MLB: The Philadelphia Phillies Daily

2008-11-26T10:11:00.000-08:00

Utley still needs 4-6 weeks to recover from his hip surgery, but he should be up and around for Spring Training. I'm sure that's news he can be thankful for! You can read the whole story here.

2008-10-30T10:44:00.001-07:00

Let freedom ring! Please vote next Tuesday, November 4th.

2008-10-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

Buy a new shirt to celebrate the Phils' NL pennant! I'm sure your old one is as ratty and worn as mine is---1993 was a long time ago!

Blast From the Past

2008-07-24T09:53:00.000-07:00

YouTube is way too distracting. I was looking for a video clip on the Phillies and came across this old thing:

Pretty funny to see what used to be on TV. If you like it, there are parts 2 and 3 on YouTube as well.

I've been traded WHERE?!

2008-02-22T10:10:00.000-08:00

ROFL! This has to be watched to be believed. Poor guy. :)

Those were the days...

2008-02-14T14:26:00.000-08:00

I remember as a kid being in the car with my Dad as he's listen to ball games on the radio, not wanting to miss them when he was away from home. I remember the TV being turned into baseball, and football all weekend long. Seems it almost didn't feel like home unless there was a crowd and an announcer talking about something. These days, with everything available online, the games don't have to be crammed into a single weekend, and you don't have to listen on the radio to avoid missing those first plays before you got home from work.

That's good, right? Only I kind of like those memories. Hmm.

Updates

2007-09-25T19:48:00.000-07:00

I've been MIA for quite a while, but I'm finally back. Life is keeping me busy, so it's hard to make blogging a priority. I only just now upgraded to the new template on blogger. Hopefully it will make updates easier to do, though. If nothing else, I feel like I accomplished something!

Philadephia Phillies Phrustration

2007-06-04T15:16:00.001-07:00

Okay, I've been quiet for a while, but I have to speak up. It is time for a new team manager!!!

Buck Showalter, anybody? Dusty Baker? Davey Lopes? At least they have experience managing in the National League. I swear if I see one more pitcher going to bat in the ninth, I'm going to throw something at the TV.

2007-01-16T13:59:00.000-08:00

Chase Utley (Phililes 2nd baseman) said he would be reporting to spring training "a little early."

Garcia Coming to Philly

2006-12-11T07:43:00.000-08:00

Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Freddy Garcia was traded to the Chicago White Sox last week for former No. 1 draft pick Gavin Floyd and a player to be named later. Someone should have told White Sox general manager Kenny Williams to name that player later, because he proceeded to give out the name, pitcher Gio Gonzalez. I've never understood the player to be named later and keeping it a secret. Why not just go ahead and divulge the information it has to come out sooner or later.

Time to watch the 76ers

2006-11-20T06:32:00.000-08:00

Not that I follow the Eagles all that closely, but you can't care about Philadelphia and not pick up on what's happening with them. The big new Sunday was not good--star quarterback Donovan McNabb tore a ligament in his right knee, and he's out for the season. I gather there is nobody quite ready to fill his shoes, so this year's NFL hopes are going from so-so to bleak. My condolences to fellow sports fans in the City of Brotherly Love.

Could Soriano Impact the Phillies?

2006-11-17T12:03:00.000-08:00

Alfonso Soriano, a free agent slugger from the Washington Nationals, has at least had a big impact on all the headlines related to the Phillies the last couple of days. You can tell it's a slow news period when long, rambling news articles relate how GM Pat Gillick had a "nice meeting" where he "indicated interest" in working a deal with a player.

Still, the behind the scenes games can make all kinds of difference when the actual baseball gets played. As lead-off hitter for the Nationals last year, Soriano chipped in 46 home runs, 95 RBIs and 41 stolen bases last year. The Phillies want him deeper into the line-up, likely 5th, after Ryan Howard. He'd be a nice addition; the subtraction: money in the $100-million range and a first-round draft pick. Teams that would like to get Soriano and use his talents against Philadelphia include the L.A. Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and Houston Astros, as well as the American League L.A. Angels.

2006 World Series Is History

2006-10-28T13:23:00.000-07:00

The last game was the best, of course, since the lead actually went back and forth. I was hoping to see the Tigers take it to game six, but at least the St. Louis fans got to have their "Red October"! I liked that big heap of players the Cardinals made when they won, too.

So, congratulations, Cardinals! See ya next year!

Mets and Cards Dried Off and Rested Up

2006-10-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to Game Five of the NLCS tonight after the postponement due to rain. As a fellow blogger pointed out, that extra day of rest for both St. Louis Cardinal righthander Jeff Weaver and New York Mets leftie Tom Glavine means a better game for everybody.

