Michaels, Phillies avoid arbitration

01/17/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- The Phillies agreed to a one-year, $1.5 million contract on Monday with reserve outfielder Jason Michaels.
Michaels, who was Philadelphia's last remaining arbitration-eligible player, received a significant raise from the $825,000 he earned a year ago.
Last week, the club avoided arbitration with Brett Myers by inking the right-hander to a one-year, $3.3 million pact. In December, the Phillies and Aaron Fultz bypassed the process also by coming to terms on a one-year, $1.2 million deal.
If the Phillies and Michaels hadn't reached a deal by noon ET on Tuesday, the two sides would have exchanged salary figures and an arbitration hearing would have have taken place between Feb. 1 and Feb. 20 if the two sides still had not agreed on a deal.
Michaels hit .304 with four home runs and 31 RBIs in 289 at-bats while scoring a career-high 54 runs last season.
Michaels, who is expected to be the team's fourth outfielder this season, can also earn $25,000 each in bonuses for reaching 375 and 450 plate appearances.
"We believe Jason can be a key player off the bench and someone who can step in and start from time to time," Phillies general manager Pat Gillick said recently. "We feel confident he'll be able to help us a lot this season."

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

Around the Horn: Catcher

01/18/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- The Mike Lieberthal era enters its 10th and possibly final season in 2006, as the veteran backstop continues his long run of Opening Day starts. No catcher in the Major Leagues has started more season openers for the same team than Lieberthal.
His annual presence in the lineup has become as automatic in this city as the New Year's Day Mummer's Parade, and the list of pitchers he's caught to open a campaign starts with Curt Schilling (1997-99) and ends with Jon Lieber (2005). Between are Andy Ashby (2000), Omar Daal (2001), Robert Person (2002) and Kevin Millwood (2003-04).
The 34-year-old has caught 1,107 games for four different managers and is Philadelphia's longest-tenured professional athlete. Through those years, Lieberthal has become the embodiment of everything that is good and bad with the Phillies. The two-time All-Star arrived the year after the magical 1993 season, but he hasn't seen the postseason himself. He's put up some impressive individual seasons, but his three-year struggle with runners in scoring position has made him a target for fans.
At 34, Lieberthal is starting to show wear. Though he avoided the disabled list last season, he totaled his fewest games (118) and at-bats (392) since 2001 -- when he tore up his knee diving back to first base on a pickoff attempt. The reduced production led to increased playing time for Todd Pratt, and Lieberthal was often removed for a pinch-hitter in late-game situations.
Batting mostly eighth, the catcher's average dipped to .263 and his home run production slipped to 12. Lieberthal had his right knee drained once last season, and he tended to receive one extra day off a week.
That won't change his status as the Opening Day catcher for 2006. Terry Francona wrote his name in the starting lineup from 1997-2000, and Larry Bowa did it from 2001-04. Current manager Charlie Manuel did it last season and will again on April 3 against the Cardinals, when he'll likely catch Lieber.
Most of Lieberthal's extra days off conveniently came as a way to pair Lieber and Pratt, a duo Manuel preferred. Still, the Phillies' desire for a backup capable of playing 55-75 games brought them to journeyman Sal Fasano, who rejoined the Major League ranks last season for the first time since 2002.
Fasano, 34, found his way into 64 games for the Orioles in 2005 and clubbed 11 homers. He'll likely play two days a week with the Phillies. A righty swinger, he'll fill the same role as Pratt.
The Phillies felt Fasano was better equipped than the 39-year-old Pratt, who left after a second tour of duty in Philadelphia that spanned 4 1/2 seasons and now backs up Brian McCann in Atlanta.
If Lieberthal or Fasano should falter, Carlos Ruiz is a phone call away. Ruiz had his best professional season with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, batting .300 in 100 games. His arm is Major League ready. His time may come in 2007, when the Phillies might be searching for a new Opening Day catcher.
That won't change the 10th consecutive Opening Day assignment for Lieberthal, who's also caught the likes of Fernando Valenzuela, Shawn Boskie, Sid Fernandez, Chad Ogea, Scott Ruffcorn, Heathcliff Slocumb and current broadcaster Larry Andersen.
"I've been around for a while," Lieberthal said when he reached the 1,000-game plateau in 2005. "I guess it's an accomplishment, especially as a catcher. I know I've put my body through a lot. When you get to 1,000, you feel it in your knees a little bit."
While 2006 might be Lieberthal's final season in Philadelphia, it most likely won't be his final season in the big leagues.
"I can't see retiring at 35. I don't know what I would do with myself," Lieberthal said. "As long as I'm producing, I'll keep playing."

