Charlie Manuel Watch - 2009 Addition

[89Hen]

Has anybody noticed? This thread is just 22 short of 1000. Sorry it is 21 short of 1000.
Not sure what you're looking at, it's 19 short. xconfusedx

[Ivytalk]

Now 18 short, and Phils' magic number reaches 13 with Marlins' loss last night!xthumbsupx

[93henfan]

Cliff Lee goes the distance, shutting out the Nats and getting 9 Ks along the way (including the first three and last two batters).

Ruiz with a big base clearing hit to get three of the five RBIs tonight.

5-0 Phils.

Magic number is 12.

[ngineer]

Carlos has been 'da man' the past month. If he can keep this type of consistency he'll become one of the premier catchers in baseball. Already one of the top defensive ones.xnodx

[MR. CHICKEN]

RUIZ......SMACKED DUH ROCK...HARD ALL NIGHT......'CEPTIN'...HIS SCRAWNY TWO BAGGER.....LIMPIN' DOWN DUH LINE....WHICH CLEARED DUH PATHS.....BASEBALL.....LIKE DUH LADIES.....GO FIGURE......xoopsx......AWK!

[blukeys]

Carlos has been 'da man' the past month. If he can keep this type of consistency he'll become one of the premier catchers in baseball. Already one of the top defensive ones.xnodx

Very underrated catcher. He blocks more in the dirt off the plate sliders than anyone I have seen.

[bluehenbillk]

Nice to see Lee be dominant again last night, even if it was against the Nats. Also good to see Raul & the bottom of the lineup picking it up.

[ngineer]

Important for Blanton to bounce back tonight after the stinker he let last time out. He was on a very consistent streak there and needs to get right back on a new one.

[Ivytalk]

Important for Blanton to bounce back tonight after the stinker he let last time out. He was on a very consistent streak there and needs to get right back on a new one.

Agreed, ng. Inexplicably, Blanton has 2 of the Phils' 3 losses to the Nats this year!xconfusedx

[GannonFan]

Nice to see Lee be dominant again last night, even if it was against the Nats. Also good to see Raul & the bottom of the lineup picking it up.

For all of the Nats' problems, gotta give them their due, they can hit the ball a little bit. For Lee to shut them out in that ballpark is a very, very nice accomplishment.

Everything is starting to come into line for the Phils to do well in the postseason. Heck, if all the starters can go 9 every game we'll not have to worry at all about that only thing wrong with the team... xwhistlex

[Ivytalk]

Phils win again, 6-1. Solid outing for Blanton. Grand salami by Werth. Magic number 11!xthumbsupx

[GannonFan]

Phils have actually creeped percentage points ahead of the Cards again (although they were always ahead in the loss column - Phils still have a lot more to play than the Cards do). Season ended today the Phils would host the Rockies while the Dodgers host the Cards. Can't say I'd be upset about that, but I don't think it matters too much - I like the Phils chances against anyone in the National League right now.

[93henfan]

Sorry that I conked out before the Werth grand slam last night, but before drifting off I meant to make a post about the small ball the Phils have rediscovered lately.

How about that double-steal early in the game to get the first run? xbowx Howard on first, Uts on third with two outs and Howard steals second and Uts breaks for home as soon as the throw is made. Beautiful stuff.

[blukeys]

Sorry that I conked out before the Werth grand slam last night, but before drifting off I meant to make a post about the small ball the Phils have rediscovered lately.

How about that double-steal early in the game to get the first run? xbowx Howard on first, Uts on third with two outs and Howard steals second and Uts breaks for home as soon as the throw is made. Beautiful stuff.

Yeah they have to watch that Road Runner Ryan whenever he's on the bases!!!!xnodxxnodxxnodxxnodxxnodxxnodx

That being said the Werth salami was in fact the result of small ball and gutsy, tough, at bats.

With 2 outs, Utley gets hit by a pitch. (imagine that) With Ryan at the plate, Utley steals second, a move questioned by the Nats' announcers who predicted correctly that the steal would cause the Nats' to walk Howard, which is what happenned.
Ibanez then fell behind in the count but fouled off some tough pitches finally loading the bases on a walk. Of course with the only hit of the inning, Werth crushes a hanging breaking pitch into a high wind to left and the result is 4 runs. It was great tough baseball from Utley to Werth. Werth of course got another assist with a great play. Solid defense by the Fightin's again.

[bluehenbillk]

2 up in the loss column on the Cards now, looking more like a 1st round date with the Rockies.

[Ivytalk]

Go, Hamels, go! Get that sweep!

[93henfan]

Sounds like Chan Ho Park is out indefinitely with a popped hammy:

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20090917_Phillies_reliever_Park_likely_out_indefin itely_with_hamstring_injury.html

[Ivytalk]

Hamels rolls. Phils sweep, 4-2. Magic number 10 and counting.

[93henfan]

Hamels rolls. Phils sweep, 4-2. Magic number 10 and counting.


Hamels with 10 Ks tonight.

Lidge looked shakey again and gave up an earned run to keep his ERA solidly above 7.00.

The Fins just lost to the Reds. xthumbsupx

[blukeys]

Hamels with 10 Ks tonight.

Lidge looked shakey again and gave up an earned run to keep his ERA solidly above 7.00.

The Fins are down to their final three outs, so the magic number could be single digits by the end of the night. A week to set up the rotation would be nice. xthumbsupx

I thought Lidge was unlucky. The hits were weak and if Victorino was in Center and Werth was in right we get an out on the play to the outfield. At any rate this is the 1,000 post of this thread and I am pleased to make it on a Fightin win.

[93henfan]

I thought Lidge was unlucky.

Fair enough. Btw, the Mutts just banged home two runs to tie up the Bravos in the 4th. :D The tomahawkers could stand a little cooling off. Magic number would be single digits with a Mutt win. It would be nice to be able to start resting folks and setting the rotation in a week.

Two big series to start the final 10-game road trip:

Fri, Sep 18 @ Atlanta 7:30 PM
Sat, Sep 19 @ Atlanta 7:00 PM
Sun, Sep 20 @ Atlanta 1:30 PM
Tue, Sep 22 @ Florida 4:10 PM
Tue, Sep 22 @ Florida 7:10 PM
Wed, Sep 23 @ Florida 7:10 PM
Thu, Sep 24 @ Milwaukee 8:05 PM
Fri, Sep 25 @ Milwaukee 8:05 PM
Sat, Sep 26 @ Milwaukee 7:05 PM
Sun, Sep 27 @ Milwaukee 2:05 PM

[ngineer]

Marlins went down tonight, I think. Park will be done for the season. A bad hammy takes at least a month to get straightened out, and then, you have the cold weather. Phils have plenty of arms, now, however to provide the long relief.
I though Lidge was okay tonight. The ball to right center should have been caught. lack of communication between Werth and Francisco. Additionally the runs he gave up the other night were due to the Phils not holding the runners on first and letting them get into scoring position. I think he's coming around and should start peaking these final three weeks. Bats have got to warm up, though.