I'm not sure if I favor one over the other. But I do want the team going into the World Series to end the American League's win streak.

2006 Player of the Year

2006-10-11T13:00:00.000-07:00

It has been announced that Ryan Howard, first baseman for the Philadelphia Phillies, has been named 2006 Player of the Year. Congratulations Ryan Howard!! Let’s just keep our fingers crossed in hope that next season will bring a better outcome for the team.

Right now second place is feeling like first loser

2006-10-02T20:56:00.000-07:00

I really was holding out hope that a late season run would at least get us in as the wild card. For me, baseball’s done. I’m going to catch the Eagles on MNF.

Phillies Beat Devil Rays to Break Losing Streak

2006-06-19T17:22:00.000-07:00

The month of June has not been kind to the Philadelphia Phillies. We got swept by the New York Mets and lost 3 of 4 to the Washington Nationals. The Phillies move on to the New York Yankees tonight and Boston Red Sox over the weekend. We were in a six game slump on Sunday before Ryan Howard homered , driving in four runs and pulling us 8-5 ahead of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. That game showed that the Phillies have the talent and drive to win games and be a playoff contender. Philadelphia needs to turn this summer around quick before they lose their grip on the season all together.

A really exciting game

2006-05-15T17:32:00.000-07:00

On Thursday against the New York Mets, Aaron Rowand made a daring, game-saving catch that left him on the disabled list for at least two weeks. The bases were loaded and he caught the ball, breaking his nose as he hit the wall. Gavin Floyd, of the Philadelphia Phillies, shut the Mets out for five innings after that and we inevitably won the contest. If the Phillies keep this up they will pass up the Mets for first in the NL East.

New Rotation Means More Wins

2006-04-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

Well, the Philadelphia Phillies have a new batting order thanks to manager Charlie Manuel and it seems to be working out pretty good for us. Chase Utley was moved from his usual fourth spot to second on the rotation and power hitter Ryan Howard was switched to fifth from seventh. Needless to say it has been a good change. Cory Lidle had ten strikeouts in the last game and reliever Tome Gordan got his sixth save of the year proving that our pitching staff is keeping up their game as well.

Are we in kindergarten or what?

2006-03-27T18:10:00.000-08:00

I am shocked to report that Julian Tavarez, Boston Red Sox, and Joey Gathright, Tampa Bay Devil Rays, got into a fight during the eighth inning of their game today. Both players were ejected for fighting but it was hot-head Tavarez who threw the first punch. He is in his first season with the red Sox and though I know he has a bad temper, I don’t think there is any excuse for fighting on the job.

Abreu will tell you…

2006-03-01T18:31:00.000-08:00

Bobby Abreu of the Philadelphia Phillies spent the off-season relaxing in Venezuela. While he was gone, we all heard the rumors that he was displeased at being talked about as a trade possibility. Now that he is back, Abreu addressed the issue denying he was dissatisfied in any way and says he heard the rumors that he would be traded but never put too much stock in them.

Gonzalez Joins Up With Gillick

2006-02-10T15:46:00.000-08:00

The Philadelphia Phillies have signed Alex S. Gonzalez to a one year, $750,000 contract, to act as an infielder and bench player. Our GM Pat Gillick was the one who originally pulled Gonzalez into the league in 1994 to play for the Blue Jays and become the youngest player in the league at 20 years old.

Will a Star Pitcher Make a Difference

2006-01-23T15:04:00.000-08:00

Pat Gillick has been quoted as saying the Philadelphia Phillies are a work in progress. Working to find us an All-Star starting pitcher is his number one priority at this point. I think we have a long way to go before this team becomes a World Series contender, but every little step forward is a big part of that ultimate goal.

Tom Gordon New Closer

2006-01-16T13:05:00.000-08:00

Tom Gordon will be the Philadelphia Phillies new closer. He was signed to a three year deal last week and he will be making $18 million. Gordon has played for quite a few teams in his career, most notably the New York Yankees. Our new GM Pat Gillick was hurried in his search for a new closer after Billy Wagner left to play for the Mets. It is nice to see that he was on top of the situation and spearheaded the successful courtship of a player to fill a vacancy that was opened only days before. The Phillies’ management is really working hard to reshape and revamp this team for the 2006 season.

All Eyes on Gavin Floyd

2006-01-07T17:29:00.000-08:00

Like many players in Major League Baseball Gavin Floyd is participating in winter ball to increase his visibility and show his talent in an attempt to get picked for regular season play in the 2006 season. The Phillies felt that he demonstrated little control in his eight starts. The Phillies are watching him more than some others because they feel he would make a good fifth and they sense he is becoming a strong player. Playing winter ball shows that Floyd is on a good path and that he is conditioning himself for lasting more innings in Major League play.

