Charlie Manuel Watch, Numero Tres

[Ivytalk]

It's never too soon to start this thread!:p

What's the over-under on the Phils' April record?xcoolx

[Marcus Garvey]

It's never too soon to start this thread!:p

What's the over-under on the Phils' April record?xcoolx

11 wins.

Take the under!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[schmofstra]

If the Phils have at least four healthy starting pitchers coming out of spring training, I'll take the over. And Cholly keeps his job.

But, alas ...

[BlueHen86]

I'll go with a .500 record. Anything over is fine with me.

Unfortunately, the Phillies have Manuel under contract. It's not like the Phillies to fire someone before their contract expires. Even if the Phillies spend the entire season in last place, I doubt Manuel will be fired before the end of the season.

[Peems]

Gotta love the you Philly fans, already predicting the demise! xlolx

[BlueHen86]

Gotta love the you Philly fans, already predicting the demise! xlolx
We haven't won a major championship since 1983. We aren't exactly going out on a limb with our predictions.xlolx

[schmofstra]

If the Phils, Iggles, Flyers or Sixers actually won a championship, I think I would actually be too shocked to enjoy it properly.

I was 15 years old when the Sixers won in '83 and with all the successful teams in Philly back then you just thought this stuff would be routine, yet (sigh) here we are 25 years later ...

[Marcus Garvey]

Gotta love the you Philly fans, already predicting the demise! xlolx

You misunderstand. We're not predicting their demise. Rather, we're predicitng a *****ty start to this season. In their 3 previous seasons Charlie Manuel, they've gone 11-14 ('07), 10-14 ('06) and 10-14 ('05).
Sense a theme yet? Charlie Manuel as a manager is the baseball equivalent of a drunken sea captain! xnutsx

[BlueHen86]

If the Phils, Iggles, Flyers or Sixers actually won a championship, I think I would actually be too shocked to enjoy it properly.

I was 15 years old when the Sixers won in '83 and with all the successful teams in Philly back then you just thought this stuff would be routine, yet (sigh) here we are 25 years later ...

Very true. Philly had a nice run in the late 70's and early 80's. (In 1980 all four major teams made the finals) Hard to believe it's been 25 years since the last title.

[whitey]

If I was a Phillies fan and they maintained a .500 record in April I'd be happy about that. They have what looks to be a tough month with 15 games against the Mets, Cubs, Rockies, Brewers and Padres + a 4 game series in Cincinnati against a Reds team that shouldn't be terrible.

Unless the Phillies finish in the basement of the NL East (extremely unlikely) Manuel will keep his job.

[Marcus Garvey]

Unless the Phillies finish in the basement of the NL East (extremely unlikely) Manuel will keep his job.

xbangx xbangx xbangx

Thanks for the reminder. I was hoping, albeit with little chance of actually happening, that Manuel's contract would not be renewed despite winning the NL East.

I'd love to see a guy like Art Howe or Jimmy Leyland manage this club. That would prove once and for all how bad Manuel is at managing. Oh who am I kidding, I'd take Billy Martin's corpse over Charlie.

[whitey]

Art Howe would not be an improvement over Manuel, IMO. Leyland on the other hand could make a difference.

[ngineer]

At the moment with everyone healthy, I say the Phils shock us and end April four games over .500.

[schmofstra]

At the moment with everyone healthy, I say the Phils shock us and end April four games over .500.

The Phightin's always seem to have somebody important go down to injury in Clearwaterxrulesx , but, yes, from Ngineer's lips to God's ears!xthumbsupx

[Marcus Garvey]

At the moment with everyone healthy, I say the Phils shock us and end April four games over .500.

It's just safer to be pessimistic. That way if they finish at .500, I'll be thrilled. If they only win 9 or 10, well, I saw it comming. No way for me to lose here.

"Caustiously Pessimistic" is how most Philly sports fans need to be.

[Ivytalk]

The first spring training game is less than a week away! Then we'll see Uncle Cholly do that hoodoo that he do so well!:D :p

[BlueHen86]

The first spring training game is less than a week away! Then we'll see Uncle Cholly do that hoodoo that he do so well!:D :p
You mean like when he changes pitchers BEFORE the pinch hitter is announced.

xdohx

[SunCoastBlueHen]

You guys will see...

Skipper Chuck's gonna strategize the Phillies to first place position in the NL East on May 1.

I drove by the Phillies Clearwater facility yesterday and, even from a distance, I could see great concentration on Charlie's face. Spring games won't start for another week, but I could tell that he is already plotting and planning about all the ways he can will this team to early season victories. I think this is the year he makes it happen. :p

[Marcus Garvey]

You guys will see...

Skipper Chuck's gonna strategize the Phillies to first place position in the NL East on May 1.

