The Roy Halladay era in Philadelphia has ended in bitterness and recrimination with the publication in this morning's Inquirer of comments by the veteran pitcher he was upset with press criticisms covering a range of issues.
Chief among these, of course, has been his poor performance since returning from shoulder surgery. Running a close second on his list of complaints was open speculation he had returned too soon. And rounding out his annoyance was the usual fallback position of "wronged" athletes in this town: Philadelphia's media corp let alone its fans are just too tough.
The Phillies were unlikely to re-sign the aging pitcher given his troubles of the last two seasons. For his part, Halladay often noted he wanted to pitch for a contender, which the Phils as currently constituted are clearly not.
At least this chapter of the admired pitcher's career is probably over. Will he even make his next scheduled start?
UPDATE
Halladay made his next scheduled start and was unimpressive. For the fourth straight game he hit a batter and walked several. Worse, his velocity remains stuck in the mid to high '80's. If he is going to reinvent himself as more of a finesse pitcher, he can't hit and walk batters at such a high rate.
In the end, the poorest decision by all concerned, the Philllies' alleged brain trust very much included, was to have Halladay come back at all this season.
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Last Refuge
I was out of town the day Charlie Manuel was fired so I am a little late to the "party". Nevertheless, here goes:
Firing managers is usually the last refuge of inept general managers and Ruben Amaro's sudden dismissal of Manuel was a classic case in point.
Manuel wasn't a great strategist, nor was he a adept at moves such as the double switch. He was a players' manager, well-liked by most who passed through the Phillies' clubhouse during his tenure. What he did not deserve was to be dismissed with a month and a half remaining in this, his final contract year. Amaro was responsible for failing to begin the rebuilding process after last season. He could not be held responsible for the rash of injuries to key players, but he failed to fill holes on this squad, especially in the outfield and bullpen, and he signed free agents and resident players to ruinous contracts.
For this, Manuel was fired. It's always easier to fire the manager. Isn't that the baseball axiom?
Firing managers is usually the last refuge of inept general managers and Ruben Amaro's sudden dismissal of Manuel was a classic case in point.
Manuel wasn't a great strategist, nor was he a adept at moves such as the double switch. He was a players' manager, well-liked by most who passed through the Phillies' clubhouse during his tenure. What he did not deserve was to be dismissed with a month and a half remaining in this, his final contract year. Amaro was responsible for failing to begin the rebuilding process after last season. He could not be held responsible for the rash of injuries to key players, but he failed to fill holes on this squad, especially in the outfield and bullpen, and he signed free agents and resident players to ruinous contracts.
For this, Manuel was fired. It's always easier to fire the manager. Isn't that the baseball axiom?
Friday, August 09, 2013
Betting
Don't get me wrong (as sure a sign as any I expect to be misunderstood), who wouldn't want Chase Utley as his team's starting second baseman?
Few if any professional athletes in this city's history have ever been more admired and respected. In this space I have sung his praises, strongly suggesting fans never take him for granted. We watched a dedicated, talented and fiercely competitive Utley lead the Phillies from the wilderness to the Promise Land.
So why am I puzzled the Phillies signed him to a two-year deal worth $27 million with incentives that could extend the pact another three years and $48 million?
Well, Utley hasn't played a full season, or what passes for a full season with a few days off here and there, in several years. The Phillies' alleged brain trust is gambling again. Their track record isn't stellar. For every Cliff Lee there is a Jonathan Papelbon. For every Cole Hamels there is a Ryan Howard.
Second base may be the second or third toughest position, catcher being number one and first base perhaps being number two. First basemen get stepped on periodically. Second baseman get knocked down regularly.
Utley has missed a lot of time due to chronic knee ailments. This year he also went on the Disabled List due to an oblique strain. The day his contract extension was reported, his picture appeared on the front page of the sports section sliding hard into home plate. He only knows one speed: full out.
Utley is still a very productive hitter and an adequate second baseman. At his age he needs time off even were his knees not a problem. He also made it clear he wanted to remain a Phillie. He grew up in this organization, came to maturity in it, and became more or less the face of it, albeit in a quite way. Utley acknowledged when re-signing he'd spoken to other players in his position who'd switched teams late in their careers. "The grass isn't always greener...," he proclaimed. How could you not like a guy who likes you!!??
The contract is a gamble. The Phillies are betting he still has about 125 games a year in him for at least two more years. I wouldn't bet again them...or against Utley. Still, it's a huge bet.
Few if any professional athletes in this city's history have ever been more admired and respected. In this space I have sung his praises, strongly suggesting fans never take him for granted. We watched a dedicated, talented and fiercely competitive Utley lead the Phillies from the wilderness to the Promise Land.
So why am I puzzled the Phillies signed him to a two-year deal worth $27 million with incentives that could extend the pact another three years and $48 million?