World Baseball Classic to be Held

2005-12-30T12:43:00.000-08:00

In March of 2006 the first World Baseball Classic will be played. Fans are excited to see teams from all over the world compete for the World title. With so many international players coming into American Major League Baseball today, it will be interesting to see the teams from their home countries compete. Nothing like this tournament has ever been done in baseball. The people organizing the World Baseball Classic feel that this is the perfect time for an event like this to start because it will inspire camaraderie between the US and other nations who love sports as much as we do here in America.

More Moves and Goals for the Phillies

2005-12-22T18:12:00.000-08:00

Now that we have gotten past the player acquisitions and moves of the Winter Meetings the Philadelphia Phillies are renewing and opting out of contracts for some players on the team. Endy Chavez was not offered a contract and after a disappointing career with the Phillies, he will become a free agent. Jason Michaels and Brett Meyers met with a different fate and were offered arbitration. We are really looking to get some depth in our bullpen so we will be watching for free agent players coming available like Josh Fogg from the Pittsburgh Pirates. Good pitchers are popping up everywhere and all we have to do is draw up some contracts.

Padilla Goes to Texas

2005-12-14T14:34:00.000-08:00

The Philadelphia Phillies dealt Vicente Padilla, the fickle starting pitcher, to the Texas Rangers. We will get our choice of a Minor League hitter or a Major pitcher. We are in need of both but won’t find out until the end of the week which the Phillies will choose. Padilla will not be missed due to his inconsistent play and the fact that he was seeking salary arbitration when he hadn’t produced much for us in the 2005 season. Team management felt that the change of scenery might do Padilla some good and he might just step up and win some games for the Rangers.

Baseballs Greatest Quality - Heroes

2005-12-06T18:48:00.000-08:00

When you watch a lot of sports, like I do, you begin to get sick of the way basketball and football players are acting more and more morally questionable. It is like they don’t care at all that they are looked up to by America’s youth. Baseball has its problems but it seems to be the last bastion of sports role models. You don’t have to worry about a baseball player exhibiting an inability to support his own team, like Terrell Owens. You don’t have to worry that your son is wearing the baseball jersey of a convicted felon. Almost all baseball players act like real role models with team spirit and good values.

Thome's Out, Rowand’s In

2005-11-25T16:11:00.000-08:00

Pat Gillick, GM of the Philadelphia Phillies, has established that Jim Thome will be sent to the White Sox in exchange for Aaron Rowand. Thome will be back in his home state playing for a championship team. Ryan Howard will now have the first base position full-time. Aaron Rowand is supposed to be a fine outfielders and will be very welcome as our outfield has suffered in the past year somewhat. This is an emotional move for Rowand, not just because he is leaving a World Series Champion team, but because his family had put down roots in Chicago. Hopefully he can put down roots in Philadelphia now. It is certain that he will be a good addition to the team and a leader whose number one objective is to hit home runs and win games with his new home team.

Phillies Howard is Top Rookie

2005-11-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

The Philadelphia Phillies’ Ryan Howard is getting a lot of attention for his exceptional rookie season. Many pitchers who thought their throw couldn’t be hit were confused as Howard knocked them out of the park. He has the skill of a veteran and even people from other teams think he very much deserves the title of Rookie of the Year. Ryan Howard came up from the minor leagues at a time some would say was too late to prove yourself enough to win this award, but he did it. The Phillies and the fans are very proud of this player and his indispensable contribution to the team success.

Extra Relief

2005-06-14T08:53:00.000-07:00

With the addition of right-handed-reliever Ugueth Urbina, the Phillies have had a little more breathing room in the bullpen. For example, other right-handed-reliever Ryan Madson was moved back to a setup pitcher role rather than a closer. As a setup pitcher Madson has been crisper with his pitch location. His durability is far better than most in the bullpen so to use him as a setup man rather than a closer works out well for the team.

And it's Only Getting Better

2005-06-01T16:25:00.000-07:00

It was an impressive outing for right-handed- pitcher Randy Wolf. In the 6 2/3 innings that he pitched, Wolf did not give up a single run and left all base runners on base. Wolf did however walk three and gave up six hits. The win improved his record to 5-4 and left his ERA at 4.57. Look for Wolf only to get better as the season progresses.

Just Warming Up

2005-05-29T12:11:00.000-07:00

Who’s hot, who’s not? Placido Polanco is very hot right now at the plate. Last night against the Braves, Polanco produced four hits in six at bats. Even though none of the hits resulted in RBI’s, at this rate the Phillies should find a way to get people on base before Polanco bats. In just his last 3 games, Polanco went 8-for-15. GM Charlie Manuel is going to eventually have to stick Polanco in the line-up more often.

