Mailbag: Who's on first in 2006?

11/07/2005
Does the [general manager] Pat Gillick factor change the thinking regarding the Ryan Howard-Jim Thome situation? -- Daryl W., Marlboro, N.J.
Here's a story that bears retelling, and feel free to stop reading if you heard it before. The Blue Jays entered the 1990 offseason with two left-handed-hitting first basemen entering their prime.
One was Fred McGriff, a 26-year-old "veteran" basher who Gillick stole from the Yankees in 1982 for Dale Murray and Tom Dodd. The other was John Olerud, a 21-year-old natural hitter who hadn't spent a day in the Minor Leagues. McGriff had batted .300 while clubbing 35 homers in 1990, while Olerud hit .265 with 14 homers over 358 at-bats. Something had to be done, so Gillick rang up San Diego and shipped McGriff and Tony Fernandez for Tony Fernandez and Joe Carter. Problem solved.
Gillick inherits a similar issue in Philadelphia that becomes more complex for two reasons. 1) The Phillies don't have the benefit of a designated hitter and 2) Jim Thome has a difficult, almost untradeable contract and is coming off an injury. Gillick called the situation a good problem, and will set out toward solving it during this week's general managers meetings in Indian Wells, Calif.
The possibilities have been well documented -- trade one of them, play Howard in left, and either move Bobby Abreu to center or trade Abreu or Pat Burrell. One thing is certain: Gillick will figure something out, by the trading deadline at the latest, though that might be the least attractive option.
What is your reaction to Gillick being chosen for the GM position? I would have preferred Gerry Hunsicker, but Gillick is a good choice. -- James M., Willow Grove, Pa.
Team president David Montgomery believed Gillick was the best candidate, but that didn't mean Hunsicker wasn't also an outstanding choice. While both have sterling resumes, Gillick appeared to win out because he believed the organization wasn't in need of wholesale changes. He has a reputation of getting the most from his employees, and I'll give a man with two World Series championships and nine total playoff appearances with three different teams the benefit of the doubt. He deserves it.
Speaking of Todd Pratt and the catching situation in Philly, how seriously are the Phillies exploring a change in that position for 2006? Many people, including myself, are huge Mike Lieberthal fans, but I believe the demanding job has taken its toll on him. -- Kevin B., Fredericksburg, Pa.
Manager Charlie Manuel gave Lieberthal more days off in 2005 then the veteran would've liked, as the skipper tried to keep him fresher. That, coupled with Pratt's capable hitting and outstanding connection with ace Jon Lieber, carved out a situation that looks to continue -- even if the role of Pratt is recast. Lieberthal's backup catcher could start between 50-70 games, depending on who it is. Pratt, who has said he wants to return, and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre receiver Carlos Ruiz, are decent possibilities.
What's going to happen with Michael Bourn, Cole Hamels and Chris Roberson? Are any or all of them Major League-ready? -- Phillies fan
None are expected to make the team out of Spring Training, but it's possible that Hamels and/or Roberson might find their way to the Majors at some point in 2006. If not for two years worth of injuries, Hamels may have already established himself as a part of the Phils' starting rotation, but he'll be ticketed for either Double-A or Triple-A, depending on how he pitches. As for Roberson and Bourne, both could somebody be top-of-the-lineup big league threats. Roberson, a switch-hitter, is further along.
Is there a greater chance of Billy Wagner leaving now that Gillick was hired over Hunsicker? I understand that Wagner was a fan and friend of Hunsicker. -- Eric R., Philadelphia, Pa.
While Wagner knows and respects Hunsicker, the selection of Gillick shouldn't affect negotiations one way or the other. The two sides couldn't reach an agreement during the season, and Wagner wasn't bowled over by either of Philadelphia's two offseason proposals, all but guaranteeing that he'll reach the open market this week. He'll be highly sought after once he gets there, putting the Phillies at a disadvantage simply because they would no longer have exclusive bargaining rights.
With the deep-pocket Mets emerging as a serious player, the Phillies might have a tough time matching salary, so they'll have to convince Wagner that he'll have a better chance of going to the playoffs as a Phillie. Judging by his words, Wagner intends to give Philadelphia every chance to keep him, but also wants to test the waters. In other words, he wants to be like every other free agent.
Why does no one seem to be discussing the center field problem? Kenny Lofton is basically gone and who does that leave? Jason Michaels? -- Steve S., Hainesport, N.J.
Center field is certainly a need, just not a top priority. At this point, Michaels, Shane Victorino and Endy Chavez are the options, and there are clearly pros and cons of each. Michaels would be the most solid across-the-board performer, while Chavez provides the best defense. If Victorino learned as much as his Triple-A stats suggest, he will be a productive platoon player/fourth outfielder. It also can't be assumed at this point that Lofton won't be back, so consider him a possibility as well.
Will Rheal Cormier be a Phillie next season? It was clear from his performance that the end is near, plus they have Aaron Fultz to fill the lefty relief role. Ryan Madson concerns me, too. He looked like a phenom his first year, but was either overworked or suffered from a sophomore jinx. What's his story? -- Steve, Washington
Barring a trade or retirement, Cormier will return for the second year of his contract, and could kick in the vesting option that guarantees a third. His 2005 performance was the worst of his career, and he'll enter the 2006 season a month shy of his 39th birthday, and three years removed from his career season. The veteran battled through back, shoulder and foot injuries in 2005, and lost some movement on his slider. He'll try to adjust to the point where's he's a trusted late-inning member of Manuel's bullpen.
As for Madson, he was exhausted by September, and began leaving his changeup higher than he would like. It wasn't so much the innings as it was the increase in the number of games he logged. Better pitching by Tim Worrell, Terry Adams and Cormier could have reduced his workload and kept him fresher. While the possibility exists of him returning to the starting rotation, the second year of experience can only serve as a benefit.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Howard named NL Rookie of Year

11/07/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Ryan Howard's Major League introduction came in a common way on Sept. 1, 2004: with a called third strike on the inside corner.
Ten days later, the slugging first baseman provided a more accurate preview of his ability, when he exiled a Bartolome Fortunato fastball to the outer reaches of pitcher-friendly Shea Stadium. The pitch soared over the center-field wall and onlookers joked that it hit a passing jet from nearby LaGuardia Airport.
Howard started 2005 in the Minors, but he was summoned twice to replace an injured Jim Thome. His amazing efforts kept the Phillies relevant in the National League Wild Card and earned him the National League Rookie of the Year Award on Monday.
"It's just a great honor," Howard said. "I was happy to make the most of my opportunity. Unfortunately we didn't get to the postseason."
They almost did, and Howard was a big reason why. Half of his 22 homers and 27 of his 63 RBIs came after Aug. 31, when the Phillies were keeping the pressure on the Astros.
"It's outstanding," added manager Charlie Manuel. "He did some unbelievable things for our team out of this six hole [in the lineup]. I don't know where we would have been without him."
Howard shared the day with Oakland closer Huston Street, who was named the American League's top newcomer. The players will formally receive their award in New York City on Jan. 29. Howard is the fourth Phillies player to win the honor, and the first since Scott Rolen in 1997.
"He was a slam dunk," said Phillies special advisor to the general manager John Vukovich. "He shouldn't have had any competition. He played big and he played at the end of the game."
He joins an impressive list of previous NL Rookie of the Year winners, including Albert Pujols (2001), Mike Piazza (1993), Jeff Bagwell (1991), Johnny Bench (1968), Tom Seaver (1967), Willie McCovey (1959), Frank Robinson (1956) and Willie Mays (1951).
Howard, who turns 26 next week, garnered 19 of 32 first-place votes from among ballots cast by two writers in each NL city. He received three second-place votes and one third-place vote for a total of 109 points, based on the 5-3-1 tabulation system.
That easily outdistanced Astros outfielder Willy Taveras, who many thought had the edge because he played a full season for a team that made the playoffs. Taveras captured seven first-place votes and totaled 78 points.
Braves outfielder Jeff Francoeur was a distant third, followed by Colorado's Garrett Atkins and Pittsburgh's Zach Duke.
Overall, Howard batted .288 and drove in 63 runs in 312 at-bats, and the Phillies went 16-6 in games in which he homered, mostly because of the rookie's impeccable timing.
On Aug. 10 -- the day the Phillies learned that Thome had elected to have season-ending elbow surgery -- Howard clubbed a ninth-inning first-pitch grand slam off Yhency Brazoban that reached the blue seats at Dodger Stadium.
"We've heard about those long ones," Jimmy Rollins said after that game. "Now, we're getting a chance to see them on a regular basis."
Howard's other game-winning grand slam came against the Braves, in the top of the 10th inning on Sept. 21. It was his first shot off a lefty, and Manuel joked after the game that he instructed the rookie to hit a home run.
"I didn't tell him that," Manuel said, "but he hit one anyway and that was good. He has no fear about being up in a big spot. He's going to be a special player."
The painful question the Phillies must answer is whether Howard will become that special player in red pinstripes. The slugger who hit more homers than any other rookie this season -- despite not taking over full-time until July -- is still blocked by Thome.
Thome's healthy return is expected. The Phillies will explore trading Thome, but may have a difficult time finding a taker for his expensive contract, not to mention that Thome has a no-trade clause.
"It's a good situation," said general manager Pat Gillick. "There aren't many teams with two players with that kind of power."
Howard has answered the question at least a million times, to the point where's perfected it. He has two answers, one during the season and one during the offseason.
"I'm on vacation right now, trying to relax," he said. "I can't worry about that. That's not my call for what happens next year."
Manuel had a similar response.
"We have two guys that we look at as regular players," Manuel said. "One has a chance to go to the Hall of Fame and has some good years left, and one is a kid who has a chance to play and establish himself in the Major Leagues. His second half showed what his potential is. We haven't decided what we're going to do."
This much is known: There is little question about what Howard can do when given the opportunity.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Phillies broadcasters up for award