I drove by the Phillies Clearwater facility yesterday and, even from a distance, I could see great concentration on Charlie's face. Spring games won't start for another week, but I could tell that he is already plotting and planning about all the ways he can will this team to early season victories. I think this is the year he makes it happen. :p

I can see the press conference now. Charlie's going to tell the reporters, "I call my plan 'Strategery!'"
xthumbsupx

[MR. CHICKEN]

WHIFF UH ELATED RYAN HOWARD....SWINGIN' DUH WAR CLUB....AN'....PAT DUH BAT'S.....DESIRE TA STAY IN PHILLY...J-RO...HOLDIN' DOWN DUH D...STEALIN' BAGS....SMACKIN' DINGERS.....&...GOIN' FO' DUH MVP REPEAT....CHASE TURNIN' DUH DP...AN' OWNIN' DUH ALL-STAR SECOND SACK......HAMELS/MEYERS...ET.AL.........ON DUH HILL........&...BELTRAN'S....DOUBLE DARE.....TA OURAH ENTIRE SQWAD......EVEN CHOLLY..........COULDN'T......SCREW UP DUH PHIGHTIN'S...CHEMISTRY.......AH SAY.....ORDER UP YER POST-SEASON.....GAME PLAN EARLY.....xnodxxhurrayxxnodx......BRAWK!

[schmofstra]

WHIFF UH ELATED RYAN HOWARD....SWINGIN' DUH WAR CLUB....AN'....PAT DUH BAT'S.....DESIRE TA STAY IN PHILLY...J-RO...HOLDIN' DOWN DUH D...STEALIN' BAGS....SMACKIN' DINGERS.....&...GOIN' FO' DUH MVP REPEAT....CHASE TURNIN' DUH DP...AN' OWNIN' DUH ALL-STAR SECOND SACK......HAMELS/MEYERS...ET.AL.........ON DUH HILL........&...BELTRAN'S....DOUBLE DARE.....TA OURAH ENTIRE SQWAD......EVEN CHOLLY..........COULDN'T......SCREW UP DUH PHIGHTIN'S...CHEMISTRY.......AH SAY.....ORDER UP YER POST-SEASON.....GAME PLAN EARLY.....xnodxxhurrayxxnodx......BRAWK!

Let's hope, ah say, let's hope you ain't just whistlin' Dixie there, Mr. Foghorn!xnodx

[Ivytalk]

You guys will see...

Skipper Chuck's gonna strategize the Phillies to first place position in the NL East on May 1.

I drove by the Phillies Clearwater facility yesterday and, even from a distance, I could see great concentration on Charlie's face. Spring games won't start for another week, but I could tell that he is already plotting and planning about all the ways he can will this team to early season victories. I think this is the year he makes it happen. :p

Are you on crack?:p

[ngineer]

The first spring training game is less than a week away! Then we'll see Uncle Cholly do that hoodoo that he do so well!:D :p

..ah you plagerizer...take off from one of my favorite musicals, "Can-Can":

"You do that voodoo, that you do, so well...";) :D

[ngineer]

Got my season tickets this week. The guy, who shares them with me, and I carved them up last night..our annual ritual that when first done was tedious, has become a rite that we enjoy by circling the table breaking apart the tickets and matching up the games and just talkin' baseball.xnodx xnodx

[Ivytalk]

..ah you plagerizer...take off from one of my favorite musicals, "Can-Can":

"You do that voodoo, that you do, so well...";) :D

And also a shameless ripoff of Hedley Lamarr's line in Blazing Saddles!:p xnodx

[Go...gate]

Gotta give Charlie a break. xnodx

[schmofstra]

OK here we go! Brad Lidge steps onto the field at Clearwater for the first time, throws ONE PITCH of batting practice, and stumbles off the field with a knee injury. Some we've already lost our closer for who knows how long ...

[ngineer]

OK here we go! Brad Lidge steps onto the field at Clearwater for the first time, throws ONE PITCH of batting practice, and stumbles off the field with a knee injury. Some we've already lost our closer for who knows how long ...

I hope this is your idea of a twisted joke...but considering our history it sound too real..gotta check this out...xeekx :( xsmhx

[schmofstra]

I hope this is your idea of a twisted joke...but considering our history it sound too real..gotta check this out...xeekx :( xsmhx

Absolutely TRUE!!! Can you say Freddie Garcia? Can you say Jon Lieber?xoopsx

[ngineer]

Unreal...the only saving grace may be that the 'pull' he experienced was some scar tissue from his October surgery..I guess we'll find out in a day or two what the tests reveal...xsmhx

[schmofstra]

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gZAATCH5DKI5EHQXjX71RdQLdk9AD8V0TJ680

Lidge tore cartilage and will go under the knife (actually, the scope). Gonna be out 4 to 6 weeks. It's back to the future and Cholly is dusting off Gordon to be the closer if Lidge can't answer the bell on Opening Day. If this is the worst thing that goes wrong in Clearwater this spring, maybe we'll be alright, but ...

[Marcus Garvey]

http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5gZAATCH5DKI5EHQXjX71RdQLdk9AD8V0TJ680

Lidge tore cartilage and will go under the knife (actually, the scope). Gonna be out 4 to 6 weeks. It's back to the future and Cholly is dusting off Gordon to be the closer if Lidge can't answer the bell on Opening Day. If this is the worst thing that goes wrong in Clearwater this spring, maybe we'll be alright, but ...