Using Techniques

2005-05-24T13:03:00.000-07:00

It doesn’t take a great powerful swing to knock it out of the ball park. It is all about technique, how fast can you get the barrel of the bat out in front of the plate, and the rest will take care of itself.

Well right fielder Bobby Abreu has hit home runs in eight of nine games during the Phillies recent stretch of games. Why is he doing so well? Because he shortened his swing and started stepping up in the batters box to get the bat out in front of the plate before it breaks or slides.

Look over Here

2005-05-18T12:18:00.000-07:00

from Foxsports.com

RHP Ryan Madson's value has increased greatly in the setup role, and some think he has the potential to be a closer. Madson's changeup is devastating, which allows his 93-mph fastball to look even faster. Opposing batters still are fooled by Madson's funky, over-the-top delivery.

A little Facto Info

2005-05-11T17:38:00.000-07:00

64-34. The Phillies record when Jimmy Rollins scores at least one run, dating back to the start of last season. The leadoff hitter has proven that he can be the catalyst the team had predicted. Just a little number crunch for all you real fanatics out there in baseball land. Keep up with what you do and never stop cheering for you Phillie Team.

Watch it

2005-05-06T13:44:00.000-07:00

The Phillies are playing the Cubs right now as I continue to type this blog and Starting pitching Lidle is doing a heads up job against the Cubs line up. Everyone should tune in right now and support your Philadelphia Phillies.

The Lttle Things

2005-04-18T15:52:00.000-07:00

The starting pitchers' ability to throw strikes has translated into more than just low walk totals. Not afraid of contact, the starters are staying around the plate and

getting the quick outs they need to pitch later into games.

Manager Charlie Manuel wants to avoid using LHP Billy Wagner for more than three outs early in the season. There will be some exceptions, but Manuel wants to keep his closer fresh.

SS Jimmy Rollins is one of the best shortstops in the National League, and he has become a complete player. At the plate, he has been more patient this season. A spectacular fielder, he always positions himself in the right spot and consistently makes strong throws.

Location Matters

2005-04-09T12:15:00.000-07:00

Closer Billy Wagner is frustrated with his location; he says he is throwing too many pitches down the middle. Despite throwing as hard as he does, Wagner still relies on movement--especially against righthanded hitters. His velocity, though, has been in the 94-96 mph range, about 5 mph below his normal speed. . . .

Tampa Bay 5, Philadelphia 4

2005-03-30T17:29:00.000-08:00

(AP), from ESPN.com

Hideo Nomo has earned a spot in the Tampa Bay Devil Rays' rotation.

Nomo locked up the fifth and final spot in the rotation despite giving up 11 hits, including three home runs, in 4 1-3 innings in the Devil Rays' 5-4 win over Philadelphia on Tuesday night.

"I'm pleased with his effort this spring," Devil Rays manager Lou Piniella said of the right-hander. "He worked hard and he earned it. He has the experience we need for our rotation."

Nomo, 36, who did not figure in the decision, beat out left-hander Casey Fossum, 27, and joins Dewon Brazelton, Scott Kazmir, Mark Hendrickson and Rob Bell in the rotation.

"I'm happy to be staying here," Nomo, a non-roster invitee, said through an interpreter. "I'm very pleased. I'm looking not only to staying in the rotation, but to helping the team win."

Nomo has given up 23 hits, including seven home runs, and 11 earned runs this spring. Fossum, who will pitch out of the bullpen, has surrendered 14 hits, including one home run, and four earned runs in 11 2-3 innings.

The Devil Rays are Nomo's sixth team since breaking into the major leagues with the Dodgers in 1995.

Chase Utley hit two solo home runs off Nomo, his fifth and sixth of the season, and Bobby Abreu belted his fourth.

Jorge Cantu's solo home run off reliever Tim Worrell with one out in the ninth inning snapped a 4-4 tie and proved to be the game-winning hit. Cantu went 3-for-3.

Phillies starter Brett Myers gave up six hits and four runs, all of them earned, in 5 1-3 innings. He has given up 35 hits and 19 earned runs in 22 1-3 innings this spring.

"I can't wait to get out of here and start the season," said Myers, Philadelphia's No. 4 starter. ^Notes:@ Phillies catcher Mike Lieberthal was scratched from the starting lineup for what was identified as food poisoning. ... Phillies center fielder Kenny Lofton, who hasn't played in a spring game since straining his left hamstring on March 11, had 11 at-bats while alternating between Double-A and Triple-A games at the Carpenter Complex. ... Phillies first baseman Jim Thome sat out his seventh straight spring game as he recovers from a lower back strain. ... Phillies manager Charlie Manuel expects pitcher Vicente Padilla (triceps tendinitis), who will start the year on the disabled list, to be ready to pitch by the third week in April.