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

Myers hopes to build off momentum

01/20/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- No matter the circumstances, Brett Myers is always nervous before every start. The trick, he says, is to not let the nerves control him.
"I think I did a much better job of that last year in calming down in the first inning as opposed to the year before that," Myers said this week during the 2006 Phillies Winter Tour. "I have to maintain my composure in that first inning and know that I have good stuff. I felt like I was able to relax a whole lot more this past season."
Myers was 13-8 with a 3.72 ERA in 34 starts, tossing two complete games. He had a career-high 208 strikeouts, which also tied for the third most in the National League.
Myers' ERA also fell from 5.77 to 4.21 at Citizens Bank Park, where 201 home runs sailed over the fence, the fifth-highest total in the Major Leagues. Over the past two seasons, Myers allowed 33 home runs at home.
When the Phillies decided in December to move the left-field fence back five feet and raise it by 30 inches, Myers had to be happy, right?
"Truthfully, I haven't even seen it yet," Myers said. "I don't want to think about it. I think two years ago, I thought about the ballpark too much and left too many pitches out and over the plate. I didn't just go out there and pitch. I thought too much, and it kind of messed with my mind a little. I changed my focus last season and didn't think about it.
"I just went out and pitched, and the results were there. I'm going to do the same thing this season and just go out and pitch and not worry about dimensions or anything like that."
Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said Myers was a completely different pitcher in 2005.
"Brett is so full of energy, and we've talked about how to handle that energy," Manuel said. "He did a great job last season. He kept us in almost every ballgame with a chance to win. That's what you want out of your starters. I think he's going to have a great year. He's focused in on what he needs to do."
Myers, who was just added to Team USA's provisional roster for the World Baseball Classic, recently avoided arbitration and agreed to a one-year, $3.3 million contract plus award bonuses for this season.
"I'm excited about what Brett can bring to our ballclub," said general manager Pat Gillick. "He has great stuff, and we expect him to have an excellent season. Certainly, he's a guy we would like to have around here for a long time. Pitchers are important to keep, especially good young pitchers."
It's important for good young pitchers to stay in shape in the offseason. Myers conceded that after his rookie season, he didn't do the best job of managing his diet.
"I ate too much food like pizza and stuff like that," Myers said. "I have to eat right and stay on my conditioning because baseball is a year-round sport now. I had great results on the field last year. I saw results from my conditioning."
The condition of the Phillies' pitching staff is still a concern to Gillick, who believes the team needs another starter or two. As far as Myers in concerned, the team can't worry about who isn't there.
"We won 88 games last season, and we have virtually the same team," Myers said. "We have good players at every position. Every team in baseball needs more pitching. That's not a surprise. We have a very good starting staff here with myself, Cory Lidle, Jon Lieber and everyone. I'm confident in this group and in this team.
"Another pitcher or two would be great. We'll take it. We have to maintain our concentration on the field with who's here. I'm going to do my best to help us win games."