BTW, Phils are 29-10 at home over last two months.xnodx

[93henfan]

BTW, Phils are 29-10 at home over last two months.xnodx

Yeah, they did the 'ole switcheroo with success at home and on the road.

[GannonFan]

The most important thing to happen for the Phils to make another serious run this year and repeat was to get the starting pitching firing on all cylinders, and with Hamels and Lee returning to form, along with Pedro coming out of nowhere and Blanton being the steady force he is, October is beginning to look very attractive again.

BTW, loved having the rally towels out last night - brought back a lot of memories. The ballpark rocks right now and should keep doing so for some time. xthumbsupx

[blukeys]

Marlins went down tonight, I think. Park will be done for the season. A bad hammy takes at least a month to get straightened out, and then, you have the cold weather. Phils have plenty of arms, now, however to provide the long relief.
I though Lidge was okay tonight. The ball to right center should have been caught. lack of communication between Werth and Francisco. Additionally the runs he gave up the other night were due to the Phils not holding the runners on first and letting them get into scoring position. I think he's coming around and should start peaking these final three weeks. Bats have got to warm up, though.

BTW, Phils are 29-10 at home over last two months.xnodx

Which leg has the bad hammy?

[93henfan]

Which leg has the bad hammy?

IIRC, it was his right side.

EDIT: Yep, right side - http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20090918_Phillies_Notebook__Phillies_reliever_Park _won_t_start_rehab_for_2_to_3_weeks.html

[blukeys]

IIRC, it was his right side.

EDIT: Yep, right side - http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20090918_Phillies_Notebook__Phillies_reliever_Park _won_t_start_rehab_for_2_to_3_weeks.html

That's bad. Drive leg for a right hander.

[ngineer]

PLAYOFF TICKETS ARRIVED TODAY!!!!!!!!xrotatehxxthumbsupxxnodx:D

[93henfan]

PLAYOFF TICKETS ARRIVED TODAY!!!!!!!!xrotatehxxthumbsupxxnodx:D

Here's hoping you get to use all three sets again!

[blukeys]

Anyone know why Victorino is not in the lineup tonite.

[Ivytalk]

Anyone know why Victorino is not in the lineup tonite.

He got the flu during last night's game.

[93henfan]

Anyone know why Victorino is not in the lineup tonite.

Stomach bug. He left last night's game early and was out tonight.

Ruiz sprained his left wrist tonight as well and was replaced by Bako. No estimate given on any time missed.

Happ also was yanked early due to flare up of the oblique (or whatever he had). They said it was mostly precautionary. Kendrick filled in admirably.

[93henfan]

J-Roll makes Lidge a non-issue with the 3-run shot. 8-3 Phils top 9th. xbowx

Lol. 9-3 on the Francisco solo before I could hit the post button.

[93henfan]

Fins beat the Reds, so magic number will only drop to 9 when the Phils win.

[93henfan]

Magic number is now 8.

[Elon Fightin' Christians]

Kendrick has pitched well. Good to see....

[ngineer]

Hammer Time!xsmiley_wix

[93henfan]

Magic number is now 6.

Thank God for the Phils. The Eagles look like they're in for a long season.

[ngineer]

Francisco steps up big time today when Shane got tossed. Bullpen shuts 'em down for 5+ innings. A sweep of the Marlins will clinch.

[Ivytalk]

Looking forward to those wieners at Dollar Dog Night on 9/28!xnodx:p

[93henfan]

A sweep of the Marlins will clinch.

Only if the Mets sweep the Braves too. I'm not going to put any money on that. I'm guessing the Phils clinch in Milwaukee.

[GannonFan]

Magic number is now 6.

Thank God for the Phils. The Eagles look like they're in for a long season.

Can't get all worried about the Eagles after just week 2. They'll be 4-1 going into Washington in a few weeks and in all likliehood they'll end up something like 10-6 and right on the cusp or in the playoffs. Winning a Super Bowl is probably unlikely but it's not like they're going to crap the bed either. Just a typical Andy Reid season - good, just not good enough.

[blukeys]

Can't get all worried about the Eagles after just week 2. They'll be 4-1 going into Washington in a few weeks and in all likliehood they'll end up something like 10-6 and right on the cusp or in the playoffs. Winning a Super Bowl is probably unlikely but it's not like they're going to crap the bed either. Just a typical Andy Reid season - good, just not good enough.


The Saints are a tough team. No real shame in losing to them.

[blukeys]

Phils up 9-0 in bottom of 8th.

1st game of double header.

[ngineer]

Blanton was tremendous..2 hits and 9 Ks in 7 innings. Raauuuuuul with a dinger (#32) to help put the hammer down in the 8th. Old Man Moyer in the nightcap.

[Ivytalk]

Fish win game 2 behind Sanchez. Oh, well. Magic number vs. Marlins is down to 4, Braves 5.

[ngineer]

Moyer did an adequate job. Offensive stayed in clubhouse after game one.
News tonight that Myers has a minor strain of the lateral. They still expect him to pitch before end of season.

[blukeys]

Moyer did an adequate job. Offensive stayed in clubhouse after game one.
News tonight that Myers has a minor strain of the lateral. They still expect him to pitch before end of season.

Cooler weather = Muscle pulls. Need a little more warm up and stretching with these guys.

[93henfan]

Ruiz was flown home from Miami to get further testing on his wrist. Here's hoping he's OK. That would be a tough loss.

[GannonFan]

Ruiz was flown home from Miami to get further testing on his wrist. Here's hoping he's OK. That would be a tough loss.

They already know there's no structural damage, so hopefully he's just a cortizone shot away from being able to play. He doesn't need to provide offense in the postseason, but we need the defense. Rest him until the playoffs, get him the shot, and hopefully be good to go. xthumbsupx

[blukeys]

Phils up in the bottom of the 7th 6-3. Home runs by Ibanez and Howard. Howard now has 130 RBI's

[ngineer]

Phils up in the bottom of the 7th 6-3. Home runs by Ibanez and Howard. Howard now has 130 RBI's

Fourth year in a row Howard has 40+ Hrs and 130+ RBIs....Very Elite company.xnodx

[blukeys]

Rain delay in Miami. Think they will give the Phils another rain delay win?

[MR. CHICKEN]

LIDGE IS TENTATIVE ON DUH MOUND......ALMOST...LIKE....DO AH REALLY GOTTAH THROW IT.....CALLED OUT DUH CATCHER.....TA ASK HIM....HOW'S....DUH ESCALADE RUNNIN'....B/4 CHUCKIN' DUH BEACHBALL.............:(.............BRAWK/OBAMA/BIDEN!!

