Bruntlett Leads Players Dropped

The Eric Bruntlett era is over. The Phillies parted ways with their utility man after his two-year stay. Hated by many, I loved his passion and his role as a good team mate and classy guy. We will never forget his unassisted triple play or him sliding home on Carlos Ruiz's game-winning infield single in game 3 of the 2008 World Series. We will also never forget his .217 with a .297 on base percentage in 238 plate appearances in 2008, then hit .171 with a .238 on base percentage in 118 plate appearances this past year.

Also being dropped were relievers Todd Walker and John Ennis, catcher Paul Hoover, and infielder Andy Tracy.

So with the departure of Bruntlett, that leaves a huge whole in the utility role the Phillies hope to fill. In a perfect world, the Phillies sign either Placido Polanco, Adrian Beltre, or Chone Figgins to start at third and are able to get Mark DeRosa to fill the utility role.

And in other news: Pedro Martinez wants to pitch the whole 2010 season. I don't know if the Phillies have interest in him being the #5 starter but I wouldn't mind it. It isn't know whether or not he can go a whole season and be effective and if they can sign him for cheap then I say go for him. He'd be better than Chan Ho Park and Jamie Moyer as starters (I still want Park back in the pen),

Sorry For Lack of Posts

I've been busy the past week and I still am with school work. I will continue the Player Report Card series shortly. I also added a new writer, Dan MacNeal of Liberty Bell Sports. We wrote together on the first blog of Justin Evans (now writer of Red Pinstripes Are Cooler). We will recap the Top 10 (maybe 15) moments of the 2009 season and do a few other specialty posts.

Please keep tuning in. There is a lot going on in the off season of the Phillies whether it's watching your favorite sports teams (hopefully the Eagles, Flyers, Sixers, Penn State, Temple, Villanova, or any other Philly/PA sports team) or following the Phillies news.

Happ 2nd In ROY Voting

JA Happ did not win the National League Rookie of the Year award but finished 2nd in voting. Winning the NL honors was Chris Coghlan of the Florida Marlins. Coghlan won 105-94 in votes over Happ. Braves pitcher Tommy Hanson had 37 points and Pirates outfield Andrew McCutchen had 25.

Here is the comparison of the two via Todd Zolecki's article:

Coghlan led all NL rookies in average (.321), runs (84), hits (162), doubles (31), total bases (232), multi-hit games (51) and on-base percentage (.390). Coghlan also posted back-to-back 47-hit months -- becoming the first NL player with 94 hits in a two-month span since 1978 -- and finished sixth in the NL in batting average. Happ was 12-4 with a 2.93 ERA and topped NL rookie pitchers in innings (166), strikeouts (119), complete games (three) and shutouts (two). He had the most wins for any Phillies rookie since Tom Underwood had 14 in 1975. Happ's ERA ranks 11th in franchise history among rookies, and was the lowest since Ben Tincup had a 2.61 ERA in 1914.

Utley Wins Silver Slugger

Chase Utley was chosen today for the Silver Slugger for best hitting 2B in the National League. This is his fourth straight award. Mike Schmidt holds the Phillis record with six straight. Utley this year batted .295 with 31 homers, 112 runs, and 93 RBI's. He led all two-baggers in runs and was tied with Dan Uggla of the Florida Marlins in dingers.

Here are the NL winners:

C. Brian McCann - Atlanta
1B. Albert Pujols - St. Louis
2B. Chase Utley - Philadelphia
3B. Ryan Zimmerman - Washington
SS. Hanley Ramirez - Florida
OF. Ryan Braun - Milwaukee
OF. Matt Kemp - Los Angeles
OF. Andre Ethier - Los Angeles

PRC: Sergio Escalona

Player: Sergio Escalona
Number: 53
Position: RP
Bats/Throws: L/L

Consistency: Escalona only saw action in 14 games. He was mainly used as a fill-in when players like Scott Eyre and Brad Lidge went down with injuries. He also replaced Kyle Kendrick when he proved to be useless in the beginning of the season. In his short stints up, he was hit or miss. He would either pitch shutout ball or give up 2-3 runs an outing.

He did not make the post season roster but was a part of the late-season 40-man roster and got work.

Regular Season Stats: 1-0, 13.2 IP, 12 H, 7 R, 7 ER, 0 HR, 5 BB, 10 K, 4.61 ERA, 1.29 WHIP

Post Season Stats: none

Health: Rather than being on the DL, he replaced those who were bit by the injury bug. No injuries.

Intangibles: He was solid as a replacement for the Phillies. He’s young (only 25) and got plenty of valuable experience in relief. Though he will likely never start in a Phillies uniform, he may see some more brief action during the season as a reliever. He will be sitting behind Antonio Bastardo on the list of lefty relievers.

Overall Grade: C. He was okay. He didn’t pitch a lot and didn’t show anything worth getting excited about. He filled in on numerous occasions and did his job.

Rollins, Victorino Win Gold Glove

Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino were awarded the Gold Glove award today. Chase Utley was screwed out of his Gold Glove, losing to Orlando Hudson of the Dodgers, who play significantly less games than Utley. The award was Rollins' third and Victorino's second. Rollins was the first short stop in the NL to win three consecutive Gold Gloves since Rey Ordonez and Victorino is first Phillies outfielder since Gary Maddox to win consecutive awards.

Here are the winners in the National League:

P) Adam Wainwright - St. Louis, 1st
C) Yadier Molina - St. Louis, 2nd
1B) Adrian Gonzalez - San Dego, 2nd
2B) Orlando Hudson - Los Angeles, 4th
3B) Ryan Zimmerman - Washington, 1st
SS) Jimmy Rollins - Philadelphia, 3rd
OF) Shane Victorino - Philadelphia, 2nd
OF) Michael Bourn - Houston, 1st
OF) Matt Kemp - Los Angeles, 1st

Discuss it here.

Off Season Schedule For Phillies

Nov. 10-11: GM Meetings
Nov. 20: First day free agents may sign with any club
Nov. 20: Deadline for clubs to set 40-man rosters
Dec. 1: Deadline for clubs to offer arbitration in order to receive compensation
Dec. 7: Deadline for free agents to accept arbitration
Dec. 7-10: Winter Meetings
Dec. 12: Deadline for clubs to tender contracts
Jan. 5-15: Arbitration filing
Jan. 19: Exchange of salary arbitration figures
Feb. 1-21 Arbitration hearings

PRC: Chad Durbin

Player: Chad Durbin
Number: 37
Position: RP
Bats/Throws: R/R

Consistency: Durbin has not been that good all year. He started out rocky, settled down a bit in June and then saw his ERA sky-rocket until he pitched an effective September that was beneficial for the Phillies in closing out the season. His 59 appearances were the third highest on the team behind Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge and was second in innings pitched among pitchers that didn’t record a start behind Madson.

He was excellent in the NLDS and NLCS, throwing four perfect innings in five appearances but then fell apart in the World Series, namely game 6 when he allowed three runs in the 5th inning, putting the game out of reach.

Regular Season Stats: 2-2, 69.2 IP, 56 H, 38 R, 34 ER, 8 HR, 47 BB, 62 K, 4.39 ERA, 1.49 WHIP

Post Season Stats: 2-0, 7 G, 5.1 IP, 3 H, 4 R, 4 ER, 2 BB, 3 K, 6.75 ERA, 0.98 WHIP

Health: He was on the DL in late July with a sore back. The 15-day stint helped his back out. He was called upon a lot prior to the injury and never saw the DL again after returning.

Intangibles: He was solid for the Phillies. Though he started out rough, he settled down and managed to be okay. He is up for arbitration and it will interesting to see if the Phillies hold onto him. He has stuff similar to Clay Condrey’s, but uses the slider rather than a sinker. He’s also streaky. He will either pitch hot or not be able to get anyone out. He was also the first Phillie on Twitter, like that really matters.

Overall Grade: C. He was below-average for the Phillies. The poor inning in the World Series definitely hurt his grade along with his overall performance this season. If he would have focused more on pitching than tweeting, maybe his grade could have been higher.