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

Gillick working hard to improve Phils

01/23/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Phillies fans can say that general manager Pat Gillick hasn't done enough yet to make this team a World Series contender.
What the fans can't say is that Gillick isn't being honest about the present state of the franchise.
"This is a work in progress, and I understand why people might be frustrated," Gillick said recently during the Phillies Winter Tour at Citizens Bank Park. "I'm on the phone constantly trying to improve and upgrade this team. We've done some things so far, like add Abraham Nunez, Ryan Franklin and Aaron Rowand, to name a few. We'll continue to be as proactive as possible before the season.
"Is this a team that can win the division and the World Series right now? I would probably say no. We're going to keep working at it every day."
Gillick's main priority is landing a top starting pitcher.
"I like the pitchers we have in Jon Lieber and Brett Myers, but I think we still need a real power type of pitcher who can stop the bleeding or stop a losing streak," Gillick said. "Is there someone out there? Sure, there are pitchers out there, but it's about what you need to give up to get. I'm talking to clubs all the time and evaluating this every day."
Those evaluations may have led to veteran reliever Arthur Rhodes, who is reportedly on his way to Philadelphia for outfielder Jason Michaels. Such a swap is said to be contingent on Cleveland and Boston completing a deal that would send Indians outfielder Coco Crisp to the Red Sox for reliever Guillermo Mota and infielder Andy Marte. Rhodes, 36, would likely become Philadelphia's primary setup man for closer Tom Gordon, and guarantee Ryan Madson's shift to the starting rotation.
Gillick was adamant about the dimensions of the ballpark not being an issue in bringing star pitchers to Philadelphia. The left-field fence is currently being moved back five feet and raised 30 feet, among other changes.
"No, I don't think it's a problem at all," Gillick said. "A lot of ballparks these days see home runs fly out of them. I don't think the ballpark will be a problem in luring players here. If anything, I've heard a lot of comments about what a beautiful ballpark it is."
Phillies manager Charlie Manuel would be thrilled to enter the 2006 season with more pitching, more hitting and more depth. Manuel and Gillick have had several long talks about how to make the team more competitive.
"I know Pat is doing everything he can," Manuel said. "Sure, we can always use more. What team can't use more? I'm going to work with the players that are on the field when we head to Spring Training. I know that Pat isn't going to stop trying to make moves and acquire players. I'm going to take it day by day. We won 88 games last year and we've already made some moves."
Gillick said he's pretty happy with the starting lineup as Opening Day inches closer.
"Happy, but not necessarily satisfied," Gillick said. "Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Bobby Abreu, Pat Burrell -- we have a lot of pop in this lineup. I'm optimistic in this lineup and this team. I don't like to do anything with a pessimistic tone. That's not my style. I know we need pitching.
"That's not a secret by any means. Do we need more depth on the bench? Yes. Every team is looking to improve now. If something can be done, and I think it will add to our club, I'll do it. If it doesn't work, I'll try something else.
"One thing about me is that I'll keep working at it. When I took this job, that's what I promised. That's the way I work. That's the way I've always been."
The players appreciate Gillick's style.
"I like his honesty," Rollins said. "I know he's out there working and I have confidence in him."
"I know he's trying to help us all the time," Myers added. "That's good for a player to know. Plus, he's an honest, down-to-earth guy who talks to us all the time."

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

Trade for reliever reportedly in works

01/23/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- The Phillies' offseason search for much-needed bullpen help may have led them to the Cleveland Indians, and one of three possibilities.
Multiple baseball sources suggested Monday that outfielder Jason Michaels may be dealt to the Indians for either Guillermo Mota, Arthur Rhodes or David Riske. Representatives from the Phillies declined to comment, citing a policy of not discussing trade rumors.
Such a deal is contingent on Boston and Cleveland completing the speculated swap that would send Indians outfielder Coco Crisp to Boston for Mota and prospect Andy Marte. That deal is reportedly pending physicals, a stage the Phillies and Indians would have to complete before their deal could be announced.
The deal between the Indians and Red Sox, as well as the Phillies piece, has been widely speculated in local news outlets for the past few days. If a deal is consummated, it would guarantee Ryan Madson's switch to the starting rotation.
Michaels, 29, is coming off a season in which he set career highs in batting average (.304), on-base percentage (.399) and doubles. He spent most of his 105 games in center field, but has played all three outfield positions. He was rewarded this offseason with a $1.5 million contract.
Off the field is another story. He was arrested in July for allegedly punching an officer outside a Philadelphia nightclub. He avoided a trial last week and was placed on six months' probation and ordered to perform 100 hours of community service. Also, the acquisition of Aaron Rowand and the expected fourth-outfielder status of Shane Victorino made Michaels expendable.
The reliever the Phillies acquire will likely become the team's primary setup man for closer Tom Gordon. All have had experience in late-inning situations as a setup man or closer.
Rhodes, the lone lefty of the group, is 36 and coming off a season in which he posted a 2.08 ERA in 43 1/3 innings, a rebound from a 5.12 ERA in 2004. A 15-year veteran, Rhodes is familiar with general manager Pat Gillick from their time together in Baltimore, from 1996-98. He has one year and $3.7 million remaining on his contract, part of which is being paid by the Pirates, who obtained him from Oakland in a deal for Jason Kendall, then flipped him to the Indians.
Mota, 32, is familiar with the National League East after spending the past 1 1/2 years with the Marlins. Last season wasn't his best, as he posted a 4.70 ERA in 56 games. He'll earn $3 million this season.
Riske, 29, agreed to a one-year, $1.8 contract last week. Setting up for Bob Wickman, the righty logged 73 2/3 innings, and allowed 55 hits. He allowed 11 homers, a cause for concern in Citizens Bank Park.