11/08/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Broadcasters Harry Kalas and Byrum Saam are already enshrined in the broadcasters' wing of the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., and they might get some company.
Veteran announcer Chris Wheeler and former broadcasters Richie Ashburn and Andy Musser are among the names on the preliminary ballot for the Ford C. Frick Award. The honor recognizes one broadcaster each year who is then enshrined with the immortal voices of the sport.
The award has been presented annually since 1978 for excellence in baseball broadcasting. It is given to an active or retired broadcaster with at least 10 years of continuous Major League broadcast service with a team, network or some combination.
For the second straight year, fans will have a say in who qualifies for the final ballot. The top three vote-getters from among the 182 candidates will be placed on the list of 10 finalists, with a Hall of Fame staff research team selecting the other seven candidates. Fans can vote once daily.
Results will be announced when voting concludes. The fan selections, along with the full ballot of 10 candidates, will be announced on Dec. 5. The Frick electorate includes all living Award winners and six historians appointed by the Hall of Fame.
The voting electorate consists of 20 members, featuring 2005 Ford C. Frick Award winner Jerry Coleman and the other 13 living Frick Award winners: Marty Brennaman, Herb Carneal, Joe Garagiola, Curt Gowdy, Ernie Harwell, Jaime Jarrin, Milo Hamilton, Kalas, Felo Ramirez, Vin Scully, Lon Simmons, Bob Uecker and Bob Wolff. Six historians and veteran media members are also part of the electorate, including Bob Costas (NBC), Barry Horn (Dallas Morning News), Stan Isaacs (formerly of New York Newsday), Ted Patterson (historian), Curt Smith (historian) and Larry Stewart (Los Angeles Times).
Voters are asked to base their selections on the following criteria: longevity; continuity with a club; honors, including national assignments such as the World Series and All-Star Games; and popularity with fans. Paper ballots will be cast by voting members in January and the final results will be announced by the Hall of Fame in February. Each voter will cast ballots for three candidates, and the broadcaster with the most support will be named the winner and be honored next summer at the annual induction ceremony in Cooperstown.
Kalas and Saam were inducted in 2002 and 1990, respectively.
This season marked Wheeler's 29th as a broadcaster, and 35th with the Phillies. He joined the organization in 1971 -- the first year of Veterans Stadium -- as assistant director of publicity and public relations. He was added to the broadcast team in 1977 and has been on the air since.
Along with Kalas, Wheeler has witnessed many of the greatest games in Phillies history. He helped call three no-hitters, as well as a World Series championship in 1980 and NL pennants in 1976-78, 1983 and 1993.
Ashburn, arguably the most popular athlete in Philadelphia sports history, was elected to the Hall of Fame as a player in 1995, by the Veterans Committee. He retired in 1962, and joined the broadcast team of Saam and Bill Campbell, then teamed with Kalas beginning in 1971. His 35-year broadcasting career ended when he passed away on Sept. 9, 1997.
Musser spent all 26 of his seasons with the Phillies from 1976-2001. He replaced Saam in 1976 and formed a trio with Kalas and Ashburn for more than 20 years. Musser missed only two games while with the Phillies because of laryngitis.
Other candidates with Philadelphia broadcasting ties are John Gordon -- who began his career in 1965 with the Spartanburg Phillies -- Tim McCarver (1980-82) and Al Helfer (1958).

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Howard gives kids healthy advice

11/09/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Visiting a middle school during an offseason vacation would be a lot to ask of many professional athletes.
Not Ryan Howard.
The Phillies first baseman, who was recently named the National League Rookie of the Year, was thrilled to spend time talking to about 200 students Wednesday morning at Russell H. Conwell Middle School. Howard, the fourth Phillies player to win the award, talked with students about the importance of living a healthy life and staying active.
The event officially kicked off Coca-Cola's Philadelphia Live It! program, which is a health and fitness initiative designed to help students build healthy lifestyles by encouraging physical activity and eating nutritional food.
Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins participated in a similar event last week in Camden, N.J.
"School has always been very important to my family," Howard said. "I always tell kids how important it is."
When Howard entered the gymnasium, he received a huge round of applause. He then spoke to the kids and answered a number of their questions.
"How much money do you make?" one student asked.
"How much do you make?" Howard responded with a smile.
"Were you always good at baseball?" another student asked.
"No, that's why you work at it," Howard said.
Howard told the students that he works out four or five days per week for six to seven hours per day. He also emphasized the importance of eating properly.
"You have to eat a good breakfast," Howard said. "That's the most important meal of the day."
Howard also played Wiffle Ball with the students and danced alongside Amber Efe, a fitness pro who is renowned for her "Gospel Aerobics." Efe has appeared on Black Entertainment Television and NBC's "Weekend Today." She has also choreographed several Broadway productions.
While Efe was showing the students the value of dancing and staying physically fit, the Phillie Phanatic joined in.
Each student received a Stepometer, which tracks the number of steps a person walks in a given day. Walking 10,000 steps translates into five miles.
"Physical activity is so important," Howard said. "Staying healthy is important for kids."
The Live It! program is being implemented in middle schools throughout the country. The program builds on the success of Coca-Cola's Step With It! program by adding a new focus on tips for healthy food choices based on the elements of the revised U.S. Dietary guidelines.
Principal Ed Hoffman said it was an honor to have Howard meet with the students.
"They're all so excited," Hoffman said. "They were talking about meeting Ryan Howard. This is great."
"This is so good for the kids," added physical education teacher Chris Reid. "It puts a face to who Ryan Howard is."
Howard showed who he is with an outstanding rookie season consisting of a .288 average, 22 home runs and 63 RBIs in 312 at-bats. He became the first Phillies player to win the Rookie of the Year award since Scott Rolen in 1997.
Does Howard expect to be named the everyday first baseman in 2006?
"I don't know," Howard said with a smile.
Howard did say that he has spoken with new general manager Pat Gillick.
"He called me to congratulate me and to introduce himself," Howard said. "It was a very basic conversation."
Philadelphia first baseman Jim Thome called, too.
"Yes, he called to congratulate me," Howard said. "I thought that was very classy."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Gillick on hot seat as hot stove heats up

11/09/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- If Pat Gillick wanted to relax, he would have retired.
With that not an option, Gillick has been working hard as Philadelphia's general manager, meeting with front-office and field staff and spending the past few days in Southern California at the annual GM meetings.
From now through Feb. 16 -- the day pitchers and catchers report to Clearwater, Fla. -- Gillick will stoke the coals of the hot stove season, when rumors and speculation go hand in hand with actual news and trade discussions fill fan message boards and newspaper columns.
This winter's goals for Gillick and his charges are to unclog first base and figure out what to do in center field and the bullpen.
"We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I believe we're close," said Gillick. "We don't need an overhaul. It's a situation where you have to tweak here and there and make adjustments."
The Phillies are hopeful they'll re-sign Billy Wagner -- their top offseason priority -- but they can't ignore the closer's plans to visit New York and Detroit, with others cities likely to be scheduled. The team has contacted the agents for B.J. Ryan, Bob Wickman, Tom Gordon, Bob Howry and Trevor Hoffman, although the first three might be pursued regardless of what Wagner decides.
Center field is also a potential issue. If Kenny Lofton leaves, Jason Michaels, Endy Chavez and Shane Victorino are left to fight for the job. The Phillies have made preliminary contact with Lofton's agent, Casey Close, so there are indications that they're interested in bringing him back.
As for first base, Gillick has a history of handling sticky situations, such as the one he inherits in regard to Jim Thome and Ryan Howard. In the winter of 1990, as the GM of Toronto, Gillick dealt slugger Fred McGriff and Tony Fernandez to the Padres to make room for John Olerud. That deal also netted Roberto Alomar and Joe Carter, whom Phillies fans remember from the 1993 World Series.
Thome is nine years older than McGriff was in 1990 and is coming off an elbow injury that hurt his production and eventually ended his 2005 season. Dealing Thome will rank high on Gillick's list of agenda items, but the level of difficulty in doing so increases because of Thome's complete no-trade clause, not to mention the $45 million remaining on the three years of his contract.
The Phillies would love to put Thome's salary to work elsewhere on the roster and hand first base to Howard, who did a phenomenal job in Thome's stead and on Monday was rewarded for his efforts with the National League Rookie of the Year Award.
"It's a good situation," said Gillick. "There aren't many clubs with two players with that power."
But when he was asked if keeping both could be a good thing, he said, "Probably not."
"We have two guys that we look at as regular players," said manager Charlie Manuel. "One has a chance to go to the Hall of Fame and has some good years left, and one is a kid who has a chance to play and establish himself in the Major Leagues. His second half showed what his potential is. We haven't decided what we're going to do."
Gillick won't give Thome away, and a major return would be required for Howard.
The GM also placed an emphasis on acquiring starting pitching, through free agency or trade.
At this point, Jon Lieber, Brett Myers and Cory Lidle make up the rotation, with Gavin Floyd, Rob Tejeda and possibly Ryan Madson vying for the remaining spots. Madson's potential shift from the bullpen depends on which relief pitchers come in.
It has been reported that the team will also shop Pat Burrell and Bobby Abreu, and fans can expect more speculation over the next few weeks.
"There are no sacred cows or untouchables," said Gillick. "I don't like to use that term, because you don't know what another team will be willing to offer."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Howard praised for stellar rookie year