I saw the blurb in the Sports Section yesterday morning about Lidge hurting himself. Since it was the Phillies, I took the natural step of assuming, at that time, that it was a very serious injury that will end his season. The customers at the coffee shop didn't appreciate it when I groaned "Awww... are you f--king kidding me?" upon reading the article.
xsmhx

[Ivytalk]

Phils 8, Reds 1 in Grapefruit League opener!xhurrayx xhurrayx

Hey, it's a start!xcoolx

[Peems]

Phils 8, Reds 1 in Grapefruit League opener!xhurrayx xhurrayx

Hey, it's a start!xcoolx

The Pursuit of Perfection lives on!!!:D

[ngineer]

Yes, Jamie Moyer allowed one hit in three innings and struck out three..I'd shut him down and wait til April:D ..need to rest up for the "dog days" of summer...

[schmofstra]

Yes, Jamie Moyer allowed one hit in three innings and struck out three..I'd shut him down and wait til April:D ..need to rest up for the "dog days" of summer...

Truer words have never been said.

[Ivytalk]

Phils come crashing down to earth with an 11-6 loss to Pissburgh. At least Howard homered!xcoolx

[Marcus Garvey]

Phils come crashing down to earth with an 11-6 loss to Pissburgh. At least Howard homered!xcoolx

HOLY *****!!!! The Pirates are undefeated!

[ngineer]

Phils come crashing down to earth with an 11-6 loss to Pissburgh. At least Howard homered!xcoolx

Actually, Kendrick did a decent job in his three innings..some unknown reliever got blown up with a 5 run inning and will probably remain unknown...xrolleyesx

[BlueHen86]

PHILADELPHIA IP ER
K Kendrick 3, 1
J Savery (L,0-1) 1, 5
F Rosario 2, 1
J Outman 1 2-3, 4
L Holdzkom 1 1-3, 0

Above are the pitching results from yesterdays Phillies game.

The pitcher who blew (or blowed as Charlie would say) the lead was named Savery, apparently he wasn't. The other pitcher that blowed up was named Outman.xrolleyesx

[SunCoastBlueHen]

PHILADELPHIA IP ER
K Kendrick 3, 1
J Savery (L,0-1) 1, 5
F Rosario 2, 1
J Outman 1 2-3, 4
L Holdzkom 1 1-3, 0

The other pitcher that blowed up was named Outman.xrolleyesx

Maybe some day he will actually live up to his name. :)

[BlueHen86]

Maybe some day he will actually live up to his name. :)
Or else he'll be "outta here".

I love the name, it sounds like a Simpsons character or a superhero.
Metropolis has Superman,
Gotham City has Batman,
Philadelphia has Outman!

Unfortunately based on what I saw yesterday, Batman beats Outman.xsmhx

[schmofstra]

I think I saw about a thousand Outmans in the Gay-borhood around Chestnut and Walnuts streets!

[Ivytalk]

Harry Kalas: "And Outman is OUTTA HERE!":p

[Marcus Garvey]

Or else he'll be "outta here".

I love the name, it sounds like a Simpsons character or a superhero.
Metropolis has Superman,
Gotham City has Batman,
Philadelphia has Outman!

Unfortunately based on what I saw yesterday, Batman beats Outman.xsmhx

Seriously, why would you want a ballplayer named "Outman?" Would you hire a call-girl named "Smellycrotch?"

[BlueHen86]

Seriously, why would you want a ballplayer named "Outman?" Would you hire a call-girl named "Smellycrotch?"
I think Outman is a good name for a pitcher, especially a closer. But only if he lives up to his name.

[Marcus Garvey]

I think Outman is a good name for a pitcher, especially a closer. But only if he lives up to his name.

Good point. On that note, never sign a pitcher named "Balls Magee!"

[schmofstra]

... or Chase Gopherball

[SunCoastBlueHen]

The Phillies rebounded to beat the Pirates today, 5-4. They got two shut-out innings a piece from the dazzling trio of Happ, Bisenius and Knotts. xconfusedx :p

On the other hand, Durbin looks to have had a rough outing and some guy named Youman was not da man on the mound.

[schmofstra]

Happ, Bisenius and Knotts.

Sounds like a law firm in Wilkes-Barre -- a German guy, a Lithuanian guy and a Welshman.

Or it sounds like three guys who belong in that new 3 Stooges Museum in Philly.

I'm happy to have any pitcher who can GET GUYS OUT.

That other guy can't get anybody "Out, man".

[BlueHen86]

Happ, Bisenius and Knotts.

Sounds like a law firm in Wilkes-Barre -- a German guy, a Lithuanian guy and a Welshman.

Or it sounds like three guys who belong in that new 3 Stooges Museum in Philly.
I'm happy to have any pitcher who can GET GUYS OUT.

That other guy can't get anybody "Out, man".