Off Season News 11/10/09

According to Todd Zolecki via Twitter:

Pedro Feliz, Chan Ho Park, Matt Stairs and Paul Bako officially filed for free agency today.

This is very interesting for the Phillie seeing that they have interest in Park and said they will not give up on Feliz. As for Stairs and Bako, I think Bako would be important in bringing back. The back-up catcher market is pretty thin and Bako proved to be a solid back-up for Carlos Ruiz this past season. In 44 games, Bako hit .224 (26-116) with three homers and nine RBI's.

And in other news, here is the schedule for the National League award announcements:

Gold Glove: 11/12
Silver Slugger: 11/13
NL Rookie of the Year: 11/16
NL Manager of the Year: 11/18
NL Cy Young: 11/19
NL Most Valuable Player: 11/24

PRC: Clay Condrey

Player: Clay Condrey
Number: 55
Position: RP
Bats/Throws: R/R

Consistency: Condrey was actually one of their best righties all year. He started out real well until June when he got whacked around by AL hitting. He was then hurt in July, came back, and then missed all of August but bounced back to pitch steady towards the end of the season. In his last 12 games, he pitched eight innings of work, allowing six hits and two runs, none earned.

Despite the strong finish, he was left off the playoff roster. He is up for arbitration this off season.

Regular Season Stats: 6-2, 42 IP, 37 H, 17 R, 14 ER, 1 HR, 8 BB, 16 K, 3.00 ERA, 1.07 WHIP

Post Season Stats: none

Health: He was on the DL a couple times with a strained oblique.

Intangibles: “Big Texas” is a favorite in the club house going by the mini-series “The Pen.” Along with being a positive presence as a team player, he was a positive presence in the righty-specialist role. His fast ball hit low-90’s and so did his sinker, allowing him to get hitters to ground out.

Overall Grade: B. He was statistically one of the Phillies’ best relievers. Him being left off the post season roster was a bit of a surprise. Overall he did nothing wrong but wasn’t exceptional. A “B” grade is what you get for doing your job.

Feliz's Option Not Picked Up

The Phillies declined to pick up Pedro Feliz's $5.5 million option today but said they will not rule him out for the hot corner position. Feliz is 34-years old and has shown a dramatic drop in power since coming to Philadelphia. He averaged 20 homers a year in San Francisco but only hit 26 in his two years for the Phillies.

Feliz batted .266 with 12 home runs and 82 RBIs in 158 games for the Phillies this season. With runners in scoring position, he hit a team-best .336. He tore it up in the beginning of the season but fell off drastically and hit a putrid .167 (9-54) in the playoffs this year.

If the Phillies are not going to bring Feliz back, they can look at free agents like Adrian Beltre, Chone Figgins, Mark DeRosa, and Troy Glaus. I would be all for Figgins but his asking price could be high. Beltre would also be a nice choice seeing that he will be can feast on the NL's weak pitching. Bringing back Feliz is also not a bad move.

PRC: Joe Blanton

Player: Joe Blanton
Number: 56
Position: SP
Bats/Throws: R/R

Consistency: Blanton started out the season very poorly in April, going 0-2 with an 8.41 ERA in four games. He settled down through the rest of the season, having his best month in July. He had a few bad starts thrown in there but overall was very consistent. He started in the bull pen in the playoffs, pitching in relief twice in the NLDS and starting a game in both the NLCS and World Series.

Blanton is eligible for arbitration and hopefully a deal is worked out with him. He could be the Phillies #3 starter next season.

Regular Season Stats: 12-8, 195.1 IP, 198 H, 89 R, 88 ER, 30 HR, 59 BB, 163 K, 4.05 ERA, 1.32 WHIP

Post Season Stats: 0-0, 4 G, 2 GS, 15.2 IP, 15 H, 10 R, 9 ER, 4 BB, 10 K, 5.17 ERA

Health: He was healthy all year.

Intangibles: Blanton is their best righty in the rotation. He showed a lot of versatility coming out of the pen and then starting in the playoffs. He’ll be 29 before the beginning of next season and the Phillies need to lock him up for a few years at least. He’ll never be an ace on this staff but he will be a much better option as a #3 than Brett Myers would have been and matched up against other teams’ #3’s, the Phillies can have confidence in him.

Overall Grade: B-. I based this off of his composure and consistency. Before Cliff Lee came to the Phillies, he was their best pitcher. He led the team in innings pitched, tied for team lead with 12 wins, and second in strike outs to Cole Hamels. Ever since he came here from the Oakland trade, he has been very consistent.

PRC: Antonio Bastardo

Player: Antonio Bastardo
Number: 58
Position: RP
Bats/Throws: R/L

Consistency: Bastardo had only made six appearances all season because he got hurt in June. When healthy, he showed a lot of promise. His first start saw him going six strong innings, allowing a run on four hits versus the Padres. He followed that up with another quality start. His next three starts were not so good though. In that span, he only went 11.2 innings, allowing 15 runs (14 earned) on 15 hits and a WHIP of 1.88. His June ERA was 6.75 and he saw no more action until he made one relief stint in October where he pitched a scoreless inning versus Florida.

In the playoffs, he was put on the roster for all three series’ because JC Romero’s season was done. He pitched 1/3 inning total, allowing a hit and a strike out in 2 appearances.

Regular Season Stats: 2-3, 23.2 IP, 25 H, 18 R, 17 ER, 4 HR, 9 BB, 6.46 ERA, 1.51 WHIP

Post Season Stats: 0-0, .1 IP, 1 H, 1 K

Health: His only injury was when he strained his shoulder in June versus Tampa Bay. He didn’t return to the Phillies until late in the season.

Intangibles: Bastardo has a lot of upside. His fastball hits around 94 MPH and has a good slider and change-up. He didn’t get a lot of work this year for the Phillies but I can definitely see him getting more time next year. He’s only 23 and will learn. He also showed a lot of composure in the NLDS when he was called in to face Jason Giambi of the Rockies with the bases loaded, striking him out to end the inning.

Overall Grade: C. His three bad starts before getting hurt didn’t help him but his positive upside balanced that out. I like what this kid has and am hoping he earns a bull pen spot on next year’s roster.

PRC: Player Report Card

For the next couple of months, I will be dedicating a post to each player on the Phillies who I will grade for their performance over the course of the 2009 season. I will start with the pitchers and grade them in four different categories: Consistency, stats, health, and intangibles. Position players will be graded on: Consistency, offense/stats, health, defense, and intangibles. I will then give the player an overall grade and that's it.

List of pitchers (18):
Antonio Bastardo
Joe Blanton
Clay Condrey
Chad Durbin
Sergio Escalona
Scott Eyre
Cole Hamels
JA Happ
Kyle Kendrick
Cliff Lee
Brad Lidge
Ryan Madson
Pedro Martinez
Jamie Moyer
Brett Myers
Chan Ho Park
JC Romero
Tyler Walker

List of position players (15):
Paul Bako
Eric Bruntlett
Miguel Cairo
Greg Dobbs
Pedro Feliz
Ben Francisco
Ryan Howard
Raul Ibanez
John Mayberry Jr.
Jimmy Rollins
Carlos Ruiz
Matt Stairs
Chase Utley
Shane Victorino
Jayson Werth

More On Eligible Phillies

Our friendly Phillies writer for MLB.com, Todd Zolecki, has tweeted a few more updates on a few more players that are free agents. The Phillies have contacted Chan Ho Park's agent about being re-signed. He was one of their best relievers this year and I fully support this move.

Scott Eyre also verbally commented that he enjoyed the guys on the team so much that he is having surgery and will not retire. If his surgery goes well, he will be back in red pinstripes. And the Phillies are interested in re-signing Matt Stairs to a minor-league contract. That doesn't mean he will be in the minors, just that they aren't going to give him a lot of money to be a left-handed power bat off the bench.

Phillies Pick Up Lee's Option

Only two days into the off season and the Phillies are already looking towards the 2010 season. According to Todd Zolecki on Twitter, the Phillies picked up Cliff Lee's $9 million option for 2010. This locks him in for next year and allows them to work on a long term deal. The Phillies would be nuts to not lock him down right now.