11/11/2005
In winning the 2005 National League Rookie of the Year Award, Phillies slugger Ryan Howard garnered praise from his peers and management throughout Major League Baseball:
"Having your name associated with such a pioneer and legend in baseball as Jackie Robinson is a very special honor. Ryan is off to a great start and I wish him continued success. Respect and give the game your best every day. Congratulations!" -- Scott Rolen, Cardinals third baseman and 1997 NL Rookie of the Year Award winner while playing with the Phils
"If it wasn't for Ryan, we wouldn't have finished as well as we did. His play was indicative of how his career will be. He worked hard, played hard, and I couldn't be happier for him." -- Billy Wagner
"There is no such thing as making a good pitch to him. Some of the home runs he hit against us were really unbelievable. Our pitchers often said they thought they made a quality pitch only to have him drive the ball. There is no telling how good he can be." -- Willie Randolph, Mets manager
"I thought he did a great job. He definitely deserves the award, and I feel he kept the Phillies in the race the whole time [Jim] Thome was out." -- Larry Bowa, Yankees third-base coach
"There are very few precedents in history for a player to come up from the Minor Leagues as late in the year as Ryan Howard did and still win Rookie of the Year. But this was more than just a case of pure numbers. Not only did this guy have a higher slugging percentage than Richie Sexson or Paul Konerko, he had to step into Jim Thome's gigantic shoes, in the middle of a Wild Card race. But he did more than just fill those shoes. He was practically the team MVP the last two months of the season." -- Jayson Stark, ESPN.com
"He was a slam dunk, in my opinion. He shouldn't have had any competition. He played big and he played at the end of the game." -- John Vukovich, Phillies special assistant to the GM
"I think with the numbers he put up and the year he had, he definitely deserves this honor." -- Bill Dancy, Phillies third-base coach
"It is certainly well deserved. He admirably filled the huge shoes of Jim Thome when he went down with an injury. Ryan is destined for a brilliant and long Major League career." -- Harry Kalas, Phillies Hall of Fame broadcaster

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Phils' Bourn enjoys solid final week

11/11/2005
Outfielder Michael Bourn, the Phillies' lone position player in the Arizona Fall League, went 5-for-18 during the week to finish the season at an even .300. His triple on Monday against the Peoria Saguaros was his fourth, tying him with Phoenix's Stephen Drew for the league lead.
Bourn and four other Phillies prospects wrapped up their 2005 campaigns with the Surprise Scorpions. Here's how the others fared in the season's final week:
RHP Ryan Cameron -- The Minor League veteran tossed 2 2/3 shutout innings on Saturday against Grand Canyon before struggling on Wednesday. He surrendered four runs on four hits while retiring just two batters against the Rafters. He went 1-0 with a 6.89 ERA on the season.
RHP Scott Mathieson -- On Tuesday, Mathieson took the loss in his final start of the year. The 22-year-old right-hander allowed four runs over four innings against Phoenix, as his record dropped to 0-2. His 36 strikeouts led the team and tied for second in the AFL.
RHP Travis Minix -- Minix allowed two runs in his lone inning during the week, as his ERA climbed to 4.30. In 14 2/3 innings, the 28-year-old right-hander allowed 17 hits and three walks while striking out seven.
RHP Brian Sanches -- Sanches allowed three runs in 1 2/3 innings on Wednesday against Mesa, but he got the win when the Solar Sox rallied. He finished his fall campaign with an 0-4 record, two saves and a 5.29 ERA.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Thome or not Thome?

11/14/2005
What about bringing Cole Hamels up to pitch with Gavin Floyd and the other young pitchers in the rotation? -- Matt H., Langhorne, Pa.
Hamels still generates much excitement throughout the organization, but didn't pitch enough in 2005 to warrant serious consideration for the 2006 rotation. He season at Double-A started late because of a broken hand suffered in an off-field altercation, then got worse when his back bothered him just before he was about to be promoted to Triple-A and possibly the Majors.
His situation is more dicey because the back problems are a recurrence of 2004. The lefty saw Dr. Robert Watkins that winter and was diagnosed with a stress reaction. Less severe than a stress fracture, which typically requires surgery, Hamels was treated with rest and anti-inflammatories. The Phillies believe he's healthy, but plan to move slowly. Starting the season at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre will be an accomplishment, let alone Philadelphia.
Be patient. If Hamels gets healthy, he'll be a special pitcher.
Will the Phillies look to upgrade at the catching and third base positions? They need more production from these positions. -- Paul P., Bensalem, Pa.
Like every team this winter, the Phillies have identified several need areas, but catcher and third base don't appear to be at the top of the list. Their biggest issue revolves around keeping closer Billy Wagner, who is available to every team. If he leaves, the Phillies must focus on restocking the bullpen.
The rotation ranks a close second to the bullpen, as they would like to add an experienced starter to go with Jon Lieber, Brett Myers and Cory Lidle. After that, unclogging the first base situation and figuring out center field slide onto new GM Pat Gillick's to-do list. This isn't to say dealing Mike Lieberthal and/or David Bell won't happen -- they could go in a bigger deal -- but the team has more pressing needs.
Would the Phillies consider trading for Javier Vazquez, who recently requested a trade to the East Coast? Maybe trade Thome for Vazquez in some sort of package. Would Thome go to Arizona? -- Scott M., Mount Holly, N.J.
The Phillies were interested in Vazquez during the offseason auction of 2003, when he was dealt to the Yankees, and could still be interested. The question would be, who are the players? Arizona wanted an assortment of young players, such as Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Ryan Madson and Gavin Floyd in a potential swap for Curt Schilling, and may require something similar. One player they wouldn't want is Thome, as they are set at first base with Chad Tracy. Ask the question again if Arizona trades Troy Glaus, as has been speculated, and moves Tracy back to third.
Is there a chance that Thome would agree to be traded back to the American League (Yankees or Red Sox, both of which could afford his salary) to be a DH, maybe in exchange for a starting pitcher? -- Robert J., Surf City, N.J.
Thome appears willing to waive his no-trade clause to go to a contender, so it doesn't appear to be a deterrent in Phillies efforts to deal him. It's also unclear whether he provided a list of teams where he'd be willing to go. The issues regard convincing other teams that he's healthy and agreeing to pick up a portion of his contract.
Could you clarify which Phillies have no-trade clauses? I know Thome has one and Lieberthal is a 10-5 guy, which works just like a no-trade clause, but do either Abreu or Burrell have one? Anyone else? -- Christine H., Mount Laurel, N.J.
Thome, Abreu and Burrell are the Phillies with no-trade clauses. Lieberthal, as you pointed out, is a 10-5 player (10 years in the big leagues and the last five with one team), so he can veto any trade.
With all of the possibilities of Ryan Howard playing outfield, and position switches for Pat Burrell and Bobby Abreu, will Endy Chavez be a Phillie in 2006? -- H. M., Philadelphia
Chavez's situation is tenuous regardless of what happens with the players you mentioned. His play and penchant for appearing lost at times is bothersome, despite his obvious speed and defensive ability. He's currently behind Jason Michaels and Shane Victorino on the depth chart, and could fall further if a free agent is brought in.
Who's the faster baserunner of Abreu, Jimmy Rollins and Chavez? -- Frank G., Egg Harbor Twp., N.J.
Good question. In terms of pure speed, Chavez by a slight margin, though Rollins is by far the smartest baserunner of the trio. Abreu lacks the explosiveness of the first two, but has a quick first step and makes good turns on the bases.
Ryan Howard became the fourth Phillie to win Rookie of the Year, and Scott Rolen was the last in 1997. Who were the other two? -- David W., Newport News, Va.
Dick Allen in 1964 and Jack Sanford in 1957.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Tim McGraw celebrates Tug

11/14/2005
NEW YORK -- The taxis didn't turn into farm equipment, and slow-moving pedestrians weren't mistaken for grazing cattle.
But with the Country Music Awards in town this week, all bets were off.
As cowboy hats and down-home twangs came into style on Broadway, country music superstar Tim McGraw drew an impressive roundup of talent to 36th Street on Monday, celebrating the life of his father, former Major League pitcher Tug McGraw.
The inaugural "Ya Gotta Believe" gala paid homage to the Tug McGraw Foundation, created by the Mets and Phillies pitcher to provide education and funds for brain cancer research.
An always-affable screwball artist both on and off the hill, McGraw lost his battle with brain cancer last Jan. 5. But as a turnout of hundreds on Monday attested, the one-of-a-kind hurler will never be forgotten.
"Everybody's done a great job," said Tim McGraw. "I think we have a lot to be proud about. It's an interesting night. I think Tug would appreciate this."
The relationship between Tug and Tim McGraw has been a subject of interest. In fact, the superstar didn't learn that Tug was his father until he was 11, accidentally discovering the name on a birth certificate.
The two developed a proud father-son relationship, with Tug spending his final days at the singer's home, attended to by Tim and his wife, the singer Faith Hill.
Those events coincided with the recording of a future No. 1 hit for McGraw, "Live Like You Were Dying," which was not written specifically for the hurler but took on added meaning after his passing.
"I've got a lot of great memories of me and my dad," McGraw said. "Probably one of the best was the first time I went with my mother and spent some time with him down in Florida [during Spring Training]. That was when I decided to carry the [McGraw] name."
Jeff McMahon, the keyboardist in McGraw's band Dancehall Doctors, met Tug in 1993. He remembers replicating a stadium organ at any number of concerts when, without warning, Tug would jump on stage and give a spirited recital of "Casey at the Bat."
"He was a clam," McMahon said. "He was fun. A lot of people didn't get to see the tender, soft, caring side of him that we did. It was a pleasure to get to be a part of his life."
McGraw also left his mark on Major League Baseball. With the Mets organization represented by John Franco, Al Leiter, Rusty Staub and COO Jeff Wilpon, and his Phillies ties honored by Bob Boone, John Kruk and Jim Thome, McGraw's memory had good company on Monday.
"He just made everyone feel good," said Franco, who proudly wore McGraw's No. 45, beginning in 1998. "Growing up in New York, Tug McGraw was my hero. You could see how much he enjoyed playing the game and pitching. He was the same way on the field as he was off the field. He made you smile.
"If anyone ever said, 'Tug McGraw is no good,' he'd be looking for a fight. I loved his antics -- pounding his glove, jumping all around. How could you not love a guy like that?"
It was those antics that sometimes got McGraw into trouble, such as on the July 1973 afternoon when the "Ya Gotta Believe" catchphrase was coined.
As Staub remembers it, McGraw forced his teammates to hide their laughing faces in lockers so as to not further embarrass a flustered M. Donald Grant -- then the Mets' chairman of the board, and the giver of the motivational speech that so struck McGraw.
"He was so charged up," Staub said. "He had some lows in his life, but he certainly had some highs. I think the biggest thing about Tug was that he embraced life."
Early in the evening, images of a grinning, goofy McGraw flooded the grand ballroom, with video of him twirling in his Phillies pinstripes, raising his fists in the air.
If Mets fans will remember McGraw for "Ya Gotta Believe" and the pursuit of the 1973 National League pennant, then Phillies fans will surely remember the lefty for the 1980 World Series-ending strikeout of Willie Wilson more than any other event.
"[That] was probably the highlight of Tug's career," Boone said. "Tug, down the stretch, was magnificent. He gave us everything and really starred for us. At the end of the last game, he was completely worn out, but he found it somewhere to get that last pitch past Willie Wilson."
The Phillies gave their thanks all of last year, with McGraw's No. 45 jersey displayed in the home dugout for the season's duration. The gesture struck a chord with Thome, who, coincidentally, lost his mother to lung cancer the day McGraw died.
"It was a short stint, but I have to say I feel very blessed I had the opportunity to meet him and spend some time with him," Thome said. "I feel honored. Tug was a great human being."
On the day in 1993 when McGraw was inducted to the Mets Hall of Fame, he couldn't resist taking a poke at the then-20-year-old catchphrase he'd interjected into baseball lore.
"You gotta believe," he said then, "I never thought I'd have a day like this."
Had he heard the roaring applause at Monday's gala, he might just have repeated himself.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Gillick to visit Wagner this week