Don't be surprized if the Phillies resort to the Dewey, Cheatem and Howe "bullpen by committee" until Lidge returns. :p

I'm still hoping Outman turns out to be 'super' pitcher, unfortunately opposing batters are like kryponite to him. :D

[Ivytalk]

Kendrick got pounded by the Bravos yesterday, and "fifth starter" candidates Eaton and "the other" Durbin were shelled in their first start. Ah, spring....xsmhx

[MR. CHICKEN]

YEAH....BUT IT'S..ONLY SPRING.........DON'T WORRY...BE HAPPY.......AWQ!

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Kendrick got pounded by the Bravos yesterday, and "fifth starter" candidates Eaton and "the other" Durbin were shelled in their first start. Ah, spring....xsmhx

Well, Durbin only gave up four hits in four innings of work today...

Unfortunately, three of those hits left the yard. :p

On a more positive note, Myers threw four shut-out innings in the other split squad game.

[LacesOut]

A wee bit off topic, but I really really like the Phills new 'second' home uniform. About damn time they upgraded from the awful 1993 red pinstripes they currently still wear, those uni's are just hideous. I only wish they made these alternate uni's their full time new uni's. Probably not a big deal to most people, but uni's are always important to me.

http://blog.pennlive.com/lvsports/2007/11/phillies.jpg

[Peems]

A wee bit off topic, but I really really like the Phills new 'second' home uniform. About damn time they upgraded from the awful 1993 red pinstripes they currently still wear, those uni's are just hideous. I only wish they made these alternate uni's their full time new uni's. Probably not a big deal to most people, but uni's are always important to me.

http://blog.pennlive.com/lvsports/2007/11/phillies.jpg

you can't get rid of those classic phillies's hats

[Marcus Garvey]

A wee bit off topic, but I really really like the Phills new 'second' home uniform. About damn time they upgraded from the awful 1993 red pinstripes they currently still wear, those uni's are just hideous. I only wish they made these alternate uni's their full time new uni's. Probably not a big deal to most people, but uni's are always important to me.

[

What's wrong with the current uniform? It's a *****load better than that maroon monstrosity with the 70's era stylized 'P' and the gawd-awful striping down the shoulders. Really, the most overlooked uniform gaffe of the double-knit era has been the vertical shoulder-stripe. No uniform looks good with them, be it the Expos, Indians, Mets or Phillies. Of course, the era was marred by some train-wrecks that made shoulder stripes seem downright tasteful:

http://www.baseballpilgrimages.com/throwback/whitesox85.jpg
http://www.baseballpilgrimages.com/throwback/astros75.jpg
http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-1472558reg.jpg http://spln.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB1-1312915reg.jpg

Did I miss any particularly ugly jersey? There were a lot, but these 4 are some of the all-time worst. But how about that Astros jersey? If it were a tank-top, it would still be ugly by NBA standards.

[Ivytalk]

Maybe we should start an Adam Eaton Watch thread. Another lousy start yesterday. Sheesh!xsmhx

[BlueHen86]

Maybe we should start an Adam Eaton Watch thread. Another lousy start yesterday. Sheesh!xsmhx

Nobody should have to watch Adam Eaton.xlolx

Except maybe that bird killing golfer.;)

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Maybe we should start an Adam Eaton Watch thread. Another lousy start yesterday. Sheesh!xsmhx

Yeah, now that guy is really worth $7.2 mil a year. xrolleyesx

[ngineer]

...'Eaton' us alive....xsmhx xsmhx

[ngineer]

A wee bit off topic, but I really really like the Phills new 'second' home uniform. About damn time they upgraded from the awful 1993 red pinstripes they currently still wear, those uni's are just hideous. I only wish they made these alternate uni's their full time new uni's. Probably not a big deal to most people, but uni's are always important to me.

http://blog.pennlive.com/lvsports/2007/11/phillies.jpg

I've always like the Phillies red pinstripes...perhaps because I grew up with them in the late 1950's onward when they were pinstripes. I never liked the maroon unis of the 1970-80's era and was glad they returned to 'real' red. I don't dislike the 'second' home unis, though--I think they reflect what they wore back in the 1940's.

[Ivytalk]

Kendrick got pounded again today. Another forgettable spring training is in progress.xsmhx

Kyle Lohse, are you still in da house?xcoolx

[ngineer]

Kendrick got pounded again today. Another forgettable spring training is in progress.xsmhx

Kyle Lohse, are you still in da house?xcoolx

Was thinking that this morning while reading an article in our paper about the revolving door for position #5.xrotatehx

[Philly Phoenix Phan]

Good God, will pitching never be our demise? Its not even about Adam Eaton Sh-- but we need a 23 year old kid to repeat that miracle last year and a 45 year old man to last 6 full months. I know Moyer was the only starter not to get hurt last year and I love the way he pitches a game, but his era after May last year was closing in on 5.5. I guess if the chiropractor keeps Cole's back straight and Myers keeps his head on straight, we've always got a shot behind the best lineup in the NL.