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

Phils aim to get over playoff hump

02/08/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Judging from the facial expressions and body language as the 2005 season closed, the Phillies knew how close they came to their first postseason appearance since 1993.
The words didn't need to be spoken to receive that message, as thoughts of crucial losses and missed chances floated through the air. April games matter as much as September ones when a season comes down to one bounce, one strikeout or one dropped ball. So this spring, as with any other, the Phillies enter with the goal of overcoming the hump and lasting deep into October.
Close isn't good enough.
"You look at [the Astros] and say, 'That could have been us,'" Ryan Howard said of the team that edged the Phillies for the National League Wild Card and then went on to the World Series. "We could have been playing in the World Series. It was within our reach."
In saying this, Howard noticed new teammate Aaron Rowand, a member of the 2005 World Series champions, across the room and added, "That can be us."
In order for that to happen, the Phillies have to find a way to secure five more wins, a statement Pat Gillick said on the day he was hired as the team's general manager. And it starts with pitching.
The Phillies didn't make any changes at the top of their rotation, where Jon Lieber, Brett Myers and Cory Lidle return. The club replaced Vicente Padilla with Ryan Franklin, and it plans to shift Ryan Madson to the starting rotation, a move that has potential benefits but could also weaken the bullpen.
Despite the fact that Lieber, Myers and Lidle combined for 43 wins, it's been said that the team has no true ace.
"Ideally, we'd all like to have a No. 1 pitcher. We don't have that guy necessarily, but Jon or Brett can emerge to be that guy," said assistant general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. "They've all had great stretches for us last season."
Madson won 28 games and had a 3.34 ERA in his final two Minor League seasons as a starter, spanning 328 1/3 innings. The right-hander has a funky delivery and features three pitches, including an unfair changeup. Franklin, however, allowed 95 homers over the past three seasons, and he compiled a 5.10 ERA with the Mariners in 2005.
Gillick is confident in Franklin's ability to return to his 2003 form, and the GM is more concerned with adding a top-line starter, if possible.
"I like the pitchers we have in Jon Lieber and Brett Myers, but I think we still need a real power type of pitcher who can stop the bleeding or stop a losing streak," Gillick said, echoing a statement he made several times this offseason. "Is there someone out there? Sure, there are pitchers out there, but it's about what you need to give up to get. I'm talking to clubs all the time and evaluating this every day."
The soaring market for starting pitchers, as evidenced by the lucrative contracts given to veterans Kenny Rogers, Paul Byrd and Esteban Loaiza, hurt the Phillies' chances of securing a top-notch guy. Teams that had quality arms weren't dealing, even for a hitter of Bobby Abreu's ilk. The two-time All-Star was dangled for that No. 1 guy, but no matches were found.
Ultimately, the Phillies used Jason Michaels to secure the bullpen and "acquired" Madson for the rotation.
Tom Gordon takes over the closer role from Billy Wagner, who is now a member of the Mets. Gordon comes at about half the price Wagner received from New York, and he has been durable and reliable over the past three seasons in New York and Chicago.
"Tom Gordon hasn't been in [the closer] role because he pitched in front of Mariano Rivera for the past two seasons [in New York]," said Amaro. "He solidified that bullpen for them. He's pitched in pressure situations before and can close again. I see at least 40 saves."
This assumes that Arthur Rhodes can pitch the eighth inning enough times to get the ball to Gordon with a lead, that the offense will provide enough leads to protect and the starting pitching will toss seven quality innings more often than not.
Those challenges will play out over the course of 162 games. The important thing is that the Phillies come to the ballpark expecting to win, instead of hoping to win.
"There are probably some teams in our division that think we should be about .500," said manager Charlie Manuel. "But I look at us as better. On the field, we got a team that can catch the ball on the infield and a team that can produce runs. We basically have the same kind of rotation that we did at the end of last season, when we won some games. What we have to do is have some people step up.
"There's always somebody who steps up. I can look back at last year. We won 88 games and finished second, and that wasn't good enough. But I saw [Chase] Utley develop. Ryan Howard won the Rookie of the Year. I saw [Rob] Tejeda giving us five, six or seven innings; he stepped up. There always are guys who step up. [Aaron] Fultz pitched better for us. [Geoff] Geary pitched better. Can they repeat it? I don't know. That's what the game is all about. Can we win? I think we can. But we've got to play the best baseball."