Well, Utley hasn't played a full season, or what passes for a full season with a few days off here and there, in several years. The Phillies' alleged brain trust is gambling again. Their track record isn't stellar. For every Cliff Lee there is a Jonathan Papelbon. For every Cole Hamels there is a Ryan Howard.
Second base may be the second or third toughest position, catcher being number one and first base perhaps being number two. First basemen get stepped on periodically. Second baseman get knocked down regularly.
Utley has missed a lot of time due to chronic knee ailments. This year he also went on the Disabled List due to an oblique strain. The day his contract extension was reported, his picture appeared on the front page of the sports section sliding hard into home plate. He only knows one speed: full out.
Utley is still a very productive hitter and an adequate second baseman. At his age he needs time off even were his knees not a problem. He also made it clear he wanted to remain a Phillie. He grew up in this organization, came to maturity in it, and became more or less the face of it, albeit in a quite way. Utley acknowledged when re-signing he'd spoken to other players in his position who'd switched teams late in their careers. "The grass isn't always greener...," he proclaimed. How could you not like a guy who likes you!!??
The contract is a gamble. The Phillies are betting he still has about 125 games a year in him for at least two more years. I wouldn't bet again them...or against Utley. Still, it's a huge bet.
Monday, August 05, 2013
Et Tu, Bastardo?
Very little can surprise me these days, so the news Phillies' reliever Antonio Bastardo received a 50 game suspension for his involvement in the Biogenesis case produced a yawn.
The alleged brain trust of MLB is determined to clean up the game. Good luck, fellas. This latest round of suspensions came about largely if not only because a disgruntled employee or investor (I cannot remember which and I am too lazy to look it up) blew the whistle in the first place. Being jilted, wronged or insulted remain powerful incentives for revenge.
One thing is certain in big-time sport: athletes are going to continue to cheat as long as they develop a walk-on-water syndrome from an early age and as long as huge riches are in the offing. From an early age the ones who show talent are pampered and showered with gifts, both hard and soft. They are told they are special, that they are subject to a different set of rules and standards. They are never told they could be caught; indeed, even if they were warned most of them wouldn't believe it.
Inevitably, some great rich talents are caught in the net like the mighty Lance Armstrong or Alex Rodriguez; and, as we learned again today, so are some poor schmucks like Antonio Bastardo.
The alleged brain trust of MLB is determined to clean up the game. Good luck, fellas. This latest round of suspensions came about largely if not only because a disgruntled employee or investor (I cannot remember which and I am too lazy to look it up) blew the whistle in the first place. Being jilted, wronged or insulted remain powerful incentives for revenge.
One thing is certain in big-time sport: athletes are going to continue to cheat as long as they develop a walk-on-water syndrome from an early age and as long as huge riches are in the offing. From an early age the ones who show talent are pampered and showered with gifts, both hard and soft. They are told they are special, that they are subject to a different set of rules and standards. They are never told they could be caught; indeed, even if they were warned most of them wouldn't believe it.
Inevitably, some great rich talents are caught in the net like the mighty Lance Armstrong or Alex Rodriguez; and, as we learned again today, so are some poor schmucks like Antonio Bastardo.
Friday, August 02, 2013
Thursday, August 01, 2013
Sinking Fast
The Phillies stood pat as the July trade deadline passed, which is to stay they stood upstream without the proverbial paddle.
Was it any wonder?
The Phils had little to trade. Oh, sure, they had a few commodities of widely different values, but each of those came with enough baggage to negate any final transactions. Of these, Cliff Lee and Jonathan Papelbon stand out. Lee is still a fine pitcher, but he's owed a ton of money. It was also notable he developed a stiff neck as the deadline approached and missed two starts. Timing is everything.
Papelbon is the most overpaid free agent closer in baseball history. Not the career saves leader. Not the all time strikeout leader. Not the most respected closer (especially by his own teammates). No, just the most overpaid. He is in decline though still decent. No one wanted to take on his salary or his personality.
Michael Young is a competent journeyman player with a mediocre glove. His type aren't a dime a dozen but they aren't difference makers either.
So, the Phils continue to age and decline.
As the deadline approached a number of articles pointed out Ruben Amaro and the Phils' alleged brain trust had done pretty well in these matters over the years. They had given up a lot of prospects, few of whom have panned out in their new uniforms, and gotten some pretty solid players in return.
That was then.
Papelbon may have angered a lot of fans and teammates when he moaned aloud after the Phils' seventh or eighth straight defeat that he didn't come here "for this", but you have to wonder if Cole Hamels, who signed a long-term deal last year, Cliff Lee, who was happy to return here two years ago and other aging veterans like Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins must be thinking the ship is taking on water fast and there are no life boats or shorelines in sight.
Was it any wonder?