And to make spending money a lot easier, the Phillies free up around $20 million because they don't have to pay for Jim Thome, Adam Eaton, or Geoff Jenkins anymore thanks to a friendly tweet by the 700 Level.

UPDATE: I was out so I'm just writing about this now. The Phillies will not re-sign Brett Myers according to Zolecki. He wanted the Phillies to get back with him as soon as they could so he could start marketing himself as a free agent. I wish him the best of luck and thank him for being a key part to the 2008 squad.

Off Season

Stay tuned guys for some changes, updates, additions, and some special posts for the off season. Instead of doing a season recap, I will do a player recap for those who were key contributors to the season. There will be about 35 names and the off season will give me time to cover them all easily. There will also be a run down of the top 15 moments of 2009 and possibly another special list and even some different "dream teams."

There will also be a new member joining the site hopefully. My friend Dan MacNeal from Liberty Bell Sports will help collaborate in the off season and next season. Stay tuned folks.

High Hopes

What did the Phillies really fail at? They failed to win consecutive championships for the first time in about 10 years and in the National League since the 1970's. They failed to beat the Yankees, the best team in baseball. They failed to be legendary. I say so what?

This Phillies team proved this year that last year was no fluke and that this team is in the elite. They hung with the big boys and dominated good teams. They have the core of the team in their prime and a bunch of young talent waiting in the wings. Just because they didn't do it again this year doesn't mean it's over. This team can win its 4th straight division. This team can breeze its way through the playoffs. This team can see themselves back in the World Series.

Sure there are a few problems to be addressed in the off season but we will look at that later. For now, let's soak in a successful season, recap the highs and lows, watch whatever football, hockey, or basketball team you watch, and worry about the off season when it becomes relevant.

I want to say thank you to the Phillies for giving us another helluva season. I want to thank Ruben Amaro Jr. for assembling a great team. You may have sucked as a player but you are doing a good job so far as a GM. I want to thank all the journalists I followed on Twitter and in their articles including Todd Zolecki and David Murphy. Great season to everyone and see you in 150 days. And Yankees, we'll see you June 15-17 in your house.

Yankees Win 2009 World Series

Once again, the Yankees are Pedro Martinez's daddy. The Phillies season has finally ended as the Yankees beat up the Phillies pitching, winning game 6 by a score of 7-3 and the series 4-2. Hideki Matsui went 3-4 with six RBI's, falling a triple shy of the cycle, as he single handedly killed the Phillies hopes of forcing game 7.

Martinez was awful, going just four innings and allowing four runs on three hits and two walks, striking out five. His opponenet, Andy Pettitte, went 5.2, allowing three runs on on four hits and five walks. Despite pitching like crap, Pettite earned the win. Mariano Rivera pitched the last five outs, getting Shane Victorino to ground out to Robinson Cano to seal the victory.

The offensive fire power got going early for the Yankees when Matsui hit a two-run homer in the second. The Phillies answered with a run in the bottom of the inning but were soon counter-punched when Matsui hit a two-run single to make it a 4-1 game.

The Yankees then tacked on three more off of Chad Durbin in the 5th. They got an RBI single by Mark Teixeira and a two-run double by Matsui to make it a 7-3 game. Ryan Howard then came alive, answering with a two-run homer off Pettitte to finally chase him from the game. The Phillies had a huge opportunity in the 7th with Utley at the plate and two outs with two runners on but specialist Demaso Marte came in to strike him out to end the inning.

Carlos Ruiz and Raul Ibanez were the only bright spots of the night. Chooch went 2-2 with a walk and a run scored. Ibanez had a pair of doubles. For the Yankees, Derek Jeter had three hits and two runs.

On a side note, Ryan Howard struck out for the 13th time this World Series, a new record. Matsui also tied Bobby Richardson's record of six RBI's in a single game. Richardson did the feat back in 1960 versus the Pirates.

Stars of the Game:

Game 1: Cliff Lee

Game 2: AJ Burnett

Game 3: Nick Swisher

Game 4: Johnny Damon

Game 5: Chase Utley

Game 6: Hideki Matsui

World Series MVP (official):

Hideki Matsui: 8-13 (.615), 3 runs, double, 3 HR, 8 RBI,

World Series LVP:

Ryan Howard: 4-23 (.178), 3 runs, 2 doubles, HR, 3 RBI, 13 K's (new record)

Phillies Player of the Series:

Chase Utley: 6-21 (.286), 6 runs, double, 5 HR's, 8 RBI, SB

Liberty Bell Sports

People, just a friendly reminder to come visit the sports forum I help run: Liberty Bell Sports. Click here to join the Phillies and Yankees Game 6 chat thread or click on the picture below to check out the site and join today. Go Phillies!

Hamels Wants Ball in Game 7

Cole Hamels is obviously over his little tantrum he had after game three. He said after game five that he wants the ball in game seven:

"Who wouldn't want the ball in Game 7? This is the ultimate dream to be able to pitch in the most competitive situation anybody could ever be in -- that would be to be in Game 7 of the World Series. Even though I might not have the best results leading up to it, I've always wanted it."

Hamels' comments from game three:

"I can't wait for it to end. It's been mentally draining. It's one of those things where, a year in, you just can't wait for a fresh start."

Hamels' comments on his prior remarks:

"When you write the first five lines of a complete sentence, it's hard for everybody else to understand that. But you know what, I've said some dumb things and I think everybody has. I have to make it clear what I really want to say sometimes. It's hard to play baseball and talk at the same time."

There were reports that Brett Myers got in Hamels' face after game five saying "I thought you quit," but Leslie Goodell confirmed it was a joke. From her tweets:

Reply Contrary to reports, Myers was kidding when he told Hamels "I thought you quit". I was standing btwn them.

Myers didn't know about Coles comments telling me "I don't read the paper". Myers later apologized to Cole for the bad timing of his joke.

Phils Stay Alive, Head Back to NY

For the Phillies, every game is a must win game. After taking the first game of the series, they fell three straight to the Yankees. After last night's offensive outburst, the Phillies got back into this series, only trailing 3-2. The bats came alive and Cliff Lee pitched well enough to win as the Phillies fought off a late Yankees rally to win 8-6.

Lee went 7 innings, allowing five runs on seven hits and three walks, striking out three. Though he gave up five runs, his ERA is an incredible 1.56 in five post season starts and boasts a 4-0 record. His counterpart, AJ Burnett was bounced in the third inning with no outs, only lasting two innings, allowing six runs on four hits and four walks, striking out two.

The offense got going early after the Yankees managed to score a run in the first inning. The Phillies responded the only way they know how to: a lead off single by Jimmy Rollins, a scary hit-by-pitch taken by Shane Victorino, and a no-out three-run homer by Chase Utley. Victorino got hit in the hand and it affected him all game but he will be fine. It's only a contusion and not a break or fracture.

The offense didn't stop there as they tacked on three more runs in the third. After back-t0-back walks by Utley and Ryan Howard, Jayson Werth drove in Utley on an RBI single. Raul Ibanez then drove in Howard on a single and Werth hustled all the way to third. Carlos Ruiz was able to beat out a potential double play ball to allow Werth to score, making it 6-2.

The Yankees were able to add one in the 5th to make it a 6-2 game but the Phillies responded in the 7th with a pair of solo homers by Utley and Ibanez. Utley's HR was his 5th in the World Series, tying Reggie Jackson's record in 1977.

This is when it got scary. Lee came in the top of the eighth and was credited with all three runs. Chan Ho Park came in and pitched incredible but it was an 8-5 game. Ryan Madson came out in the 9th and got into early trouble. With runners on 1st and 3rd, he got Derek Jeter to hit into an RBI double play. With an 8-6 score, he walked Johnny Damon and then got Mark Teixeira to strike out to end the game and earn the save.

Utley finished the day 2-3 with three runs, four RBI's and a pair of HR's. Rollins had a pair of hits from the lead-off spot and Ibanez also had two hits and two RBI's and a homer. Lee also had a hit, his 3rd of the post season.