On a happier note, anyone in the Philly area catch the Phillies 2007 yearbook broadcast on Comcast Sportsnet? I nearly wept, that fourth game of the August Mets sweep was the best game Ive seen since Game 6 of the 93 NLCS. Even with all the question marks around this team, when I watched that, I nearly drove down to the Bank to start tailgating.

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Besides the pitching looking rough, Rollins, Utley and Burrell are all struggling with the stick. All signs are pointing toward another atrocious April.

[bluehenbillk]

Kyle Lohse, are you still in da house?xcoolx

Unbelievable they haven't got him in camp, Kris/Anna benson must look really good.

[Marcus Garvey]

Besides the pitching looking rough, Rollins, Utley and Burrell are all struggling with the stick. All signs are pointing toward another atrocious April.

That's why I refuse to drink the Kool-Aid during the Spring.

[ngineer]

UFR!!! Uncle Chollie puts in Gordon after Romero had a 1-2-3 8th inning and 'Flash' got lit up like a roman candle. 1/3 inning and 5 earned runs---I think that equates with a 135.0 ERA...What is it with the cookbook managing...After the Phillies climbed back from a 6-2 deficit to tie the game on homers by Utley and Rollins the place was rockin. An exciting game for 8 innings...however, last season started in similar fashion, so hopefully it is an omen...xsmhx xsmhx xsmhx xsmhx

[Ivytalk]

Aren't the Phils something like 1-9 in their last 10 home openers? xsmhx I'm sure they're "O-for-Cholly" anyway.xmadx

[ngineer]

Aren't the Phils something like 1-9 in their last 10 home openers? xsmhx I'm sure they're "O-for-Cholly" anyway.xmadx

I think you're right...got my new 'media guide' when I was at CBP on Monday, so I'll check that out, if it's in there. Going again tomorrow afternoon---was supposed to be in a trial the first three weeks in April, but case settled last week, so I'm taking advantage of some 'found time';)

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Besides the 9th inning implosion, there was one other thing that really bothered me in the Phil's opener...

Rollins leads off the bottom of the first with a double. Then Chuck had Victorino bunt him over, WTF! Rollins did end up scoring, but you should never play small ball in the early innings. You look for a rally and to put multiple runs on the board. You don't play for one run in the bottom of the first inning - that is just bad managing. xnonono2x

[foghorn]

Besides the 9th inning implosion, there was one other thing that really bothered me in the Phil's opener...

Rollins leads off the bottom of the first with a double. Then Chuck had Victorino bunt him over, WTF! Rollins did end up scoring, but you should never play small ball in the early innings. You look for a rally and to put multiple runs on the board. You don't play for one run in the bottom of the first inning - that is just bad managing. xnonono2x

Ordinarily, I'd agree with you, but f you saw the replay of the play at first, Victorino was safe! His great speed makes an otherwise sacrifice bunt a potential base hit. Now if Cholly did that with Burrell, that'd be DUMB!xsmiley_wix

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Ordinarily, I'd agree with you, but f you saw the replay of the play at first, Victorino was safe! His great speed makes an otherwise sacrifice bunt a potential base hit. Now if Cholly did that with Burrell, that'd be DUMB!xsmiley_wix

If Victorino was bunting for a hit, that is a totally different story. The "GameDay" thing I had on the work computer didn't give that perspective, just "Victorino sacrifice bunt, Rollins to third." :)

[Marcus Garvey]

Besides the 9th inning implosion, there was one other thing that really bothered me in the Phil's opener...

Rollins leads off the bottom of the first with a double. Then Chuck had Victorino bunt him over, WTF! Rollins did end up scoring, but you should never play small ball in the early innings. You look for a rally and to put multiple runs on the board. You don't play for one run in the bottom of the first inning - that is just bad managing. xnonono2x

I gotta agree with foghorn. Besides, I'm f'ing thrilled Chollie is actually attempting small-ball. Unfortunately, I doubt he can manage effectively that way. Hell, he can't manage effectively under any circumstances.
Oddly though, if I were an owner, I'd have Charllie Manuel on my coaching staff as the hitting instructor. He's damn good at that. He just happens to be a lousy manager. No shame in that. Though the years, there have benn many good assistants who were, at best, mediocre managers:
Pat Corrales, Dave Bristol, Larry Bowa, Don Zimmer, Bobby Wine, etc...

[bandl]

hahahahaha.....one-hitter.xlolx

[ngineer]

Ordinarily, I'd agree with you, but f you saw the replay of the play at first, Victorino was safe! His great speed makes an otherwise sacrifice bunt a potential base hit. Now if Cholly did that with Burrell, that'd be DUMB!xsmiley_wix


I was there and from my perspective, Victorino was bunting for a hit. He didn't 'square off' but dropped the head and took off...and I thought he was safe, too; though they didn't show the replay on the scoreboard.

[ngineer]

Talk about trying one's luck. Tomorrow I go to my second Phillies game in one week...Another show like Monday, and the karma will be gone..xeekx

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Moyer is getting lit up in the early going today. 5-0 Nats after one and threatening again in the second.

