on Wednesday.

Oswalt threw between 40 and 50 pitches Sunday. Earlier this week, he faced hitters in a bullpen session Friday and also threw off the mound Tuesday.

Like Polanco, Oswalt had a series of shots in his back, and like Polanco, he appears to be moving forward pain-free.

"I feel good," Oswalt offered Sunday morning.

Oswalt said the next step will be to throw in a minor league rehab game on Wednesday, which he believes will be at Triple-A Lehigh. Oswalt would probably throw around 60 pitches in that first game.

Whether he would acquire another rehab start is debatable. He could return during the Phillies upcoming west coast trip either way.

Ryan Howard on the bench

2011-07-23T13:34:00.003-04:00

Ryan Howard is 2-for-28 since the All-Star break. He is 0-for-8 with 8 strikeouts and one walk in his career against today's Padres starter, Mat Latos.

So despite Charlie Manuel's undying loyalty to his starters - especially Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley and Howard - it wasn't that shocking that John Mayberry Jr. was in the lineup playing first base and Howard was not in the starting nine Saturday afternoon.

Howard was hitless in three at-bats Friday night and is hitting .071 (1-for-14) in his last four games.

Howard leads the NL in RBIs, but that's masked an otherwise poor season for the $125 million man. He entered Saturday hitting .245 (31 points lower than last year) with 18 home runs (four fewer than he had at this point last year), with a .341 on-base percentage (12 points lower than last year) and a .789 on-base-plus-slugging percentage (he finished last year at .859.

Howard usually heats up in August and September, so we'll reserve calling this a lost season until the final two months play out.

The lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Michael Martinez, 3B
3. Shane Victorino, CF
4. Chase Utley, 2B
5. Raul Ibanez, LF
6. Domonic Brown, RF
7. Brian Schneider, C
8. John Mayberry Jr., 1B
9. Kyle Kendrick, P

The Two Roys

2011-07-19T18:46:00.006-04:00

On Monday, uncertainty and uneasiness may have been two words to describe the plights of Roy Oswalt and Roy Halladay.

Roy Oswalt hadn't thrown off the mound in nearly a month. Roy Halladay, the National League leader in innings pitched, exited a game before recording an out in the fifth inning, absolutely spent due to the extreme heat in Chicago.

On Tuesday, optimism reigned around the two Roys.

Oswalt, who had two anti-inflammatory shots in his ailing back 11 days ago, threw close to 50 pitches in a side bullpen session. About two hours later, a refreshed, cooled off Halladay talked about his odd exit Monday as if it was nothing more than a freak occurrence while saying he'd be ready to make his next start on Sunday.

"I felt like I could get through it, and then in the last inning it was just the point where I felt like I was about to get wheeled off the mound," Halladay said. "There are times where you have it, but it seemed like in between innings I couldn’t get away from it. It was almost as hot in (the dugout) as it was out there, you just can’t escape it. I think it just got to the point where it kept continuing and it kept getting hotter and hotter. I just couldn’t stop it."

Halladay tried ice towels, uniform changes, "everything and anything." The 34-year-old pitcher is known for being extremely detail-oriented, and thus, said hydration wasn't an issue.

"I’ve always been very cautious of that," Halladay said. "You take combinations of pedialyte, electrolyte pills, a lot of water, a lot of Gatorade. And I started that the day before. Its never something I’ve neglected. I think from my understanding when you get to the point when you heat up and you’re sweating and your body can’t catch up, in the process you can’t replenish enough."

Thanks to Thursday's off day, Halladay was able to take it easier on himself from a workout standpoint Tuesday. He'll return to his regular routine Wednesday and remain on his normal turn.

Oswalt, meanwhile, expressed optimism that he would slide right back into the rotation in early August. He'll throw another bullpen session Friday.

If that goes well, Oswalt thinks he'll be ready after a couple of rehab starts.

"It feels great - daylight to dark," the 33-year-old Oswalt said of his previously ailing back. "I actually felt great (throwing). Probably felt as good as I did in spring training. No pain. Biggest thing now is build some arm strength and get my other pitches going. I actually had a real good fastball today."

For more on Halladay, watch this video.

Baseball's best team takes on "worst Cubs team ever"

2011-07-18T12:03:00.005-04:00

"It's so damn hot... milk was a bad choice."

How hot is it in Chicago? I have the local news on and some guy just fried an egg on his driveway.

So if you're among the many Philly fans that rightly choose this series as the one to watch the Phillies in a visiting city/ballpark (it gets no better than Chicago/Wrigley), be sure to stay hydrated (with water and gatorade, not beer) and pack the sunscreen, too.

OK, that's enough of the fatherly advice. Just don't want to see anyone dying. We need the readers.

What's not hot? The Cubs.

In case you haven't heard, the Cubs haven't won a World Series since 1908 -- six seasons before Babe Ruth walked onto a major league field. The Cubs haven't been to a World Series since 1945 --- when little Charles Fuqua Manuel was 20 months old.

The Cubs won't end either of those droughts this year: they enter play Monday 20 games under .500. Among major league teams, only the Houston Astros (31-64) have more losses than the Cubs (38-58).

Here's how bad the Cubs have been: a local, long-time columnist wrote on Sunday that this current Cubs team is the worst in the long, losing history of the franchise. While Morrissey admits he might be playing with a little hyperbole, he was also born and raised here and knows all about how bad some of the previous Cubs teams have been.

And he wrote that column before Chicago lost to the equally hapless Florida Marlins Sunday. The Cubs are 15-30 since May 30.

So what might ail the Cubs woes? How about three games against the pitching-rich Phillies, baseball's best team (they can become the first to reach 60 wins tonight)?

Even better for the Cubs? Reigning NL Cy Young winner Roy Halladay gets the series started tonight, followed by Cliff Lee (5-1 with a 1.26 ERA in his last seven starts) and then Vance Worley (3-0 with a 0.89 ERA in his last five starts).

Long story short: it could be a really ugly three-day series for the home team in Wrigleyville.

----------------------------------

In case you hadn't noticed, I've been away from the Phils in each of the last two series. A much-needed All-Star break of my own.

But I've tried to keep tabs on all of the news during the layoff, particularly the gluttony of injuries. Here are a few quick hits:

--Shane Victorino played in his second straight game at Double-A Reading Sunday and is expected to rejoin the Phillies when he is eligible to return from the DL Tuesday. Victorino hit safely in both games, so his right thumbs appears fine.

--Placido Polanco's balky back landed him on the DL when the Phils returned from the All-Star break. He is eligible to return Wednesday, but since no minor league rehab game has been scheduled yet, a more accurate timetable might be this weekend in Philly.

--Brad Lidge threw back-to-back scoreless innings for Double-A Reading this weekend. Lidge will pitch at Lakewood Wednesday and will probably be activated in hopes of making his long-awaited 2011 Phils debut this weekend.

--Joe Blanton and Jose Contreras continue their long roads back from arm issues. Contreras will throw Tuesday - but he still have to go through the progressions from playing catch to long toss to bullpen sessions to rehab starts. That could take up to a month, barring setbacks. Blanton's return looks even further away after experiencing a setback this weekend.

--Roy Oswalt rejoined the Phils in New York this weekend, following two injections to help cure his aching back. Oswalt will throw a bullpen session at Wrigley on Tuesday and could begin a minor league rehab assignment within the week.

Victorious Victorino: Shane wins Final Vote

2011-07-07T18:01:00.002-04:00

For the second time in two years, Shane Victorino is going to the All-Star Game by way of MLB's "Final Vote" competition.

Victorino finished with a baseball-best 9.2 million votes in a five-day span to become the first two-time winner of the Final Vote.

Although he's been nursing a right thumb sprain since Sunday, Victorino has expressed confidence that he would be able to play both this weekend against the Braves and in Tuesday's All-Star Game in Phoenix while fielding interviews in town over the last two days.

"The past few days have been incredible," Victorino said. "To take the lead from Day One shows how supportive the fans have been from the start of the campaign. Just to be on the ballot was exciting, but to be the first player to be selected by the fans twice is such a tremendous honor.

"The fans in Philadelphia and Hawaii as well as my offseason home in Las Vegas are so loyal to me – that’s what means more than anything. I would also like to thank the Detroit fans for their support, as well as all fans around baseball, who thought I was worthy of this final All-Star spot. Mahalo to everyone for making my trip to Arizona possible."

The Phillies and Tigers came together with a "Vote Victor-Victorino" vote campaign in an attempt to get both Victorino and Victor Martinez to the All-Star Game. But Martinez didn't win -- Chicago's Paul Konerko won the AL Final Vote.

What Dom Brown said

2011-07-06T23:20:00.003-04:00

Everyone saw at least two replays. Some of us saw three. Some got MLB Network to zoom in, others got Chris Wheeler's (biased) opinion.

But the only one who knows if he touched second base in the sixth inning of the Phillies 7-6 loss to the Marlins was Domonic Brown himself.

Here's what he said after the game:

"I didn't touch the base. Right there, I've at least got to go back and take the double. I don't know what I was thinking about there. Too aggressive I guess. Right there, it cost us the game. Live and learn."

"I was just thinking about getting to third on that play."

"I've got to get around that ball and get it in. It sped up a little more than I thought. I was trying to cut it off and almost over-ran it. Things like that happen, but the base-running mistake, you can't do that."

Polly out again, will get back checked out

2011-07-06T17:12:00.003-04:00

Placido Polanco is not in the Phillies lineup for the second straight game. He said his back first began bothering him "about a month ago."

But Polly plans on playing this weekend against the Braves and in fulfilling his start at third base in next week's All-Star Game.