Star of the Game:

Game 1: Cliff Lee

Game 2: AJ Burnett

Game 3: Nick Swisher

Game 4: Johnny Damon

Game 5: Chase Utley

Next Game: Wednesday in New York, 7:57 EST

Series: Yankees lead 3-2

Pitching Probables: Pedro Martinez vs. Andy Pettitte

Gameday Discussion: Liberty Bell Sports

The Phillies are still on the ropes but they are punching back. Pedro Martinez is back in New York and back in the spot light. He loves the added attention and I wouldn't blame him. He has been excellent in his two post season starts and is only win-less because he hasn't gotten the offensive support he deserved. With the Phillies offense obviously heated back up, he just needs to go out there and pitch like he has.

Andy Pettitte hasn't pitched on three days rest since 2006. He has a 2.40 ERA in five career starts on that short rest but he is much older now. He will need to stay focused in this outing. He last pitched in game three, giving up four runs in seven innings, allowing five hits and three walks, striking out seven. He certainly is beatable and the Phillies know this.

For extra pumping up, click here.

Win

That's all Phillies fans are asking for. Win. It's that easy. You are the Phightin' Phils. You are the Team to Beat. You are the Philadelphia Phillies! The Yankees are the best team in baseball and you are going to sit there and be ok with that? You are going to let Alex Rodriguez, a cheater in the game you love to play, walk away with YOUR World Series Ring? You are going to let the Evil Empire take away your season? Are you going to let the NY Post walk all over your team and sit in the news room laughing at your expense?

It's Cliff Lee, Pedro Martinez, and Cole Hamels versus a tired rotation. They are exhausted. They need the offense to help them win. Shut down their offense and your guys will support you. They will score. They will hit home runs. They will lead you to victory.

Raul Ibanez: You came to this team to be on a winner. Yea we know you are hurt with that abdomen tear and we know it is damn painful. You have THREE games left. Not one, not two, but three. It's time to earn that ring that has eluded you for your 14-year career.

Ryan Howard: What the hell happened? You were Mr. October. You took 30 pounds off your gut and put 30 points on your batting average and led the league in RBI's. You were clutch in the NLDS and NLCS. You can spank the Yankees. You can add a whole new level the legacy you are building in the City of Brotherly Love. Move the hell over, Mike Schmidt because Howard is going to take your spot! You can't do that by rolling over to the Yankees though.

Cole Hamels: I'm not giving up on you. Why? Because if it comes down to game 7, the ball is in your hands. Over? This season ain't close to being over. Take a hard look in the damn mirror and look into the eyes of the 2008 World Series MVP pitcher you once were. You are not a wuss. You are not over rated. You are still the ace of this staff in the eyes of many. Act like it.

Brad Lidge: We don't blame you for yesterday. This team has called on you time and time again and you never gave up. Who cares how many saves you blew. It matters only if you think about it. You learn from your mistakes only if you don't dwell on them. A loser is someone who is afraid to fail. I winner is someone who is afraid of nothing.

The Phillies: You got rattled but you got right back up. You're the under dog. You're the beaten but not forgotten. Your chin is bloodied and your face is battered but you aren't mailing it in. You are Rocky! You won't quit. You beat them once. They bleed! They are not a machine. They are human and are beatable.

Do you hear that? "Phillies, Phillies, Phillies." I hear it too. You still have one game left in the home venue. Leave an impression on the fans, on the Yankees, and on yourself. Leave this city with a win. Go to New York and beat the Yankees!

Phils Fail at Comeback, Yanks Up 3-1

All Brad Lidge had to do was get Johnny Damon out. But he was resilient. Damon fought off every strike-two pitch by Lidge until he got the one he like. After his base hit and steal of second and third, Mark Teixeira walked and Alex Rodriguez drove in Damon to make it a 5-4 game. Jorge Posada tacked on two more with a double to make it 7-4, the final of game four as the Yankees take a commanding 3-1 lead in the World Series. For the record, this was not Brad Lidge's fault.

Joe Blanton pitched well, allowing four runs on five hits and two walks in six innings of work. He also struck out seven. His counterpart, C.C. Sabathia went 6.2 innings, giving up three runs on seven hits, three walks, and striking out six. He was yanked after Chase Utley made it a 4-3 game with his solo homer in the 7th. Mariano Rivera pitched a quick 9th to earn his second save of the series.

The Phillies had to come back twice in the game. Down 2-0 in the first, the Phillies added a run in the bottom half. They then got another in the 4th off a Pedro Feliz double that scored Ryan Howard from second. Howard appeared to have never touched home plate but was ruled safe. In the top of the 5th, Blanton gave up two more runs to make it a 4-2 game.

After Utley made it 4-3 in the 7th, Pedro Feliz hit a two-out solo home run in the bottom of the 8th off Joba Chamberlain to tie it up. The the wheels fell off as Lidge had to face the top of a Yankees order that scored the most runs in the majors and 95 more than the Phillies, who were 4th.

Star of the Game:

Game 1: Cliff Lee

Game 2: AJ Burnett

Game 3: Nick Swisher

Game 4: Johnny Damon

Next Game: Monday in Philadelphia, 7:57 EST

Series: Yankees lead 3-1

Pitching Probables: AJ Burnett vs. Cliff Lee

Gameday Discussion: Liberty Bell Sports

This is for the Phillies. They are on the ropes. They need to win the next three versus the Yankees, two in New York. An easy task? Hell no. A doable task? Yes it is. Cliff Lee has been incredible this post season and will need to give the Phillies some momentum going into New York. The series isn't over and the Phillies don't give up. Not ever!

No matter the out come of this series, I'll still be writing this blog and I will still be loving the Phillies. This is a team that has been the basis of my sports-loving life since I was five and I have never given up on this team. No matter what happens tonight or Wednesday or Thursday, the real fans will still love this team. Go Phils!

Game 4: Tale of the Tape

My buddy, Dan MacNeal of Liberty Bell Sports, had the idea to do a "Tale of the Tape" for the pitching match up tonight at 7:57 EST in Philadelphia. Tonight's heavyweight match up will be between Joe Blanton of the Phillies versus C.C. Sabathia of the Yankees.
In this corner! The beared baby face...... Jooooeeeeee Blanton! And in this corner! He eats hot dogs for a living...... Mark Sanchez... eerrrr C.C Saaaaabathia!

Yanks Power Their Way to 2-1

The Yankees won game three 8-5 and took a 2-1 lead in the World Series. Nick Swisher killed the Phillies, going 2-4 with a double, home run, and two runs scored. Andy Pettitte got through six solid innings, only allowing four runs on five hits, three walks, and seven strike outs. Mariano Rivera got the save once again.

The Yankees offense combined with three home runs total thanks to Alex Rodriguez, Swisher, and Hideki Matsui.

Three things after this game: Cole Hamels is a girl, the offense has disappeared, and Joe Blanton needs to pitch his ass off tomorrow. Let's talk about each item individually.

1) Hamels was attrocious. He lasted only 4.1 innings, allowing five runs on five hits, two walks and striking out three. He pitched no-hit ball through the first three and then saw the wheels fall off. After walking Mark Teixeira on a questionable call in the fourth, Rodriguez hit a two-run homer that barely made it out. In the fifth, Hamels gave up a series of hits that led to three more runs and and early exit with only one out.

The pen couldn't keep the game close either as JA Happ, Chad Durbin, Brett Myers, and Madson combined to give up three runs and two homers in 4.2 innings pitched. I'm not pitting a lot of blame on them but you need to be good in the World Series. The garbage the Yankees call a bull pen out-pitched you.

2) Ryan Howard struck out three more times and is 2-13 with nine strike outs this series. Shane Victorino, Chase Utley, and Raul Ibanez looked lost at their plate appearances, going a combined 0-11 with a sacrifice fly and RBI. As expected, Pedro Feliz has been a penciled-in out in key situations. Jayson Werth was the only bright spot with his two home runs.