Moyer has given up six hits, four for extra bases.

[SunCoastBlueHen]

It's kind of funny that every pitch Moyer throws registers as a changeup on MLB.com GameDay. :p

[Marcus Garvey]

I've been in a meeting all morning, so I just finally checked the linescore:
FOUR FREAKING ERRORS?????
C'mon Jimmy, you can't follow up the MVP with 2 errors in the first 3 games. At least Coste is doing well. Further proof that Manuel is an idiot. All Chis Coste does is hit the ***** out of the baseball, but Manuel uses him sparingly. If this were a night game, Ruiz would have started. For Chrissakes, they make almost the same ($385k for Coste, $380k for Ruiz), so there shouldn't be any pressure from the front office.

[Ivytalk]

Hey, I'll take it! A 10th-inning walkoff walk gives the Phils their first win of a game in an opening home series since '05. But 2 errors each for Utley and JRoll in the first 3 games is not good.

On to Cincinnati and don't embarrass us further!xrolleyesx

[foghorn]

Jimmy made up for his earlier error by some outstanding baserunning. Tie game bottom of the 10th, Rollins singles, then goes from 1st to 3rd on a sacrifice bunt when the 3rd baseman didn't get back in time to cover 3rd.
That forced the Nats to intentionaslly walk Utley and Howard, then the pitcher blows up and walks in the winning run.
That aggresive running by Jimmy won't show up in the box score, but it really won the game!xthumbsupx

[ngineer]

Jimmy made up for his earlier error by some outstanding baserunning. Tie game bottom of the 10th, Rollins singles, then goes from 1st to 3rd on a sacrifice bunt when the 3rd baseman didn't get back in time to cover 3rd.
That forced the Nats to intentionaslly walk Utley and Howard, then the pitcher blows up and walks in the winning run.
That aggresive running by Jimmy won't show up in the box score, but it really won the game!xthumbsupx

I was at the game today and almost felt like walking out in the second inning....Nats blew the game then when they had sacks loaded and no outs and didn't score; this, after scoring 5 in the first. Phils crept back in with a huge 6th inning, but pulling Burrell early almost bit them as the bench got very thin at the end. Rollins' baserunning was a clinic--he immediately saw the SS was late in getting over to 3B and kept right on going. Fingers were crossed in the 9th when "Tom Terrific" came in and almost got blown out again, but somehow escaped the inning despite throwing over 30 pitches...Jamie Moyer was getting rocked. 80mph fastball, if not located, is like BP..Hopefully things will be better when the temps get warmer.

[Ivytalk]

How 'bout dem Fightins? 4 in the 9th off Valverde to beat the 'Stros, 4-3. They did nothing off "Don't call me Clemens" Chacon for 8 innings and erupted in the 9th. Key game-tying HR by Pat "I know it's my contract year" Burrell to tie it. I can't wait until we get J-Roll back. Even Eaton is doing OK.xnodx

[Ivytalk]

After losing 2 out of 3 to the Mutts, Uncle Cholly finally admits that he misused J-Roll and put him on the DL too late. How many more years do we have to pay this guy?xmadx xbangx xbangx xmadx

[ngineer]

After losing 2 out of 3 to the Mutts, Uncle Cholly finally admits that he misused J-Roll and put him on the DL too late. How many more years do we have to pay this guy?xmadx xbangx xbangx xmadx

I don't blame Cholly for all this...The trainers and J-Roll also have a hand in determining whether they think he's going to be able to 'go' or not. I think Cholly is taking one for his PT staff and J-Roll, IMO.

[Ivytalk]

Hey, Marcus, were you at the Phils-Dbacks game last night? How about Old Man Moyer? And where are all the Arizona fans?? Barely 21K showed up last night to see that game, and Arizona has a lot of young studs.

[AZGrizFan]

Hey, Marcus, were you at the Phils-Dbacks game last night? How about Old Man Moyer? And where are all the Arizona fans?? Barely 21K showed up last night to see that game, and Arizona has a lot of young studs.

It's been a perplexing problem....although I AM going tonight....xeyebrowx xeyebrowx xeyebrowx

[Ivytalk]

It's been a perplexing problem....although I AM going tonight....xeyebrowx xeyebrowx xeyebrowx

Great, AZGF! And bring 5,000 of your closest friends! Did they sell out any of the Mutts games last weekend?

[AZGrizFan]

Great, AZGF! And bring 5,000 of your closest friends! Did they sell out any of the Mutts games last weekend?

Not sure....I know they had over 35,000 at a couple.... xcoolx xcoolx xcoolx

[ngineer]

Yeah, I was surprised by the number of empty seats...even in the infield area. For a match up division leaders??

[ngineer]

Don't know, Ivy, but you may want to rename this thread...The way the Fightin's have started out so much better than in years past, it will take a complete collapse ala the Mutts to have Cholley's job in jeopardy this year....