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

Phillies sign free agent Gonzalez

02/08/2006
Infielder Alex S. Gonzalez has agreed to a one-year contract with the Phillies, General Manager Pat Gillick announced today.
Gonzalez, 32, hit .269 with nine home runs and 38 RBI in 109 games for the Devil Rays this past season. He was Tampa Bay's Opening Day third baseman - his 12th straight Opening Day start - and made a total of 97 starts, 91 at third base and six at shortstop. A right-handed hitter, Gonzalez batted .344 (11-32) against National League pitching last year in interleague play.
"This is a guy that has had a lot of success at the major league level as an everyday player," said Gillick. "He's a professional who will add some much-needed depth to our infield and provide a strong right-handed bat off our bench."
Gonzalez currently ranks seventh among active shortstops with a .975 career mark and has twice led the league in fielding percentage at that position (1997 and 2003). In 1994, he was the youngest player on an American League Opening Day roster, breaking camp with Toronto at 20 years old.
Gonzalez has eight career extra-inning home runs, which is tied for sixth-most among active players, and five career walk-off home runs.
In his career, Gonzalez has a .244 batting average with 137 home runs and 535 RBI in 1,376 games for the Blue Jays (1994-2001), Cubs (2002-2004), Expos (2004), Padres (2004) and Devil Rays (2005). He was originally selected by Toronto in the 14th round of the 1991 draft.
With Gonzalez' signing, the Phillies are at 40 on the 40-man roster.
In other Phillies news, catcher John Vanden Berg has been added as a non-roster invitee to spring training as a replacement for catcher Tim Gradoville. Vanden Berg, 26, was selected by the Phillies in the triple-A portion of the Rule 5 Draft in December. Gradoville will not be in major league camp due to a minor medical issue.

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

Winter Tour Caravan rolls into Reading

01/26/2006
READING, Pa. -- Ryan Howard, a favorite adopted son in this city, played straight man on Wednesday at the Phillies' Winter Tour Caravan stop.
"It's good to be back in Baseballtown," said the National League Rookie of the Year. "One of my best memories here is that crazy hot dog vendor. You don't get that anywhere else."
On cue, the ostrich-riding, screaming crowd-pleaser burst through the door of the Reading Sheraton ballroom, tossing hot dogs and thrilling the 650 attending one of the tour's final stops.
It was that kind of night at the $50-a-plate fund-raiser, where local baseball personalities were honored -- longtime men's fast-pitch softball coach Rocky Santilli was named the 2006 King of Baseballtown -- and a contingent of Phillies got fans riled up for the season.
"We have new guys on the team, and we're looking forward to getting things started," said Howard -- who established a Reading Phillies franchise record in 2004, with 37 home runs -- to fans. "With you guys behind us, we know we're going to do well."
The cold night quickly warmed up, as Howard, center fielder Aaron Rowand, closer Tom Gordon, general manager Pat Gillick and manager Charlie Manuel answered questions and signed autographs.
Fans had the chance to welcome back Howard and meet the team's new closer and center fielder on a night marred only by hideously bad puns from the team's director of fun and games, John Brazer. (A jumper cable walked into a bar. The bartender said, "I'll serve you, but don't start anything.")
The night began with Hal Ely, a partial-season-ticket holder for the Reading Phillies, singing the national anthem, and ended with the players signing autographs. In between, each player stood at the podium. Some told jokes or funny stories, others thanked the fans for their support.
As usual, Manuel created a stir when he demanded that the crowd boo on the count of three.
"Good, I feel at home now," joked Manuel, who then delighted the crowd with his seldom-recited "My Most Memorable Day," a poem he wrote.
During the question-and-answer portion, Gillick was asked when the team would acquire a No. 1 pitcher. Gillick explained that the pitching staff is still a work in progress, and reiterated his desire to continue to tinker.
Rowand summed up the night when he was asked what qualities his former White Sox teammates exhibited during their World Series championship run.
"We had 25 guys pulling for the same goal, and we didn't stop until we got there," said Rowand. "We had a great thing happen to us. Here I feel we have a group of guys who want to play the game the right way, hard. I'm happy to be here."