[ngineer]

While I really don't care for Botallico, I think his observations tonight were on. Lidge appeared 'up tight' on the mound, taking deep breaths as if to relax himself.. As Mr. Chicken pointed out..shaking off pitches..unsure...Possibly lack of Ruiz may have contributed, but still, he's a big boy...He can't get it done. Closer by Commitee at this point...Myers next option if he's not too hurt...Offense needs to come alive and make the closer irrelevant.

[89Hen]

Offense needs to come alive and make the closer irrelevant.
What's safe? 4+ runs? 6? xsmhx

[89Hen]

Rain delay in Miami. Think they will give the Phils another rain delay win?
Too bad. xoopsx

[Ivytalk]

Looks like another nailbiter of a race, boys. xsmhx6/12 game lead with 11 to play. It couldn't be '64 all over again. Could it??:(

[89Hen]

Looks like another nailbiter of a race, boys. xsmhx6/12 game lead with 11 to play. It couldn't be '64 all over again. Could it??:(
Nah. xeyebrowx

[GannonFan]

Looks like another nailbiter of a race, boys. xsmhx6/12 game lead with 11 to play. It couldn't be '64 all over again. Could it??:(

Not worried in the least. 7 games up in the loss column on the Braves, 8 up on the Marlins. The Braves and the Marlins still have 3 games against each other next week. This thing will be wrapped up by Monday with still a week to go. I mean, we ain't the Mets. xlolxxlolxxlolx

[foghorn]

Well, Lidge has had numerous chances to redeem himself, but nada. Enough is enough! 11 blown saves, 0-8 WL, 7.48 ERA.
Stop playing team shrink, Charlie. You owe it to the team and fans. Replace Lidge; by new closer or by committee. xnodx

[Fear the Bird]

He keeps saying that Lidge is his guy and it seems he will live or (most likely) die by him. The good news is the Phils have already gotten to Broxton in the past and can definately get to Franklin, on the flip side, in an NL matchup.

[UNCBears2010]

He keeps saying that Lidge is his guy and it seems he will live or (most likely) die by him. The good news is the Phils have already gotten to Broxton in the past and can definately get to Franklin, on the flip side, in an NL matchup.

There's still a possible NLDS matchup with the Rockies and Huston Street...xwhistlex

[Ivytalk]

Magic number down to 4, and the Phils didn't need Madson or Lidge!xnodx

Cliff Lee goes against the Brew Crew tonight!

[bluehenbillk]

Phils pound the Brew-has last night. We're going to have to continue to get great starting pitching & hit the ball.

With the language from Amaro that's out there & Charlie last night, unless guys don't come back to the pen & Pedro can't pitch, there's no way Lidge is the guy anymore. Happ could close, Myers could close, maybe Pedro, but it won't be Lidge.

The only NL team that even worries me a little is the Cards.

[GannonFan]

Phils pound the Brew-has last night. We're going to have to continue to get great starting pitching & hit the ball.

With the language from Amaro that's out there & Charlie last night, unless guys don't come back to the pen & Pedro can't pitch, there's no way Lidge is the guy anymore. Happ could close, Myers could close, maybe Pedro, but it won't be Lidge.

The only NL team that even worries me a little is the Cards.

Yeah, I get that vibe too, and I've got no problem with it. Don't even go with one guy but pitch to situations. I imagine Foggy will get all bent out of shape when they bring Romero in to pitch to a lefty in the 9th!

But if the Phils are going to win, they need great starting pitching and they need to score enough runs. They did that last year and didn't have to just rely on the bullpen, and they need to do it again. The bullpen up until the 9th is pretty good so it's not like it's all bad.

While I think the Cards are the toughest team out there, I still like the Phils chances against them. The Phils will hit the Cardinals pitching so we will score runs. If we can limit Halliday then I like our chances. While we didn't see Carpenter this year, we saw everyone else and batted well against all of them. And the Cards didn't see Hamels and they did poorly against Lee when they saw him in Cleveland.

[blukeys]

Just Win BABY!!!!

[ngineer]

Phils pound the Brew-has last night. We're going to have to continue to get great starting pitching & hit the ball.

With the language from Amaro that's out there & Charlie last night, unless guys don't come back to the pen & Pedro can't pitch, there's no way Lidge is the guy anymore. Happ could close, Myers could close, maybe Pedro, but it won't be Lidge.

The only NL team that even worries me a little is the Cards.

I agree that the closer, if one is needed, will depend upon each game's circumstance. To 'save' arms, Lidge could be used with a three run lead in the ninth, with someone waiting in the wings. But bringing him in anymore with only a 1 or 2 run lead, for is not an option anymore this year. Hopefully he gets straightened out for next.

[bluehenbillk]

Yeah, I get that vibe too, and I've got no problem with it. Don't even go with one guy but pitch to situations. I imagine Foggy will get all bent out of shape when they bring Romero in to pitch to a lefty in the 9th!



Is Foggy Lidge? Educate me, I haven't heard this before....

[GannonFan]

Is Foggy Lidge? Educate me, I haven't heard this before....

Nah, Foghorn has a hate/hate relationship with Romero. Believes that he isn't even worthy of pitching for Reading, let alone a major league team. He doesn't like Romero's control and the number of walks he gives up.

[ngineer]

Nah, Foghorn has a hate/hate relationship with Romero. Believes that he isn't even worthy of pitching for Reading, let alone a major league team. He doesn't like Romero's control and the number of walks he gives up.

Got to agree somewhat there. Romero's stuff can be electric, but his control is 'Mitchie Pooh'-like.

[bluehenbillk]

As the Saturday night lead disappears: Catch the ball Jimmy!!!!

[ngineer]

As the Saturday night lead disappears: Catch the ball Jimmy!!!!

That was unreal...Why they reversed themselves and called that a hit I'll never know. That was a game thrown away...xsmhx

[Ivytalk]

Phils finally reduce magic number to 3 with 6-5 win over Brewers. But they almost coughed up another big lead. Why can't these guys do something easily? Close out the Braves, fer gawdsakes.xrolleyesx

[ngineer]

I'm going to be down at CBP on Tuesday night, so I'm hoping to see the 'clincher'. Braves have to lose about now.

[MR. CHICKEN]

Phils finally reduce magic number to 3 with 6-5 win over Brewers. But they almost coughed up another big lead. Why can't these guys do something easily? Close out the Braves, fer gawdsakes.xrolleyesx

BLANTON WAS ON BASE....UH COUPLE TIMES....HE WAS PLUNKED & HAD UH BASE KNOCK......HE HAD TA RUN DUH BASES HARD...ON BOTH OCCASIONS.....OUTTAH GAS COME DUH 6TH.....OH YEAH.......AN' IT WAS SCAREY.....AS DUH PHIGHTIN'S SQWANDERED RUNNERS...LIKE TRUMP DROPS DUCATS ON CORNER LOTS......xtwocentsx......BRAWK/OBAMA/BIDEN!!

[bluehenbillk]

It'll get done against the 'stros.