"It's not a big thing," Polanco said. "We have a day off coming up tomorrow. I can play, it's just not comfortable. So they decided to not play me these two games, take advantage of that day off tomorrow, let it rest and heal and come back Friday."

The way the Phils have it figured, Polanco will get a full three days to rest his ailing back thanks to Thursday's day off before they begin a critical three-game series with the Braves.

Polanco will, however, get his back checked out by a specialist when the team returns to Philly.

"The more I've played it made it worse and worse. I think that turf in Toronto made it worse. That didn't help," Polanco said. "Something that worries me a little is I'm feeling some numbness on my side, too. So we'll go ahead and make sure it's nothing bad-bad."

Injury updates: Victorino, Madson, Polanco

2011-07-05T17:13:00.004-04:00

The Phillies have the best record in baseball. But they also continue to have a seemingly never-ending list of players dealing with injuries.

First it was Chase Utley, then Brad Lidge, then Jose Contreras... it's probably easier to list the players who haven't had something ailing them in the season's first three months.

Anyway, there was news on a trio of prominent players battling injuries this afternoon. Without further adieu...

-- Closer Ryan Madson threw a bullpen session for the first time since landing on the disabled list with a right hand bruise. Madson will likely throw another pen session before the weekend.

When asked how the session went - and if Madson was able to grip his pitches without any issues - pitching coach Rich Dubee said, "Yup, he was good."

Dubee also said it's possible that Madson could rejoin the team next weekend in New York, when the Phils open up the second half against the Mets. Madson would likely throw in a minor league game, barring a setback, early next week.

-- Center fielder Shane Victorino got a plug from a very big and influential person in his campaign to make the All-Star team. That was the good news for Camp Victorino. The bad news is he was not in the lineup or even in Florida this afternoon.

Victorino has flown back to Philadelphia to have his right hand examined by hand specialist Randall Culp. Victorino jammed his thumb in an awkward fall in center field Sunday in Toronto.

The initial tests came back negative and assistant GM Scott Proefrock said Victorino is seeing Culp for precautionary reasons. It's unknown whether Vic will rejoin the Phils in Florida Wednesday.

-- Third baseman Placido Polanco was out of the starting lineup. Polanco asked out, as he's been dealing with an ailing back. Polanco is in the midst of an 0-for-15 slump.

Whether Polanco asks out of the All-Star Game is probably too premature right now. But the injury has clearly affected his performance: Polly is hitting .183 (20-for-109) since June 1.

Polly to start, Halladay, Hamels, Lee also make All-Star team

2011-07-03T12:12:00.005-04:00

The Phillies will be well represented at next week's All-Star Game in Phoenix.

For the first time in franchise history, they'll send three pitchers to the midsummer classic. Cole Hamels, Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee - who ranked 2, 3 and 7, respectively, in the National League in ERA - were all named to the NL team Sunday afternoon.

For Halladay, it's his eighth selection. He is tied for the NL lead in wins (11), leads in innings (136 1/3), complete games (six), ranks second in strikeouts (131) and third in ERA (2.44).

Hamels was chosen for the second time -- he was a first-time All-Star in 2007. Hamels is second in the NL in ERA (2.41) and first in WHIP (0.94). Newsy note: Hamels, who was hit in the right palm in his last start, threw a bullpen session Sunday morning and has been cleared to start Tuesday in Florida.

Lee is an All-Star for the third time in his career. He takes a 32-inning scoreless streak into today's game in Toronto. Lee leads all major league pitchers with four shutouts.

In addition, Placido Polanco was voted in by the fans to start, marking the 13th time a Phillies player has started at third base in the All-Star Game. Polanco is hitting .280 this season (third among NL third basemen) while also playing stellar defense.

It's the second time Polanco has started an All-Star game: he started at second base for the American League in 2007.

The Phillies, who own baseball's best record, have the chance to send a fifth All-Star to Phoenix next week: Shane Victorino is one of the five candidates in the NL's "Final Vote" competition. You can cast your vote for him on mlb.com.

So who was snubbed? Antonio Bastardo probably deserved a look, along with bullpen mate Ryan Madson, who is currently on the DL.

Hamels' hand swollen, hopeful to make next start

2011-07-01T11:56:00.002-04:00

Cole Hamels was knocked out of Thursday's game against the Red Sox when a line drive from Adrian Gonzalez hit him in the right hand - the non-pitching hand.

The ball hit Hamels under the glove, so flush on his hand.

He wore a bandage over the swollen hand Friday in Toronto... but was hopeful he'd be able to make his next turn Turesday in Florida.

Here's the Q&A between Hamels and the traveling media corps.

Q: None of us were there yesterday. What happened?

Cole Hamels: "Well, I got really pissed at Chooch and I got him in the tunnel. I missed him. He ducked and I hit the wall."

Q: You had two comebackers, right?

Hamels: "The first one hit me here [points to higher on glove hand]. The second one hit me there [points a bit lower]. It got me.

Q: It knocked the glove off, didn't it?

Hamels: "Yeah. It didn't even hit the glove. That's why it's so bruised. It hit solid meat. I had some stitching."

Q: Looks kind of swollen...

Hamels: "It's swollen. It bruised up right away, all the way to the other side. I'm just getting the movement back. I'll just keep the same program that I can. I'm doing everything I can. It makes it harder to move around. Obviously I won't be taking batting practice anytime soon. I won't be swinging the bat when I stay up there."

Q: Did you want to stay in?

Hamels: "I wanted to. But that's just not my call. The competitiveness we all have... I wanted to go out. I knew I was pitching well. I felt good. No matter how bad this hurts, if they didn't hit it back at me, I probably would have done all right."

Q: Think you can field your position in five days?

Hamels: "Yeah, yeah. Most of the time, even with a glove, bunts are so soft I can grab them with my hand anyway. That won't be a problem."

Q: Ruben Amaro Jr. said it's "not a slam dunk" you'll make your next start?

Hamels: "I don't know. It all depends on being able to throw a bullpen and being able to get out there. From what the trainer said, it's not as swollen as they assumed it would be. Just make the proper recovery and keep the swelling down as much as possible."

Q: Can you wear anything under the glove for extra padding or protection Tuesday?

Hamels: "I don't know."

Q: Were you scared you broke something?

Hamels: "No. I knew when it hit, it hit solid muscle. I didn't feel any pop or something you'd feel when you break a bone. I guess it's what a catcher feels 24/7. I don't envy them."

Q: Throwing a bullpen tomorrow or Sunday?

Hamels: "I'm not sure yet. Tomorrow is my normal bullpen day. I'll go out and play catch today, that’s all you can really do."

Q: You looked pretty pissed more than anything after it happened.

Hamels: "Yeah, you know it just kind of takes… it steals the thunder out of what was going on. You're locked in, trying to make pitches and you know it's going to be a competitive game all the way to the last out. You want to be able to play well. So I feel like it kind of stole that way from me."

Q: What happened to your face?

Hamels: "I got an infection in my chin, I had to have it drained."

Q: You look like you've been in a fight, with hand wrapped, face taped...

Hamels: "That’s what I keep telling people. Some of them believe it. It's been a bad week."

Q: The second hit that got you, but you had the first comebacker you caught... did that hurt?

Hamels: "The first one hit, about two centimeters away (from where hit the second time). It the glove, but it still got my hand, it's still a sensitive area."

Q: So it sounds like they're going to have to tie you up to keep you off the mound?

Hamels: "Yeah, basically."

Q: You look like you want to make that next start...

Hamels: "I want to pitch as much as I possible can, it's what I do. Every five days I want to go nine innings."

Q: So in your mind you think this will not prevent you from making next start?

Hamels: "In my mind, it doesn’t. But they do... they've seen it before. I'm jut not the type of guy that's going to shy away from wanting to play or that would quit on the team."

Halladay Eve

2011-07-01T09:58:00.004-04:00

Greetings from Canada... where the Phillies will celebrate Independence Day weekend.

Kyle Kendrick will take the mound in just about three hours from now. But the story of the weekend - barring another shutout from Cliff Lee on Sunday - will be the guy pitching in the middle game of the series.

Roy Halladay spent his first 12 major league seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays. He was with the organization since getting drafted out of high school in 1995 all the way up until he was traded to the Phils in December of 2009.

Thus, Halladay called Toronto home for quite some time.

Jays reliever Jason Frasor has also spent a lot of time with the Jays. He's been a member of the team's bullpen since 2004.

There's a nice feature on Frasor - a veteran who could be a decent addition to a injury-ravaged Phillies pen at the deadline - in today's Toronto Globe and Mail.

He had some interesting stuff to say about Halladay:

“I don’t know if he was close to many guys. And a lot of guys who play with him say, they question his leadership, he should have done this, he should have done that. But I mean if anyone led by example it was that guy."

“If you can’t learn by watching someone like Halladay, then I don’t know who you can learn from.”

PHILLIES LINEUP

1. Jimmy Rollins, DH
2. Shane Victorino, CF
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Placido Polanco, 3B
6. Ben Francisco, LF
7. Dom Brown, RF
8. Carlos Ruiz, C
9. Wilson Valdez, SS

Doc, meet the Executioner. The Executior, Doc.

2011-06-29T18:10:00.005-04:00

Bernard Hopkins talked to the Phillies prior to today's game against the Red Sox.

The Philadelphia native boxer is the current WBC and Light Heavyweight champion, he's the oldest boxer to ever win a world title and he defended a world middleweight title a record 20 times.

Hopkins can also talk. That's why Charlie Manuel asked him to visit the Phillies, a veteran team with a lot of talent and aspirations for championship success.