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

Rollins, Phanatic entertain school kids

01/26/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Jimmy Rollins helped the Phillie Phanatic travel to Japan, Australia, Mexico and Holland on Thursday, and return in time for lunch.
Such was the whirlwind morning for the Phanatic and Rollins at the latest stop of the Phillies Winter Tour Caravan. The duo stopped by the Isaac A. Sheppard School in Philadelphia to read "The Phillie Phanatic's Phantastic Journey" to an assembly of 300 first- through fourth-graders.
The school was selected as one of the winners of the Phillies' Be a Phanatic About Reading Program, in which 73,000 students from 3,000 classrooms participated. The amount of time spent reading was chronicled -- at least 15 minutes a night and in some cases up to an hour -- and the Phanatic plans to visit the top 30 schools.
Teacher Andrea Kohn's third-grade class, Room 301, was responsible for Thursday's visit. Rollins read the story, which shuttles the Phanatic around the world in search of baseball and other cultural experiences, while the Phanatic acted out scenes.
"It's always special to see the smiles on the kids' faces, especially at this age," Rollins said. "I remember one time when Rickey Henderson came to speak to us. I got a real kick out of it. I really enjoy doing these things."
Of course, Rollins didn't get away with just reading the story. The Phanatic made sure to keep him involved, having him wear a sombrero in Mexico and wooden shoes in Holland. Rollins, also a showman, happily obliged.
"I couldn't walk around Holland in those," said Rollins, jokingly wincing. "But that's the thing. You get to interact with these kids at their place as a human being, not just as a baseball player. They get to see us in regular clothes, and we get to play around and be funny."
The fun also included the Phanatic's typical brand of crowd-pleasing interaction, dancing and singing with the children. After the assembly, Rollins read to a kindergarten class.
This is the second year for the Phanatic's program that encourages children to improve literacy skills. Separately, Rollins in 2002 started the J-Roll's Readers Club, which is run by Philadelphia Reads.
"Phantastic Journey" is the third in a series of four books by Tom Burgoyne, a "close friend" of the Phanatic. A fifth book is on the way.
"The Phanatic wants to emphasize that reading in fun," Burgoyne said. "These books are a great way to describe the life and times of the Phanatic. It also lets us spend the day interacting with kids, which is perfect, because the Phanatic doesn't plan on growing up."