Hot Prospect

2005-02-14T10:11:00.000-08:00

from Foxsports.com

All signs point to RHP Gavin Floyd starting the season at Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, but don't tell him. He showed a devastating major league-ready curveball in his September call-up, though team officials think he relied on it too much. His composure is already there. Once he develops better command of his fastball, look out. Floyd is an ace-in-waiting. He'll be the first pitcher called on should an opportunity arise.

Outfielder Analysis

2005-02-01T16:29:00.000-08:00

from Foxsports.com

At 37, CF Kenny Lofton still has the tools to be an effective defender and table-setter, but he's no longer expected to play every day. With Jason Michaels spelling him, Lofton should wind up with about 350-400 at-bats. His arm is weak. Flanking him are RF Bobby Abreu and LF Pat Burrell. Although Abreu had his latest productive season and made his first All-Star team, Burrell's streakiness continued to perplex. The Phillies are still waiting for him to repeat his breakout success of 2002, and the team is growing increasingly frustrated with his sometimes all-or-nothing approach.

Adams back in Action

2005-01-16T11:30:00.000-08:00

Terry Adams was drafted by the Cubs in the fourth and since has been some what of a journey-man. Finding places to pitch in "Philly", Toronto, and Boston. His career record 51-60 with 42 saves with and a 4.04 ERA in 558 outings, which isn't to shabby.

Now the 31 year old right-hander has signed back with the Phillies for a one year contract for $500,000. While in Philadelphia, Adams will take Roberto Hernandez's place as a middle reliever

Polanco returning to Phillies

2004-12-20T08:39:00.000-08:00

By Ken Mandel / MLB.com

Placido Polanco accepted salary arbitration by Sunday's deadline, potentially giving the Phillies an expensive utility player for the 2005 season.

By agreeing to have his salary decided by an independent arbitrator -- pending an agreement with the Phillies, a hearing will take place sometime in February -- Polanco becomes a signed player and property of the Phillies, and is no longer considered a free agent.

Seattle left-hander Ron Villone and Cy Young Award winner Roger Clemens were the only three free agents to accept from the 41 who were offered arbitration by their former clubs.

Doug Glanville didn't accept. He can still negotiate with Philadelphia until Jan. 8 but can't return until May 1 if nothing is agreed on by then.

Polanco's acceptance presents an interesting problem in the city of Brotherly Love. The veteran hit .298 in 2004 with a career-high 17 homers and 55 RBIs. But Chase Utley is groomed and ready to take over second base, and David Bell is signed to play third for two more seasons.

The Phillies must figure all this out in Spring Training.

Financially, Polanco will earn a raise off his $3.95 million salary from 2004 and could earn as much as $5 million through arbitration. Most of the offers he received from teams were believed to be in the range of $9 million to $11 million for three seasons, so the $5 million represents a short-term bump.

This situation is similar to what happened last season with Kevin Millwood. The team offered Millwood arbitration at the end of the 2003 to preserve a first-round draft pick, but Millwood accepted and wound up earning $11 million.

Baseball has another deadline Monday -- it's the final day for teams to offer 2005 contracts to unsigned players on their 40-man rosters. Those not offered contracts become free agents.

Milton, Lidle Officially Free Agents

2004-11-15T10:56:00.000-08:00

By Ken Mandel / MLB.com

Eric Milton and Cory Lidle officially hit the open market Friday, meaning they can entertain offers from any team. That doesn't mean the two hurlers won't be suiting up for the Phillies next season.

Between the Phillies' search for a new manager and the general managers' meetings in Florida, there hasn't been much time to talk dollars with a duo that won 19 games in a combined 44 starts with Philadelphia. Both pitchers logged more than 200 innings and would be an asset to a rotation that had two starters, Randy Wolf and Vicente Padilla, miss significant time because of injury.

Philadelphia's exclusive negotiating window has closed, but discussions have been ongoing. Milton and Lidle are among nine Phillies free agents, and re-signing them is on the team's list ahead of Kevin Millwood and Placido Polanco.

"I want to be in Philadelphia," Lidle said. "We tried to get a deal done before Friday and it didn't work out, but we're still talking. I love the clubhouse, and my teammates want to pitch here. I'm still interested in coming back, and I pretty much know what I'm willing to accept. We're making good ground, but we haven't come to an agreement quite yet."

Lidle didn't discuss specifics of the Phillies' offer, but said he was happy with how things have progressed so far. As for Milton, the Phillies have offered a three-year deal believed to be in the $18 million to $20 million range, and were told by his agent Casey Close that Milton would wait and see.