The Phils had little to trade. Oh, sure, they had a few commodities of widely different values, but each of those came with enough baggage to negate any final transactions. Of these, Cliff Lee and Jonathan Papelbon stand out. Lee is still a fine pitcher, but he's owed a ton of money. It was also notable he developed a stiff neck as the deadline approached and missed two starts. Timing is everything.
Papelbon is the most overpaid free agent closer in baseball history. Not the career saves leader. Not the all time strikeout leader. Not the most respected closer (especially by his own teammates). No, just the most overpaid. He is in decline though still decent. No one wanted to take on his salary or his personality.
Michael Young is a competent journeyman player with a mediocre glove. His type aren't a dime a dozen but they aren't difference makers either.
So, the Phils continue to age and decline.
As the deadline approached a number of articles pointed out Ruben Amaro and the Phils' alleged brain trust had done pretty well in these matters over the years. They had given up a lot of prospects, few of whom have panned out in their new uniforms, and gotten some pretty solid players in return.
That was then.
Papelbon may have angered a lot of fans and teammates when he moaned aloud after the Phils' seventh or eighth straight defeat that he didn't come here "for this", but you have to wonder if Cole Hamels, who signed a long-term deal last year, Cliff Lee, who was happy to return here two years ago and other aging veterans like Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins must be thinking the ship is taking on water fast and there are no life boats or shorelines in sight.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Time To Make Some Changes
We no longer need to wait for the Phillies' alleged brain trust to decide if they are buyers or sellers at the looming July trade deadline. The players on the field have made the decision for them.
The Phils burst out of the blocks following the All Star break with a resounding triumph in their first of nine games on a three city road trip. From that point on they found every conceivable way to stumble and bumble into one defeat after another. Mostly lousy pitching. Terrible defense. No hitting. Injuries. A 1-8 record leaving them hopelessly below .500 for the year.
So, whether or not they admit it, the alleged brain trust is looking into a deep chasm that promises to revive those many years of mediocrity that preceded the Golden Years just past.
Managers will be fired. Players will be traded. Some fabulously rich and under-performing players will present a continuous drag on team finances. Oh, and the Phillies, long absent from the international scene, signed a Cuban pitcher for $48 million and scouts are seriously divided on his value. Translation: the alleged brain trust finally takes the plunge and they fork over a boatload of money to a 26-year old defector currently pitching in the Mexican League.
Did we mention that the closer they signed two seasons ago for the ridiculous and ridiculed sum of $52 million says he wants out of here?
And finally, did we mention the GM, who inherited a very good team and decimated its farm system and coffers (seriously though, let's not really feel sorry for ownership) in a desperate attempt to win one more time, should be the first official firing of the post-season?
The Phils burst out of the blocks following the All Star break with a resounding triumph in their first of nine games on a three city road trip. From that point on they found every conceivable way to stumble and bumble into one defeat after another. Mostly lousy pitching. Terrible defense. No hitting. Injuries. A 1-8 record leaving them hopelessly below .500 for the year.
So, whether or not they admit it, the alleged brain trust is looking into a deep chasm that promises to revive those many years of mediocrity that preceded the Golden Years just past.
Managers will be fired. Players will be traded. Some fabulously rich and under-performing players will present a continuous drag on team finances. Oh, and the Phillies, long absent from the international scene, signed a Cuban pitcher for $48 million and scouts are seriously divided on his value. Translation: the alleged brain trust finally takes the plunge and they fork over a boatload of money to a 26-year old defector currently pitching in the Mexican League.
Did we mention that the closer they signed two seasons ago for the ridiculous and ridiculed sum of $52 million says he wants out of here?
And finally, did we mention the GM, who inherited a very good team and decimated its farm system and coffers (seriously though, let's not really feel sorry for ownership) in a desperate attempt to win one more time, should be the first official firing of the post-season?
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
"I am Shocked To Learn There Is Gambling Going On Here!" (Claude Rains in "Casablanca")
Perhaps Ryan Braun should have kept his mouth closed all along. From the Commissioner to the players to the media covering the game, baseball and its minions have always tolerated cheaters...provided they don't protest too much.
How do I know this? Barry Bonds, the fellow who concluded one season late September resembling Olyve Oil and returned for sprint training the following season looking like Popeye. His performance was enhanced and everyone just stood their in awe and belief. At least publicly.
Yes, indeed, just don't protest too much. Mark McGwire and Raphael Palmeiro could have told you all about that, Ryan. Don't wag your finger or hold up your right hand.
Ryan Braun denied he was a cheater for nearly two years before finally capitulating yesterday and saying, yes, he deserved to be suspended for the rest of the 2013 season and post-season. Now the holier-than-thous are all over him. Did you expect anything else? Is Braun the only player to seek an edge from a bottle, syringe or ointment in the last few years? If you believe that, I have a bridge....
How do I know this? Barry Bonds, the fellow who concluded one season late September resembling Olyve Oil and returned for sprint training the following season looking like Popeye. His performance was enhanced and everyone just stood their in awe and belief. At least publicly.