They blew some big opportunities. The first came in the second inning. Yes they got three runs that inning but had the bases loaded with one out and could only get a walked-in run by Jimmy Rollins and a sacrifice fly by Victorino. Utley didn't show up with a runner in scoring position, keeping the Yankees in the game.

3) Charlie Manuel needs to stick to his gut for game four. They are only down 2-1 in the series and shouldn't jump to Cliff Lee early for game four. He has Blanton going up against C.C. Sabathia, who wasn't that sharp in game one. The Phillies can hit Sabathia and they know that. Blanton needs to go out their and do his job. He is a good pitcher and needs to realize that and pitch like it.

Star of the Game:
Game 1: Cliff Lee
Game 2: AJ Burnett
Game 3: Nick Swisher

Next Game: Sunday in Philadelphia, 7:57 EST
Series: Yankees lead 2-1
Pitching Probables: C.C. Sabathia vs. Joe Blanton
Gameday Discussion: Liberty Bell Sports

Oh look! They're playing the Yankees again. Beat them.

Dobbs Has Cooties

OK all kidding aside, Greg Dobbs has the flu or stomach virus and the Charlie Manuel had him send home so he doesn't infect the rest of the team. He won't be allowed back until he is completely healthy Ruben Amaro Jr. said. Tyler Walker, who wasn't on the 25-man roster but with the team, was also sent home because of sickness and Pedro Martinez complained of feeling ill before his start on Tuesday but is still with the team.

One player on the Phillies decided to board up Dobbs' locker with cardboard, masking, tape, and yellow "Caution" tape with a sign that read:

Greg Dobbs Update
Thomas Jefferson Hospital
Room #---
Visiting hours for family and friends from 6-8 p.m.

Please be advised to wear a mask!!

Gotta love the togetherness this team has. Hopefully Dobbs' gets well in time to be with the team before this series is over.

UPDATE: Dobbs is feeling better and is cleared to play tonight via Susan Lulgjuraj of the AC Press.

Blanton to Pitch Game 4

Todd Zolecki just reported on his Twitter that Charlie Manuel is going to pitch Joe Blanton in game four in Philadelphia on Sunday versus CC Sabathia. This will line up Cliff Lee for game five, Pedro Martinez for game six, and Cole Hamels for game seven. Lee will be eligible to pitch out of the bull pen for game seven if necessary.

Manuel's reasoning via @ToddZolecki: "Manuel said he didn't want to pitch Lee on short rest in Game 4 because he's never done it, he's pitched a lot of innings this year, etc."

Blanton this year in the post season has only made one start in the NLCS and two relief appearances in the NLDS, posting a 4.50 ERA. In his start versus the Dodgers, he went six innings, allowing four runs and three earned on six hits and two walks, striking out two. In last years playoffs, he went 2-0 in three starts with a 3.18 ERA. He also hit a home run in game four of the World Series versus the Tampa Bay Rays.
I think this is a good move. Manuel actually makes a lot of good moves just the players don't perform and it makes him look bad. It will make sure Lee is fresh plus it puts the Phillies three best hitting pitchers at the plate in Philadelphia. Also Martinez seemed to enjoy the negative response from the Yankees crowd during game two because he's a little twisted. "I know they really want to root for me. If I was on the Yankees I’d probably be like a king over here."

Gotta love Pedro.

Bats Falter, Series Tied

Runners on first and second for Chase Utley. The swing and a ground ball to Robinson Cano who flips to Derek Jeter and retires Utley to end the inning. The Phillies situational hitting from the regular season returned as they squandered numerous opportunities much like that one as they allow the Yankees to tie the series up, losing 3-1.

Pedro Martinez pitched a quality outing but was not supported at all by the offense, who went 1/5 with runners in scoring position. Martinez lasted 6+, allowing three runs on six hits, two walks, and striking out eight. Two of the runs he allowed were solo homers by Mark Teixeira and Hideki Matsui.

AJ Burnett looked like a stud in his outing, going seven strong innings and allowing a run on four hits and two walks, striking out nine. His only blemish came off of Matt Stairs' RBI single scoring in Raul Ibanez. Mariano Rivera pitched the 8th and 9th to get the save.

Those struggles are something that really has to disappear. In a series where both teams should be hitting, struggles at the plate should not be there. Looking at the third strike is also something bad teams do. The Phillies are not a bad team and should not be staring at pitches that close to the plate.

Stars of the Game:
Game 1: Cliff Lee
Game 2: AJ Burnett

Next Game: Saturday in Philadelphia, 7:57 EST
Series: Tied 1-1
Pitching Probables: Andy Pettitte vs. Cole Hamels
Gameday Discussion: Liberty Bell Sports

Hamels needs to show up this game. The Phillies do not want to be trailing at all to the Yankees this series. They are one of those teams that can get on a roll if the momentum swings their way. Pettitte has been great for the Yankees in the post season.

The Phillies bats need to come back alive. It's as simple as that. There really is nothing else to write. The Yankees are good and the Phillies are good. Pettitte his clutch and Hamels is nothing like his 2008 form. Hopefully the roles get reversed and Hamels is back to being the World Series MVP he once was.

Lee, Utley Lead Phils in Game 1

The weather was ugly but Cliff Lee and Chase Utley were the complete opposite. Lee went pitched a complete game and Utley hit two homers en route to a 6-1 Phillies win and putting them ahead 1-0 in the World Series over the Yankees.

C.C. Sabathia was once again thwarted by the Phillies as he lasted seven innings, allowing both of Utley's home runs. He gave up two runs total on four hits, walking three and striking out six. Lee dominated his former team mate, going nine and allowing a run on six hits, no walks, and matching a career and Phillies best 10 strike outs in the post season (Lee in the NLCS, Schilling in the 1993 World Series, and Steve Carlton in the 1980 World Series).

Utley was on fire at the plate, hitting solo homers in the third and sixth inning. Ryan Howard tacked on two doubles and an RBI, Raul Ibanez had two RBI's, and Victorino drove in another. Derek Jeter had the only multiple-hit game for the Yankees, getting three. Alex Rodrigue struck out three times.

It was the first World Series game versus the Yankees since they were swept in 1950 and the Phillies completely turned the tables on them. If the Phillies can keep this up for the remainder of the series, you will be looking at your back-to-back world champion Phillies.

On a side note, Utley reached base in his 26th straight game, a new record.

Next Game: Game two in New York, 7:57 EST

Series: Phillies lead 1-0

Probables: Pedro Martinez vs. A.J. Burnett

Game Discussion: Liberty Bell Sports

The Phillies already did what they needed to do and that was take at least one game in New York. If they can take game two, that would be perfect. For the Yankees, they do not want to go to Philadelphia down 0-2 in the series with Hamels set up for game three.

This will be a big spot for Pedro Martinez. He has a lot of bad blood with the Yankees. He is also one of the best big-game pitchers of all time. When he gets in the zone, he is the Pedro of old. AJ Burnett has not been effective in the post season with his 4.42 ERA in 3 starts. He will look to give the Yankees a strong outing versus a very tough offense.

Myers On, Cairo Off

And the Phillies 25-man roster is set for the World Series. Brett Myers was added to the roster, taking the place of Miguel Cairo via @ToddZolecki. I guess he will be the right-handed bat off the bench option for the Phillies vs. CC Sabathia.

This leaves the Phillies with 13 hitters and 12 pitchers.

Hitters: Ruiz, Howard, Utley, Rollins, Feliz, Ibanez, Victorino, Werth, Bako, Dobbs, Bruntlett, Francisco, Stairs

Pitchers: Lee, Martinez, Hamels, Blanton, Happ, Myers, Park, Durbin, Eyre, Bastardo, Madson, Lidge

Blog Stroll 10/27/09

I figured I haven't done one of these in a long time so I might as well post some of the funnier things I read the past couple of days:

The Fightins did a hilarious post titled "The Bandwagoners Guide to the 2009 Yankees." In it they talk about some of the current and recently former players of the Yankees to just give those who are hopping back on thier bandwagon for the first time in about five years a heads up of who to watch and who to fear.