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

Gillick candid about Phillies' needs

01/27/2006
Pat Gillick: Hi, everybody. I'm happy to be part of this chat today. So let's get right to it.
Base_Ball_2: Is there still time for the Phillies to make a big trade?
Gillick: There's still over 60 days to go before Opening Day and we believe we can still make a trade. I can't predict how big the trade would be, but I feel confident that there will be one prior to the opening of the season.
Base_Ball: Have you talked to Jeff Weaver about becoming a Phillie?
Gillick: We have no interest in Jeff Weaver.
greatphan: Do you still envision bringing in a top starter and upgrading the bullpen?
Gillick: Our goal is to acquire a top of the rotation starter, and we'll continue with this challenge throughout the season.
Matt_Suki: Hi, Pat. What does Ryan Franklin bring to the table that a pitcher like Cole Hamels or another young arm can't give you?
Gillick: Six hundred innings over the past three seasons. So basically, experience and a healthy arm. We have to make certain that Hamels is completely healthy before we introduce him to the Major Leagues.
Base_Ball_2: Do you think that Jimmy Rollins will break Joe DiMaggio's hitting steak?
Gillick: I have my fingers and toes crossed that he will! It would be amazing since he has had the winter to think about the streak, and if it continued and he broke the record, it would be like calling four timeouts prior to kicking a game-winning field goal or free throw.
Base_Ball_3: With the season coming up, what is a reasonable goal for the Phillies this year?
Gillick: Ninety wins, plus.
Matt_Suki: Do you feel you have the foundation in place to build a winner with the Phillies?
Gillick: Yes, we have a strong nucleus on the field with Chase Utley, Rollins, Ryan Howard, Pat Burrell, Bobby Abreu, etc.
briguy423: How does Philadelphia, thus far, compare to your other GM jobs?
Gillick: It's an interesting challenge.
Base_Ball_4: Pat, will the Phillies carry both Tomas Perez and Abraham Nunez on the 25-man roster?
Gillick: Because of double-switches and injuries, it's always necessary to carry at least two spare infielders.
Base_Ball: Are reports that you have talked to Mike Piazza true, and if so, what would his role for the team be?
Gillick: Mike Lieberthal is our everyday catcher and Piazza could fill a number of backup roles for us.
Base_Ball_3: Pat, if the season started today, who are our five starters?
Gillick: Jon Lieber, Cory Lidle, Brett Myers, Ryan Madson and Ryan Franklin.
Base_Ball_2: I feel that Kenny Lofton was a great center fielder and we should have kept him. But instead, we trade Jim Thome for Aaron Rowand, who is probably going to be as good as Lofton was. Why didn't we keep Lofton and trade Thome for a position that we really need?
Gillick: In all due respect, we have a difference of opinion on the ability of Lofton.
phitinfillsin2006: Is there any way we can trade David Bell and Mike Lieberthal and get anything in return?
Gillick: At this point, Lieberthal will probably catch 120-130 games and we are hopeful that Bell will return to his production of 2004.
Andrew_Chong: What are the chances of the Phillies signing Mike Piazza?
Gillick: We have no comment on rumors.
Matt_Suki: Do you feel that you have the Minor League prospects it takes to land an ace or effective No. 2 pitcher?
Gillick: Yes, but we'd be reluctant to give up our better prospects prior to our evalution in Spring Training this year.
Base_Ball_3: Pat, are the Phillies a World Series team yet?
Gillick: We are a work in progress.
643: Who will close for the Phils now that Billy Wagner is gone?
Gillick: Tom Gordon is our closer.
Base_Ball_3: Who is our biggest competition to win the National League East?
Gillick: The Mets and the Braves.
Matt_Suki: Does Cole Hamels have a chance to make the club out of Spring Training?
Gillick: No. He will probably begin the season at either Reading or Scranton.
Matt_Suki: When you first took of this job you mentioned that you need to find a way to gain five more wins. Do you feel the subtraction of Wagner and the addition of Franklin, Gordon and Rowand is enough?
Gillick: We probably have not added five more wins yet.
Matt_Suki: Are you comfortable with the future of third base and catcher in this organization?
Gillick: I can't comment until I've seen our Minor Leaguers in Spring Training.
Andrew_Chong: Do the Phillies have any interest in Jeff Weaver, Josh Fogg or Kevin Brown?
Gillick: We have no interest in any of them.
Base_Ball_3: Pat, who do you think will have a breakout year?
Gillick: Brett Myers.
Base_Ball_3: Pat, what do you expect from Ryan Franklin?
Gillick: Ten-12 wins.
Ty_Christian: Are there any middle-relief pitchers you are still looking at possibly signing in the next few weeks?
Gillick: We're looking for starters or back-end relievers, rather than middle relievers.
Base_Ball_3: What can we expect from Tom Gordon?
Gillick: Forty saves.
unclemilty: Mr. Gillick, thanks for the time. Given the inconsistent performance of relief pitchers from season to season, would it be more wise to stockpile numerous options instead of high priced veterans?
Gillick: That is exactly what we've tried to do in the last three months. Keep players on short contracts with the exception of Tom Gordon.
Base_Ball_3: Who is our ace?
Gillick: Jon Lieber.
Base_Ball_3: Pat, who is our starting third baseman?
Gillick: David Bell.
Chris_Springer: Pat, appreciate your efforts and candidness so far. Why not offer to restructure Randy Wolf's deal -- less money this year but add on one or two years?
Gillick: Until Randy proves that he is healthy, I believe it is a poor decision to commit dollars.
Base_Ball_3: Do you think Barry Zito is a possibility?
Gillick: No.
Ty_Christian: What are your feelings on the World Baseball Classic and having several Phillies players involved?
Gillick: We're excited and very supportive of the WBC and, in fact, on the provisional rosters, we have a total of 20 players.
unclemilty: Mr. Gillick, thanks for the time. Russ Branyan may have been an ideal platoon partner for David Bell. Was Branyan on your radar at any point?
Gillick: Yes, but our manager, Charlie Manuel, had Branyan in Cleveland and felt with the number of strikeouts we have at the moment, that adding another 100 would not be the way to go.
Base_Ball_3: What player is the best available player the Phillies are interested in?
Gillick: We can't comment and it wouldn't be prudent for us to do that anyway.
Ty_Christian: Why did the Phillies not try to get Wade Miller to help with the pitching staff? He came at a relatively inexpensive asking price.
Gillick: We were advised by our medical team not to sign Wade Miller.
Christopher_Huling: What will Carlos Ruiz's role with the team be this year?
Gillick: Ruiz will be competing for the backup catcher's position in Spring Training, and if he is not successful, he will be playing the season at Scranton.
Gillick: Ruiz will be competing for the backup catcher's position in Spring Training and if he is not successful will be playing the season at Scranton.
phillsphan4life: Do you have any tricks up your sleeve when it comes to trades?
Gillick: Many.
barryemt101943: What is Wolf's status?
Gillick: Randy should be back between the 15th of June and first of July.
jkkingjd: Do you have any interest in talking to the A's about Barry Zito?
Gillick: We can't comment on rumors.
carneson: Is Jose Contreras somebody you are considering?
Gillick: Again, we can't comment on rumors.
mb198119v2: What is the story on Daniel Haigwood? You mentioned a few weeks ago he may have a shot at the No. 5 spot in the rotation. Is he really MLB-ready?
Gillick: We like Haigwood's potential, but at this moment, he is projected to begin the season with Scranton.
Rick_Bailey: How does Philadelphia compare with other cities you have worked in?
Gillick: Top of the list!
lucas8381: Any chance of re-signing Ugueth Urbina, or will he likely be out for the season with his personal problems?
Gillick: Right now, Urbina is indisposed.
mb198119v2: What positions will there be competition for in Spring Training?
Gillick: Mostly on the pitching staff.
bslivka: Hi, Pat. What role do you see Shane Victorino in -- fourth or fifth outfielder?
Gillick: Victorino will probably be a fourth outfielder with us.
jkkingjd: Can you seriously contend without a left-handed starter?
Gillick: Yes. Charlie Manuel did it in Cleveland and took them to the playoffs.
lucas8381: Do you see Victorino as your main substitute outfielder this year at all three positions?
Gillick: Yes.
Christopher_Huling: If a veteran setup man cannot be acquired, will the team rely on a young pitcher like Robinson Tejada in the bullpen or will Madson revert back to the bullpen?
Gillick: Madson would be back in the bullpen.
briguy423: Do you think Gordon can handle a full season of closing, and if for some reason he can't, who might be in line to replace him?
Gillick: Tom, but we're working on a backup.
Glan_Adams: I thought that Gio Gonzalez was a steal in the Thome trade. What is your timeline for Gonzalez?
Gillick: Probably two years.
krickeys: Who is a dark horse to make the club? Josh Kroeger? Yoel Hernandez?
Gillick: Probably Matt Kata.
lucas8381: Where does Gavin Floyd figure in to your plans for the team? Will he be in the mix for a starting spot?
Gillick: He will be competing for a spot in the rotation.
Gillick: Thanks everybody. I had a good time answering your questions!