Yes, indeed, just don't protest too much. Mark McGwire and Raphael Palmeiro could have told you all about that, Ryan. Don't wag your finger or hold up your right hand.
Ryan Braun denied he was a cheater for nearly two years before finally capitulating yesterday and saying, yes, he deserved to be suspended for the rest of the 2013 season and post-season. Now the holier-than-thous are all over him. Did you expect anything else? Is Braun the only player to seek an edge from a bottle, syringe or ointment in the last few years? If you believe that, I have a bridge....
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Begin To Rebuild
Much time has passed since my last post. During this hiatus the Phils have lost two important starting position players and crept above .500 into second place in the generally mediocre NL East.
An item on ESPN's web site caught my attention the other day: a listing of the top 50 MLB prospects. Now, we all know these lists and four dollars will buy you a large coffee (or whatever they call them) at Starbucks (if you have high standards about lists and low standards about coffee), but it is worth noting only one Phillies' prospect, pitcher Jesse Biddle, makes the list. The Phils have other promising prospects but the reality is they traded away most of the best ones to try and win it all the last two years.
The Phillies have to begin rebuilding. Any foolish notions of post-season success this year must be abandoned. GM Ruben Amaro and the rest of the Phils' alleged brain trust don't seem so inclined. They think the team can catch the Braves for the NL East crown or at least secure a Wild Card spot.
The Phils have plenty of players on their 25-man roster who would bring good returns. Now is the time to cash in on these players. Some, such as Chase Utley, won't be re-signed here. Others, such as Michael Young, play positions at which the Phils do have good prospects on the way up. Still others like Jonathan Papelbon and Cliff Lee can bring much needed help down the road.
The alternative to selling is to stand pat or, worse, buy at the trade deadline. Doing so will ultimately prolong the Phils' years in the wilderness.
An item on ESPN's web site caught my attention the other day: a listing of the top 50 MLB prospects. Now, we all know these lists and four dollars will buy you a large coffee (or whatever they call them) at Starbucks (if you have high standards about lists and low standards about coffee), but it is worth noting only one Phillies' prospect, pitcher Jesse Biddle, makes the list. The Phils have other promising prospects but the reality is they traded away most of the best ones to try and win it all the last two years.
The Phillies have to begin rebuilding. Any foolish notions of post-season success this year must be abandoned. GM Ruben Amaro and the rest of the Phils' alleged brain trust don't seem so inclined. They think the team can catch the Braves for the NL East crown or at least secure a Wild Card spot.
The Phils have plenty of players on their 25-man roster who would bring good returns. Now is the time to cash in on these players. Some, such as Chase Utley, won't be re-signed here. Others, such as Michael Young, play positions at which the Phils do have good prospects on the way up. Still others like Jonathan Papelbon and Cliff Lee can bring much needed help down the road.
The alternative to selling is to stand pat or, worse, buy at the trade deadline. Doing so will ultimately prolong the Phils' years in the wilderness.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Holier Than Thou
I pondered the question long and hard over the last home stand and before last night's late inning debacle in San Diego: what is the matter with this team? I've mulled the possibilities, considered the sources, analyzed the statistics, dusted off the magic eight ball from my youth. In the end, I've come to these conclusions: they cannot hit much, pitch consistently or catch the ball well. Throw in a front office of dubious ability and you have the 2013 Phillies.
With the July trade deadline looming, it's almost laughable to think the Phillies will be anything other than sellers. If they persist in the absurd belief of their GM they can contend, the Phillies will only accelerate the slide toward bottom feeders that once glorious teams like Baltimore and Pittsburgh suffered through until they stopped trying to right their ships with castoffs, has-beens, never-weres, and free agents long in the tooth.
Yes, fans, we could see decades of mediocrity unless the Phils look in the mirror and conclude they have to start stockpiling for the future. They traded off what talent that had in their farm system to win it all a year ago. One and a half years later they are again a below .500 club with holes everywhere one looks. First base? A hole. Second base? A hole. Shortstop? Soon to be a hole. Third base? See shortstop. Outfield? One decent player. Catcher? Soon to be a hole. Starting Pitching? Swiss cheese on that? Middle Relief? Vacancy signs everywhere. Late Inning Relief? Injured and erratic.
With the July trade deadline looming, it's almost laughable to think the Phillies will be anything other than sellers. If they persist in the absurd belief of their GM they can contend, the Phillies will only accelerate the slide toward bottom feeders that once glorious teams like Baltimore and Pittsburgh suffered through until they stopped trying to right their ships with castoffs, has-beens, never-weres, and free agents long in the tooth.