Phillies Nation did a post comparing the attractions, food, and traffic of New York and Philadelphia. They then capped it off with showing why it's easy to root for a team with 26 rings but difficult to be as passionate, if not more passionate than the Yankees fans with only seeing two rings, 10,000 losses, and Joe Carter and 1964.

Red Pinstripes Are Cooler re-bashed the New York Post for their crappy attempt at humor in depicting the "Frillies" fans and thier city as second rate and used a poorly photo-shopped picture of Shane Victorino in a skirt on thier cover. I guess desperated times call for desperate measures for the Post.

Macho Row did a nice little flash back to the 1950 World Series featuring the Whiz Kids. The Yankees swept the Phillies 4-0.

And also, don't forget to join the World Series discussion on Liberty Bell Sports, a forum for all you Philly fans.

Howard On SI Cover

Ryan Howard is the next Phillies to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated, an honor in itself. Though there have been many talks of the "SI Cover Jinx," the Phillies should not play into the over-hyped lore.

The last Phillie to grace the cover was Cole Hamels back on February 23. Howard was on the cover for Sports Illustrated for Kids back in 2007.

Phillies Pitching Takes Shape

Charlie Manuel just reported on a radio show this morning that Pedro Martinez will pitch game two and Cole Hamels will pitch game three via David Murphy on Twitter.

Here are the probables for the first three games:
Wed: PHI: Lee, Cl (2-0, 0.74), NYY: Sabathia (3-0, 1.19)
Thu: PHI: Martinez, P (0-0, 0.00, 7 IP)
Sat: PHI: Hamels (1-1, 6.75)

In my opinion, I think this was the best way to go. Hamels is a better hitter than Martinez so his bat would be useful at Citizens Bank Park. Also Martinez has proved he can still pitch well in the post season. All three of these guys are very capable of beating the Yankees.

Now the only question left to be answered is if Cliff Lee will go game four or will it be between Joe Blanton and JA Happ.

J-Roll-adamus

This was a very entertaining bit Jimmy Rollins did on Jay Leno. In the segment "Ten @ Ten" where Leno asks the guest 10 questions, Rollins talked about Shane Victorino's rituals, Elton John, and his crappies job in Oakland.

His final question was a World Series prediction. He said the Phillies will win in five and if they are nice, let it go to six games. Let's hope you're right, J-Roll.

World Seres: New York Yankees vs Philadelphia Phillies

This is it, folks. The Phillies now know who they are playing in the World Series after the Yankees beat the Angels in six games. This is the match up many fans have dreamt up in the beginning of the season. The Yankees went into the past offseason and made big splashes that have really paid off. They include Cy Young candidate C.C Sabathia, MVP candidate Mark Texiera, and re-signing Andy Pettite.

The Phillies also made a couple moves during the offseason and regular season. Those big moves include letting Pat Burrell go and signing Raul Ibanez, who had an all star year. They signed Pedro Martinez mid-season to a one year deal. They also traded a package of prospects to Cleveland in exchange for ace Cliff Lee.

Fun Facts: The Phillies won the season series 2-1 back in May… The Yankees are playing in their 40th World Series. The Phillies are in their 7th… This is the rematch of the 1950 World Series… New York and Philadelphia are two of the biggest sports markets on the east coast… Sabathia and Lee were team mates on the Cleveland Indians… Martinez was a part of the historic 2004 Red Sox who came back to beat the Yankees after being down 3-0 in the ALCS.

Schedule: (times not announced yet but will be updated)

Wed. 10/28

Thu. 10/29

Sat. 10/31

Sun. 11/1

*Mon. 11/2

*Wed. 11/4

*Thu. 11/5

*if necessary

Teams by Positions: Post season stats

1B) Ryan Howard vs. Mark Teixeira

Howard: .355 (11-31), 8 runs, 4 doubles, triple, 2 HR, 14 RBI, 7 walks, 8 K

He led the league in RBI's and was second in homers. He tied Lou Gherig’s record for consecutive playoff games over multiple seasons at eight and set the single season record. He was the NLCS MVP. Phillies fans call him Mr. Red October. Jimmy Rollins calls him the Big Piece.

Teixeira: .205 (8-39), 5 runs, double, home run, 5 RBI, walk, K

He is one of the leading candidates for the AL MVP award. He is also probably the best fielding first baseman in the league. He has been cold all post season and the Phillies can hopefully take advantage of that.

2B) Chase Utley vs. Robinson Cano

Utley: .303 (10-33), 8 runs, HR, 2 RBI, 8 walks, 7 K's

He is the Phillies best player and best two-bagger in the league. He really sizzled in the NLDS but fizzled in the NLCS. The Phillies will need a big series from him.

Cano: .229 (8-35), 5 runs, double, 2 triples, 5 RBI, 4 walks, 4 K

Cano is very fast on the base paths and can be a threat to stretch hits, take an extra base, or steal.

3B) Pedro Feliz vs. Alex Rodriguez

Feliz: .161 (5-31), 3 runs, double, triple, HR, 2 walks, 7 K's

He still didn’t so a thing in the NLCS and right now is their worst bat in the lineup. He does have the ability to heat up but hasn’t showed signs of that yet.

Rodriguez: .438 (14-32), 10 runs, 2 doubles, 5 HR, 12 RBI, 9 walks, 5 K

A-Rod quieted everyone who said he wasn’t clutch. He is the most dangerous hitter in the Yankees line up. He and Howard are going to be the stories of this series. Both are battling for the “Mr. October” title.

SS) Jimmy Rollins vs. Derek Jeter

Rollins: .241 (10-41), 6 runs, 3 double, 3 RBI, 8 K's

He is the spark to the Phillies offense but has been spark-less minus his clutch hits in the NLDS and NLCS. If he continues to struggle, the Phillies will have to turn to Shane Victorino for a spark.

Jeter: .297 (11-37), 9 runs, 2 doubles, 3 HR, 5 RBI, 9 walks, 5 K

He’s the captain. He is everything about Yankees baseball and baseball itself. My friend wrote a great post on Jeter and I think any baseball fan should read it. I don’t like the Yankees but I love everything about Jeter.

LF) Raul Ibanez vs. Johnny Damon

Ibanez: .226 (7-31), 6 runs, 2 doubles, HR, 9 RBI's, 5 walks, 8 K's

After a good NLDS, Ibanez disappeared in the NLCS. He will either have a good game or a really bad one. His struggles are due to playing with a tear in his abdomen since June. He needs to consistently play better in the World Series.

Damon: .238 (10-42), 1 double, 2 HR, 5 RBI's, 2 walks, 6 K's

Damon is a clutch hitter but hasn’t been to spectacular in the post season. He did have a very good regular season. He is not one of their best fielders or arms.

CF) Shane Victorino vs. Melky Cabrera

Victorino: .361 (13-36), 8 runs, 2 doubles, triple, 3 HR, 3 walks, 3 K

Victorino assumed the catalyst role from the two-hole while Rollins struggled. He led the league in triples and is a very speedy CF who can track balls and throw out runners. He has been the Phillies second best offensive player behind Howard.

Cabrera: .314 (11-35), 4 runs, 2 doubles, 4 RBI, 11 K

Cabrera has been awesome in the bottom of the line up for the Yankees. He can turn over the line up and get Jeter up to bat.

RF) Jayson Werth vs. Nick Swisher

Werth: .281 (9-32), 10 runs, triple, 5 HR's, 10 RBI, 6 walks, 11 K

He is having an amazing year in his first full year, hitting .268 with 36 homers, 98 runs, and 99 RBI's. After tearing up the Rockies, he struggled greatly in the NLCS but heated back up in games 4 and 5. He protects Howard at the plate and needs to be dangerous to allow the Yankees to pitch to him.

Swisher: .125 (4-32), 2 runs, double, RBI, 3 walks, 11 K

He is the playing awful in the post season. He actually makes Feliz look good for the Phillies. I don’t understand how he is still playing for the Yankees with the way he is playing in the post season.