[GannonFan]

It'll get done against the 'stros.

Agreed - Phils win a minumum of 2 against the 'stros, and the Braves are likely to lose once. That'll do it. Plus, the Phils have a chance to payback the Astros a little bit for that 4 game sweep down in Houston at the start of the month.

[blukeys]

Agreed - Phils win a minumum of 2 against the 'stros, and the Braves are likely to lose once. That'll do it. Plus, the Phils have a chance to payback the Astros a little bit for that 4 game sweep down in Houston at the start of the month.

I wish I had your confidence. I was around in '64 and I say it's never over till it is over. I wish we had a closer.

[GannonFan]

I wish I had your confidence. I was around in '64 and I say it's never over till it is over. I wish we had a closer.

Eh, to me, Closers are one of the most overrated aspects to baseball in this day and age.

As for these Phils, though, hey, I wasn't around in '64, but there's no way this team with this personnel is going to fail to win 3 games over the next 7, and that assumes the Braves win out. This team's loaded with character and clutch players - it's a lock that the Phils are winning the NL East - just a question of when it happens.

[bluehenbillk]

Big key is staying in line to play the Rockies instead of the Dodgers in the 1st round.

[bluehenbillk]

Argh, the World Champs get walloped by Houston tonight. Magic# holding at 3.

They better take care of biz themselves bc they can't count on the Braves losing any to the Nats.

[MR. CHICKEN]

'STROS...OWN DUH PHIGHTINS....DIS SEASON.......DEY WIN...DESPITE BERKMAN'S....FOLLIES......HE'S PLUCKED OFF FIRST.......KEPT HIS SUIT CLEAN BAH NOT SLIDIN'....CAUGHT CHUCKLIN' IN DUH DUG-OUT.......TA BEAT 'EM....GOTTAH OUT-SCORE 'EM CHARLIE.....HOUSTON SCORES RUNS...........KEEP MESSIN' ROUND........AN' WE'LL HALF TA PITCH LEE/HAMELS EVERAH OTHERAH DAY.....LIKE IN DUH OL' DAYS....:o....AWK!!

[ngineer]

Poor Ivytalk was down there tonight. He must have choked on a few of those 'dollar dogs'....I'm going down there tonight (now Tuesday) to kick some ass and get this thing turned around.xnodx

[UNCBears2010]

Big key is staying in line to play the Rockies instead of the Dodgers in the 1st round.

Are you sure you want the Rockies instead of the Dodgers? LA has completely fallen apart in September and, well, remember '07?

[Ivytalk]

Poor Ivytalk was down there tonight. He must have choked on a few of those 'dollar dogs'....I'm going down there tonight (now Tuesday) to kick some ass and get this thing turned around.xnodx


Phils played a stinkeroo, making Bazardo look like Cy Young.xoopsx Hamels had no command all night. Gotta win 3 more...can't rely on the Braves to lose any.

And I had four dollar dogs, my law partner had four and Junior Ivy had, well, more than four!;)

[GannonFan]

Maybe the Phils just don't want to clinch too early. There's an article on CNN/SI today (here: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/ted_keith/09/28/clinching.early/index.html) that shows that only one team since 2000 has clinched with more than 3 games left and gone on to win the World Series (the '07 Red Sox clinched with 8 games left). With that in mind, no sense clinching early and getting all complacent! xthumbsupx:(

[ngineer]

Maybe the Phils just don't want to clinch too early. There's an article on CNN/SI today (here: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/ted_keith/09/28/clinching.early/index.html) that shows that only one team since 2000 has clinched with more than 3 games left and gone on to win the World Series (the '07 Red Sox clinched with 8 games left). With that in mind, no sense clinching early and getting all complacent! xthumbsupx:(

I wouldn't mind 'clinching' tonight when I get back from the game.;):D

[Ivytalk]

I wouldn't mind 'clinching' tonight when I get back from the game.;):D

So baseball has that effect on you, ng?xeyebrowx


:p

[bluehenbillk]

Happ vs a guy making his 1st start in the bigs tonight. GO WORLD CHAMPS, and how bout a lil help you stupid fish?!?

[Ivytalk]

Phils beat Astros -- finally -- 7-4, behind Happ. Grand slam for Fay-leez!

AND THE BRAVES LOSE TO FLORIDA! MAGIC NUMBER IS 1!!xnodxxnodxxbowxxbowx

[blukeys]

So it is up to Pedro tonite. Would it not be ironic if he gets it done. Can anyone have imagined a year ago a headline saying. "Pedro clinches for the Phils".

[bluehenbillk]

Vote for Pedro!! 1st of 4 celebrations this season goes down tonight!

[GannonFan]

Can we stop the silly allusions to 1964 now? Silly old people. :pxlolxxpeacex

[Ivytalk]

Can we stop the silly allusions to 1964 now? Silly old people. :pxlolxxpeacex

But I was just 10 then, and I still haven't gotten over it. Up 6 1/2 with 12 to play, then we lose 10 straight and the Cardinals catch us.

Second worst Phils nightmare: the Dodger playoff game in the 70s where Greg Luzinski failed to catch Mota's fly ball.

Some things are just etched in your memory and don't go away. But I agree that the odds of our losing 5 straight, and the Braves winning 5 straight to force a playoff, are very long indeed.

[ngineer]

So baseball has that effect on you, ng?xeyebrowx


:p

Yes, I love the 'grand slam' and 'sliding home'...Feliz's clout was terrific. Knew at the crack of the bat. Crowd gave a big cheer when Madson came back out for the ninth inning.

[blukeys]

Phils clinch. Win won for the Harry??!!!!xthumbsupxxthumbsupxxthumbsupx

[bluehenbillk]

Clinchers never get old. 3 divisions in a row. The big prize is in November this year.

Awesome job guys.

[Ivytalk]

YESSSSSS!!!!!xbowxxbowxxbowx

[ngineer]

Clinchers never get old. 3 divisions in a row. The big prize is in November this year.
Awesome job guys.

Actually, a sweep would win on Halloween in Philly, I think.;)

[ngineer]

I picked the Phils to win 95 games this year back in spring training. Just might do it! Four 100 runs scorers on this team, now. Last Phils team to have four 100 run scorers was in 1932!!!!xeekx

Only down note was word that Moyer tore groin muscle and is done. He really would have been good to have in the pen, but the upside tonight was that Kendrick appeared to be the guy who can replace him.

[ngineer]

Very classy way to end the evening last night. First Chollie lets Lidge come in and get the final out. Doing that in front of 45,000 screaming, towel waving maniacs had to help Lidge get some mental mojo back with 'deja vu' of last year's playoffs.
It also showed why the players love Chollie. He's always got their backs.

Secondly, when the players went out to left center and patted and then sprayed the "HK" poster with champagne in memory of Harry. Brought a lump to my throat.xnodxxthumbsupx

[bluehenbillk]

Actually, a sweep would win on Halloween in Philly, I think.;)


Game 4 of the WS is 11/1.