But how can a guy like Hopkins actually relate to a guy like Roy Halladay, who has had a similarly highly-decorated career?

I asked Halladay.

Q: What can you learn from someone like that, a competitor but not necessarily doing the same thing you guys do? What are the similarities in terms of going about the competition?

Halladay: "I think the mentality is similar. Obviously the way he prepares, the way he thinks about competition, those parts are really similar regardless of the sport. Obviously to be the best, he knows what it takes. I think those are the similarities that all great athletes have."

Q: You've been obviously been doing this for a while... so what can he can tell someone like you? What did you take out of it?

Halladay: "I think all of it. Even if you know it, it's a reminder, you see someone else continue to do it... I think it keeps giving you better focus, it's motivation, a reminder. The guy also has great energy - you can see just by listening to him talk why he's successful. I think just seeing those personality traits is a great reminder."

To hear Hopkins talk baseball - and when he last grabbed a baseball bat - watch this video.

Madson to DL

2011-06-28T12:16:00.002-04:00

Pop quiz:

Of the seven relievers who made the most appearances for the Phillies in 2010, name the only two who will be in the bullpen when the Phils begin a highly-hyped three-game series with the Boston Red Sox tonight?

How about Danys Baez and David Herndon?

The complete makeover of the Phils pen, from team strength in '08 to oft-injured in the last three seasons, continued Tuesday when the team completed a trifecta of closers on the disabled list. Ryan Madson, who took over the closer's role from Jose Contreras, who took it over from Brad Lidge, was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a right hand contusion.

Madson was unavailable out of the pen over the weekend after getting a cortisone shot in his ailing right hand Friday. Although it was believed that Madson would be available for the Red Sox series - he was originally scheduled to resume throwing Monday or Tuesday - Charlie Manuel was asked by the Dally Times on Sunday if he'd have his closer back on Tuesday.

“Tuesday, it might be hard,” Manuel said. “But sometime in (the series).”

But apparently Madson's hand did heal as quickly as the team hoped. The 30-year-old Madson, 3-1 with a 2.03 ERA and 15-for-16 in save chances, has been dealing with the right hand injury for over a month.

He got hit in his pitching hand on a comebacker off the bat of Texas’s David Murphy May 20.

Although he continued to pitch, Madson had trouble gripping some of his pitches while dealing with the bruise, which is on the backside of his hand, in between his ring and middle fingers.

A day after his hand was hit, Madson picked up an easy save in a 2-0 win over Texas. But his numbers in the next 12 games weren't very Madson-like: he gave up 14 hits and six runs in 12 innings; he had a 4.50 ERA in his last dozen games and opponents hit .298 against him.

In the 17 games prior to the injury Madson was nearly unhittable: one earned run on 10 hits in 17 innings (0.53 ERA); opponents were hitting just .167 against him.

Since Madson hasn't appeared in a game since June 18, the 15-day DL stint is retroactive to June 19, meaning he can return as soon as Monday, July 4, when the Phils begin a three-game series at Florida.

The Phils called up right-handed pitcher Andrew Carpenter to replace Madson on the active roster. Mike Stutes and Antonio Bastardo will likely assume closing duties with Madson out.

The Phils, young, mostly-inexperienced bullpen for beginning of the Boston series: Stutes, Bastardo, Carpenter, Baez, Herndon, Juan Perez and Scott Mathieson.

What the doc said...

2011-06-25T18:44:00.002-04:00

Dr. Michael Ciccotti, the Phillies team physician, addressed every injury the Phillies are currently dealing with -- there are quite a few.

Here is the Doc's comments, in their entirety:

"Roy (Oswalt) has had some mild lumbar spine inflammation in the past and he was treated very well by the doctors in Houston with exercises program. This year, over the last month or so, he’s had some increase symptoms, slightly different symptoms than he’s had in the past. That prompted an MRI, which we did on Friday, and the MRI showed that he has some very mild bulging of the disc at L4-5. He does not have a disc herniation.

"Also there are small joints that run along the spine, the facet joints, and he has a little thickening of that. These are very common things that you see in players’ back. It’s putting some pressure on the nerves plus some soreness. The treatment for that is rest, medication, exercises and sometimes a series of injections. There are different types of injections. There are what we call facet injections, where we inject around that facet joint. There are epidural injections, where we inject the nerve. He saw Dr. Mitch Friedman, the chief of non-operative spine of the Rothman Institute at Thomas Jefferson yesterday, and Mitch felt an injection would be an appropriate next step. Roy is also going to see Dr. Drew Dossett, a spine surgeon from Dallas. He’s taken care of Roy is the past, so he’ll get a second opinion from Drew and we’ll talk to Drew and go from there.

Time frame for Roy?

"Depending on that second evaluation, that will determine what course of action we take, whether we choose an injection or another program. That can vary from three weeks to five weeks or so, depending on how Roy feels."

Ryan Madson's hand?

"As you know, Ryan got hit with the ball 3 1/2 weeks ago in his hand. He had X-rays at that point that were negative. He was able to throw and he was comfortable, but he had a little bit of soreness with certain pitches and he got an MRI. And the MRI showed there was no fracture, no stress fracture, the muscles were all fine. But in certain pitches, he still had no soreness in terms of gripping it. He saw Dr. Randy Culp, who is our hand surgeon for the Phillies. Randy diagnosed him as having some inflammation in the small muscles that are in the hand. What happens is the muscles were inflamed and get a little bit thickened, and the tendons get a little bit thickened, and when you use those muscles with certain gripping maneuvers, there’s a residual swelling. The treatment is medication, exercises and a cortisone injection, so he got a cortisone injection yesterday. He’ll hold off throwing until Monday or Tuesday, and then we’ll progress."

Contreras?

"Jose Contreras had a very mild strain of the flexor pronator muscles in his arm five weeks ago. He was diagnosed by exam and MRI, and it was very mild. He went through his rehab and felt good. Just over the last week, he’s also had some spasm in the muscle at the base of the neck, and most likely that altered his mechanics to the degree that he has the current soreness in his elbow. So we got a repeat MRI and it shows that he has a very mild strain. The first MRI showed the pronator muscle. The second MRI showed the pronator muscle is actually healing and that he has a very mild strain in his adjacent muscle, which is called the flexor. It’s treated the same way, so we’ll hold him off from throwing and go through his exercises and progress him. We’ll hold him off from throwing for a minimum of two weeks."

Others?

"Joe Blanton has continued to improve through his tossing program. He was up to 100 feet yesterday. He has a bullpen scheduled for Monday and we’ll progress him as well.

"Brad Lidge has a bullpen today. He’ll have a bullpen on Monday. He’s doing well both shoulder and elbow and progressing as tolerated."

How the Rotation Turns #Phillies

2011-06-25T16:57:00.001-04:00

The Phillies rotation beyond this weekend hasn't been announced.

They have a day off Monday, and thus, some flexibility on how to go forward. There is also no definitive time table on Roy Oswalt, other than his 15-day DL stint.

But let's make the pretty safe assumption Oswalt isn't back before the All-Star break (which is two weeks from Monday).

Here's one man's guess on how the rotation will fall between now and then:

Sunday: Roy Halladay
Monday: off
Tuesday vs Boston: Cliff Lee
Wednesday vs Boston: Vance Worley
Thursday vs Boston: Cole Hamels
Friday at Toronto: Roy Halladay
Saturday at Toronto: Kyle Kendrick
Sunday at Toronto: Lee
Monday at Florida: Worley
Tuesday at Florida: Hamels
Wednesday at Florida: Halladay
Thursday: off
Friday vs Braves: Lee
Saturday vs Braves: Worley
Sunday vs Braves: Hamels

Here's how that makes sense: you get an extra start out of Hamels, who is pitching as well as anyone in the NL ( and yes, this would rule him out as all-star starter, but that's not Phils problem).

Also, it'd give the Phils more Kendrick in the pen, which is kind of important given all of the injuries down there now. (here is the collection of arms available in the pen tonight: Stutes, Bastardo, Baez, Perez, Mathieson).

Oh, this setup also gives adequate rest to Roy Halladay, the major league leader in innings, between the last start in Florida and the All-Star break.

Sound good? Good.

Good talk.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Oswalt's ominous words

2011-06-24T00:36:00.002-04:00

The longer he spoke, the worse it sounded.

The back pain that plagued Roy Oswalt at the end of April is worse now, the 33-year-old right-hander said Thursday in St. Louis.

It forced him out of the game after just two innings. It will require an MRI Monday. It will almost certainly prevent him from making his next start.

It could very well put him back on the disabled list.

Here's what Oswalt said, in its entirety.

Q: You've been downplaying this before, do you think its more of an issue now?

Roy Oswalt: "It's been bothering me for a little while. My last start in Seattle, a couple of pitches. And then tonight, I didn't really get started too good."

Q: Plan on seeing a doctor?

Roy O: "I'm getting an MRI Monday."

Q: Better to rest than try to pitch through it?

Roy O: "(Wait until) what the doctors say, (we'll) compare it to the last MRI I had a year or two ago and see where it's at. At this point I'm not really helping the team. I'm kind of a liability more than anything. See where I'm at. And if it's something I have to get fixed, I have to get it fixed. To see where it's at, I don't know. I don't know where it's at."

Q: Can you compare to earlier this season?

Roy O: "A little worse than it was in the beginning of the season."

Q: Hard to exit a game like that?

Roy O: "I really wasn't productive. I was more heaving the ball than throwing the ball. I tried to get out of a jam, had one of the guys strikeout and then couldn't get the ball in enough on Theriot. We’ll see what it looks like Monday. I don't think it does any good to keep going out there, not when you're going 6 innigns at a time. I tried to stay in as long as I could..."