Close also refuted the thought that his client was disappointed to not receive an offer during the season.

"They wanted to wait," said Close. "There was some initial dialogue at the end of the season, but there was no disappointment [that an offer didn't come]. Every team has a different strategy as it revolves around their contract discussions. It was by no means looked at in a detrimental way."

Philadelphia isn't the only team interested in Milton's services, as the Yankees were believed to have made an offer on Friday. The Orioles, Mariners, Rangers, Dodgers, Giants and Padres have all been mentioned as possible destinations.

Milton is attractive to the Phillies because of his ability to not be fazed by the cozy dimensions of Citizens Bank Park. Sure, he gave up an NL-high 43 home runs, but his ERA of 4.87 was respectable considering his home setting.

"You have a guy who has a bunch of wins and has proven he can pitch and win there," Close said. "He'd like to be on a competitive club like he was this year and in his years with the Twins, where he could return to the postseason. He's going to have his options, and I think it comes down to putting the contract parameters around it. But a guy who's already proved he can pitch well [at CBP] is a commodity that you can't find in a lot of places.

"There's a certain amount of pride involved, and certain guys like low ERA, and comfy ballparks. That park isn't going to be first on their list. That stuff isn't important to Eric. He just wants to put somewhere from 16 and 20 Ws on the table every year for his club, and that's ultimately what separates him from other people."

It's also what Lidle feels separates him. He'll be 33 when the season starts, and said he rediscovered his sinker with the help of since-departed pitching coach Joe Kerrigan. Lidle had tinkered with a cutter and a slider to lefties over the past season and a half, but he has since gone back to what he calls his strength.

"You can't teach an old dog new tricks, but we're not dogs," he said. "If you're open to learning, you can learn no matter how old you are. I was trying to do too many things with too many pitches. I simplified and got back to what I was doing in Oakland. I think for a year and four months, I strayed from how I pitch. That's why my ERA was inflated. I think what everyone saw me do the last six weeks in Philadelphia is what I'm going to do the next two or three years."

And a three-year deal is what Lidle is seeking, though he said that won't make or break a deal. He and Milton were curious to see who the manager was going to be, and both are fine with Charlie Manuel. The identity of the pitching coach could be another factor. The Phillies already interviewed Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre coach Rich Dubee on Wednesday, and will speak to former pitcher and two-time Major League pitching coach Charlie Hough on Monday.

Lidle and Hough are golfing buddies. Still, Lidle is looking for fairness to win out.

"I think [pitching for the Phillies] is the ideal situation for me, but as much as I like it, I do have my bottom number, and I'm not going to budge off of it," Lidle said. "The bottom line is that I have to feel comfortable signing a deal. I know what I'm capable of doing and I think they do, too. I just want to get a fair deal done. I don't want to break the bank, but I don't want to give up too much, either."

Manuel Takes his Turn With Phillies

2004-10-14T15:41:00.000-07:00

By Ken Mandel / MLB.com

PHILADELPHIA -- Charlie Manuel looks and feels awkward in business casual attire, let alone a suit and tie. It's just him.

Manuel would much rather wear the kind of cotton/polyester blend that weaves through a baseball uniform. He made his first step toward getting another fitting for such an outfit on Wednesday, when he became the second candidate to interview for Larry Bowa's old job as Phillies manager.

Manuel, the only in-house candidate, reportedly is the favorite because of his two-year association as a special advisor to Wade, and the father/son relationship he has with star first baseman Jim Thome. Wade said he will judge each candidate on his own merits.

Speaking of father/son relationships, Buddy Bell is tentatively scheduled to interview on Oct. 25. Bell is the father of third baseman David Bell, who told Wade that he would have no trouble playing for his father.

Thursday's candidate is former Red Sox skipper Grady Little, who served as Manuel's bench coach in Cleveland. Jim Fregosi is scheduled for Oct. 26.

Wednesday was about Manuel's desire to return to the dugout, something he said he's thought about while working with the organization's minor leaguers over the past two seasons. He came on board with the Phillies in January 2003, after being let go by Cleveland midway through 2002. He decided that he wanted the Phillies job after Bowa was dismissed.

This past Spring Training, the Sporting News took a swipe at Bowa by naming Manuel the NL Manager of the Year. It was a situation that made Manuel feel uncomfortable.
He's ready now. Though he hasn't been contacted for any of the other managerial openings, he said he's not pursuing them. He wants this job. Will he be angry if he doesn't get it..?

Lidle stifles Expos to clinch series

2004-09-26T16:43:00.000-07:00

By Pierre Moussette / Special to MLB.com

MONTREAL -- A solid outing from Cory Lidle and a two-run double by Bobby Abreu were enough to lead the Phillies to a 2-1 win in the rubber game of the series with the

Expos at Olympic Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Lidle was masterful, facing only three batters in six of his first seven innings. He allowed only one run on four singles and two walks in 7 1/3 innings.