The players going out to the HK sign & High Hopes was the highlight of the night, win it for Harry. I want another parade!!

[GannonFan]

It's now been 3 years since J Roll made the claim that the Phils were the team to beat in the NL East. Since then it's been 3 straight Division Titles. Just a beautiful thing. There's so much to like about this team, the chemistry, the character - just a great time to be a Phillies fan. Let's hope we get to watch a few more of these celebrations this year. I still have a personal day saved up for early November if I need to be downtown again! xthumbsupx

[89Hen]

It's now been 3 years since J Roll made the claim that the Phils were the team to beat in the NL East. Since then it's been 3 straight Division Titles. Just a beautiful thing.
Had almost forgotten that. Wish we could dig up the thread with the Mutts fans here when that came out. xlolx xthumbsupx xbowx

[93henfan]

Been way out of the loop on Phils-watching for the past week due to fiscal year end OT. Good to see the Phils clinch the east again. xthumbsupx

I assume Blanton is going to be the third playoff starter with Pedro and Happ standing by for long relief (that hopefully isn't needed)? Bull pen by committee?

[GannonFan]

Been way out of the loop on Phils-watching for the past week due to fiscal year end OT. Good to see the Phils clinch the east again. xthumbsupx

I assume Blanton is going to be the third playoff starter with Pedro and Happ standing by for long relief (that hopefully isn't needed)? Bull pen by committee?

Hamels and Lee will be the #1 and #2 (can be either). I assume Blanton will pitch 3rd and then Pedro will in all likliehood pitch Game 4. Game 4 would be short rest for whomever pitches Game 1 and neither Hamels or Lee is a guy you would normally throw on short rest. For Game #5, both the starting pitchers from Games #1 and Game #2 could pitch and pitch on normal rest.

I assume Happ will be a bullpen guy - heck, he could be the lefthanded closer if they go that way and situationally pitch the 9th inning.

[93henfan]

Game 4 would be short rest for whomever pitches

Ah, didn't realize that. The Martinez pickup keeps looking better and better. xthumbsupx

[bluehenbillk]

Starting to sound more like if it's the Rockies, which is the odds-on favorite, in the 1st round that Happ will be the Game 4 starter & Pedro will be in the pen. Then after that, Pedro is is the rotation & Happ in the pen for the next 2 rounds. The Rockies struggle mightily against lefties, good news for Lee, Hamels & Happ.

[93henfan]

Starting to sound more like if it's the Rockies, which is the odds-on favorite, in the 1st round that Happ will be the Game 4 starter & Pedro will be in the pen. Then after that, Pedro is is the rotation & Happ in the pen for the next 2 rounds. The Rockies struggle mightily against lefties, good news for Lee, Hamels & Happ.

xthumbsupx Plus, there's the payback aspect for 2007.

[GannonFan]

Starting to sound more like if it's the Rockies, which is the odds-on favorite, in the 1st round that Happ will be the Game 4 starter & Pedro will be in the pen. Then after that, Pedro is is the rotation & Happ in the pen for the next 2 rounds. The Rockies struggle mightily against lefties, good news for Lee, Hamels & Happ.


Yeah, sending 3 lefties at them would be a good strategy against the Rockies. Just hope that Happ has a better first time in the playoffs than Kendrick did against them back in '07.

The other wild card in this too is what Lee is going to show up. We need him to be closer to #1 starter material to make a dent in this postseason, and he's a postseason rookie as well. Hopefully he comes around.

[ngineer]

Game 4 of the WS is 11/1.

The players going out to the HK sign & High Hopes was the highlight of the night, win it for Harry. I want another parade!!


Yes that was very classy...the High Hopes video has been played after every Phillies win this year after Harry died. I've made it a point to stay after each game to watch it.xnodx

[LacesOut]

Congrats to the Phillies and to all of their fans.

I wish them luck in the playoffs.

[GannonFan]

Congrats to the Phillies and to all of their fans.

I wish them luck in the playoffs.

Thanks, although as a fan, I didn't really contribute that much to the season, but I thought some really good thoughts so hopefully that helped! :p

[blukeys]

Yes that was very classy...the High Hopes video has been played after every Phillies win this year after Harry died. I've made it a point to stay after each game to watch it.xnodx

Oops there goes another rubber tree plant!!!!!!

[Ivytalk]

Phils sleepwalk through another loss to Florida. I don't have a good feeling aboutthe playoffs.

[GannonFan]

Phils sleepwalk through another loss to Florida. I don't have a good feeling aboutthe playoffs.

Eh, Hamels gets pulled early today in a game that ended up not mattering. This team has always played well when they had a big game to play - these aren't big games right now. We'll see if they can summon the requisite big game mojo on Wednesday. xthumbsupx

[Ivytalk]

Good to see the Phils win their last game in 10 innings on a rookie's hit. On to the Rockies!xthumbsupx

[93henfan]

Game times announced - all on TBS:

Game 1 - Wednesday 2:37 p.m (eastern) Citizens Bank Park

Game 2 - Thursday 2:37 p.m. Citizens Bank Park

Game 3 - Saturday 9:37 p.m. Coors Field

Game 4 (if necessary) - Sunday TBD Coors Field

Game 5 (if necessary) - Tuesday TBD Citizens Bank Park

[89Hen]

Game times announced - all on TBS:

Game 1 - Wednesday 2:37 p.m (eastern) Citizens Bank Park

Game 2 - Thursday 2:37 p.m. Citizens Bank Park
xsmhx xmadx xsmhx

[Ivytalk]

Game times announced - all on TBS:

Game 1 - Wednesday 2:37 p.m (eastern) Citizens Bank Park

Game 2 - Thursday 2:37 p.m. Citizens Bank Park

Game 3 - Saturday 9:37 p.m. Coors Field

Game 4 (if necessary) - Sunday TBD Coors Field

Game 5 (if necessary) - Tuesday TBD Citizens Bank Park

Good to see day baseball at CBP in October! :)

[93henfan]

xsmhx xmadx xsmhx

Leave it to MLB to screw the working man with the weekday afternoon start times and then screw their kids who might be interested in becoming a baseball fan someday by moving the weekend west coast game to a night start.

Then, of course, there will be no weekend day games in the World Series, as usual. Young fans be damned. One of my better memories as a kid was a family get-together to watch the Phils play the Royals on a Sunday afternoon in Oct 1980. Too bad my boys will never get the same experience.

[Ivytalk]

Phils over Rockies in 4. Fearless (?) prediction!xnodx

[GannonFan]

Phils over Rockies in 4. Fearless (?) prediction!xnodx

I like the 4 game prediction as well. I don't see this Phillies team letting the chance to repeat go by the wayside this early in the playoffs. Just too much character on this team. And most of these guys were on the '07 team that was just happy to be there before they got swept by the Rocks that year. A lot has changed since then, though.