Q: Feel it in pregame bullpen?

Roy O: "I've felt it for the last couple of days."

Q: You say you felt it in Seattle?

Roy O: "Yeah, it bit me on a changeup in the third inning in Seattle. I pitched through it. It didn't really get any better."

Q: Was that first time it returned since you were back from DL?

Roy O: "I've felt it for a little while."

Q: What did MRI from a year or two ago reveal?

Roy O: "Two degenerated discs."

Q: Surgery a possibility?

Roy O: "I don’t know. It hasn’t gotten to the point where it’s bulged yet, I don’t think. Hopefully not. That’s the doctor’s stuff. They know more about it than I do. Just see where I’m at. At this point, you can’t do but what you can do when you get out there."

Q: Why wait til Monday for MRI?

Roy O: "I don’t know. I don’t know."

Q: Like to have it done sooner?

Roy O: "We had it scheduled for Monday. I think we’re going to go through with that."

Q: Options from doctor last time?

Roy O: "You only get so many shots. After you get so many of them, stuff starts breaking off. I don’t want that to happen."

Q: Last one you had was...?

Roy O: "A lot of them."

Q: Have one this year?

Roy O: "I don’t know."

Q: Frightened for future?

Roy O: "You throw as long as you can throw, and if you can’t throw no more, you can’t throw no more. I’m going to keep throwing as long as I can, and hopefully it’s not gotten to the point where I can’t throw no more. If it’s gotten to that point, then you’ve just gotten to accept it."

Q: Last MRI early last season?

Roy O: "Yeah."

Q: Take a shot then?

Roy O: "I’ve taken a lot of shots."

Q: Expect to make expect start?

Roy O: "I don’t know. I doubt it."

Q: Something on every pitch?

Roy O: "I feel it when I sit down, when I stand up, when I walk, pitch, sleep."

Q: Think about career?

Roy O: "I’ve had a pretty good one. I don’t know. I’m going to do what’s best for the team. If I can’t pitch, I can’t pitch. I’m not going to keep going out there and being a liability where the bullpen has to pick me up. If it’s gotten to that point, it’s gotten to that point. We’ll just see what the doctor says on the MRI and then go from there."

Q: Why pitch through pain?

Roy O: "I don’t want to be labeled a quitter. Keep throwing, and everybody goes through aches and pains. I thought maybe I could pitch through it and make it to the All-Star break and maybe get a few more days off. But I didn’t quite make it."

Contreras back to the DL?

2011-06-23T00:09:00.002-04:00

For the last two seasons, the Phillies have had little luck keeping the back end of their bullpen healthy.

Last season, Brad Lidge, Ryan Madson and J.C. Romero all missed significant time in the first half. This year, Brad Lidge and Jose Contreras have been on the disabled list for a good chunk of the season's first three months.

Contreras could be headed back.

Michael LoRe of the Express-Times, who is a beat writer covering the Triple-A Lehigh Valley, reported Wednesday night that IronPigs manager Ryne Sandberg confirmed one of his players is headed to Philly: Juan Perez, a 32-year-old left-handed reliever.

Perez, who pitched with the Pirates in 2006 and 2007, is 0-3 with a 3.52 ERA in 28 games with the IronPigs. He's struck out 41 while walking 21 in 30 2/3 innings.

Following the Phillies win in St. Louis, Jim Salisbury of CSNPhilly.com reported that Contreras was unavailable to pitch Wednesday and could be headed to the DL.

Contreras was on the DL earlier this season (from April 24 to May 26) with elbow soreness. He has a 16.20 ERA (six earned runs in 3 1/3 innings) in six games since returning from the DL.

Charlie: We could use a bat

2011-06-22T18:56:00.003-04:00

The trade deadline is less than six weeks away.

In each of the last four seasons, which have culminated with division titles, the Phils have made somewhat significant moves before the deadline.

Kyle Lohse (and Tadahito Iguchi) were added in 2007. Joe Blanton came over from Oakland at the conclusion of the All-Star break in '08. Cliff Lee and Pedro Martinez were added in July of '09. Roy Oswalt was acquired from Houston in '10.

The Phils don't need any starting pitchers this season. But as the majority of the season's first three months have illustrated, some tinkering with their inconsistent offense couldn't hurt.

Asked about his team's needs today, manager Charlie Manuel was pretty honest.

“We can use a hitter in our lineup," Manuel said. "We can use at least one. We can use definitely a solid right-handed hitter.”

The Phils obviously miss the presence of Jayson Werth. But guys of Werth's ilk aren't always readily available in trades.

People like to throw Hunter Pence's name out there, but he is a bit pricey and the Phils payroll is pushing the limits of the luxury tax.

Other names - Josh Willingham, Ryan Spilborghs, Jeff Francouer - could possibly be had. But the next question is how significant of an upgrade would they be over what the Phillies have now?

Raul Ibanez sat for just the second time this season against a right-handed pitcher on Wednesday night. He's in the middle of another unsightly slump: hitting .148 (4 for-27) in his last seven games.

But Ibanez also took of in the second half of last season (.309 BA, .869 OPS) and also had a productive six-week stretch from May to mid-June (.310 in a 38-game stretch from May 3 to June 12). So is it too soon to give up on him?

Everyone has an opinion, including Charlie Manuel.

Manuel doesn't just want any bat in a trade - he wants "the right bat."

"If he’s a singles or doubles hitter that knocks in 100 runs, yeah, we’d take him," Manuel said. "Consistent, consistent hitter – yeah. But the first thing when you ask somebody, they’ll say those are hard to find...

"I’ll put it to you like this: I think our odds get better if we have one."

Worley will start Friday

2011-06-21T17:54:00.003-04:00

Some not-so-breaking news from St. Louis: Vance Worley will start Friday and return to the fifth starter role he lost at the end of last month.

Worley was recalled late last week to fill a hole in the rotation as a result of last Wednesday's doubleheader. But after his start Saturday in Seattle - allowing one run in five innings - Worley is back to being a somewhat-fixture in the rotation.

Joe Blanton, the Phillies fifth starter when camp broke, isn't expected back for at least a month.

Worley was sent to Triple-A Lehigh Valley three weeks ago to get his arm stretched out as a starter following back-to-back lackluster starts at the end of May

"When we sent him down, that's why we sent him down - to stretch him back out so when he came back up (he could start," pitching coach Rich Dubee said. "As we've said before, we think Vance has a really good chance to be a piece of this rotation."

Worley's return to the rotation was highly speculated when he was recalled last week. It pretty much became a lock once he threw a bullpen session Tuesday afternoon at Busch Stadium.

"I guess it's a little more relieving to know that I'll be here starting," said Worley, who didn't know for sure until reporters relayed the info from Dubee.

Worley is 2-1 with a 3.60 ERA in five starts this season.

Kyle Kendrick, 2-2 with a 3.91 ERA in five starts this season, will resume his role as the bullpen's long man.

Romero DFA'd

2011-06-16T17:06:00.003-04:00

Following the Phillies seventh straight win, they cleared a spot on the roster for Vance Worley, who is on tap to start Saturday.

But it wasn't the move everyone expected them to make, sending David Herndon back on the Philly-to-Allentown shuttle. Instead, they cut ties with veteran reliever J.C. Romero.

Romero was designated for assignment. The team has 10 days to dispose of his contract.

Is it possible he clear waivers and accept a minor league assignment to stay with the Phillies? Possible? Yes. Probable? No.

"It’s baseball," the 35-year-old Romero said. "You play the game. I’m healthy. I’m fine. I’m looking to go somewhere else.... It was a fun ride. It’s over. It’s done. You probably won’t be seeing No. 16 again here. J.C. gotta go. That’s how it goes."

Romero was a vital cog in a Phillies bullpen that first broke through into the playoffs in 2007 and then won the World Series in 2008.

But he was suspended for the first 50 games of the 2009 season after taking a supplement that led to a failed drug test. When he returned, he was either injured or ineffective.

In the last two seasons, Romero faced 246 batters; 87 of those batters reached with either a walk or a hit. Romero had more walks (41) than strikeouts (38) in 84 games in 2010 and 2011.

"It wasn’t an easy decision for us," GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "We did have some other options. J.C. hasn’t been as consistent as he has been in the past for us. We signed him to give us a little more support and to help us from the left side in our bullpen, and J.C.’s one of those guys that benefits from a lot more consistent work. He hadn’t gotten that this year.

"It’s a matter of consistency. This was a tough decision. This was a guy who’s been with us for five years. We got two National League championships with him and a world series with him. To his credit, he came of came off the scrapping sorts when we picked him up from Boston when he was released, and there have been times when he’s pitched extremely well."

Romero joined the Phillies in the summer of 2007, when Boston designated him for assignment. Romero was DFA's by the Red Sox almost four years ago to the day (June 18, 2007) he packed his bags in Philadelphia on Thursday afternoon.

Worley gets the nod

2011-06-16T12:57:00.003-04:00

This, from Daily Times spot beat writer (like a sport starter, get it?) Matt DeGeorge:

It hasn’t been the best kept of secrets, and though the club hasn’t made it official yet, Vance Worley will start Saturday’s game again the Seattle Mariners.

The team has yet to make a roster move involving the 23-year-old righthander, but he is with the club preparing to fly to Seattle tomorrow for a matchup with defending American League Cy Young Award winner Felix Hernandez.

The two weeks spent at Triple-A Lehigh Valley was invaluable for Worley, who has been dominant in three starts since being sent down June 1. He has won twice and has pitched well each outing, allowing only three earned runs in 19 innings on the bump. He went at least six innings in each start and struck out 21 batters while walking only three.