C) Carlos Ruiz vs. Jorge Posada

Ruiz: .346 (9-26), 4 runs, double, HR, 7 RBI, 7 walks, 2 K

Carlos Ruiz is one of the best defensive catchers in the game. He has turned into “Senior Octobre.” Batting in the 8th spot, he can play a role similar to Cabrera for the Yankees.

Posada: .258 (8-31), 4 runs, double, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 5 walks, 7 K

Posada has been OK in the post season for the Yankees. He is still one of their leaders and can be dangerous at the play at any moment in the game.

DH: The Yankees will have the advantage in this department like every AL team does. They have Hideki Matsui to fill this line up spot. The Phillies are unsure who their DH could be but will likely be Raul Ibanez and put Ben Francisco in LF.

Starting Rotation:

Phillies: Cliff Lee will start game one and has been their best pitcher by far in the post season. After him, the rotation isn’t set yet but it’s likely that Martinez will go game two and Hamels in game three. JA Happ and Joe Blanton will start in the bull pen and will either pitch game four or remain in the pen.

Yankees: Sabathia will likely be their game one starter. Behind him, they only have AJ Burnett and Andy Pettite. Using three pitchers throughout the playoffs can wear their rotation down and could be very beneficial for the Phillies offense.

Bull Pen:

Phillies: This unit is still a danger to blow games. Luckily the offense can bail them out. Chan Ho Park came back from injury and pitched really well. Brad Lidge is perfect in saves. Blanton looked good in relief but is a better starter. Ryan Madson has been better, JA Happ has not looked good at all, and Brett Myers may be back. They can’t keep the Yankees close.

Yankees: They have had bull pen struggles as well, Only Mariano Rivera has been lights out all post season. He is supported by Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Phil Coke, and Damaso Marte. If the Phillies can get to this unit early and wear them down, it may be an easy series.

Bench:

Phillies: The Phillies have relied on Greg Dobbs and Matt Stairs in hitting situations, a huge mistake in my opinion. They both were amazing in 2008 and sucked in 2009. Ben Francisco is their fielding option and is also a very good hitter. Miguel Cairo earned a post season spot after having a hot bat in September.

Yankees: They only go to the bench for speed and fielding. Jerry Hairston Jr. and Brett Gardner are those two guys. With a DH, there really won’t be a need for pinch hitting but when the series goes to Philly, they may need to rely on someone for a timely hit late in the game. They also feature the Phillies' best friend, Eric Hinske, who was the Rays player Lidge struck out to end the World Series.

Managers:

Phillies: Charlie Manuel wants another ring. He knows how to keep this team together through any situation and knows how to rally them.

Yankees: This is Joe Girardi’s first trip to the post season with the Yankees. He would love to bring a ring back to the Bronx.

Probable Lineups:

NY: Jeter/Damon/Teixeira/Rodriguez/Posada/Matsui/Cano/Swisher/Cabrera

PHI: Rollins/Victorino/Utley/Howard/Werth/Ibanez/Feliz/Ruiz/Francisco

Prediction: The Phillies seem to be a more complete team right now. Their starting pitching has been tight and the bats have been clutch. The Yankees are relying on intimidation and hunger for their first ring in nine years. Phillies in 6.

The Dream Match Up

This is when the blog gets personal. It's when I put aside being objective and let you look through the eyes of a Phillies fan.

Ever since I was a kid playing "Bases Loaded" for NES, "Roger Clemens Baseball" for Super NES, "All Star Baseball" for Game Boy, "Griffey Slugfest" for N64, and all the way up to "MLB 2K7" for X-Box 360, I would always play the Phillies versus the Yankees. Why you ask? Because to me, that would be the dream World Series for me.

Living in the shadow of New York sports my entire life as a Phillies fan, I always wondered, up until last year, what greatness tasted like. Now I get to watch my Phillies not only defend their championship in the World Series this year but to do it against the Evil Empire. I get to see the Phillies go up against the greatest franchise in not only baseball but in all of sports. It's David versus Golliath. Team USA versus Team Russia. Buster Douglas versus Mike Tyson.

This is cheese steaks versus cheese cakes. The City of Brotherly Love versus the City that Never Sleeps. It's "New York, New York" versus "High Hopes." The Liberty Bell versus the Statue of Liberty. Comcast versus YES. Rocky versus Vito Corleone.

The Phillies have the loveable players like Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, and Jimmy Rollins. The Yankees have their beloved captain in Derek Jeter, evil Alex Rodriguez, and the new kid in town, Mark Texiera. It's Joe Girardi and Charlie, two managers that have been under fire from their fans all year but still made it to the big show. Neither park welcomes opposing fans and neither city really likes eachother. This will be the best World Series since 2001.

I have longed for nothing more than beating the Yankees in the World Series. It's like beating the Patriots in the Super Bowl, the Lakers in the NBA Finals, and the Red Wings in the Stanley Cup Finals. Those are three things Philly has failed to do during my life time.

I say the fourth time's a charm! Avenge the Whiz Kids of 1950! Let's go Phillies! Win this one for Harry!

Filling In the Void

Here are a few things I read during the past couple days in the wake of the Phillies second straight NL championship. We are all sitting here watching the Angels refuse to go away as the series heads back to New York for game six with the Yankees up 3-2.

Rollins, Victorino Fine:

Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino were both hit by pitches during Wednesday's 10-4 win over the Dodgers. Rollins took a pitch off his left foot and hobbled to first. He was visibly frustrated after the pitch and was also noticeably hurt during the remainder of the game. Victorino was hit in the left elbow. Both had X-rays done and both came back negative.

After Lee, Rotation Not Set:

A very interesting scenario is starting to play out for the Phillies as they wait to see how the rest of the Yankees/Angels series plays out. Regardless of the opponent, the Phillies will be on the road for the first two, at home for the next three, and will close the series on the road.

Cliff Lee is the starter for game one but after him, it isn't clear who will pitch games two through four. The Phillies are thinking about Cole Hamels for game two and I actually disagree. Hamels is a better hitter than Pedro Martinez and I would rather see him at the plate for at least two at-bats.

I also feel that putting Hamels versus the Yankees third starter is a better match up even though it could very well be C.C. Sabathia. Andy Pettite will start game six tomorrow for the Yankees and Sabathia likely in game seven. This is all assuming the Yankees do win the series.

My rotation looks like this: Lee, Martinez, Hamels, Blanton

Phillies Don't Care Who Opponent Will Be:

Sure beating the Yankees would be sweeter but if they face the Angels, the task will still be difficult. Regardless of who they play, the Phillies know what needs to be done and that is win.

David Montgomery had this to say:

"We're happy to represent the National League and I'm sure we'll be facing the best of the American League," Phillies president David Montgomery said. "In the case of the Angels, they're the only team other than us who has won their division three [years] in a row. And the Yankees have the best record in baseball. Now it's set up, whichever team we play, we absolutely can feel that we'll be facing the best of the American League."

Ibanez Playing Hurt

It was Chase Utley last year who saw a dramatic decrease in productivity in the second half of the season and now this year it was Raul Ibanez suffering the same fate. And like Utley, Ibanez has been hurt for the second half of the season.

From SI.com:

But by the third week in June, Ibañez was suffering from a sore left groin and, unbeknownst to the public, a small but serious muscle tear near his abdomen. On a trip to Toronto he was confronted with an excruciating decision: He could have surgery to repair the tear and miss a large chunk of time, or he could return after a short stint on the disabled list and play his dream season hurt. "We all asked him if he would have the surgery," Phillies first base coach Davey Lopes says, "and he told everyone, 'I won't do that. I'll do anything but that.'"

One logical explanation as to why Ibanez is risking the rest of his career for this World Series run is his age. He's been in the league for 17 years and has been on mediocre teams his whole career. I compare this situation with the senior starting goalie for the Rowan women's soccer team. She is playing with a concussion, separated shoulder, and sprained AC joint. Rowan is ranked 10th in the nation for Division 3 schools and this is her last chance at a championship and she will go all out because it is more important to her than being hurt permanently.