11/15/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Before Billy Wagner visits New York for fine dining, entertainment and neighborhood scoping, the Phillies will stop by his alpaca farm in Virginia.
Though it isn't likely, general manager Pat Gillick would love for Wagner to cancel his dinner reservations at Sardi's.
"I don't anticipate that happening," said Bean Stringfellow, Wagner's agent. "I hate to say there's no chance, but the plan is certainly for him to visit New York."
The Phillies' plan is also unchanged, as they continue to woo back their highly-sought-after free agent closer. While it appears to be a two-horse race between New York and Philadelphia, as many as 10 teams have called Stringfellow, with varying degrees of interest.
Philadelphia's genuine interest has shown in a guaranteed three-year offer for what is believed to be $26 million to $28 million, an amount that the Mets will likely top.
Gillick declined to discuss specifics on Philadelphia's offer, but said it would be "fair and generous." He also didn't discuss details of any contingency plans should Wagner leave. The Phillies are believed to have made an offer to at least one free agent on Tuesday, though it was unclear whether it was a pitcher.
New York is expected to offer as much as $30 million over three years, and could add a fourth year. The Mets have made three successful free-agent pitches in the past two offseasons, outbidding the Phillies for Tom Glavine in 2002, and outbidding everybody for Pedro Martinez and Carlos Beltran last winter.
Other teams interested in this winter's premier free-agent closer include the Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox and Tigers.
This will be the second journey to Virginia for the Phillies. Team president David Montgomery and assistant general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. went last month in the days after Ed Wade was dismissed, but this will be Gillick's first trip.
"There is some newness to Philly with Pat as GM," said Stringfellow. "[Wagner's] very interested in going back. They were in it until the final day (of the season). Billy wants to know what the direction of the club is with Pat at the helm and what he's looking to do."
Gillick's said bringing back the 34-year-old Wagner is the team's top priority, and that will be stessed multiple times during Wednesday's meeting. Manager Charlie Manuel and Amaro will also attend.
"I've talked to Billy over the phone, and want to meet him and discuss some of the issues we have," Gillick said. "[Wednesday] is just part of the process."
Assuming Wagner visits the Big Apple, Glavine said the tour can be pretty persuasive, based on his 2002 experience.
"There was a lot of quality-of-life stuff," he said. "I wouldn't be surprised if that's what they'll emphasize with Billy, no matter what kind of setting he's looking for. New York is great for that. Everything is available. You can drive for an hour and get from downtown to really beautiful, natural areas. I guess it's kind of like a college recruiting trip -- with a lot more at stake."
Of equal importance to winning a World Series championship is the comfort of Wagner's family. Wagner, his wife and their three children will relocate, and the kids will attend school.
The Mets will show Wagner the Connecticut suburbs and Westchester County. Though he considers himself a country boy, his family must be happy.
"Every team I talk to is going to know that," Wagner said last week. "My wife and family has to be comfortable and have to be able to enjoy where we're going to be. We're looking long term, and we're taking our time. Before we make any decision, I want my family to be comfortable."
Wagner plans to move to the city where he signs, including Philadelphia, and for that reason is visiting each area of interest. That said, he has no other trips scheduled.
While it may seem like New York is in the lead, don't count out the Phillies.
"He enjoyed playing in Philadelphia," said Stringfellow. "They have a lot of what he's looking for as far as a commitment to winning."
Gillick seconded that notion.
"It's a very good situation for him," Gillick said. "It's a comfortable situation, a competitive situation. There are a lot of plusses that Billy brings to the table, and a lot of plusses that the Phillies bring to the table. We're on the same page with a lot of things."
Gillick understands the process too well, and knows the Phillies must be patient.
"Billy's a very important part of our club, and we have to show him respect," said Gillick. "We'll give him the proper time to consider whatever decision he makes. Hopefully, he'll come back. But if not, we'll move on. I don't like to set deadlines. Sometimes it takes people longer to make a decision."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Katrina can't keep Caballero down

11/16/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- The first thing Putsy Caballero asked about was the picture. Was it still intact? Or was it gone, like so much of his other priceless baseball memorabilia, collected over an eight-year Major League career, which included one special season in 1950 as a reserve infielder for the Phillies' famous Whiz Kids team.
If there was one object gleaned from the destructive force of Hurricane Katrina, which devastated the New Orleans and Gulf Coast areas on Aug. 29, Caballero at least had that -- an autographed picture of that Whiz Kids team. Caballero was one of Katrina's victims.
He was so distraught over the destruction he had witnessed that it took a few days for him to even set foot in his home, which had been under water up to the roof for three weeks. Gone are thousands, possibly tens of thousands of dollars, worth of collectibles. What he does have instead are a lifetime of memories, a loving and caring family surrounding him, and most importantly his life and a glistening positive attitude.
"A guy told me months ago, you have to take it day by day," said Caballero, who played in 46 games for the Whiz Kids. "What I have to look at is that I'm in good health, but all of the stuff I had from baseball is all gone. I had a baseball signed by Babe Ruth, and I'm sorry to see that go. I had a bat signed by Pete Rose and a ball signed by Eddie Mathews.
"I still had my uniform. It was a big woolen uniform, with stockings, and the hat. I tried to save some of that, too."
Caballero had to wear a mask to walk through his home to protect him from inhaling dangerous fumes caused by mold.
"I felt like a surgeon walking through my own house," Caballero said. "It's going to be two or three years to find out whether or not we'll be able to go back home. So what you learn is that you have to take it day by day. If you let it bug you, it's like a nightmare. The house was under water, up til the roof."
Caballero has been living in Louisiana with Audrey Nuss, the youngest of his seven children, while he awaits information from his insurance company. The hurricane took everything Caballero owned, forcing him to seek out aid from the American Red Cross and having to resort to food stamps for the first time in his life.
Until the devastation of the hurricane, Caballero had lived a comfortable life in Lake View, La., living off his baseball pension. He's retired after owning a pest-control business. He catches Braves games on TV, but he still keeps track of his beloved Phillies. Caballero was supposed to come up to Philadelphia for Philadelphia A's Society function, which honors past Phillies and A's, on Oct. 21-22. But because he was forced to piece back together his life, Caballero wasn't able to make it.
"The whole city of New Orleans split up, a lot of them went to Houston, Dallas, up north, but you couldn't get in touch with any of your relatives, you couldn't get in touch with anyone," Caballero said. "It was unbelievable to see the damage done. You have to see this mess the way it is down here. I was going to Philadelphia for the A's Society and the Phillies got in touch with me. I was hoping to be in Philadelphia for the old Athletics."
The Phillies did get Caballero in touch with one of his old Whiz Kid teammates, Hall of Fame pitcher Robin Roberts. Talking briefly with Robby eased some tension.
"It was a catastrophe that is still going on," Caballero said. "All the restaurants were flooded, so there was nowhere to eat. You have people walking around in a daze, it's like a Third World nation right now. It's something you can't explain, like you leave your house to go to work, then come home and you don't have a house to live in. I lost everything."
Except his memories. Those are his to keep.
He used to get queries three to four times a month from fans wanting to purchase his old Phillies uniform, which used to rest under a plastic cover. Caballero's family has managed to salvage the uniform. And Caballero still maintains an effervescent outlook.
"Hey," he said, "the one good thing about this is they can't send you any bills."
On Nov. 5, Caballero's seven children and nine grandchildren gathered together for the first time in a while to celebrated Ralph "Putsy" Caballero's 78th birthday. It was a nice change for Putsy and his wife of 57 years, Clare. For once, their children and grandchildren were playing hosts instead of the other way around.
"We all have each other and we are a very close family," Nuss said. "Just a matter of everyone getting together and we're the kind of family that makes light of bad things. You're sad, but the laughter helps.
"It's been extremely tough for my father. It was amazing that anything came out of that flood. The first couple of times we went back to the house, my dad had a rough time going in. The more you go back, the more you realize you can't do anything about it. My oldest brother Ricky was the first one to get into the home and the first thing my father asked him was to find his picture of the Whiz Kids. We were able to salvage the uniform. The good thing is that when my father talks about his past, he talks about them as if they happened yesterday."
With a smile.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Phillies, Wagner have 'good discussion'