“I think it was good to get my feet back under me, to get my pitch count up, to work on my off-speed stuff a little more and pick up some velocity,” Worley said. “I think it was better for me to do it down there than up here. I think I would’ve been more stressed out if I would’ve had rough outings like that again. To go down there and do what I do, I was successful and I was able to get what I needed accomplished.”

The taste of success was important for Worley after several bad outings with the big league club, including a three-inning bashing delivered by the Mets in his last outing in which he surrendered 12 hits and eight runs. But getting back into the habit of being a starter, including the ability to extend his arm to over 90 pitches each start for the Iron Pigs, was just as vital.

“I think routine is big, no matter what your role is,” he said. “If you’re a starter, you need to have that kind of routine, get your bullpens in and work on what you need to work on.”

Worley’s return from Lehigh could be an audition for a more permanent spot in the rotation. Kyle Kendrick staked his claim with an impressive outing in Game 1 of Wednesday’s doubleheader against Florida, going seven innings and allowing just one earned run while striking out five.

But even if his latest cameo in Philly ends with another trip up the turnpike early next week, it’ll be OK by Worley.

“I’m just doing what I’m told,” he said. “I know I’m throwing Saturday. I don’t know if it’s for one game and then I’m out of here, or if I’ll be up here. I really don’t know anything. I know [Kendrick] is throwing well and I’m happy for him that he’s throwing well. He’s doing what he’s been told.”

The Colbert Report: Nothing to see here, guys

2011-06-15T11:51:00.004-04:00

So Cole Hamels exited Tuesday night's game with mid-back tightness. You may have heard or read about it by now.

So how is Hamels feeling today? Hey people, relax... it was just a few short hours ago that he talked about this.

That's how Hamels addressed reporters when approached this morning about the ailing back that forced him out of Tuesday's game in the middle of the eighth inning.

"Come on guys, it hasn't even been 12 hours," Hamels said. "It's not like I'm injured. I'll talk to you in five days."

And that was that.

Hamels will likely throw his normal, in-between-starts, side bullpen session Friday in Seattle. That would be the next best time to get a gauge on how is back is feeling.

Hamels is tied with Roy Halladay and Boston's Jon Lester for the major league lead with nine wins. His 2.49 ERA is fourth best in the NL and sixth best in baseball.

Hamels is 9-1 with a 1.99 ERA after getting booed off the mound in his first start of 2011.

Rotation vacancy still vacant

2011-06-14T17:13:00.004-04:00

It's hard to imagine a scenario where Vance Worley will not be called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to start Saturday, when the Phillies have an opening in their rotation. But the Phils have not made that official yet, so have fun creating some other unknown alternative.

The Phils really have no reason to rush to announce the move; Worley just threw six innings Monday night for the IronPigs, meaning he wouldn't be ready/available to pitch again for a few days regardless of this weekend's plans.

Both Charlie Manuel and Rich Dubee dodged questions regarding Saturday, but both admitted Worley was an option.

The next question one would have to ask is whether Worley would supplant Kyle Kendrick in the rotation. It sounds like a reasonable move, since Worley was chosen for the fifth spot over Kendrick seven weeks ago.

Since Kendrick is pitching on the same day as Roy Halladay this week (the first game of tomorrow's doubleheader), it would also make sense to at least skip Kendrick when his turn would come around again, since he would only be delaying the regular turns or both Cliff Lee and Roy Oswalt on regular rest.

Both Worley and Kendrick have made four starts this season.

Worley: 2-1, 4.05 ERA, 16 Ks, 8 BB, 24 hits in 20 innings.
Kendrick: 1-2, 5.06 ERA, 7 Ks, 2 BB, 19 hits in 16 innings.

The heavy odds tell you Worley not only starts Saturday in Seattle, but also returns to the fifth spot in the rotation. Kendrick would then go back to being the long man in the bullpen, something the Phils haven't had since Worley was optioned to Lehigh Valley two weeks ago.

All of this would be news to Kendrick, though.

"I think I've been pitching well," Kendrick said. "I'm starting until they say different. I'm in the rotation. So, just because we have an opening Saturday doesn't mean I'm out of the rotation. I'm not worried about it."

Worley has gone 2-0 with a 1.42 ERA in three starts at Lehigh Valley since his demotion.

The rotation

2011-06-12T12:05:00.004-04:00

The Phillies enter the final game of a four-game series against the Cubs with a 3.19 ERA from their collective starting rotation. It's the top starting pitching ERA in baseball.

(The pitching staff as a whole - bullpen included - has a 3.15 ERA, second best in baseball, behind Atlanta's 2.99 ERA).

But after today, when Roy Oswalt takes the mound, the upcoming rotation is a bit unknown. In the game notes passed out in the press box, it's all TBAs.

But pitching coach Rich Dubee told reporters it'll be Kyle Kendrick and Roy Halladay in Wednesday's doubleheader against the Marlins. Cole Hamels, then, would pitch Tuesday.

If everyone remains on rotation, which it seems they would, Cliff Lee would pitch in the finale of the homestand Thursday (and miss a reunion in Seattle) while Roy Oswalt would pitch the first game against the Mariners on Friday.

The Phils would need another pitcher - not any of the names above - for Saturday's game in Seattle. Saturday would be Hamels' turn, but due to the doubleheader, it would call for him to pitch on short rest, which ain't happening.

Thus, Saturday might make the most sense for the Kendrick-Vance Worley switcheroo.

Since being sent down to Triple-A to get properly stretched out and get back into a good groove all Worley has done is hold the opposition to five hits in 13 shutout innings. He's 2-0 in those games with 15 strikeouts and three walks.

Worley would also be on schedule: his last start was Wednesday, meaning he'd be on his regular day for the IronPigs tomorrow (Monday) vs. Louisville and also on his regular day Saturday in Seattle.

So here's an educated guess of how the rotation will stack up for the remainder of the homestand, followed by a six-game, seven-day road trip to Seattle and St. Louis.

SUNDAY, JUNE 12 vs. CHICAGO: Oswalt
MONDAY, JUNE 13: off day
TUESDAY, JUNE 14 vs. FLORIDA: Hamels
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15 vs. FLORIDA: Halladay, Kendrick
THURSDAY, JUNE 16 vs. FLORIDA: Lee
FRIDAY, JUNE 17 at SEATTLE: Oswalt
SATURDAY, JUNE 18 at SEATTLE: Worley
SUNDAY, JUNE 19 at SEATTLE: Hamels
MONDAY, JUNE 20: off day
TUESDAY, JUNE 21 at ST. LOUIS: Halladay
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 22 at ST. LOUIS: Lee
THURSDAY, JUNE 23 at ST. LOUIS: Oswalt

Of course the Phils would have to make a roster move to activate Worley. David Herndon would make the most sense to make another trip up the PA turnpike to Lehigh Valley.

A couple of other observations, if the rotation continues to turn this way:

-- Instead of getting a chance to have dueling Cy Young winners in Seattle on Saturday, it would be Worley vs. (King) Felix Hernandez, the Mariners ace and reigning AL Cy Young winner.

-- While this is more guesswork since it's three weeks away, it would appear Roy Halladay will pitch in Toronto, where he spent the first 12 years of his career. Following this projection, Halladay would pitch in Toronto on Saturday, July 2.

Rollins headed to the DL? He says it's not happening

2011-06-07T16:54:00.008-04:00

Scroll down for update if you read the first part earlier...

The Phillies should know within 24-48 hours (before the start of a four-game series with the Cubs on Thursday) whether they'll have to place Jimmy Rollins on the disabled list.

General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Tuesday that an MRI on Rollins right knee revealed a "deep bone bruise."

It was a change of tune from what Amaro said 24 hours earlier seat in the same spot inside the Phillies dugout: “From all indications, he should be OK in the next couple of days."

After looking at the MRI results, "a couple of days" could very well mean a couple of weeks.

If Rollins would have to go on the DL, the move could be backdated until Sunday, meaning the earliest he could return would be Tuesday, June 21 when the Phils begin a three-game series in St. Louis.

Pete Orr would be the likely candidate to get the call from Triple-A Lehigh Valley if a roster move is made with Rollins.

UPDATED: About an hour after Amaro said the DL was a possibility, Rollins shot that down, saying he's confident he'll be back soon.

Reporter's question: "So you're saying it's not looking like a DL thing then?"

Rollins: "No, no. If I was going on the DL, it would purely be because they just made a bad decision. And you can write that."

Rollins went on to talk about the progression he has made in the last 48 hours.

"From Sunday to Monday, there was big improvement, and from yesterday to today I can walk," Rollins said, meaning walking without a limp. "I could walk without a limp. But then I wouldn't be pimping – you know what I'm saying?"

Rollins was lucky to have knee pads on, he said. He first began wearing them in 2005, when then-teammate Kenny Lofton introduced him to pads used to soften the blow on headfirst slides.

Lidge suffers setback

2011-06-06T16:47:00.004-04:00

Brad Lidge is en route to Philadelphia.

Lidge felt elbow discomfort following a bullpen session this morning in Clearwater. He'll get checked out by team doctor Michael Ciccotti.

"He gets this elbow discomfort pretty much every spring, which is kind of what he's in right now, in spring training mode," general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "But we're going to see if it's anything more serious than normal soreness."

Lidge hasn't pitched in a game for the Phillies since March 24, a Grapefruit League game vs. Minnesota. He was shut down a week before spring training ended with a rotator cuff strain (shoulder).

Lidge appeared in his first extended spring training game on May 28. But after his neck game, last Tuesday, he complained of discomfort.