Yes, fans, we could see decades of mediocrity unless the Phils look in the mirror and conclude they have to start stockpiling for the future. They traded off what talent that had in their farm system to win it all a year ago. One and a half years later they are again a below .500 club with holes everywhere one looks. First base? A hole. Second base? A hole. Shortstop? Soon to be a hole. Third base? See shortstop. Outfield? One decent player. Catcher? Soon to be a hole. Starting Pitching? Swiss cheese on that? Middle Relief? Vacancy signs everywhere. Late Inning Relief? Injured and erratic.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
Win Or Go Home
Let's not beat around the bush: Jonathan Papelbon's act has grown old. His overall stats may be good, but therein lies the limitation of relying on stats. A couple of lousy outings in a row and suddenly the team's momentum, never barreling ahead at full steam anyway, is stopped dead in its tracks. The stare. The histrionics. The delivery. None of Papelbon's wearisome repertoire could save the game.
Update: Papelbon was blaming the Phils' lack of "fundamentals" after the game claiming he was surprised Ryan Howard was playing in when leadoff batter Denard Span opened the ninth inning by beating out an infield hit forcing the closer to cover first base. Sorry, Pap, Howard was told to play in for the speedy Span. He didn't issue the subsequent walk and base hit.
Last night's inexcusable loss to the Nationals typifies the stumbling, bumbling inability of this year's version of the Phillies to play good baseball. Recipients of a stellar performance by starter Kyle Kendrick, the offense's chronic anemia and Papelbon's ineptitude let the Nats stay close behind their own fine starting pitcher, former Phils' farmhand Gio Gonzalez and finally tie the game in their last regulation AB's.
Every time the Phillies creep within .500, they play a game like last night's. Only the mediocrity of the top teams in the NL East keeps them in the race. A look at the rest of the league makes it clear, however, the Phils have to win the Division. No Wild Card is coming out of the NL East this year.
It says here no Division winner is coming out of the Delaware Valley either!
Update: Papelbon was blaming the Phils' lack of "fundamentals" after the game claiming he was surprised Ryan Howard was playing in when leadoff batter Denard Span opened the ninth inning by beating out an infield hit forcing the closer to cover first base. Sorry, Pap, Howard was told to play in for the speedy Span. He didn't issue the subsequent walk and base hit.
Last night's inexcusable loss to the Nationals typifies the stumbling, bumbling inability of this year's version of the Phillies to play good baseball. Recipients of a stellar performance by starter Kyle Kendrick, the offense's chronic anemia and Papelbon's ineptitude let the Nats stay close behind their own fine starting pitcher, former Phils' farmhand Gio Gonzalez and finally tie the game in their last regulation AB's.
Every time the Phillies creep within .500, they play a game like last night's. Only the mediocrity of the top teams in the NL East keeps them in the race. A look at the rest of the league makes it clear, however, the Phils have to win the Division. No Wild Card is coming out of the NL East this year.
It says here no Division winner is coming out of the Delaware Valley either!
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
The Doctors Are In
When the schedule makers sat down in front of June they took pity on the Phillies and penciled them in for a string of series versus teams unlikely to pose much of a challenge. It appears the opponents never got the memo.
The Phils continued to stumble toward terminal mediocrity with another loss to a last-place team. Once again Cole Hamels was on the mound. Until the fourth inning Hamels clung to a one-run lead, but in the bottom of the frame he threw batting practice as the Twins laced one hard-hit ball after another, two of them nearly home runs. It was SOP for Cole: cruising along and then, BINGO!
It was also SOP for the Phils' offense, sputtering along and in the process making world-beaters out of opposing starters whose ERA's were heretofore atrocious. Nothing cures pitching ails quite like a visit from the Philly doctors.
The Phils continued to stumble toward terminal mediocrity with another loss to a last-place team. Once again Cole Hamels was on the mound. Until the fourth inning Hamels clung to a one-run lead, but in the bottom of the frame he threw batting practice as the Twins laced one hard-hit ball after another, two of them nearly home runs. It was SOP for Cole: cruising along and then, BINGO!
It was also SOP for the Phils' offense, sputtering along and in the process making world-beaters out of opposing starters whose ERA's were heretofore atrocious. Nothing cures pitching ails quite like a visit from the Philly doctors.
Wednesday, June 05, 2013
You're Kidding, Right?
Domonic Brown, one of the lone bright lights on a very dull team, is the subject of a very unflattering story by Bob Brookover in this AM's Inky.
The gist of the story is that a lot of baseball people are put off by what they label "unprofessional" behavior by Brown following his home runs. Seems he does too much styling for their taste, takes wide turns around first and crosses the plate with some Samurai-like pose whenever Ryan Howard is there to greet him.
The most cited group of offenders appear to be scouts, a group long in the tooth on average and probably old school in general, Reggie Jackson's histrionics notwithstanding.
Brookover also quotes some opponents including nameless souls on the Miami Marlins' roster. The way things are going in their world, anyone drawing a walk probably is offensive to them.