11/16/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- The latest installment in the bid to retain Billy Wagner featured the free agent's first face-to-face meeting with Pat Gillick.
And the Phillies' new general manager quickly realized what has been known for some time.
"I found Billy to be a candid, forthright guy," said Gillick, while driving from Virginia to Philadelphia. "We had a good discussion and exchanged some ideas. I was very impressed by him."
The ideas exchanged during the 2 1/2-hour meeting focused mostly on Gillick stressing Wagner's importance to his team's postseason aspirations. Those were the only details provided about the afternoon spent with Wagner, his wife, Sarah, and agent Bean Stringfellow.
"They made Billy feel as if he is their top priority," Stringfellow said. "They stressed that he was the guy they wanted to lock up before they did anything else, and Billy appreciated hearing that."
The Phillies made no new offer, though Gillick told Stringfellow that the Phillies would be in touch soon, most likely before the weekend. Should things continue to progress, another meeting might be scheduled.
"We'll continue the dialogue over the next few days," Gillick said. "As long as we're talking, there's always a chance. We'll be happy to discuss different issues."
Since a new proposal didn't arrive Wednesday, the Phillies are sticking to a previous proposal that was believed to have been for three guaranteed seasons and $29 million to $31 million, an upgrade from an earlier offer of three years and $24 million. Philadelphia is also thought to have made a two-year proposal in the neighborhood of $21 million.
Whether Gillick's proposal would be higher, lower or the same was unclear. Stringfellow wouldn't cite specifics of any offer, but said he would await word from Philadelphia.
"There's still some work that needs to be done, and there are still a lot of pieces to the puzzle," Stringfellow said. "The timeline will be when it's right."
Wagner's timeline still includes next week's two-day tour of New York City that will include some suburban neighborhoods in eastern Connecticut. He'll likely leave that trip with an offer from the Mets, thought to be Philadelphia's chief rival in the pursuit.
The Mets appear poised to overwhelm Wagner with an offer that could top out at four guaranteed seasons for as much as $43 million, but that is speculation at this point. More likely, the Mets' offer will be at three years and $30 million with a fourth-year option, according to a league source.
One published report said the Mets had already made such an offer. Stringfellow rebuffed that because he said an offer that preceded Wagner's visit was like putting the cart before the horse.
"If Billy and his family aren't comfortable [in New York], it doesn't matter what they offer," Stringfellow said.
Money doesn't appear to be an object for the cash-rich Mets, after shedding Mike Piazza's contract. They would save an additional $5 million if the outfielder swap with San Diego of Mike Cameron for Xavier Nady happens, and they have a new television network.
The Mets also have a recent track record of luring three significant free agents in the past few offseasons, outbidding the Phillies for Tom Glavine in 2002 and outbidding everybody for Pedro Martinez and Carlos Beltran last winter. The Red Sox, Cubs, White Sox and Tigers are also interested in Wagner.
A self-proclaimed "country boy who plays baseball," Wagner doesn't see a problem playing in Philadelphia or New York. He cites his family's comfort as a top factor in his decision. His wife and three children -- two of which would be changing schools -- plan to relocate to the city where he signs, and he has said that he would like the security of knowing where he'll be for at least the next three seasons.
"I'd like to know where I'm going to be for the next three seasons," Wagner said last week. "And every team I talk to is going to know that my family has to be comfortable and enjoy where we're going to be. We're looking long term, and taking our time."
Taking his time might also mean visiting a few other cities, though there are no imminent trips planned. For now, it's New York and then figure out a next step. By then, there will be at least two offers to consider.
While the Phillies are hopeful that Wagner's visit will be nothing more than a two-day jaunt to the big city, Gillick admitted that the Phillies have been preparing a Plan B, a list that likely includes Trevor Hoffman, B.J. Ryan, Tom Gordon, Bob Wickman and Dustin Hermanson.
"In the free-agent market, you can't be surprised," Gillick said. "You always have backup plans. [Wagner and the Phillies] made an agreement that we would stay in touch. I think the ball is in both our courts, really."
It's just Philadelphia's serve.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Phillies announce three-year TV deal

11/21/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Two days after Thanksgiving, the Phillies will begin their season -- on television at least.
In announcing a new three-year deal with WPSG-UPN57 on Monday, the Phillies also announced a new offseason show, "Behind the Pinstripes: A Phillies Magazine." The 30-minute show will premiere Nov. 26 at 1:30 p.m. ET on CBS3 then air again on UPN57 on Dec. 3 at 7:30 p.m.
"It's a way for us to extend the baseball season in the winter months," said Scott Palmer, a veteran broadcaster who will serve as the show's host. "This is our chance to connect with the fans and carry the season on through the winter months."
The premiere episode will feature a profile of National League Rookie of the Year Ryan Howard and a roundtable discussion with general manager Pat Gillick. Also, some players took a tour of the Pentagon during the final weekend of the regular season, and footage from that will be shown.
The show will also provide a preview of "Phanatic Goes Hollywood," a new Phillie Phanatic video that will be released next year.
The show is produced by the Phillies' Emmy Award-winning videographer, Dan Stephenson, manager of video productions for the team.
UPN57 will carry 45 regular-season games over each of the next three years, as ratings this season made an extension a no-brainer. The yearly average household rating for UPN57 rose 16 percent, while the games on Comcast SportsNet increased by 15 percent from the previous season.
All UPN telecasts from Citizens Bank Park will be produced in high definition, and "Phillies Weekly," a half-hour pregame show presented by W.B. Mason, will air before every Sunday afternoon telecast, with Ron Burke as host.
In addition to regular-season games, UPN57 will also televise three Spring Training games.
"We've been a partner with UPN57 for over-the-air telecasts since 1999 and are very pleased that we are extending this relationship," said Phillies vice president of advertising sales Dave Buck.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Mets give Wagner taste of Big Apple

11/22/2005
NEW YORK -- Dinner and a move is what the Mets had in mind for Billy Wagner this week. Wine 'em, dine 'em, sign 'em; the offseason equivalent of "Get 'em on, get 'em over, get 'em in."
It doesn't work that way with free agents, though, especially ones as high-profile, highly regarded and hotly pursued as Wagner.
So as much as the Mets would have preferred to send Wagner home to Virginia with his name on a contract and on the back of a Mets uniform No. 13, they could do little more Tuesday than wish him well and begin waiting for a response to the offer they made -- in excess of $30 million.
Wagner and his wife, Sarah, left New York with the offer, a better idea of what it would be like for Wagner to be a Met and, most likely, a small sense of the identity of the pitcher's next employer. If he had a sense before the offer, he didn't share it at a noon briefing at Shea Stadium. But subsequent to his brief appearance before the lights in the unlikely setting of the former Jets locker room, the Mets did present their offer to him and his agent, Bean Stringfellow.
An offer for three years was a given, an offer for a fourth was thought to be a possibility. Instead, the club structured its offer in a way similar to the contract left-hander Tom Glavine signed three years ago -- with a fourth year attainable through a provision based on the amount of pitching Wagner does.
The Mets didn't show their hand, though general manager Omar Minaya did say he is inclined to be pessimistic in situations that involve luring a player away from his team. He expressed a general willingness "to go the extra mile."
Wagner would prefer to make his decision "yesterday," but he said he won't rush. The Mets would prefer to know "last week," but Minaya said a timetable is neither in place nor implied.
A quick resolution would serve the Mets well either way. If Wagner chooses to accept their offer, they will celebrate and quickly move on to pursue the catcher and run producer they need. If Wagner chooses to re-sign with the Phillies, the Mets will turn immediately toward their alternate free agent choices -- B.J. Ryan, who emerged as an effective closer with the Orioles last season, and/or Trevor Hoffman, who has made his mark with the Padres.
The Mets' offer, a revised offer from the Phillies and the Wagners' impressions of life as a Met and as residents of the greater New York area will determine whether the Mets will, for the second straight year, lure the free agent market's highest-profile figure and whether their bullpen will be among the best in the National League in 2006.
From all appearances and from the Mets' view, the Wagners' visit to the Big Apple went well. Wagner has determined that his wife "was very comfortable" in her temporary surroundings. Sarah Wagner evidently enjoyed her night on Broadway --- she saw "The Phantom of the Opera" on Monday night -- a street mostly unfamiliar to her husband, a self-professed country boy.
Wagner had enjoyed the visit and the house-hunting in the quieter, more rural but also elegant areas surrounding the city that was accomplished after a Greenwich, Conn., lunch Monday with Minaya, his assistant Tony Bernazard, Mets COO Jeff Wilpon, Glavine and the players' wives. Owner Fred Wilpon and manager Willie Randolph joined the boys for a midtown dinner, while the Glavines returned to Georgia and Sarah had a "Phantom" evening.
Wagner reiterated Tuesday he isn't "a city boy" and acknowledged he would have been less receptive to greater New York four or five years ago. "I'm better suited than I was before," he said as if still in transition.
But he also noted that he now has a sense of "the flavor of New York" and, with past-tense phrasing, that each career move has put him "closer and closer to a bigger city," as if he already had bought a New York-area home.
He also said the final decision is a family decision. "And you know," he said, "if the woman's happy, the man's happy, too."
The city, its satellite communities and all they provide proved to be the Mets' ally when they pursued Glavine as a free agent after the 2002 season. And Glavine, a veteran of considerable stature in the game, can be persuasive, too. "I didn't have much to say about it," Glavine said Tuesday. "I think Billy liked what he saw."
The baseball factors Wagner is weighing involve reaching the World Series, gaining 400 saves -- he has 286 -- enhancing his credentials for the Hall of Fame and the dimensions of Shea Stadium, the Mets' home for three more seasons and a pitcher-friendly park.
The few home runs Wagner does allow seldom scrape the back of the outfield fence, he said. But in two years -- his time with Phillies -- Citizen's Bank Park has developed and earned a reputation as Coors Field East. In a division with no overwhelming favorite, a freak home run can have ramifications.
But what does that mean for a 100-mph closer who has struck out 30 percent of the 479 batters he has faced since he left the Astros? No left-handed hitter has hit a home run against him in two seasons -- 82 batters. He has allowed 11 to right-handed hitters.
Wagner mentioned Tuesday that he would be proud to save some of the 25 victories Glavine needs to reach 300. His awareness of Glavine's career victory total encouraged the veteran starter. "You know he's made an effort to familiarize with the Mets," Glavine said. "I don't know if that means anything, but it shows he has interest in us. He's done his homework, and that can't be a bad thing."
The Mets' prospectus is another issue for Wagner, who, by changing teams, could push the Mets ahead of the Phillies in the National League East standings of late November. The Phillies' roster has more established players than the Mets', but the Mets can tip the balance in their favor and possibly put themselves on equal footing with the perennial champion Braves if they acquire Wagner along with the veteran catcher they seek and the run producer they need.
The pool of catchers available to the Mets shrunk by one Monday, when Kenji Johjima, an All-Star in Japan, signed with the Mariners. Bengie Molina (Angels) and Ramon Hernandez (Padres) still are available, and the Mets have met with each.
Their priority remains adding a closer. But a regular catcher affects more innings than any closer, so acquiring the right catcher is vital as well. And as Casey Stengel said, "[If] you don't have a catcher, you get a lot of passed balls."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Phillies well represented in winter ball