[93henfan]

I'm taking Phils in four as well.

Btw, it has been announced that Cliff Lee will be the Game 1 starter.

[GannonFan]

Got no problem with Lee going in Game 1. Hamels pitched a little on Saturday so Thursday would be his next start anyway with normal rest. The Rocks haven't seen Lee this year so hopefully that will aid his cause as well. And besides, with the days of rest in between, Hamels can pitch Game 5 on normal rest should the series go that long so who was the Game 1 vs Game 2 starter wasn't too much of an issue.

[89Hen]

So who are your starters?

[93henfan]

So who are your starters?

Word from the clubhouse is that both Happ and Blanton are available for long relief if (God forbid) necessary in the first two games. If one is used, the other starts game three. If neither is used, Happ starts game three.

[GannonFan]

So who are your starters?


Word from the clubhouse is that both Happ and Blanton are available for long relief if (God forbid) necessary in the first two games. If one is used, the other starts game three. If neither is used, Happ starts game three.

Yeah, I'd go Lee, Hamels, Happ, Blanton, Hamels. I'd do that as long as the Phils aren't down 0-2 going back to Colorado - I'd pitch Blanton over Happ in a potential season-ending game just because Happ's a rookie. Game 4, on the road, Phils down 2 games to 1, I'd rather have Blanton throwing.

Of course, all of this is moot if the Phils sweep. xthumbsupx

[GannonFan]

Good news for the Phils, De La Rossa has been declared out of the NLDS, meaning that the Phils won't face a lefthanded starter all series. Rockies are going with Jimenez in Game 1, Cook in Game 2, and then likely Hammel and Marquis in Games 3 and 4 respectively.

[bluehenbillk]

It'd be nice to see Lee and Hamels pitch lights out, get out to a 2-0 series lead and spare us the back end bullpen drama.

[93henfan]

I'll be damned! Dutch Daulton is guest commentator on Daily News Live today.

He's keeping it together remarkably well. No mention of the fifth dimension, talking to lizards, or bending spoons with his thoughts. :p

[blukeys]

I'll be damned! Dutch Daulton is guest commentator on Daily News Live today.

He's keeping it together remarkably well. No mention of the fifth dimension, talking to lizards, or bending spoons with his thoughts. :p

but does he still have the Hot Hooters wife??

[UNCBears2010]

Got no problem with Lee going in Game 1. Hamels pitched a little on Saturday so Thursday would be his next start anyway with normal rest. The Rocks haven't seen Lee this year so hopefully that will aid his cause as well. And besides, with the days of rest in between, Hamels can pitch Game 5 on normal rest should the series go that long so who was the Game 1 vs Game 2 starter wasn't too much of an issue.

The Rockies have seen Lee, his second start as a Phillie was against us. It's the Phillies that haven't seen Jimenez this year.

[LeopardFan04]

I'll be damned! Dutch Daulton is guest commentator on Daily News Live today.

He's keeping it together remarkably well. No mention of the fifth dimension, talking to lizards, or bending spoons with his thoughts. :p



When he played he was my favorite player, but he's definitely out there...xrotatehx


http://www.dutch2012.com/

[GannonFan]

The Rockies have seen Lee, his second start as a Phillie was against us. It's the Phillies that haven't seen Jimenez this year.

Yeah, forgot. Great outing for Lee - 7 IP, 6 hits, 1 ER, 1 BB, 9 K's. I'll take that again. xthumbsupx

[93henfan]

A nice look back by Bill Conlin at his preseason prediction and the Phils' regular season in today's Daily News: http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20091007_Bill_Conlin__Resilient_Phillies_will_be_p laying_November_baseball.html

Getting my popcorn ready for 2:37pm! :D

[93henfan]

CBP weather report per TWC:

Sunny, 73 degrees, strong wind from left field, 25-35 mph with over 40 mph gusts.

[GannonFan]

Yup, the wind is blowing heavily out of the park right now. Could make things interesting for the lefty hitters today.

[93henfan]

RAUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUL!

[blukeys]

Double Play 4-6-3

[93henfan]

Lidge gets it done!

Nice start to the NLCS. Charlie made all the right moves tonight, even with a little drama from Madson.

[blukeys]

Phils win. Lidge saves. Raul is back.

[93henfan]

Sure is nice to be able to win with the long ball when your pitchers give up 14 hits. This team can beat you so many ways.

LA fans lived up to their reputation. The executives all scattered after Raul's homer. I counted at least 25 empty premium seats behind home plate in the ninth. Pathetic fans out there. I think I even saw them do a wave tonight.

[DSUrocks07]

I'm guessing the the "Beat LA" chant will be in full effect at CBP on Sunday :D

That "Philly(ies) Sucks" chant was very weak...very Dodger-like xwhistlex

[blukeys]

I'm guessing the the "Beat LA" chant will be in full effect at CBP on Sunday :D

That "Philly(ies) Sucks" chant was very weak...very Dodger-like xwhistlex

I attended the first game of the Indianapolis Colts to Veterans' Stadium in the 80's. A solid group of Baltimore fans came up for the game to boo the Colts with banners. The Baltimore fans started a chant of "Irsay Sucks". It took the Philly fans about 15-20 minutes to figure out what the story was and then the whole stadium joined in when the Baltimore fans started the chant. It was unbelievably loud. The TV networks turned off the on the field sound. My friends at home were unaware of the the Philly chant. Trust me it was huge.

[93henfan]

From Phillies Postgame Live on CSN-Philly... I rewound this on DVR and transcribed so you can all enjoy:

Michael Barkan (re: Brad Lidge): TBS, when he came in, they aired a little clip and he said, you know, he really appreciated Charlie staying with him. He said he had some issues. He had some health issues. He talked about other stuff, which I took to mean some psychological issues that he was trying to deal with and maintaining his edge. And I'm thinking, do you get that edge back, just like that?

Darren Daulton: Hey I did after I went crazy. I got it right back <snaps fingers> just like that.

xlolx

Dutch has won me back. The guy is hilarious on CSN-Philly.

[blukeys]

Yes and Dutch has the really hot wife he goes home to. The Hooter wife has the ability to get anyone back to sanity.

[93henfan]

Yes and Dutch has the really hot wife he goes home to. The Hooter wife has the ability to get anyone back to sanity.

She dumped him long ago. It was a what came first chicken/egg deal. Did she leave him because he talked to lizards or did he start talking to lizards because his Hooters wife left?

Here's the article that outed crazy Dutch. It mentions he was already estranged from his Hooters wife by 1994: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/franz_lidz/02/16/darren/

[ngineer]

Daulton, like Dykstra, was and probably still is an alley cat. Guy probably carries penicillin with him.xrolleyesx

Was great to see Lidge back, but Madson was driving me bonkers. Key big time hits tonight, though. We need to 'put the hammer down' tomorrow. I will be at CBP on Sunday!