The Philly starter credited his changeup and the stellar defense behind him as the two main reasons for his success on the day.

Go Phillies!!!

Myers Comes Through

2004-09-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

Last night the Phillies avoided a swept at home in a 3 game series, since August 4-6, 1995. It was on the arm of Brett Myers(9-9) that helped guide the Phillies to a 9-1 victory. Myers threw 6 complete innings and gave up 1 earned run on 4 hits, 5 walks, and 4 strike outs.

"It takes a lot of pitches to get out of those situations. I went as long as I could today. I probably could have gone more if I hadn't gotten myself into those situations. The first inning took a lot out of me. I gave it everything I had in that inning." - Brett Myers

Myers did have to escape a first-inning debacle that begun with a leadoff triple by Cincinnati's Ryan Freel(LF). The first inning also included a collision that took out Phillies' Jim Thome(1B) and Todd Pratt(C).

Myers also got in done with his bat. In the fourth inning, with 0-2 count, Myers hit a single to right field that brought in 3rd basemen David Bell to put the Phillies up 2-1. Myers had help from the bullpin, as Rheal Cormier, Tim Worrell, and Billy Wanger combined for 3 hitless innings after Myers left, to get the win.

Go Phillies!

Relief

2004-09-07T16:04:00.000-07:00

Billy Wagner was activate from disabled list this past Saturday. We all know how important of an acquisition he was so it is good to have him back. On top of that tonight's game was postponed against the Braves and our Phillies dropped the series opener against the Braves yesterday 3-1.

Go Philly!!!!!!!!!

Phillies Can't Buite Bring it Back

2004-09-01T06:35:00.000-07:00

The Phillies made a noble but insufficient comeback run last night against the Braves, who seemed entirely too comfortable in Citizens' Bank. Anyone know why park dimensions aren't standardized? I'd honestly like to know. Not that it would make the game any better or worse...it's probably more interesting like it is. Anyway, maybe it's just one more unique feature of our pastime.

Phillies face Astros

2004-08-23T15:13:00.000-07:00

From MLB.com:

Although the Phillies have rallied within six games of the National League Wild Card lead, skeptics are discounting their prospects because they are in a crowd of five teams chasing the Giants.
Well, one way to improve those odds is to eliminate some of the company. And the Phils get a chance to work on that in a three-game series that opens in Houston on Monday night.

With their weekend sweep in Milwaukee, the Phillies did leapfrog the Astros in the Wild Card standings, but only by a half game. They can create some daylight by avenging last week's sweep by Houston at Citizens Bank Park.

The opener reunites Cory Lidle and Roger Clemens in a rematch of their meeting last Wednesday in Philadelphia.

In that game, an eventual 9-8 Astros victory, Clemens provided his own version of a double-knockout with the two-run single that chased Lidle from the mound in the fourth. But Clemens hurt his own calf running out the hit, and did not return to the mound.

Wolf up again against Rockies

2004-08-11T14:35:00.000-07:00

From MLB.com:

Fresh off a 5-1 finish to their road trip on Sunday, the Phillies enter Wednesday's game against the Rockies looking for their first win on their current homestand.
After dropping the first two games against Colorado, Philadelphia enters the game six games behind the Braves in the National League East and 3 1/2 games behind the Cubs in the Wild Card race. All three teams lost on Tuesday.

Wednesday's starter Randy Wolf is finding a comfort zone after taking some time following his bout with elbow tendinitis. He's gone at least six innings in his previous three outings and allowed three or fewer runs in two of them.

He faced the Rockies in Colorado on May 17, and limited them to two runs on seven hits in 6 1/3 innings.

Following Wolf, starter Cory Lidle will make his Phillies debut on Thursday. He was acquired on Monday.

Wolf to prey on Los Angeles

2004-08-06T12:57:00.000-07:00

Randy Wolf will open against the Dodgers tonight in L.A. in an effort to continue our streak after sweeping the Padres. We're 3-0 against the Dodgers this season, but they're looking very strong right now, 4 games into their own streak and leading the NL West by 6.5 games. Wolf will face Kazuhisa Ishii, who's already won 11 games this season. GOOD LUCK, WOLF!!

GO PHILLIES!!!

Phillies looking for win in SD

2004-08-03T13:48:00.000-07:00

Phrom MLB.com:

Having dropped five of the first six games of a 13-game road trip, the Phillies head to San Diego looking to salvage what remains.
They open on Tuesday night with the erratic Brett Myers starting against the steady Brian Lawrence, a pitcher manager Larry Bowa compared to Greg Maddux. He said Lawrence has similar movement on his pitches, and never lights up the radar gun.