Lidge's rehab program was shut down until Saturday, when he began playing catch. But two days later, today, Amaro said Lidge was able to throw a bullpen session but still felt elbow discomfort.

When asked whether the Phils had concern for if Lidge would be able to help the Phillies at all in 2011, assistant GM Scott Proefrock offered a grim response.

“Uncertainty is the right word,” Proefrock said. “We just don’t know.”

* * * *

In other injury news.... Jimmy Rollins had an MRI Monday on his bruised right knee. According to Amaro, all indications are Rollins will be back in the lineup "in the next couple of days."

Mayberry vs. Francisco

2011-06-04T18:12:00.003-04:00

John Mayberry Jr.'s 24-hour stay in the minor leagues is over. He was added back to the Phillies active roster when Ross Gload was placed on paternity leave.

Since the longest Gload can stay on that list is three days, however, Mayberry will most likely be on his way back to Triple-A Lehigh Valley in the next few days.

In the 30 hours or so since the Phillies originally decided to option Mayberry to the minors many fans were unhappy.

Most of them feel Mayberry is more deserving of a roster spot than Michael Martinez, which is a fair argument. But the Phils do not want to lose Martinez, a Rule 5 pick with superb defensive skills in the middle infield; and with all of their infielders having suffered injuries in the last 12 months, Martinez does have value to this team.

Another segment of fans wonder why Mayberry had to go and not Ben Francisco. Since either figure to earn some playing time in right field to spell Domonic Brown against left-handers, it's worth debating.

Francisco had a chance to hold onto the right field job after Brown injured his hand in spring training; but he didn't hit. Mayberry was given a two-week look in center field when Shane Victorino was injured; he also didn't hit.

But let's look at Mayberry vs. Francisco a little deeper.

In the last handful of years, they've have each had a similar amount of at-bats, Mayberry in AAA, Francisco in the big leagues.

Here's how they stack up over that period:

FRANCISCO's last 5 MLB seasons (416 games, 1,249 at-bats):
.259 BA, .330 OBP, .768 OPS, 45 HR, 165 RBIs, 117 BB, 248 Ks.

MAYBERRY's last 4 AAA seasons (332 games, 1,252 at-bats):
.263 BA, .325 OBP, .769 OPS, 44 HR, 166 RBIs, 103 BB, 291 Ks.

Nearly identical, huh? So they're virtually the same hitter, except Francisco's numbers have come against big league pitching, Mayberry's against Triple-A pitching.

Why Mayberry?

2011-06-03T12:25:00.008-04:00

The Phillies activated Shane Victorino a little while ago. To make room on the 25-man roster, they've optioned John Mayberry Jr. to Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Here is why the move is not altogether surprising... it's best explained using each of the other reserve players not named Wilson Valdez/backup catcher.

Michael Martinez. Why is he still here? He's hitting .184! Here's why: without Martinez, the current roster would have one player other than the starters who can play 3B, SS and 2B. Valdez. Since Utley is coming off a pretty significant knee injury, he will rest occasionally. Both Jimmy Rollins and Placido Polanco missed significant time last year with injuries. Simply stated, the Phils need infield depth on the big league club. I failed to mention this earlier: Martinez is also a Rule 5 guy, and if they remove him from the 25-man roster, they risk losing him for good. And people in the organization value his skills; Charlie raved about his defensive ability at shortstop this spring.

Ross Gload. Why is HE here? He has a tear in his right hip! Here's why: he leads all major leaguers with eight pinch hits. He's been one of the most effective pinch hitters in baseball for the last handful of years. Without him, the only left-handed bat the Phils have to pinch hit (on days that Brown starts, which will be most of the time) would be Martinez. Even if Gload might have to be pinch ran for (and were not sure that will continue to be the case), he brings real value in his ability to hit off the bench in a pinch.

Ben Francisco. He flunked in his opportunity to win the starting RF job! Why is he here? Here's why: he's a veteran, with experience coming off the bench and making spot starts. He also hasn't been worse that Mayberry from an offensive standpoint. Francisco: .224/.337/.385 with 6 HR in 156 at-bats; Mayberry: .231/.316/.365 with 3 HR in 104 at-bats. Although we haven't heard from management yet, it's a good bet they want Mayberry to get regular at-bats at AAA, more so than they would Francisco.

I feel like I forgot someone. Did I forget someone?

Ah, I remembered what I forgot: with Domonic Brown here to stay - and likely to begin to play every day - there will be no regular playing time for Mayberry. So if you're really mad about it, just know he wasn't going to play any more than Martinez, anyway.

There's also this: since April turned to May, Mayberry hit .187 in 28 games.

Anyway, that's my explanation. You don't have to like it.

#Phillies lineup?

2011-06-03T09:38:00.001-04:00

While sitting here on a plane about to take off for Pittsburgh, I'll attempt to guess how Charlie Manuel will construct his starting lineup tonight, the first game in 2011 - spring training included - that he'll have all of his players healthy and at his disposal.

I'll surely get this wrong. Charlie has several options, of course.

But the key is breaking up the left-handers in the middle of the order. The Phillies have 4, in Utley, Howard, Ibanez and Brown.

Charlie has hit three straight lefties this week. He may do that again tonight. He may not.

Without further ado, here's my best guess:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Chase Utley, 2B
3. Placido Polanco, 3B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Raul Ibanez, LF
6. Shane Victorino, CF
7. Domonic Brown, RF
8. Carlos Ruiz, C
9. Cole Hamels, P

The Phils face right-hander Jeff Karstens tonight.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

For Rollins, a day of rest

2011-06-01T10:44:00.003-04:00

For the second time in seven days, Jimmy Rollins is out of the Phillies lineup.

Rollins had started each of the team's first 49 games before getting last Thursday off, a few hours removed from last Wednesday's 19-inning, six-hour-plus marathon. Despite a scheduled off day tomorrow, Rollins is out of the lineup after starting five straight games.

No word from Charlie Manuel just yet (UPDATE: Rollins is fine physically), but there are a few factors to consider: any day occasional day off for a regular isn't the worst thing in the world over the course of a 162-game season, particularly on a day when the heat index could reach triple digits in DC.

There's also Rollins' slumping bat to consider. Rollins has gone 0-for-9 with no walks in the first two games of the current series.

In his last 20 games, Rollins is hitting .216 (19-for-88) with a .253 on-base percentage and a .559 OPS.

Also of note: no Domonic Brown, who has hit safely in six games and who had started four of the last six games, is also out of the lineup. Brown has not started a game yet against a left-handed starting pitcher.

When asked Tuesday night about when Brown would start against a lefty, Manuel wore a sly smile and answered with one word: "Patience."

Here's your Wednesday matinee lineup vs. the Nats:

1. Placido Polanco, 3B
2. John Mayberry Jr., CF
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Ben Francisco, RF
6. Raul Ibanez, LF
7. Carlos Ruiz, C
8. Wilson Valdez, SS
9. Roy Oswalt, P

Kendrick to start Saturday

2011-05-31T16:59:00.002-04:00

A day after Vance Worley was shipped to Triple-A, the Phillies announced their plans for who will pitch in his place Saturday.

Kyle Kendrick will make his third start of the season Saturday at PNC Park against the Pirates.

Kendrick is 3-3 with a 3.18 ERA in 15 games this season. In two starts, he's 1-1 with a 5.63 ERA (he pitched five shutout innings against the Braves on May 7.... 12 days later, he was summoned in to start after Joe Blanton was scratched and gave up five runs in three innings against the Rockies).

After Cliff Lee pitches tonight, the Phils rotation through the rest of the road trip looks like this:

Oswalt on Wednesday at 1:05 p.m. at Washington
Off day Thursday
Hamels on Friday at 7:05 p.m. at Pittsburgh
Kendrick on Saturday at 7:05 p.m. at Pittsburgh
Halladay on Sunday at 1:35 p.m. at Pittsburgh

The only other foreseeable option the Phils had was to forgo using a fifth starter this week. With Thursday's off day, the team could have decided to pitch the four regular starters on regular rest through next Tuesday.

But the weather is heating up and the workload for the starters isn't going to slow down any time soon. So the Phils will take advantage of Thursday to give everyone an extra day before their next start.

Earlier this afternoon, left-handed reliever Mike Zagurski was called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to take the roster spot vacated by Worley.

The band is back together...

2011-05-30T11:13:00.006-04:00

There were a lot of head turns (and expletives from some fans, probably) when Sunday's lineup was unveiled by Charlie Manuel in New York. No Howard and Utley, while both were healthy? When has that ever happened? Also, Carlos Ruiz had the day off.

But it made sense from that standpoint that Howard hadn't had a day off yet this season and he struggled against lefties, and that Utley had played three straight games for the first time since returning from a three-month layoff with his right knee injury. It was also a day game after a night game - on a travel day, too.

But you can spend the Memorial Day holiday enjoying the regular batting order. And in just four days, when Shane Victorino is eligible to return, the Phils should have their regular lineup together for the first time in 2011.

The fact that they're 13 games over .500 despite not having their regular order is a testament to their pitching, of course. The Phillies 3.08 team ERA is third best in baseball and second best in the NL.

Three notes before we get started on a sweltering afternoon in DC:

--- It's a good bet Roy Halladay will lower that team ERA today. Halladay is 10-1 with a 2.01 ERA in his career against Washington. Since joining the Phillies, Halladay is 5-0 with a 1.15 ERA vs. the Nationals.