[bluehenbillk]

7 more wins to a parade. Senor Octubre with a big 3-run blast in the 5th. Chan Ho Put Them In Park shuts them down.

Am I wrong or did Eyre not warm up at all last night??

[ngineer]

7 more wins to a parade. Senor Octubre with a big 3-run blast in the 5th. Chan Ho Put Them In Park shuts them down.

Am I wrong or did Eyre not warm up at all last night??

Yes, Eyre was warming up with Lidge last night in the bottom of the 8th.

[GannonFan]

Yeah, Eyre was up in the 8th while Madson was struggling. Almost thought they'd put Eyre in to pitch to Ethier, but apparently Ethier has great numbers against Eyre. Plus, you needed Madson in there to pitch to Martinez.

Gotta love the post-game show with Ricky Bottalico and Daulton. Ricky Bo talks so much trash it's amazing. He said Manny had slider bat speed all night and couldn't touch a fastball (true actually), and then he commented on Belliard's last swing that was a pop-up to short by saying that his attempt to hit a tough low and away slider was "hey, that's a great pitch to try to pull, right Dutch?". For a guy who had one all-star appearance in the late 90's when the Phillies were so much in the center of a baseball wasteland is just too funny.

Pedro on the hill this afternoon - Phils win this game and go up 2-0 and I don't think the series will come back to LA. Phils should hit Padilla (btw - I always thought the best fan group in Philly for a pitcher was "Padilla's Flotilla" - I know people reflexively go to Randy Wolf's "Wolf Pack", but the ability to pull out the word flotilla wins it in my book) - and I don't think there's a bullpen that can legitimately shut the Phils down. Hard to find a quiet bat in the Phils lineup right now (well, Feliz probably) and there's just such an air of confidence surrounding this team it's scary. I don't think I've ever had the chance to have a team I root for be this good, except for the '03 Hens team. Although they'll make it interesting, you get the feeling they can win any game they play. Let's hope it continues this afternoon - and then it's back to Philly where the place will be rocking on Sunday night. xthumbsupx

[93henfan]

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-dodgers-phillies-matchups-2009oct15,0,27854.story

xlolx

[GannonFan]

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-dodgers-phillies-matchups-2009oct15,0,27854.story

xlolx

Geez, the edge in starting pitching and offense to the Dodgers? Love how they gloss over the ultimate measure of an offense (i.e. runs scored) and zero in on batting average. That worked out great for the Dodgers last night, eh? When you realize that the Mets had the best batting average in the NL this year that should shed a lot of light on the importance of that measure to predict success. xlolx

[89Hen]

I really can't watch these games anymore. It's like watching a horror flick when you just need to look away for a while. xoopsx

[ngineer]

What a horrible loss. One thing to get beat. Another to kick, throw, or whatever away...xsmhx All year they have not been the type of team to let a loss like them affect them, so let's hope it doesn't start now.

[93henfan]

Nice perspective from Phil Sheridan:

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/20091018_Phil_Sheridan__Phillies_at_home_and_holdi ng_advantage.html

Go Phils!

[93henfan]

J.A. Happ did not begin the season with the intention of collecting individual awards, but he was deeply honored by one announced today.

“It feels really good to have guys that you play against vote for you,’” Happ said after winning the Sporting News National League Rookie of the Year. The award was determined by a panel of 338 major league players.

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/Happ_named_Sporting_News_NL_Rookie_of_the_Year.htm l

[GannonFan]

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/phillies/Happ_named_Sporting_News_NL_Rookie_of_the_Year.htm l

Which is odd - how could Happ win the ROY when we were told in no uncertain terms that the Braves had the ROY this year? Maybe someone should tell the Sporting News of their error? xlolxxlolxxlolx

[93henfan]

Which is odd - how could Happ win the ROY when we were told in no uncertain terms that the Braves had the ROY this year? Maybe someone should tell the Sporting News of their error? xlolxxlolxxlolx

Because clearly, the players that actually faced Happ know less than the sportwriters who, at best, are watching from the press level, or at worst, have never actually seen him live.

[blukeys]

Hey Phillies fans...is Charlie gonna put Utley - Howard - Ibanez 3-4-5 in the lineup all year? Why not put Werth behind Howard and bat Ibanez 6th?

Hey it looks as if Charlie was listening to Whitey all along. Of course Ibanez was tearing things up early in the year.

Too bad the other Manuel wouldn't listen to Whitey.

[DSUrocks07]

So are you guys rooting for tonight? Yanks or Angels? I actually think that the Phillies match up better against the Yankees IMO. But if they win tonight then they'll have Sabathia for Game 1, and if they lose they'll have to go with CC for Game 7 so they're rotation will be screwed up but if it goes to a Game 7 I can see the Angels pulling it off. Then we'll have to worry about another LA trip.

[93henfan]

So are you guys rooting for tonight? Yanks or Angels? I actually think that the Phillies match up better against the Yankees IMO. But if they win tonight then they'll have Sabathia for Game 1, and if they lose they'll have to go with CC for Game 7 so they're rotation will be screwed up but if it goes to a Game 7 I can see the Angels pulling it off. Then we'll have to worry about another LA trip.

Preferred scenario is Angels to win game 6, Yanks to win game 7 with Sabathia pitching 130 pitches xsmiley_wix.


My prediction for Game 1 is Phils 96-95 over the Yanks: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vheY65Y8Kmc

[bluehenbillk]

I'm pulling for Yankees in 7.

[Ivytalk]

I'm pulling for Yankees in 7.

Me too, although Shane Victorino may be looking forward to batting against CC in game 1!;)

[93henfan]

http://www.thefightins.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/phillydotcomsnark.png

[DSUrocks07]

http://www.thefightins.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/phillydotcomsnark.png

They also seem to know how to deal with a bunt xlolx

[93henfan]

Good read: http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/story/12400370

[UMass922]

Haven't received AGS MLB Awards ballots from any Phillies fans yet . . . xwhistlex

http://anygivensaturday.com/forum/showthread.php?t=64357

[bluehenbillk]

Haven't received AGS MLB Awards ballots from any Phillies fans yet . . . xwhistlex

http://anygivensaturday.com/forum/showthread.php?t=64357

Only one award that fans of the World Champs care about, one that gets us a parade.

[Fear the Bird]

Haven't received AGS MLB Awards ballots from any Phillies fans yet . . . xwhistlex

http://anygivensaturday.com/forum/showthread.php?t=64357

That isn't true - unless you never received my PM xeyebrowx

[UMass922]

That isn't true - unless you never received my PM xeyebrowx

Ah, ok, that's right. I got yours. xthumbsupx

Need some more of your brethren to vote though . . .

[89Hen]

July 30th, before Lee ever took the mound for the Phils....


xnodx xnodx I decided this morning I'm maybe more happy with Lee than Halliday.