But he wins, as his 11 so far this season will attest. Myers, on the other hand, is going through growing pains in his second full season. He had pitched a little better as of late, but his 7.99 ERA in July still represents his worst month of the season.

They enter Tuesday's game having lost 15 of their past 24 games, and have fallen 5 1/2 games behind the Braves in the National League East.

Phillies still one win behind

2004-07-28T12:46:00.000-07:00

The Braves still lead the NL East by a game and a half over Philadelphia, with the Phillies looking to make some ground tonight. We'll start Brett Myers at the mound in Florida.

From MLB.com:

The Phillies at some point will feel what it's like to walk off the field at Pro Player Stadium having won a game. They hope it happens tonight.
Philadelphia dropped its 12th straight game in Florida on Tuesday and hasn't won in Miami since April 2, 2003, the second game of that season.
Brett Myers rebounded from series of subpar starts to toss seven solid innings in his last outing, allowing just three runs. He's still enduring his worst month of the season, at 0-3 with an 8.68 ERA.
Tuesday's loss means that the Phillies are 1 1/2 games behind the Braves -- who also lost on Tuesday -- in the National League East. The Marlins have climbed to within two games of second place.

This could be a pivotal series for Philadelphia, so be sure to catch it all!

Phillies Lose top spot

2004-07-20T13:52:00.000-07:00

For the first time in almost a month, the Phillies are out of first in the NL East after a 2-4 loss to the Braves yesterday. We'll be looking to tie things up tonight for the division and split a 2 game series with Atlanta tonight.

We're bringing our best to the mound tonight in Eric Milton to face Jaret Wright, and with so much drama surrounding the game, it should be a great one to watch! Hope you all can catch it!

GO PHILLIES!!!

NL takes hits in All-Star game

2004-07-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

From MLB.com:

The crowd had barely calmed itself from the buzz created by the appearance of ceremonial first-pitch honoree Muhammad Ali when Clemens put the National League in a quick six-run hole, which led to a 9-4 American League win.

An Ivan Rodriguez RBI triple and two-run homer by Manny Ramirez gave the AL an immediate 3-0 lead. With two outs, Jason Giambi reached on a Jeff Kent error, and after Derek Jeter singled to left, game MVP Alfonso Soriano cleared the bases with a first-pitch homer to left field that gave the AL a six-run advantage.

Bobby Abreu and Jim Thome went hitless but displayed excellent sportsmanship afterwards:

"It was just great to be here," Abreu said. "This has been fantastic, really fantastic."

Thome agreed.

"What a great night for the fans," he said. "When you're part of something like this with all these great players it really is special. The fans got to see a lot of great players and several home runs. I wish we could have hit a few more for our side."

We're really lucky we get to root for players like these - let's not anyone forget that.
Everyone be sure to tune in tonight to watch the Phillies at Shea stadium. Should be a good one!

GO PHILLIES!!!

1-2 Series

2004-07-13T15:19:00.000-07:00

The Phillies lost the series this weekend 1-2 against the Braves, but held onto the lead in the NL East division. After the All-Star break we'll head to Shea Stadium to face the Mets in a weekend 4-round bout. Good luck this weekend, Philadelphia!!!

Jim Thome and Bobby Abreu both deserve some special recognition for representing us in the All-Star game in Houston tonight - thanks for your dedication guys!!! That's all for now, gotta finish up work for this afternoon. Be sure to watch the game tonight - our boys deserve our support!!!

NL East Showdown with Atlanta

2004-07-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

The Phillies are coming off a losing (1-2) series against the Mets. Milton will be pitching the first game against the Braves, trying for a 12th win this season. The Mets and the Braves both have the same record in numbers (.512), just slightly below us. The Braves will be vying for top spot in the NL East in this series, and nothing will be handed to us.

Let's hope the Phillies have a good run this weekend...the stakes are high for this point in the season. I snagged tix for the game on Saturday, so I'll be sitting pretty at the game, watching my boys take on Atlanta!

GO PHILLIES!!! ;-)

Phan phor the Phillies

2004-07-09T11:44:00.000-07:00

HI! I'm a baseball loving chick from Philly and I'm making this blog to show my support for my phavorite team, the Phillies of course. I'll be adding news and my own comments as the season progresses, and I welcome any comments, criticisms, rants, etc. from any other Phillies phans out there on the web. I may not know too much about the art/science of baseball, but I will definitely pretend I do until someone comes along to correct me. This is all a learning experience, so please teach me and we'll all learn from each other ;-).

GO PHILLIES!!!