11/18/2005
Yoel Hernandez has gotten off to a good start in his quest to secure a spot in the Phillies bullpen, as the right-hander has made winter ball look easy.
Hernandez already has seven saves in 12 appearances for the Zulia Aguilas of the Venezualan Winter League, and a 1.29 ERA in 14 innings through Nov. 16. He's also struck out 13 against just two walks.
It's the type of performance needed for a pitcher hoping to realize his dream of pitching in the Major Leagues. The Phillies should have competition for two available bullpen spots, after Rheal Cormier, Aaron Fultz and the closer. One more spot would be available if Ryan Madson moves to the rotation.
In holding opposing batters to a .235 batting average, Hernandez has shown the type of effectiveness that the Phillies predicted of him. His performance is a continuation of a quick ride that began at Class A Lakewood and ended at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
Spending most of his time with the Red Barons, Hernandez tossed 55 2/3 innings and stuck out 52, while compiling a 3.40 ERA. All of his 53 appearances at three levels came in relief. Hernandez could be following the path taken by Rob Tejeda, who accelerated his ascent to the Majors by opening eyes over the winter.
Hernandez is only one of 14 Phillies toiling in four countries this winter. He is joined on Zulia by third baseman Orlando Guevara, who's gone 1-for-3 with a double over three games.
Winter League regulars Tomas Perez and Endy Chavez are teammates with the Magallanes Navigators, while Danny Sandoval starts for the Occidente Pastora. All three are playing regularly and off to fine starts, with Sandoval's .321 and three homers leading the way.
Perez is batting .269 with one homer, while Chavez is at .273.
Six farmhands are playing in the Dominican Republic, and half are on Gigantes. Hard-throwing Aquilino Lopez is the familiar name here, but he has a 5.40 ERA over 6 1/3 innings. Franklin Perez and Juan Richardson are his teammates.
An intriguing name here is catcher Carlos Ruiz, who has continued his hot second-half hitting at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre with a fine start for Licey. He's hitting. 323 through 31 at-bats, and could wind up as Philadelphia's backup catcher next season.
The Mexican Pacific League also brings some excitement, as Chris Roberson sizzles for the Hermosillo Orange Growers. The switch-hitter, who led Double-A Reading with 172 hits last season, has stayed hot with a .297 batting average and 10 extra-base hits through 101 at-bats. He's also stolen six bases.
Infielder Chris Coste has clubbed four homers for the Obregon Yaquis in the Mexican Pacific League, while batting .260.
In Puerto Rico, prospect Gavin Floyd is looking to regroup from a subpar 2005 season and claim a spot in Philadelphia's starting rotation. The right-hander, who had a 6.16 ERA in 24 appearances at Scranton, has a 7.50 ERA is two starts for Arecibo.
The Phillies will be watching Floyd closely.
"Winter ball is going to be important to him," said assistant general manager Mike Arbuckle. "If he's going to be a realistic candidate for the rotation, he needs to show everyone that he's on a positive track. That's one of the primary reasons we wanted him to go, for his development and to show us that he's ready."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Will Wagner return to Philly?

11/21/2005
What's the Phillies' financial situation? How much money do they have to spend on free agents? -- Vincent T., Philadelphia
While the Phillies don't expect to have a much different payroll than last season's $95 million, it's important to note that roughly $75 million is committed to 11 players, which doesn't allow for much flexibility. Those numbers jump to $86 million for 12 players if Billy Wagner returns for between $10-11 million a year. Inexpensive players, like Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Jason Michaels and Ryan Madson, are invaluable in filling out the roster, but it doesn't look like the Phillies can go much beyond bringing in one free agent. Wagner would be that one.
The equation can change if Philadelphia finds a taker for Jim Thome's contract and that team assumes a good portion of Thome's remaining $44 million in salary. That said, even $2 million in relief can buy them a quality reliever or two. Ditto for Bobby Abreu or Pat Burrell, if Philadelphia goes that route and unloads one of those outfielders.
They're not likely to pursue A.J. Burnett or Matt Morris, and they'll spend their available funds on a closer they hope will be Wagner.
If the Phillies are really interested in keeping Wagner, why would they let him become a free agent since that will only increase his value? Now the Phillies have to compete with the Mets or whomever. Is it known what Wagner is really looking to see in a contract? -- Bob O., Syracuse, N.Y.
While the possibility existed for the Phillies to sign Wagner before the season ended, they couldn't have been sure how much money they would have had available. That, plus Wagner's eventual desire to test the market as the premier closer available, brought the process to where it is.
Without rehashing everything, the Phillies are believed to have offered a three-year deal in the $30 million range, while the Mets could go as high as four years and $42 million, though that can't be believed until it's actually offered. New York more likely will offer three years with an option for a fourth. The Phillies hope to convince Wagner to stay, even after his visit with the Mets. Wagner has said many times that he's in no rush to decide and could also be pursued by teams such as Boston, Chicago, Atlanta and Detroit. Meanwhile, the Phillies are believed to have a backup list topped by B.J. Ryan.
Forget all this Thome trade talk for a second. How healthy is he? -- Roman V., Philadelphia
The most recent update has Thome working out regularly in Clearwater, Fla., and team trainer Jeff Cooper told the Phillies that Thome is in the best shape of his professional career. While that's a good sign, it's still early and Thome hasn't gone through a full Spring Training. A healthy and productive Thome can only help the Phillies on the field in 2006 or make it easier to trade him.
I'm deciding what tickets to buy for next season and want to see Jimmy Rollins break Joe DiMaggio's hitting streak. What game should I get? -- Anthony A., Oreland, Pa.
Barring rainouts or a day off for Rollins, mark down April 26 as the day Rollins would break DiMaggio's streak of hitting in consecutive games. You might want to be safe and get tickets for April 27 as well. After that, you'd be out of luck, since the Phillies head to Pittsburgh.
Are the Phillies interested in Johnny Damon? He's everything they would want in a leadoff hitter and center fielder. -- Mike W., Bethlehem, Pa.
They're not saying if they are. Even if they were, the budget likely won't allow for it.
What is the possibility of trading Abreu and a prospect to the Rockies for their phenom third baseman Ian Stewart? -- Luke R., St. Paul, Minn.
Slim. The Rockies are unlikely to take on a salary like Abreu's right now and seem committed to youth. Not that Abreu is old, but he doesn't fit that criteria. Granted, the Rockies have Garrett Atkins at third, but I think they'll deal with the possibility of having to find a place for Stewart to play.
What is the outlook for Randy Wolf in 2006? Is he going to be available or would it be in his and the team's best interest for him to sit the season out? -- Aaron J., State College, Pa.
While this question was answered in the Oct. 24 mailbag, I've gotten it so many more times that here's the answer again.
Wolf isn't expected to return until late July, at the earliest. The recovery time from Tommy John surgery is typically 12 to 18 months, and Wolf had the procedure on July 1. He'll make every effort to return at some point in 2006, though it's realistic that he won't make a significant contribution.
This year will be a trying time for Wolf. A free agent after the 2006 season, Wolf wants to show the Phillies and other teams that he can still pitch at the Major League level, making him more determined to return. Wolf is expected to start light throwing around Christmas.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Phillies find many ways to give back

11/23/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Whether it's Mike Lieberthal spending Halloween with young cancer patients, Randy Wolf warning kids on the dangers of tobacco or executives serving a holiday meal to the homeless, chances are good that someone with the Phillies is giving back to the community.
Each year, there is no shortage of charitable contributions made by the Phillies, and 2005 was no exception for rewarding endeavors.
"We're proud of what we do because we've been able to help out a lot of people," said Gene Dias, the team's director of community relations.
The pinnacle fundraiser for the team is the annual charity carnival for the fight against ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). This June, the Phillies broke last year's record by raising $634,874, bringing the total amount raised to more than $7.6 million since the club adopted ALS as its primary charity in 1984.
That event is unique because it involves representatives from every aspect of the organization -- players, coaches and front office personnel, with all the proceeds going toward a cure for ALS.
Many other events took place throughout the year, including "An Evening with Jim Thome," an annual fundraiser that has raised more than $1 million for the Children's Hospital of Illinois. Though it's certainly not why he does it, Thome's efforts earned him recognition this year as Major League Baseball's "No. 1 Good Guy," named by The Sporting News.
"Jim Thome's big heart and incredible dedication to his hometown children's hospital is a great example for all professional athletes," said Sporting News senior writer Paul Attner in announcing the award. "His community work is as impressive, if not more so, than his playing ability."
Thome added to that list in 2005 by teaming with Philabundance to create "Home Runs for Hunger." A donation was given for every home run Thome hit, helping provide food to people in the Delaware Valley.
Wolf, Lieberthal, Bobby Abreu, Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins also contributed in various ways, from buying tickets and signing autographs to sponsoring inner-city children through high school and college.
Wolf, a 2003 All-Star, says it's the least he can do. The articulate and outspoken pitcher teamed with the Pennsylvania Department of Health to educate children about the consequences of tobacco.
Wolf asked children to tell him why they would never use tobacco through a contest. More than 800 children created anti-smoking posters, raps and poems as part of the "Give Us Your Best Pitch" contest, and 75 were selected to meet Wolf.
Wolf told the children about his father, a smoker who died from lung cancer, and encouraged children to stay strong against peer pressure to smoke.
"For me, it's been something to never do," he said. "There's no reason to put your body through it. You only get one life, and you try to life it to the fullest. There's no reason to try anything that's going to take years off your life."
When asked later what scene his anti-smoking poster would depict, Wolf grimly answered: "I would probably draw a graveyard, and the tombstones would be cigarettes."
Also sharing personal experiences was closer Billy Wagner, who presented the Department of Human Services with a check for $18,500 to benefit foster children in Philadelphia. The donation was part of the Billy's "K's for Kids" program, which Wagner started in 2004, his first season with the Phillies. He also treated a group of foster children to a reception and a game.
"You can't go through life without struggling," Wagner said. "If you're going to become somebody, you'd better struggle. I grew up most of the time without a lot of the things that you guys know about. Welfare, no mother, a father with a step-mom, going to school without money, no food. I've been there. That's what motivated me, because I didn't want to live like that.
"When I got to be 18 and had a chance to go to college, I took advantage. By no means am I a scholar, but I knew the only way out was to get an education. The good Lord blessed me by allowing me to become a baseball player."
As part of the program, Wagner also donated $100 per strikeout and $200 per save to the Department of Human Services for a total of $1,630. The program has raised about $30,000 in its first two seasons.
Abreu continued his All-Star efforts as well through his "Abreu's Amigos" program, which he started in 2003. He donates $10,000 worth of tickets, concessions, T-shirts and caps to underprivileged youth organizations in the Philadelphia area.
"Bobby meets the groups on the field during batting practice to take pictures and sign autographs," said Dias, "and that's the biggest thrill for the kids."
This year also marked the beginning of Abreu's involvement with the Philadelphia Action Team, a youth volunteer initiative administered by the MLB Players Trust and Volunteers of America. His efforts earned him a nomination for the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award, given to the player whose combination of on-field performance and community contributions most inspires others to a higher level of achievement.
He didn't win, but was recognized, something that is true of all his charitable teammates.
"We realize how hard it is for a lot of people," said Utley, who helps out at the Philadelphia Futures' Sponsor-A-Scholar Program. "We know we're blessed, and it's important to help out."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Leaving home tough for Rowand