[Ivytalk]

Don't know, Ivy, but you may want to rename this thread...The way the Fightin's have started out so much better than in years past, it will take a complete collapse ala the Mutts to have Cholley's job in jeopardy this year....

OK, ng, but Eaton is reverting to form tonight, so I think I'll keep the spirit alive!:p

[ngineer]

OK, ng, but Eaton is reverting to form tonight, so I think I'll keep the spirit alive!:p

Did he ever...That walk to Johnson was INEXCUSIBLE. Poor Cholly was even hanging his head on the railing. I was reminded of Schilling with the towel when Williams was trying to save a game for him.

[SunCoastBlueHen]

Does anybody else fear Ryan Howard is turning into a left handed Dave Kingman? I look at his major league progression and I see it pointing to a guy that will regularly hit hit 30+ HRs a season, but still hit a measly .220. That is certainly not the player I thought he was two years ago. xsmhx

[Ivytalk]

Does anybody else fear Ryan Howard is turning into a left handed Dave Kingman? I look at his major league progression and I see it pointing to a guy that will regularly hit hit 30+ HRs a season, but still hit a measly .220. That is certainly not the player I thought he was two years ago. xsmhx

Not a bad analogy. This year, it's either HR or strikeout --- and WAY more strikeouts.xsmhx

[Go...gate]

Don't know, Ivy, but you may want to rename this thread...The way the Fightin's have started out so much better than in years past, it will take a complete collapse ala the Mutts to have Cholley's job in jeopardy this year....

Willie Randolph will be gone long before Manuel is.

You guys are in first place. Why make a change?

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Aight it's official. Something needs to be done. At the very least Milt Thompson needs to be sent packing. Uncle Chollie might not be too far behind if this continues. This team is a ****ing joke right now.

[ngineer]

Wild comeback today. Let's hope the offense can start it up. The pitching is starting to show signs of 'leakage'....

[Ivytalk]

Another nail-biter that didn't have to be. Can't anyone in that bullpen throw a strike? Seanez and Madson almost coughed up a 7-run lead on Sunday.xsmhx

And what's with Bonehead Steve Smith waving Utley home from first on a long single?xconfusedx xnonono2x

[Go...gate]

Guys, it ain't Manuel. There is a lot of baseball yet to be played.

[93henfan]

Adam Eaton to AAA this morning. That move is only two years too late.

[Ivytalk]

Adam Eaton to AAA this morning. That move is only two years too late.

When Eaton pitched, I felt I had to sign up for AA! My name is Ivytalk, and I'm a Phillies fan...

[93henfan]

When Eaton pitched, I felt I had to sign up for AA! My name is Ivytalk, and I'm a Phillies fan...

We're a very large, very disfunctional group.xnodx

[elonpuckhog]

They haven't determined which level Eaton will pitch at quite yet...could be AA or A, or AAA.

I don't think Charlie should be in trouble this year. After all, we DID win the NL East last year.

[ngineer]

Adam Eaton to AAA this morning. That move is only two years too late.

Hadn't heard this...Who is replacing him. I'd like to see them give Happ a shot.

[Ivytalk]

Hadn't heard this...Who is replacing him. I'd like to see them give Happ a shot.

It will Happen soon! Trust me!xsmiley_wix

[BlueHen86]

It will Happen soon! Trust me!xsmiley_wix

Yup, the Phils just called him up.

[gmoney55]

I saw Happ's name along with Jason Donald as going to the Orioles for Sherrill....but rumors two days before the trade deadline are just that.

[Minuteman2012]

I wouldn't be surprised if we see a blockbuster trade announced soon. Amaro Jr. was on Daily News Live last night and they asked him why Happ was pulled from his start at the Pigs and he just smiled and said "well...we're near the trade deadline."

I have heard that there is a chance we send Happ and Donald to Baltimore for Sherrill. Maybe we can get Halladay from Toronto...xeekx

[BlueHen86]

Trade rumor:

Phils send SS propect Jason Donald to KC for LHRP Ron Mahay. Not done yet, but apparently close.

[Marcus Garvey]

This whole "flirting with 1st place" thing sucks balls. I never thougt I'd say this, but I miss the late 80's when the Fightin's sucked so bad that by August, they were mathematically eliminated. You knew they were bad, so you just hoped for an occasional win against the Cardinals or Mets to f--k up their season.
Sure, I'd still watch the games, because what else was there to do? Internet? Nope. Cable? You only had like 40 channels. :D
The best part back then was the $4 General Admission seats in the 700 Level. By the 5th inning, you could work you way down to the lower deck. Back then, the Phils could draw 20,000, and still have more empty seats in the Vet than an empty CBP today.

[ngineer]

Myers' Mojo reappeared tonight in Washington...If he as been 'reborn' the second half looks quite promising. JA Happ recalled from LV Iron Pigs to replace Eaton. However, Feliz in the 15 day DL with back spasms. Cervanik (AAA 3B at LV) has been called up . He's had a good season at AAA so far, BA over .300 and good glove. I imagine Dobbs and Bruntlett will get most of the time at the hot corner, though.