[93henfan]

July 30th, before Lee ever took the mound for the Phils....

Yeah, we were all pretty excited after we saw the highway robbery that Ruben Amaro Jr. pulled on the Cleveland GM.

"So, we can have Lee and keep Kyle Drabek?" I can visualize the Phils front office hitting mute on the speaker phone and rolling around on the floor holding their stomachs after they heard that.

[GannonFan]

Yeah, we were all pretty excited after we saw the highway robbery that Ruben Amaro Jr. pulled on the Cleveland GM.

"So, we can have Lee and keep Kyle Drabek?" I can visualize the Phils front office hitting mute on the speaker phone and rolling around on the floor holding their stomachs after they heard that.

Yeah, and only had to give up one prospect who was worth anything and that was a 19 year old pitcher in rookie ball who was already shut down for the year over concerns about his arm - a kid who may or may never make the majors but best case was 4-5 years away from making the show - and to top it off, they just threw in a major-league ready right handed bat in Francisco as well. Just an absolute steal of a trade.

[ngineer]

Yeah, we were all pretty excited after we saw the highway robbery that Ruben Amaro Jr. pulled on the Cleveland GM.

"So, we can have Lee and keep Kyle Drabek?" I can visualize the Phils front office hitting mute on the speaker phone and rolling around on the floor holding their stomachs after they heard that.

Glad it was working!...Reminded me of that commercial on tv..;)

[93henfan]

I just saw on the news where Greg Dobbs was sent home with the flu. xeekx

Wash your hands guys. Wash your hands!

[ngineer]

I just saw on the news where Greg Dobbs was sent home with the flu. xeekx

Wash your hands guys. Wash your hands!

I didn't know the 'new' Yankee Stadium had a chiminey...xrolleyesx:D

[Gil Dobie]

http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/pics/chuck_manuel_autograph.jpg

[ngineer]

http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/pics/chuck_manuel_autograph.jpg

I always thought Chollie was a real card...;):D

[GannonFan]

I don't think we start another one of these threads until it's officially 2010 (or until the Phils lose for the first time in the 2010 season) so I'll keep it here.

Heyman's reporting that the Phils are going hard after the Angels' free agent Chone Figgins as a replacement for Feliz at 3B.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_heyman/11/11/chone.figgins/index.html?eref=sihp

I'd like the pickup if it happened. Switch hitter, plenty of speed, good on-base guy. You could slide him into the lead-off spot, drop Rollins to second, and move Victorino to seventh in the lineup. Plus the guy plays a good 3B as well.

[93henfan]

I don't think we start another one of these threads until it's officially 2010 (or until the Phils lose for the first time in the 2010 season) so I'll keep it here.

Heyman's reporting that the Phils are going hard after the Angels' free agent Chone Figgins as a replacement for Feliz at 3B.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_heyman/11/11/chone.figgins/index.html?eref=sihp

I'd like the pickup if it happened. Switch hitter, plenty of speed, good on-base guy. You could slide him into the lead-off spot, drop Rollins to second, and move Victorino to seventh in the lineup. Plus the guy plays a good 3B as well.

Heck yeah. Take a stab at Figgins and if it doesn't work out, go after Beltre or DeRosa, or bring Feliz back at the sale price as a last resort. Nothing to lose.

[ngineer]

I don't think we start another one of these threads until it's officially 2010 (or until the Phils lose for the first time in the 2010 season) so I'll keep it here.

Heyman's reporting that the Phils are going hard after the Angels' free agent Chone Figgins as a replacement for Feliz at 3B.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/jon_heyman/11/11/chone.figgins/index.html?eref=sihp

I'd like the pickup if it happened. Switch hitter, plenty of speed, good on-base guy. You could slide him into the lead-off spot, drop Rollins to second, and move Victorino to seventh in the lineup. Plus the guy plays a good 3B as well.

I agree if they can nab him it would be an upgrade. Pedro did a nice job, especially on defense, but I think they expected a little more offense. Still, I wouldn't mind having Pedro back if they had no other options.

[93henfan]

I watched Buster Olney on Mike and Mike this morning talking about how free agents should be bargains this winter. The recession has basically wrecked the midwest teams. Cincy and Detroit, in particular, are looking to dump payroll along with the usual suspects in Cleveland and Pittsburgh. The market is being described as a potential firesale this offseason. Just another chapter in the widening of the gap between baseball's haves and have-nots.

[ngineer]

I watched Buster Olney on Mike and Mike this morning talking about how free agents should be bargains this winter. The recession has basically wrecked the midwest teams. Cincy and Detroit, in particular, are looking to dump payroll along with the usual suspects in Cleveland and Pittsburgh. The market is being described as a potential firesale this offseason. Just another chapter in the widening of the gap between baseball's haves and have-nots.

How old is Polanco? I liked him when he was with the Phils before. Putting him at 3B might be nice. Good BA, gets on base. Solid defense. However, Figgins may bring more to the table, but I don't know if the Phils can get him.

[blukeys]

Great speculation and I would love to have Figgins. Jimmie Rollins has shown much more patience at the plate the last couple of years. However A .400 OBP in the leadoff spot would be great. Leaving the Right side open for Rollins could really help him when he hits from the left side. I can see a lot of 1st and 3rd situations with Utley coming to the plate. Victorino getting on base out of the 7th hole would be a real nightmare for any pitcher guaranteeing Carlos of some fast balls to hit.

[GannonFan]

Looks likely to be Polanco - talking about batting him 2nd and moving Victorino to what I would believe would be 7th in the order. Polanco's definitely a better bat than Feliz and we're not losing that much defensively. I like the move, always wished we hadn't gotten rid of Polanco to begin with - this almost corrects that mistake. Plus, with Polanco not being offered arbitration, the Phils don't need to cough up a first round draft pick - even better.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/12/03/phillies.polanco/index.html

[Ivytalk]

Looks likely to be Polanco - talking about batting him 2nd and moving Victorino to what I would believe would be 7th in the order. Polanco's definitely a better bat than Feliz and we're not losing that much defensively. I like the move, always wished we hadn't gotten rid of Polanco to begin with - this almost corrects that mistake. Plus, with Polanco not being offered arbitration, the Phils don't need to cough up a first round draft pick - even better.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/baseball/mlb/12/03/phillies.polanco/index.html

I just worry about Placido's age and the fact that his offensive numbers have dropped for two straight years. That said, he is a good contact hitter. We'll see.xpeacex

[GannonFan]

I just worry about Placido's age and the fact that his offensive numbers have dropped for two straight years. That said, he is a good contact hitter. We'll see.xpeacex

He's not that old - he'll be 34 this year, right? Pedro Feliz was actually 6 months older than Polanco. As for the dropoff, I don't think it's that significant - it only looks worse than it is because 2007 was such a huge year for Polanco - his past two years have been right in line with his career numbers, but they of course look poor compared to his career year in '07.