--- Chase Utley is hitting third today, just the second time he's in his customary place in the batting order. In four of the five games that he's started since returning last week, Utley has hit second; Charlie Manuel has used Placido Polanco in the three-hole to split his lefties. Against right-hander Livan Hernandez, Manuel has opted to hit three lefties in a row: Utley, Howard and Raul Ibanez.

--- Domonic Brown is in the starting lineup for the fourth time in the last six games. Brown has hit safely in four straight games, including Friday when he came off the bench and got two hits in the Phils come-from-behind win over the Mets. Brown is 8-for-25 (.320) since his big league promotion. Expect to see a lot more of Brown: beginning this afternoon, the Phils will face right-handed pitchers in four of the next five games.

Memorial Day lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Placido Polanco, 3B
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Raul Ibanez, LF
6. Carlos Ruiz, C
7. Domonic Brown, RF
8. John Mayberry Jr., CF
9. Roy Halladay, P

Rehab schedules (and JRoll as a closer).

2011-05-27T18:11:00.005-04:00

Slowly but surely, the Phillies are getting healthy.

Chase Utley (knee) returned from the disabled list Monday. Jose Contreras (elbow) was activated Thursday.

Ross Gload (hip) is available to pinch hit, and Charlie Manuel said Friday he believes he'll have the ability to play Gload as he normally would - with the occasional spot start - in the near future.

That leaves Joe Blanton (elbow), Brad Lidge (shoulder) and Shane Victorino (hamstring). Blanton is being shut down for 3-4 weeks, meaning he's unlikely to return before the All-Star break.

The other two will take steps this weekend to move closer to rejoining the Phillies in June.

Shane Victorino will begin a five-game minor league rehab on Saturday at Low A Lakewood. Victorino is scheduled to play Saturday and Sunday for the BlueClaws, then take Monday off, than take his rehab to Double-A Reading on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

If he doesn't suffer any setbacks, Victorino would return to the Phillies lineup the first day he is eligible to be activated, Friday, June 3 (a week from today) when the team begins a three-game series at PNC Park in Pittsburgh.

Lidge appears to be ahead of schedule. Sidelined since the last week of spring training, Lidge will get into his first game Saturday in Clearwater.

Lidge is on tap to pitch in an extended spring training game Saturday at the Carpenter Complex. He is eyeing a mid-June return.

-----------------------------------------------------------------

I asked Jimmy Rollins today why he didn't volunteer to pitch in Wednesday night/Thursday's morning, 19-inning marathon.

"Heck no - I haven't pitched since '96," Rollins said, referring to his senior year of high school. "I got the save."

Rollins said he threw "all fastballs," and tapped out at a very Wilson Valdez-like 89-miles-per-hour.

"I threw a slider once, my junior year to Aaron Miles," said Rollins, who played against the current St. Louis Cardinals infielder while in high school. "He fouled it off. I grabbed my arm afterward. I said, 'that's it.' All fastballs."

Gload has labral tear in hip

2011-05-25T17:08:00.004-04:00

If Michael Martinez pinch hitting and Ross Gload sitting on the bench Tuesday night wasn't enough of a red light, a glance at the Phillies stats this season would also make one come to the conclusion that something just isn't right with Gload.

The 35-year-old Gload, one of the more accomplished, veteran pinch hitters in the big leagues, has 34 at-bats this season. Martinez, a 28-year-old who never played in a big league game before last month, has 37 at-bats.

The reason for Gload's lack of playing time? He's got a tear in his hip, an injury not unlike the one Chase Utley played through in 2008.

Of course, Utley's injury also required surgery following the '08 season.

I caught up with Ruben Amaro Jr. a little while ago, thinking Gload's injury wasn't all that serious.

Is the Gload thing just a minor, day-to-day thing?

Amaro: "It's not necessarily minor. He's got a labral issue. But we're going to try to manage through it."

Right now you don't think it's a DL thing?

Amaro: "No because I think it's one of those injuries, no dissimilar to Chase's in that he's got a tear in there, and he's either going to play it out and manage it. He'll probably play as much as he can, tolerate it as much as he can."

Was this going on before the season?

Amaro: "No, I don't think it was going on before the season, but it started to bother him a little bit as the beginning of the season started and it got progressively worse."

Plan on testing it (MRI)?

Amaro: "He's going to be able to play here pretty soon. Hopefully he'll be playing shortly."

Ryan Madson, major league closer

2011-05-24T23:14:00.005-04:00

Ryan Madson, the longest tenured pitcher on the Phillies, has taken on many forms in his nine-year career.

He's been a shut-down setup man. He's been a starter (who can forget that game against the White Sox on the South Side of Chicago?).

And for the last month, he's been the Phillies third-string closer.

But on Tuesday night against the Reds, he officially became a major league closer.

Madson has been making hitters look like Little Leaguers this season. On Tuesday, he gave up his first runs in five weeks in the Phillies 6-3 loss to the Reds.

But he also showed off his maturation as a major league pitcher and his ability to handle one of the toughest jobs in sports, big league closer.

Madson made an error on a bunt. He watched a ground ball extend an inning, rather than end it.

He gave up a game-changing, bases-clearing double to Jay Bruce.

"I'm already passed it," Madson said of learning to forget about the ninth innings that go bad as a closer. "If it would have been five years ago I would have been hiding somewhere."

Madson had gone 13 straight games without allowing a run. He struck out more batters (16) than he allowed base runners (14) in that span.

The run ended Tuesday. But Madson's ability to handle the closer's job is only beginning.

"Once you get on a good wave, you want to stay there as long as possible," Madson said. "It's time to catch another one."

Blanton to get second opinion

2011-05-23T17:51:00.002-04:00

Vance Worley joined the Phillies on Monday, when Joe Blanton was officially placed on the DL for the second time this season with right elbow soreness.

Worley will start in Blanton's place Tuesday. On Wednesday, Blanton will leave the team.

He's headed to Florida to get a second opinion from renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews. But Blanton wants to let you know not to panic...

"I'm not concerned, like (shoot) I might need Tommy John," Blanton said. "It's just a second opinion. I went through it once, so just want to get a second opinion and make sure everything is on the same page, matches up. It never hurts to have more than just one set of eyes looking at something when (injury) has reoccurred."

"I think it's time to be in between these lines."

2011-05-23T16:49:00.003-04:00

Chase Utley is back.

Prior to his 2011 debut - he's hitting second in tonight's lineup - Utley stood on the cutout between the on-deck circle and the field and said, "I think it's time to be in between these lines."

Utley has been sidelined since February with chronic right knee pain. Tonight makrs his first big league game since October.

Here is the entire Q & A of Utley and the media:

Q: What was hardest part about being away?

Utley: Obviously you guys know that I enjoy playing, so it's a little disappointing and frustrating to be on the sidelines, not being able to help. But I think we put a pretty good progression together, in the last 3 weeks I've been feeling real good so I think it's time to be in between these lines.

Q: How much playing time do you anticipate?

Utley: Those are things we're going to monitor at the beginning for sure. Charlie and I will talk on a daily basis and see where we're at every single day. But I definitely want to be out there.

Q: You've always wanted to play no matter what. Is it different now with this injury?

Utley: I think I know my body better than anyone else. I know what I can deal with and I know what I can't deal with. This has been a learning experience for me. I've had to show a little patience throughout the process which I think has been beneficial. So, we'll see how it goes.

Q: Think there will be a point where playing time won't have to be monitored and they can turn you loose at some point, and how long do you think it'll take?

Utley: I hope so. Again, I don't have all the answers, we're going to continue to monitor it daily and there will be constant communication with me and Charlie on how it's going to go. If I feel good, I'm going to be in there. If I'm feeling a little discomfort, maybe I'll take a day off. But we'll have to wait and see how that goes.

Q: You played 4 straight days in Clearwater recently, how did knee feel, how did it respond, any soreness afterward?

Utley: Like I said, the last three weeks have been pretty good. The whole thing is to try to figure out how it's going to feel the next day. And in Florida it responded great. I was obviously able to play a lot, and play without thinking about it, which was most important.

Q: If someone ever told you you could lengthen your career by not playing quite as hard as you do, what would you do?

Utley: I don't know. We'll have to see. Like I said I enjoy playing and I think I play the right way, and I don't see that changing a whole lot. But as far as preparation prior to the game and during the game, that might change a little bit.

Q: When you get hurt, you always seem to come back early. What was your time table on this? Did you think it could take a while? Are you pleased with being back now?

Utley: I think you all know there was no timetable set because it was uncertain how it was going to progress. I don't necessarily think I came back early or that I'm coming back too late, I feel like I'm coming back when I feel the best and that's how I feel right now.

Q: What's the biggest question for young going forward, to see how it holds up?

Utley: To see how it holds up is nice, but I think the time down in Florida gave me a pretty good indication on how it's going to be. And I was able to take a few days off in between some games, let it rest and let it respond, and it did.

Q: How much different is the intensity of the games in Florida to this, physically?

Utley: There's a big difference in the games. First I'm just trying to get my feet wet again, just trying to get comfortable in the batter's box and in the field, while also testing how my knee responds. And all of that was positive down there. But I think the brighter lights, the fans, that will bring more intensity.

Q: What's been most challenging part of this process?

Utley: Probably just staying patient. Like I said it's a little frustrating not to be able to go out and help your team win. But I'm proud of my teammates, they've done an outstanding job, for the first two months I think we have one of the better records in the National League, our pitching staff has been outstanding and I know there's been a lot of negative talk recently about how our offense has been struggling, but this is why we play for six months, it's an up and down game and as long as you stay positive we have the guys to get through that.

Q: Think getting you back, getting Shane, getting the whole lineup can get the offense turned around?