[Ivytalk]

Myers' Mojo reappeared tonight in Washington...If he as been 'reborn' the second half looks quite promising. JA Happ recalled from LV Iron Pigs to replace Eaton. However, Feliz in the 15 day DL with back spasms. Cervanik (AAA 3B at LV) has been called up . He's had a good season at AAA so far, BA over .300 and good glove. I imagine Dobbs and Bruntlett will get most of the time at the hot corner, though.

I agree, ng. It was also good to see Utley go yard for the first time in weeks.xnodx

[93henfan]

I'd just like to throw a shout out to my homeboy Pat Gillick for doing ABSOLUTELY ******** NOTHING to improve the Phillies before the trade deadline.xmadx

Way to go Pat. Enjoy your retirement you lame duck.

[Marcus Garvey]

I'd just like to throw a shout out to my homeboy Pat Gillick for doing ABSOLUTELY ******** NOTHING to improve the Phillies before the trade deadline.xmadx

Way to go Pat. Enjoy your retirement you lame duck.

Here we go.. xrolleyesx

Every year, we go through this. There's NOBODY availble to the Phillies via trade at a reasonable price. Yet fans expect the GM to do something, anything!!!! xconfusedx xconfusedx xconfusedx

It's a seller's market, and the Phillies cannot afford to buy right now, it's as simple as that. I'd rather Gillick done nothing than mortgage the franchise's future for Manny Ramirez. The few guys they made inquireries about were unwilling/unavailable: Greg Maddux for one.

[Ivytalk]

Here we go.. xrolleyesx

Every year, we go through this. There's NOBODY availble to the Phillies via trade at a reasonable price. Yet fans expect the GM to do something, anything!!!! xconfusedx xconfusedx xconfusedx

It's a seller's market, and the Phillies cannot afford to buy right now, it's as simple as that. I'd rather Gillick done nothing than mortgage the franchise's future for Manny Ramirez. The few guys they made inquireries about were unwilling/unavailable: Greg Maddux for one.

They surely can afford to buy what they need. Montgomery et al. have plenty of money. They didn't need Manny Ramirez. They needed a lefty reliever (certainly doable financially) and didn't get it done. Gillick has been a big disappointment.xsmhx

[Marcus Garvey]

They surely can afford to buy what they need. Montgomery et al. have plenty of money. They didn't need Manny Ramirez. They needed a lefty reliever (certainly doable financially) and didn't get it done. Gillick has been a big disappointment.xsmhx

When you say the Phillies can "afford to buy," are you, to paraphrase Randy Moss, "Talking straight cash homey?"
The issue for the Phillies involves players covetted by other teams. Their farm system is thin. They simply can't afford to give up prospects for a player who is not a "Slam Dunk" to get them to the World Series. If it was a matter of paying cash, then maybe the Phillies could work this out.

Oh... name me a left reliever who was available at a price they can afford.

[Ivytalk]

When you say the Phillies can "afford to buy," are you, to paraphrase Randy Moss, "Talking straight cash homey?"
The issue for the Phillies involves players covetted by other teams. Their farm system is thin. They simply can't afford to give up prospects for a player who is not a "Slam Dunk" to get them to the World Series. If it was a matter of paying cash, then maybe the Phillies could work this out.

Oh... name me a left reliever who was available at a price they can afford.

Ohman or Mahay. Take your pick. And the farm system isn't threadbare.

[Marcus Garvey]

Ohman or Mahay. Take your pick. And the farm system isn't threadbare.
I didn't say "Threadbare," I said "thin." They have talent, but none they can afford to squander.
What did the Royals want for Mahay? He's kind of old, so it'd be tough to justify trading much for him. It'd be like the Red Sox giving up Jeff Bagwell for Larry Andersen.
As for Ohman... yeah, he's done well this year, but overall, his career has been "meh."
My argument has been that team who were willing to trade was asking for way to much.
The days of tossing in a Julio Franco or Ryne Sandberg on top of a trade are long gone.

[BlueHen86]

Ohman or Mahay. Take your pick. And the farm system isn't threadbare.

There is always the waiver wire.....and Brett Favre is available.xrolleyesx

[bluehenbillk]

Five in a row now, game up. Nice to see the whole lineup warming back up. Hopefully the real Hamels is back to open the Cards series Friday.

[Ivytalk]

Bump!:p

Courtesy of BlueHen86's insightful post on Uncle Cholly's predictable defensive strategies. Pat is no Greg Luzinski out there, after all.

Another great West Coast trip begins!xrolleyesx

[BlueHen86]

Bump!:p

Courtesy of BlueHen86's insightful post on Uncle Cholly's predictable defensive strategies. Pat is no Greg Luzinski out there, after all.

Another great West Coast trip begins!xrolleyesx
Pat should stay in the game for 9 innings. If Werth is available, you can sub him for Pat, but only when Lidge comes in to pitch, otherwise I stand Pat.:p

[Go...gate]

Phils will win unless Mets bring Seaver and Koosman back to pitch in the bullpen.