Frankly, I've been struck by how modest Brown has been during his latest tear. Indeed, he can't be stylin' too much in this fan's mind given how profoundly boring the Phillies are in general. Now, maybe Brown's "antics" are relative to the stoicism of the Chase Utley's of the world. Who knows.
Oh, and who cares???!!!
The gist of the story is that a lot of baseball people are put off by what they label "unprofessional" behavior by Brown following his home runs. Seems he does too much styling for their taste, takes wide turns around first and crosses the plate with some Samurai-like pose whenever Ryan Howard is there to greet him.
The most cited group of offenders appear to be scouts, a group long in the tooth on average and probably old school in general, Reggie Jackson's histrionics notwithstanding.
Brookover also quotes some opponents including nameless souls on the Miami Marlins' roster. The way things are going in their world, anyone drawing a walk probably is offensive to them.
Frankly, I've been struck by how modest Brown has been during his latest tear. Indeed, he can't be stylin' too much in this fan's mind given how profoundly boring the Phillies are in general. Now, maybe Brown's "antics" are relative to the stoicism of the Chase Utley's of the world. Who knows.
Oh, and who cares???!!!
Saturday, June 01, 2013
The Sum Total Of It
With the first day of June upon us the summer season begins in earnest for baseball, the summer game.
It's clear the Phillies are going nowhere this year or in the foreseeable future. Beset by injuries, age and mediocrity at most positions, the Phils Golden Age has ended.
Frankly, even a normal season from Cole Hamels wouldn't have righted this ship, but the harsh reality is that the struggling southpaw's dismal season to date is all that stands between the Phils and .500 baseball.
The only real bright spot has been Domonic Brown, whose white-hot month of May, twelve home runs alone, has propelled him into the limelight.
Jonathan Papelbon has had a good season thus far as has Cliff Lee. Kyle Kendrick has been a serviceable back-of-the rotation starter forced into the middle of the rotation by injuries.
No one else stands out. Three and half players out of 25. That about sums it up.
It's clear the Phillies are going nowhere this year or in the foreseeable future. Beset by injuries, age and mediocrity at most positions, the Phils Golden Age has ended.
Frankly, even a normal season from Cole Hamels wouldn't have righted this ship, but the harsh reality is that the struggling southpaw's dismal season to date is all that stands between the Phils and .500 baseball.
The only real bright spot has been Domonic Brown, whose white-hot month of May, twelve home runs alone, has propelled him into the limelight.
Jonathan Papelbon has had a good season thus far as has Cliff Lee. Kyle Kendrick has been a serviceable back-of-the rotation starter forced into the middle of the rotation by injuries.
No one else stands out. Three and half players out of 25. That about sums it up.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
It's Never Too Early
Advice to anyone beginning to compile a list of Phillies available at the July trade deadline: Start with the players likely to be retained because it is a shorter one to assemble.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Old King Cole
It's customary these days to lament Cole Hamels' lack of support, defensively and especially offensively, and wonder when, if ever, he's going to catch a break.
Frankly, he blew his chance last year when he re-signed with the Phillies. Surely Hamels must have realized he could have signed with plenty of other teams who might field contenders, but instead he re-upped with a Phillies team in clear decline. In his defense, Hamels might have signed here because he liked playing in Philadelphia, liked his teammates and didn't really need another x-million dollars to make him feel superior. So, let's give him some credit.
OK, now that we've done the right thing, how about that 1-8 record? Well, he has a high ERA, too, but when one analyzes the overall scheme it's clear to this observer the further Hamels goes into a tight game without an inkling help is on the way, the finer he pitches, thus opening himself to leaving pitches over the plate (he is among the league leaders in home runs allowed) or suffering through the breakdown of teammates who feel just as tight as he does through much fault of their own.
One day the Phillies are going to score a lot of runs in a Hamels' start and he is going to get the win, but the intervals between such circumstances are not going to contract with this lineup.
* * * * * * * *
Domonic Brown is proving just about everyone wrong about his potential by putting together a pretty decent season thus far. Nearly everyone, yours truly included, was ready to give up on the former phenom, who prior to this season has battled (in no particular order) injuries, lack of consistency and a brutal lack of confidence on the part of management.
Truth be told, Brown is more of a rookie this year than in any prior season because he has been handed the job and kept it. Even his defense has improved with regular playing time. He has been a bright spot in an otherwise fairly miserable and dull season.
Frankly, he blew his chance last year when he re-signed with the Phillies. Surely Hamels must have realized he could have signed with plenty of other teams who might field contenders, but instead he re-upped with a Phillies team in clear decline. In his defense, Hamels might have signed here because he liked playing in Philadelphia, liked his teammates and didn't really need another x-million dollars to make him feel superior. So, let's give him some credit.