11/24/2005
CHICAGO -- He runs into outfield walls with reckless abandon, maybe letting loose a comical "That one hurt" from time to time, but nothing else even close to a complaint in regard to possible pain.
He's the type of player who sacrifices life and limb diving for baseballs in the various gaps, but Aaron Rowand's name was in the lineup almost every day for the White Sox, regardless of nagging injuries. Whether he hit a game-winning home run, as he did in the 10th inning off San Diego closer Trevor Hoffman on June 12, or had the rare misjudgment of a fly ball that took place on Sept. 20 against Cleveland, Rowand always could be found in front of his locker after the game and ready to take on all comers from the media with eloquent and astute responses.
Yet, there was Rowand on Wednesday night, excusing himself from the phone call interrupting his family's dinner on a couple of occasions, growing too emotional to talk about his departure from the White Sox -- a move contingent on both Rowand and the Phillies' Jim Thome passing physicals. For Rowand, this trade was not about leaving a baseball team, even a baseball team currently sitting as the defending World Series champions.
It was about his family leaving its home, both on and off the field.
"This is a tough time for not only me, but my family -- to leave a place that we've grown to know as home and where my heart is," Rowand told MLB.com from Las Vegas on Wednesday night. "I want to say thank you to the fans and the organization and to all of my teammates, most importantly.
"To leave somewhere where you are so happy being is a very tough situation. Ultimately, baseball becomes a business, and this just serves as a friendly reminder."
Rowand might not have posted the gaudiest of numbers on the roster. He didn't have the most power in the lineup or the most speed. But it would be hard to find someone on the team who worked harder than Rowand to make the most of his ability.
That work ethic carried into the offseason, where Rowand awoke at 6 a.m. to begin his extensive training sessions in a city where the bars don't even close until 5. It involved Rowand traveling to the local community college to work on his swing and putting in extra hours with hitting coach Greg Walker during Spring Training and the regular season.
His final 2005 numbers read .270, with 13 home runs, 69 RBIs and 16 stolen bases, not to mention Gold Glove-caliber defense in center that went unrewarded. That effort followed a .310, 24-home run performance in 2004, earning him the first multiyear deal of his career. If an example was needed as to why this White Sox team was so successful beyond its stellar pitching, then Rowand was the grinder prototype on which the model was built.
"I really appreciate the fact that the fans appreciated me -- not just for my numbers but more so for the effort I gave every day," Rowand said. "To be appreciated like that, with the effort you give, and being a part of something as special as last season is deeply rewarding for me."
The fact that a large contingent of White Sox fans were less than thrilled with the potential trade, despite acquiring a tremendous individual such as Thome, who has the potential to hit 40 home runs when healthy, was not lost on Rowand. He termed the fans' reaction "one of the most flattering things I think I could hear."
Taking a positive step toward the future, Rowand spoke of already knowing a number of his future Philadelphia teammates in pitchers Cory Lidle and Randy Wolf as well as Pat Burrell, who will flank Rowand in left, joining Bobby Abreu to form a very solid Phillies outfield. Rowand appreciates the fact that these players can point him in the right direction as far as places to live and explaining the ins and outs of the organization.
Rowand also had a chance to talk with former White Sox teammates such as third baseman Joe Crede, Rowand's closest friend in the organization, and catcher A.J. Pierzynski. The trio was dubbed "The Three Stooges" by Walker, not only for their behavior but for their friendly camaraderie.
There also were calls from Paul Konerko and Frank Thomas, who both could be affected directly by this trade. General manager Ken Williams listed the signing of Konerko as the top priority of the offseason, but barring an unforeseen circumstance, Thomas' 16-year-career in Chicago has apparently come to a close.
So has Rowand's five-year run, in which he conducted himself with nothing but class, dignity and professionalism. The 28-year-old made numerous trips to visit sick children in local hospitals of his own accord, and his last image as part of the White Sox will be signing autographs and posing for pictures on Monday night following the 2005 World Series DVD premier as security attempted to usher him out of the Esquire Theater.
Earlier that night, Rowand spoke of wanting to spend his entire career with the White Sox but that he understood a trade was possible. When he saw Williams' call come in Wednesday afternoon, Rowand understood it was far more than a possibility.
"As soon as I saw it was Kenny, I knew something was up," Rowand said of the phone call. "You can never prepare for it, especially when you have a bond with a lot of the guys on the team and the fans and all that sort of thing. It's very emotional.
"I don't hold any animosity toward the White Sox. If anything, it would be a thank you for the opportunity they gave me to be a part of this organization and to be a part of a world championship.
"To Jerry Reinsdorf, Kenny, Ozzie and all those guys responsible for giving me a shot to be where I'm at now, it's a big thank you," Rowand added. "I have nothing but love for the organization, the city of Chicago, the fans, and of course, my teammates."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Howard becomes full-time first baseman

11/23/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Ryan Howard always had plenty in common with Jim Thome, from his gigantic size and unique batting stance to a strange coincidence that both are twins.
The one troubling similarity for the Phillies was that both played first base, a bad thing for a team in the DH-less National League. Philadelphia simplified that on the day before Thanksgiving, sending Thome to the White Sox for center fielder Aaron Rowand.
Pat Gillick's first trade as Philadelphia's general manager was a doozy and gave the reigning National League Rookie of the Year an early Christmas gift.
"I wouldn't say that," said Howard. "I still have to go out and play, and do well. If not, it won't be a very good trade [for the Phillies]."
It was a necessary trade for the Phillies, who identified center field as one of their need areas heading to the Winter Meetings. Rowand carries a reputation as one of the finest defensive outfielders in the American League, second to Gold Glover Torii Hunter.
It was a necessary trade for Thome, who should thrive again in a midwestern city near his home in Peoria, Ill., assuming he's healthy. He'll leave behind the 89 homers he hit for the Phillies in three seasons and the demanding fans who booed him during a rough, injury-filled 2005 in which he appeared in only 59 games.
It was an especially necessary trade for Howard, who enters Spring Training with a starting job that he earned since taking over full-time for Thome in August and bashing 22 homers in 312 at-bats. The fans took to him almost immediately, as he helped keep the Phillies close through a tense September playoff chase.
"He did some unbelievable things for our team out of this six hole [in the lineup]," said manager Charlie Manuel. "I don't know where we would have been without him."
The Phillies are counting on him doing more unbelievable things.
Howard's attitude was almost as impressive as his power. Though his preference was for an unobstructed path to the big leagues, he remained affable and resisted the temptation to comment publicly. With every game-winning home run he hit came the persistent question regarding what would happen next season.
He has his answer.
"It's a relief because we don't have to hear about it anymore [from the media]," he said. "You have to pay your dues, and I'm still paying them. I'm trying to get to the level where Thome is at, where I can say I had a long, successful career. I have a long way to go. I wish Thome all the luck in the world. I hope he comes back healthy and has another year like he's always had."
Howard plans to enjoy Thanksgiving as the Phillies' starting first baseman. He'll drive his newly washed car to Baton Rouge, La., to spend the holiday with his oldest brother and his family, and attend the LSU football game over the weekend.
After that?
"Back to work to get ready for the season," he said. "I'm not the only person in baseball that had to go through this situation. I tried to keep it positive and hoped everything takes care of itself."