Utley: I think getting everybody back healthy will definitely help. But it's not all about me, it's not all about Ryan (Howard), it's about all of us together collectively going out there every day and trying to win.

Q: Is it possible for you to take a day off, in terms of doing nothing, no BP, no fielding practice?

Utley: Yeah, I think at this point I realize what I need to do to stay on top of it. Some days that might be cutting stuff short, some days I'll be able to go full-out. It's still a learning process, but I think we have a good idea of how to handle it.

Q: Is surgery a possibility in offseason?

Utley: No, I hope not.

Q: Do you think this will bother you for rest of career?

Utley: Well I think we've made some strides over the past 3-4 weeks, so hopefully not. As long as I stay on top of the program we have now, the whole goal is to stay pain-free.

Q: What did you learn about yourself through all of this?

Utley: Probably like I said before, patience is a virtue.

Utley to be activated Monday

2011-05-22T17:10:00.002-04:00

Tired of watching the Phillies offense, which has scored three runs or less in nine straight games?

Sick of waiting for Chase Utley to come to the rescue?

Here's the good news, straight from the Phillies offices. Oh, and, as expected, Joe Blanton is headed back to the DL.

Second baseman Chase Utley will be activated from the 15-day disabled on Monday prior to the Phillies game against the Cincinnati Reds, Senior Vice President & General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. announced today. In anticipation of Utley’s return, the Phillies have optioned infielder Pete Orr to triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Philadelphia will also place right-hander Joe Blanton on the 15-day DL tomorrow, retroactive to May 16, with right elbow inflammation. To fill his spot on the 25-man roster, the Phillies will recall right-hander Vance Worley from Lehigh Valley, who will start Tuesday night against the Reds at 7:05 EDT.

Utley, 32, has spent the entire 2011 season on the DL with right knee tendinitis/chondromalacia. He appeared in nine games with single-A Clearwater as part of a rehabilitation assignment, batting .281 in 32 at-bats with two doubles, one home run, four RBI and four runs scored. He also went 6-for-14 with two home runs in two extended spring training games. Last season, Utley hit .275 with a .387 on-base percentage, 20 doubles, 16 HR, 65 RBI and 75 runs scored in 115 games.

Orr, 31, is batting .230 with three RBI in 26 games in his first season with the Phillies. Defensively, he has appeared in 20 games at second base and one at third base.

Blanton is 1-2 with a 5.50 ERA in six starts with Philadelphia this season. He was previously on the DL from April 29 (retroactive to April 24) to May 3 with a medial impingement in his right elbow. The 30-year-old was a late scratch in his last scheduled start, May 19 against the Colorado Rockies, with soreness in his throwing elbow.

Worley, 23, has posted a 2-0 record with a 1.13 ERA in four games with the Phillies in 2011. In two starts, he is 2-0 with a 0.75 ERA. He began the year with an 11.0-inning scoreless streak and has allowed just two earned runs overall in 16.0 innings. In five starts with Lehigh Valley this season, he is 2-2 with a 3.51 ERA.

One other minor roster move to report: the Phils signed Scott Podsednik to a minor league contract, pending a physical.

Utley back in Philly - but when back in Phillies lineup?

2011-05-22T11:52:00.005-04:00

When I walked into the clubhouse this morning, a clubhouse attendant was at Chase Utley's locker. He was unloading an oversized athletic bag filled with baseball equipment and clothing.

Utley apparently isn't headed anywhere other than Citizens Bank Park this week. Why else empty the bag, right?

When approached for a casual convo, Utley said he was feeling good and awaiting word on the next step in his rehab. The brief back-and-forth was cut off after no more than a minute. Utley is not talking to the media, a team official said.

Later, this: Utley is meeting with team doctor Michael Ciccotti and head team athletic trainer Scott Sheridan to determine the next course of action. It would be quite a surprise, however, if that next step isn't clearing Utley for a return to the Phillies lineup Monday.

Utley went 2-for-5 with an RBI on Saturday night as Class A Clearwater. The night before he fueled Clearwater's walk-off win by leading off the ninth getting hit by a pitch, stealing second and eventually scoring from third on a wild pitch.

Utley went 9-for-32 (.281) in nine games with the Threshers. He just got finished playing in four straight games.

Again, it would be pretty shocking if he's not cleared to rejoin the Phils after meeting with the medical staff today.

So what would the Phillies lineup look like Monday against Bronson Arroyo and the Cincinnati Reds? Here's one man's guess:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Domonic Brown, RF
3. Chase Utley, 2B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. Placido Polanco, 2B
6. Raul Ibanez, LF
7. John Mayberry Jr., CF
8. Carlos Ruiz, C
9. Cole Hamels, P

As for who the Phillies will de-activate in activating Utley... my guess is they make a tough decision on Rule 5 pick Michael Martinez. Just by looking at playing time, my gut says they value Pete Orr more than Martinez. (Orr is also 4-for-8 as a pinch hitter this season).

As a Rule 5 guy, Martinez would have to be offered back to his original team, the Washington Nationals before, being optioned to Triple-A.

But as a couple of folks have reminded me, Shane Victorino is on the disabled list and Martinez does have the ability to play center field. And Orr has an option remaining, meaning he can be sent to AAA without fear of losing him.

So perhaps it's a coin toss. Still, I think they value Orr's bat off the bench now.

Amaro: "I changed my mind."

2011-05-20T17:12:00.003-04:00

The Domonic Brown Era in Philly is underway.

Yes, you may have thought it began when he was called up late last July. But that was as a stop-gap when Shane Victorino was placed on the DL (the Phillies had three starting outfielders who were at the All-Star Game a year earlier).

Yes, you may have thought it wasn't going to begin this weekend, since that's what general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Thursday when, ironically, it was Victorino headed back to the DL.

But Amaro changed his mind. After he told reporters Thursday that Brown "wasn't ready," Amaro spoke with Charlie Manuel and both came to the conclusion that the organization's top prospect would improve the team more than anyone else right now.

"There's still a question on whether he's ready to play on a regular basis here," Amaro said. "But circumstances changed and I changed my mind."

Manuel said Brown will be set loose. Well, almost. The left-handed-hitting 23-year-old, rated the No.4 prospect in baseball this winter, will rest against left-handed starters initially, including tonight.

But he will play regularly in right field otherwise.

"The guy has got to play," Amaro said of Brown, who was hitting .341 (14-41) with two home runs and 10 RBI in 11 games for Triple-A Lehigh Valley. "I think it's important for him to play. I think he'll dictate the playing time. Charlie is pretty good about breaking guys into the big leagues. He's done it with a couple of our players and he's had success doing it, did it with Chase (Utley), with (Ryan) Howard. It's another one of those situations where he's going to have to break him in."

So why were there hesitations less than 24 hours ago, then, Rube?

"We wanted to get him into a rhthym, get him some at-bats, he's been swinging the bat ok, but it's hard to gauge," Amaro said. "I don't know how mnay at-bats he had after coming back from the hook of the hamate and then having a little bit of a problem with his thumb. He just didn't get as many reps as we would have liked, not just offensively but defensively, too. We wanted to make sure he had had development time, he had some developing to do defensively, running the bases, those are things we've talked about before; he really hasn't got a chance to continue his development. But we're going to give him a shot at doing it here."

Stutes latest bit by injury bug

2011-05-18T00:04:00.002-04:00

Charlie Manuel was hoping to get two innings out of Michael Stutes, who took over for Roy Oswalt in the sixth inning of Tuesday night's game in St. Louis. Instead, he didn't even get a full batter out of Stutes.

He got three pitches.

Stutes left with a pain in the middle of his back on his second pitch.

Here's his postgame Q&A the the media:

Q: How bad?

Stutes: “I don’t know. I guess we’ll find out. I’ll probably get checked out tomorrow.”

Q: Did Charlie (Manuel) say it was a burning feeling?

Stutes: “A little of that. I guess we figrure tomorrow we’ll see a doctor.”

Q: You felt OK warming up?

Stutes: “I felt great in the bullpen, felt great warming up before the inning, then in that at-bat with (Lance) Berkman, in the first three pitches.”

Q: Think you'll miss some time?

Stutes: “I don’t know. I’ve never had an injury before. I guess we’ll figure it out tomorrow. Hopefully it’s just a freak thing where I just strained something and I’ll wake up tomorrow feeling good.”

Stutes, who was called up less than a month ago, has quickly become a dependable arm in the injury-plagued bullpen. Entering Tuesday, he hadn't allowed a run in seven of his eight appearances.

Ibanez, Victorino, Chooch sit in road finale

2011-05-17T16:29:00.004-04:00

The Phillies have five hits or less in each of their last three games, all losses.

They've scored scored three runs or less in 21 of their 40 games this season. They're 8-13 in those 21 games. (Consequently, they're an astounding 17-2 when they score four or more runs).

Perhaps hoping to get something going, Charlie Manuel has trotted out this lineup for the finale to an eight-game, nine-day, three-city road trip.

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Michael Martinez, CF
3. Placido Polanco, 3B
4. Ryan Howard, 1B
5. John Mayberry Jr., LF
6. Ben Francisco, RF
7. Wilson Valdez, 2B
8. Dane Sardinha, C
9. Roy Oswalt, P

The Phils are facing one of the hottest pitchers in the league, lefty Jaime Garcia (5-0, 1.89 ERA).

Victorino is apparently still nursing his hamstring injury; Martinez, who has starts just four of the Phils first 40 games, starts in his place. Ibanez is probably due for a day off, and it makes sense against a tough lefty.

Ruiz is also out, which is somewhat curious but also may be precautionary after catching two straight games for the first time since returning from his back injury. He's also just 1-for-32 in the last month.