OK, now that we've done the right thing, how about that 1-8 record? Well, he has a high ERA, too, but when one analyzes the overall scheme it's clear to this observer the further Hamels goes into a tight game without an inkling help is on the way, the finer he pitches, thus opening himself to leaving pitches over the plate (he is among the league leaders in home runs allowed) or suffering through the breakdown of teammates who feel just as tight as he does through much fault of their own.
One day the Phillies are going to score a lot of runs in a Hamels' start and he is going to get the win, but the intervals between such circumstances are not going to contract with this lineup.
* * * * * * * *
Domonic Brown is proving just about everyone wrong about his potential by putting together a pretty decent season thus far. Nearly everyone, yours truly included, was ready to give up on the former phenom, who prior to this season has battled (in no particular order) injuries, lack of consistency and a brutal lack of confidence on the part of management.
Truth be told, Brown is more of a rookie this year than in any prior season because he has been handed the job and kept it. Even his defense has improved with regular playing time. He has been a bright spot in an otherwise fairly miserable and dull season.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Coulda' Been Worse
Carlos Zambrano? Well, it coulda' been worse; the Phils could have tried and tempt Pedro Martinez to come out of retirement.
Seriously, folks, Carlos Zambrano couldn't convince 31 other clubs he can still pitch so it's hard to imagine what, other than desperation, motivated the Phillies' alleged brain trust.
But back to more important things....
The Phillies have been maddeningly inconsistent for two seasons in a row but on one front they have never wavered: they hide injuries or simply lie. The Roy Halladay saga was basically laid at his feet. Roy never said he was ailing. Right, and I have a bridge for sale.
The Phillies, especially the press-friendly pitching coach Rich Dubee, insisted he was fine.
Last winter there were reports Cole Hamels was experiencing discomfort in either his shoulder, arm or elbow. (I can't recall which and I am not interested in looking it up. The point is the reports were of some discomfort in an area of significance to someone who throws a ball for a living.) So far this season Hamels has been wildly inconsistent. The only area of any regularity has been his propensity to serve up home run balls.
At some point in the next few weeks we may just get word of a "precautionary" MRI or other such test. Meanwhile, Carlos Zambrano will be working himself back into shape, hopefully as a pinch hitter. As Ben Davis put it, "the dude can hit". As a former catcher, Davis is also convinced the dude can no longer pitch.
If all of these things come to pass, Cliff Lee and Kyle Kendrick will head the staff. Now, before you three readers jump down my throat, it's not certain Hamels is injured; he may simply be off his game. But given this team's track record, I wouldn't bet on it.
Seriously, folks, Carlos Zambrano couldn't convince 31 other clubs he can still pitch so it's hard to imagine what, other than desperation, motivated the Phillies' alleged brain trust.
But back to more important things....
The Phillies have been maddeningly inconsistent for two seasons in a row but on one front they have never wavered: they hide injuries or simply lie. The Roy Halladay saga was basically laid at his feet. Roy never said he was ailing. Right, and I have a bridge for sale.
The Phillies, especially the press-friendly pitching coach Rich Dubee, insisted he was fine.
Last winter there were reports Cole Hamels was experiencing discomfort in either his shoulder, arm or elbow. (I can't recall which and I am not interested in looking it up. The point is the reports were of some discomfort in an area of significance to someone who throws a ball for a living.) So far this season Hamels has been wildly inconsistent. The only area of any regularity has been his propensity to serve up home run balls.
At some point in the next few weeks we may just get word of a "precautionary" MRI or other such test. Meanwhile, Carlos Zambrano will be working himself back into shape, hopefully as a pinch hitter. As Ben Davis put it, "the dude can hit". As a former catcher, Davis is also convinced the dude can no longer pitch.
If all of these things come to pass, Cliff Lee and Kyle Kendrick will head the staff. Now, before you three readers jump down my throat, it's not certain Hamels is injured; he may simply be off his game. But given this team's track record, I wouldn't bet on it.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Time In...Again
The mood struck me.
Last night's hero, John Mayberry, is one of my annual crusades and now I am armed with a great example: Domonic Brown.
Brown, a former phenom, has been a disappointment for most of his brief big league career because he hasn't lived up to expectations...nor been healthy. As a consequence, he was yanked in and out of the lineup, sent down to AAA for more seasoning, and generally saw his confidence undermined at every turn.
This season he won a starting job due to a very good Spring and a terrible off-season by his GM, Ruben Amaro. Failing to really address their outfield needs, Amaro handed Brown a starting job by default via his manager, Charlie Manual.
So, Brown started the season knowing he had a job and he has kept his job knowing the Phils had no one to replace him. The results have been a fairly good start for Brown, who is showing power, batting a decent albeit middling .257, and not butchering everything hit his way. In short, he is confident and collar will not get him the hook.
Which brings me to Mayberry. If John Mayberry knew he were going to start every night he would produce the same results, that is, decent hitting, good power and a very good glove. But Mayberry has never been able to take the field without looking over his shoulder.