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Phils to get Rowand for Thome

11/23/2005
PHILADELPHIA -- Jim Thome is heading to Illinois for Thanksgiving, and staying there.
Phillies general manager Pat Gillick confirmed Wednesday that the Phillies have agreed to a deal that sends Thome to the White Sox for center fielder Aaron Rowand and two top prospects, returning the prolific home run hitter to his home state. Philadelphia also acquired left-handed pitcher Giovanni Gonzalez and another pitcher, believed to be southpaw Daniel Haigwood.
The White Sox will pay slightly more than half the remaining $46 million on Thome's contract, or $24 million. Thome waived his no-trade clause to join the White Sox, and is expected to have a physical on Friday in Chicago.
"We have a tentative situation with the White Sox only on both players passing physicals," said Gillick, still hard at work late Wednesday afternoon. "We were talking to a lot of different clubs about different things. This was one that came about in the past couple of days."
Thome grew up in Peoria, Ill. His family still lives in the area, and he is often found at his nearby hunting lodge during the offseason. He left his beloved Cleveland after 12 seasons, when he signed a six-year, $85 million contract with the Phillies in Dec. 3, 2002.
At the time, the signing represented a major coup for the Phillies, who were spending expected revenue from Citizens Bank Park. Thome clubbed a NL-Leading 47 homers that season and drove in a career high 131 RBIs, then followed that with a 42-homer campaign in 2004.
Injuries to his back and right elbow led to his worst professional season in 2005. He batted .207 with seven homers in 59 games, his fewest since the 1994 season.
He spent two weeks on the disabled list in May, then returned there for good on July 1, eventually having season-ending surgery on his elbow. During that time, Ryan Howard shed his prospect label on his way to winning the National League Rookie of the Year.
Though his resume includes 430 home runs, the 35-year-old Thome had played his final game for the Phillies.
"When I leave the game of baseball someday, I want people to recognize that I always put my teams first," Thome told The Philadelphia Inquirer on Wednesday night. "That's what I love about the game - being part of the team. I see in Ryan Howard what someone saw in me when I broke into the big leagues. And now it's time for both of us to seize the opportunity ahead of us. It's a win-win situation.
"I really enjoyed my time in Philadelphia, and I want to thank my teammates and the fans for a heck of a ride."
With Howard staying put, trading Thome became the likely scenario for Gillick, who while with Toronto traded Fred McGriff to make room for John Olerud. In his first trade as Phillies' GM, Gillick wasted little time in finding a match with the defending world champions. Even if free agent Paul Konerko returns, Thome would be used as a designated hitter.
"Howard and Thome gave us some excess at one position," Gillick said. "It would have been great if we would have been in the American League with the DH."
Rowand's defense has to be viewed as a major improvement -- he committed just three errors -- and his right-handed bat helps offset a largely left-handed lineup. The 28-year-old batted .270 with 13 homers and 69 RBIs in 157 games, and stole 16 bases. He established himself as a starter in 2004, when he hit .310 with 24 homers.
"We've had interest in a number of players, and Rowand has always been a guy who (director of Major League scouting Gordon Lakey) thought would be a good Phillie," Gillick said. "Rowand gives us a right-handed hitter. In this park, he'll hit 15 to 20 home runs. We were overloaded left-handed and gives us a good defensive center fielder. He's a hard-nosed player who's played on a championship team."
Rowand earned $2 million in 2005, and will receive $3.25 million next year, with a club option in 2007 for $5 million. He has a player option of $3.25 million for 2007.
Rowand, a very popular player and clubhouse leader, was understandably surprised to leave the White Sox.
"I'm still in shock right now," he said. "There have been rumors all throughout my career whether I'd be gone, but it's a shock. It's the first time I've been traded and I've been with the White Sox for my entire career. They're the ones who drafted me and my heart is in Chicago right now. It's just something you have to deal with as far as being in a profession where there is business involved."
The trade creates much needed flexibility for a Phillies' payroll that is expected to be around $95 million in 2006. Thome was to earn $15 million next season, which included the final $2.5 million of a $10 million signing bonus. He'll make $14 million in 2007 and 2008, and $13 million if his 2009 option vests. If not, he'd make $3 million that season.
With the White Sox paying more than half of what's left -- the Phillies had nearly $78 million committed to 11 players -- Gillick has some extra freedom.
"We have more flexibility if this thing is brought through, but we would probably need more," he said. "We'll explore everything, but if we think something will improve our club, we'll move on it."
The Phillies are still trying to re-sign closer Billy Wagner, and could be pursuing a free-agent starter. It has been speculated that they couldn't afford Wagner without moving some salary. Dealing Thome enhances the Phillies' ability to improve in those areas, and still afford Wagner.
The Mets are Philadelphia's chief competition for Wagner, and have offered a three-year, $30.25 million contract with a $10 million option for a fourth season. Gillick said he spoke to Wagner's agent, Bean Stringfellow, on Wednesday, and made an "adjustment" to Philadelphia's previous offer.
The previous offer was believed to have been for three years and $29 million. Gillick wouldn't elaborate on what adjustment had been made, but said he planned to talk to Wagner next week.
"We're still optimistic," said Gillick.

Source: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/

Hindsight & Highlights: The Second Half

November 07, 2005
Highlights of the second half of the 2005 baseball season through the eyes of Balls, Sticks, & Stuff's readers and myself. You can read the first half here. [Feel free to play Green Day's "Time of Your Life" or 10,000 Maniacs "These Are the Days" in the background.]
- Hindsight is 20/20, but the Phillies would be in better shape now had they been more creative in order to get some deals done at the trading deadline.- Knockin' down a beer or two with another Philly sports phan, Rhea Hughes.- Banning my readers from using a cell phone and waving to people while on TV.- The Phillies were in such a gray area at the trading deadline that it caused me to waffle a little bit.- The transcript of a telephone conversation and the GM of another team.- The Repressively Coping Chase Utley.- Eventually, the Phillies season made me turn green and queasy.- While simul-live-blogging the Battle and the Bridges and a Phillies/Astros contest in Houston, I reach the conclusion that John Daly looks more withchild than Jeannie Zelasko.- Imploring the Phils to trade Wagner.- What was up with Ryan Madson?- Robinson Tejeda chased cars [but in no way do I mean he was a dog...he stepped up big for the Phils when Randy Wolf went down].- While there were few deals at the trading deadline, the Braves managed to solidify their team enough for another NL East title.- Rafael Palmeiro tests postive for steroids.- "Waving the White Flag", one of the season's better posts if I do say so myself. At that point, I couldn't take anymore.- And then, the very next night, Jimmy Rollins reminds us why we can never throw in the towel on our team by stealing home and the game.- Foo Kin Cooperstown.- Are the Phillies too passive at the plate?- Were David Bell and Mike Lieberthal just unlucky all year?- Is Shane "The Hawaiian Punch" Victorino the Phillies centerfielder for '06?- The Phillies climbed back into the Wild Card hunt, but no one cared.- Remember when Chase Utley flattened Preston Wilson?- Though the bullpen was beginning to wear, the Phils gained the lead in the Wild Card.- Rocket Science and Jeff Franc(aeiou)r.- The key to Vicente Padilla: don't let anyone get on base.- Cheeseteaks in Paradise: Jimmy Buffett at Citizens Bank Park.- How much did losing Jim Thome hurt the Phillies?- For the 9,834th time, the wheels began to come off the Phillies season.- If Jimmy Rollins had stepped on first, would the Phillies have made the playoffs? I couldn't say his name for weeks after this.- If David Bell had cleanly fielded the ball in the final game against the Astros, would the Phillies have made the playoffs? I was really worried about Harry the K after this loss.- Open mouth, insert foot.- The Phils drop ten on the Marlins in the ninth for a W.- After an appearance by Rheal Cormier, I felt that the only thing that could save the Phillies was MacGyver.- The case for Ryan Howard over Jeff Franc(aeiou)r for Rookie of the Year.- Shane Victorino's turn to be a hero.- As I read over these posts, it just amazes me how the Phillies refused to die and how much fun the 2005 baseball season was.- MacGyver's not available? How about Davey Crockett and William Barrett Travis?- Foul language.- This reminds me, what happened to Frank Wren?- Phinally, the end. To me, this paragraph still resonates, even several weeks later:
There were stretches of this Phillies season that made us scream, sometimes in positive tones and sometimes in negative tones. There were times that made us shake our heads in disbelief, sometimes in a dejected way and sometimes in an incredulously elated way. Fist pumps and punched sofa cushions, it was quite a roller coaster year. I'll miss it.
I sure do.

Source: http://www.ballssticksstuff.com/

Howard And Street Named Top Rookies

November 7, 2005
New York, NY -- Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard has been named the National League Rookie of the Year. Athletics closer Huston Street was honored in the American League, becoming the second straight Oakland player to win the award.
Howard played in only 88 games in 2005, but took over the starting first base job for the Phillies when Jim Thome went on the disabled list with right elbow tendinitis. Howard, who turns 26 November 19, led all first-year players with 22 homers and hit .288 with 63 RBI.
"You never want to see anybody hurt or injured, but I just came up and tried to make the most of my opportunity," Howard said. "Unfortunately we weren't able to make it to the postseason."
Howard placed first on 19 of 32 ballots cast by two writers in each league city in voting from members of the Baseball Writers' Association of America. Howard, who had 11 homers and 27 RBI after August, finished with a total of 109 points to easily outdistance Houston Astros outfielder Willy Taveras, who had seven first-place tallies and 78 points.
Atlanta outfielder Jeff Francoeur came in third with two first-place votes and 60 points.
The 22-year-old Street emerged as the closer for the A's when Octavio Dotel went down in May with an injury and was listed first on 15 of 28 ballots to finish with a total of 97 points. That was well ahead of New York Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano, who had four first-place votes and 57 points. Tampa Bay outfielder Jonny Gomes was third with two first-place tallies and 39 points.
Street compiled a 5-1 record with a 1.72 ERA and 23 saves in 67 games. The righty had 72 strikeouts in 78 1/3 innings. Opponents batted .194 against Street, whose ERA was second only to the New York Yankees' Mariano Rivera (1.38) among AL closers.
"It's a tremendous honor," Street said. "Coming into this season, my goal was to stay one day at a time. Coming out of spring training, it didn't even look like I was going to have a chance to make the team."
A strong finish to the year helped Street to the award, as he converted all 18 of his save opportunities in 29 outings after the All-Star break. His streak of 18 consecutive saves is the longest by an A's pitcher since Dennis Eckersley also converted 18 in a row in 1995.
The 23 saves by Street is an Oakland rookie record, topping the mark of 12 set by Rollie Fingers in 1969.
Street is the seventh Athletics player honored, and the second consecutively, following shortstop Bobby Crosby. Other A's winners were Philadelphia's Harry Byrd (1952) and Oakland's Jose Canseco (1986), Ma