Ibanez sees this as his only shot probably and wants a ring more than anything. That's the sign of a winner.

Back to the World Series

The Phillies showed no signs of slowing down as they rolled through the Dodgers once again 10-4, and winning the NLCS 4-1. The offensive was led by Jayson Werth with a pair of HR's and four RBI's, breaking out of his terrible NLCS slump going into the World Series, and by Shane Victorino with a double, home run, and three RBI's.

The only thing I saw in this game that will have me worrying going into the World Series is seeing Cole Hamels struggle again. He only lasted 4.1 innings, allowing three runs on five hits and a walk and struck out three. He was taken deep in the first and second inning, settled in for a few innings, and then struggled to get anyone out. 

The bull pen was really impressive, going 4.2 innings and allowing a run on three hits and a walk. Chad Durbin was credited with the win since Hamels didn't pitch the minimum of five innings.

The Dodgers attacked the Phillies early, going up 1-0 after Andre Ethier's solo homer in the first. The Phillies then responded with a two-out rally. After Jimmy Rollins and Victorino were retired, Chase Utley and Ryan Howard drew walks and Werth hit a 3-2 pitch out to right field to give the Phillies the 3-1 lead. The Dodgers answered in the second inning with a lead off homer by Matt Kemp but the Phillies kept pace with a solo homer by Pedro Feliz. 

Vicente Padilla's run of consistency in the playoffs ended. He only lasted three innings, allowing six runs on four hits. The Dodgers' bull pen, which was the talk of the series as being one of the best in the majors, complete collapsed once again to the Phillies high-powered offense. 

The Phillies will look to be playing the Yankees, who lead the seres 3-1. But as the Red Sox have proven in the past, no lead in any series is safe anymore. The Yankees and Angels play tonight. 

Notes: Phillies became the first team to make it to consecutive World Series' since the 1998-2001 Yankees and first NL team since the 1995-1996 Braves... Chase Utley reached base safely in 25 straight post season games, tying the record with Boog Powell... Ryan Howard's eight-game streak with an RBI in the post season ended Wednesday. He currently shares the record with Lou Gherig but his eight-game streak was done in one post season, a new record... The Dodgers and Phillies combined with six home runs last night, tying a record done numerous times... The Phillies have won their respective series' in four and five games, the same path they took last year in winning the World Series.

Happ Honored

JA Happ was named by panel of players as the Sporting News National League Rookie of the Year. Along with American League winner Gordon Beckham of the White Sox, Happ was very well deserving of this award. One thing to consider is that this is not the official ROY honors. Those will get announced after the World Series.


Happ went 12-4 with a 2.93 ERA in 35 games (23 starts) during the season. He struck out 119 batters in 166 innings pitched and had two shutouts. He has made to appearances in the NLDS as a reliever and starter and has made to relief stints thus far in the NLCS.


After overcoming just barely making the Opening Day roster, getting thrown in to start when Chan Ho Park couldn't get the job done, and bein thrown around in numerous trade talks for Roy Halladay, Happ settled in real nice and helped lead the Phillies to their third straight NL East championship and second straight NLCS (and likely World Series) berth.

MLB.com Fails

Spoke too soon, assclowns.

The Phillies Are J-Roll-in'

This team is incredible. They keep you on the edge of your seat for 26 outs while you bite your nails all the way to your elbow. Then with one mighty swing, they win the game and rip the hearts out of their opponent, sending the Phillie Phaithful into a euphoria.

The Phillies overcame a rocky start by Joe Blanton and a good start by Randy Wolf to win game four in dramatic fashion and take a commanding 3-1 series lead. Jimmy Rollins' walk-off two-run double off of Jonathon Broxton tied and won the game. Brad Lidge pitched the 9th and earned the win. It was game four last NLCS when Matt Stairs hit the game winning two-run homer in the top of the 9th off Broxton.

Blanton came out firing, retiring the first ten batters but then hit a snag in the 4th inning. He finished six innings, allowing four runs, three earned on six hits, two walks, and two strike outs. He allowed a solo home run to Matt Kemp in the 5th inning to give the Dodgers the 3-2 lead. They then added another off Blanton in the 6th.

The Phillies quickly got a run back in the bottom of the 6th off of a Shane Victorino triple and a Chase Utley RBI single. The bull pen was rock solid from the 6th inning on, only allowing two hits, two walks, and striking out five.

In the bottom of the 9th, Raul Ibanez led off with a ground out. Matt Stairs then pinch hit and walked on four pitches. Eric Bruntlett came in to pinch run and Carlos Ruiz was hit by a pitch to put two on. Greg Dobbs then pinch hit and hit a weak line drive for out number two. With two men on and two outs, Rollins took Broxton's 99 MPH fastball to right-center for to score Bruntlett and Ruiz to win the game.

Ryan Howard got the game going in the first inning with his two-run homer. That homer tied him up with Lou Gherig for most consecutive games with an RBI in multiple post seasons with eight games.

Of course I saw some bad things but I really don't give a damn. This team never gives up and never will and that is the formula a World Series team has.

Next Game: Wednesday in Philadelphia, 8:07 EST

Series: Phillies lead 3-1

Pitching Probables: LAD: Padilla (1-0, 0.63), PHI: Hamels (1-1, 6.97)

Game Day Discussion: Liberty Bell Sports

The Phillies have the Dodgers where they want them. For LA, it's win or go home. The only thing the Dodgers have going for them is the day off on Tuesday to maybe shake off the heart breaking loss. The Phillies are 2-0 in game five's under Charlie Manuel.

Cole Hamels may not have been the same pitcher he was in the 2008 post season but he is still one of the best pitchers in the league and can close this series out. If the Phillies bats can rock Vicente Padilla early, this game and series will be in the bag. The faster the Phillies win this series, the more rest they will have going into the World Series so they can have a fully rested rotation ready for the Yankees/Angels.

Simp-Lee Amazing

The weather was cold but the bats were on fire. The Phillies battered and beat the Dodgers 11-0 in game three to take a 2-1 series lead in the NLCS. From the start of the game with a 1-2-3 top and a four-run bottom first inning to the 1-2-3 9th pitched by Chad Durbin that ended with a great snag by Carlos Ruiz, the Phillies dominated this game for 27 outs.

Ryan Howard drove in three runs tonight. With his two-run triple in the first, he has driven in a batter in all seven games this post season, a new MLB record, and is now one game shy of tying Lou Gherig's eight-game streak that spanned over multiple post seasons. Pedro Feliz also added a triple and Jayson Werth and Shane Victorino hit home runs to spark a potent Phillies offense that only managed a run on four hits during game two on Friday.

Cliff Lee was fantastic in his third start of the post season. He went eight shut out innings, allowing three hits and striking out 10. He tied Curt Schilling (1993) and Steve Carlton (1980) for the Phillies record with strikeouts in a single post season game. He also went 1-3 at the plate with a single and a run scored.

The offense got rolling early with Howard's two-run triple. Werth followed that up with a two-run home run that got the Phillies on the board early. Victorino capped off the fire works with his three-run homer in the eighth.

Manny Ramirez managed two hits out of Lee and Ronnie Belliard got the third.

Next Game: Monday in Philadelphia, 8:07 EST

Series: Phillies lead 2-1

Probables: LAD: Randy Wolf (0-0, 4.91); PHI: Joe Blanton (0-0, 4.91)

Game Day Discussion: Liberty Bell Sports

The Phillies have the momentum back in their favor and will look to go for the kill. Joe Blanton will be making his first post season start this year after pitching 3.2 innings of relief. Randy Wolf will look to get the Dodgers evened up versus his former team. Expect no love from the Wolf Pack in this one.

The Phillies are 4-0 in game four since Charlie Manuel took over. The last game four the Phillies played versus LA: Victorino hit a two-run homer to tie the game at five and then Matt Stairs hit a two-run homer later in the same inning to put the Phillies up for good, 7-5.

This game means a lot to both teams. It will either put the Phillies closer to going back to the World Series and the Dodgers on the brink of elimination or it will tie the series up for the Dodgers.