Confidence is everything in sport...indeed in life. Mayberry hasn't had much because the Phillies have always undermined it. Give him the job, Charlie, and sit back and see what he can do for a stretch.
Last night's hero, John Mayberry, is one of my annual crusades and now I am armed with a great example: Domonic Brown.
Brown, a former phenom, has been a disappointment for most of his brief big league career because he hasn't lived up to expectations...nor been healthy. As a consequence, he was yanked in and out of the lineup, sent down to AAA for more seasoning, and generally saw his confidence undermined at every turn.
This season he won a starting job due to a very good Spring and a terrible off-season by his GM, Ruben Amaro. Failing to really address their outfield needs, Amaro handed Brown a starting job by default via his manager, Charlie Manual.
So, Brown started the season knowing he had a job and he has kept his job knowing the Phils had no one to replace him. The results have been a fairly good start for Brown, who is showing power, batting a decent albeit middling .257, and not butchering everything hit his way. In short, he is confident and collar will not get him the hook.
Which brings me to Mayberry. If John Mayberry knew he were going to start every night he would produce the same results, that is, decent hitting, good power and a very good glove. But Mayberry has never been able to take the field without looking over his shoulder.
Confidence is everything in sport...indeed in life. Mayberry hasn't had much because the Phillies have always undermined it. Give him the job, Charlie, and sit back and see what he can do for a stretch.
Friday, May 10, 2013
Time Out...Again
Here we go again.
The "euphoria" (let's not get too carried away) over the two wins in San Francisco has already evaporated. Another good outing by Cole Hamels was wasted by meek, indeed pathetic, support.
Let's face it, this is at best a .500 team so these swings should be expected.
Speaking of "swings", Jimmy Rollins appears to have left his in Florida.
That's all for now, folks. I'm as bored writing about these guys as I am watching them. I'll be back some day, perhaps soon, when the mood strikes me.
The "euphoria" (let's not get too carried away) over the two wins in San Francisco has already evaporated. Another good outing by Cole Hamels was wasted by meek, indeed pathetic, support.
Let's face it, this is at best a .500 team so these swings should be expected.
Speaking of "swings", Jimmy Rollins appears to have left his in Florida.
That's all for now, folks. I'm as bored writing about these guys as I am watching them. I'll be back some day, perhaps soon, when the mood strikes me.
Wednesday, May 08, 2013
I Give Up
I give up.
Who can figure this team out. Blown out at home by Miami, the Phils fly across the country to face the streaking Giants in their cove by the bay and beat them two straight.
I give up.
Bad news just keeps on comin' and still these guys keep on keepin' on. Roy Halladay is indeed injured. A partial tear of the rotator cuff and a worn labrum and he was still pitching. No wonder he couldn't get much on the ball. I've suffered from similar injuries and had trouble lifting my arm altogether let alone throwing a baseball sixty feet six inches.
I give up.
Just when you think these guys won't ever score a run again they bash a few home runs, play a little small ball, and lo and behold beat Mssrs. Bumgarner and El Freako.
I give up.
Kyle Kendrick is officially the most reliable starter the Phils run out there on a regular basis. A nice guy who has persevered, Kendrick is proof nice guys can finish first...at least for now. Hats off to him. No one is more deserving.
I give up.
Anyone who thought Carlos Ruiz would save the day has forgotten last year's numbers were an aberration. So far, Chooch is struggling to hit his weight...really!
I give up.
Instead of reacting negatively to Cliff Lee's semi-calling out, the Phils have responded by supporting him with some offense for a change. I guess it really isn't a calling-out when someone simply states the obvious.
Who can figure this team out. Blown out at home by Miami, the Phils fly across the country to face the streaking Giants in their cove by the bay and beat them two straight.
I give up.
Bad news just keeps on comin' and still these guys keep on keepin' on. Roy Halladay is indeed injured. A partial tear of the rotator cuff and a worn labrum and he was still pitching. No wonder he couldn't get much on the ball. I've suffered from similar injuries and had trouble lifting my arm altogether let alone throwing a baseball sixty feet six inches.
I give up.
Just when you think these guys won't ever score a run again they bash a few home runs, play a little small ball, and lo and behold beat Mssrs. Bumgarner and El Freako.
I give up.
Kyle Kendrick is officially the most reliable starter the Phils run out there on a regular basis. A nice guy who has persevered, Kendrick is proof nice guys can finish first...at least for now. Hats off to him. No one is more deserving.
I give up.
Anyone who thought Carlos Ruiz would save the day has forgotten last year's numbers were an aberration. So far, Chooch is struggling to hit his weight...really!
I give up.
Instead of reacting negatively to Cliff Lee's semi-calling out, the Phils have responded by supporting him with some offense for a change. I guess it really isn't a calling-out when someone simply states the obvious.
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