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

Phillies acquire Rhodes for Michaels

01/27/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- After a week of false starts and tweaks, the Phillies acquired Cleveland reliever Arthur Rhodes for outfielder Jason Michaels.
The off-again, on-again deal between the clubs rested for good in the on position late Friday afternoon, when the Phillies announced Rhodes passed a physical in Philadelphia. That completed the Phillies' portion of a larger deal that led to Coco Crisp's long-awaited arrival in Boston.
But that's another story. What matters to Phillies fans is that their team has added the primary setup man for closer Tom Gordon, and a substitute closer when necessary. Acquiring a veteran for that role ranked high on general manager Pat Gillick's list of offseason priorities, along with the still unfulfilled top-of-the-rotation starter. Rhodes, 37, went 3-1 with a 2.08 ERA in 47 games for Cleveland in 2005.
"The last six or seven years, Rhodes has performed at a pretty high level," said Gillick. "If you're going to get somebody to slot into the back end of the bullpen, you're going to give up something. Unfortunately, it had to be Michaels. (Rhodes) is a gamer and likes to win."
In passing his physical, the Phillies hope the veteran's health concerns aren't an issue. Rhodes had inflammation in his right knee, causing him to miss the second half of August, and also missed time because of a serious family illness. Gillick is familiar with Rhodes from their time together in Baltimore and Seattle, when he was one of the game's more effective southpaw relievers.
The Phillies were extra careful with Rhodes, subjecting him to three MRI examinations. Gillick wouldn't get into specifics, but said the Phillies were confident that most of his complications were due to his family health issue than his right knee.
"There were some extenuating circumstances on why he missed a portion of 2005, but we're very confident that he'll slide into the back end of our bullpen," Gillick said. "We had a very thorough examination by our medical people this afternoon. Unless something unforeseen occurs, we think he'll perform for the entire 2006 season."
Before rebounding in 2005, Rhodes suffered through two seasons in which he went a combined 6-6 with a 4.56 ERA with Seattle (2003) and Oakland (2004). He is 75-55 with a 4.26 ERA in his career, with 26 saves.
With Rhodes and Gordon at the back end of the bullpen, manager Charlie Manuel will be counting on Rheal Cormier, Aaron Fultz, Geoff Geary and one of Chris Booker, Aquilino Lopez or Julio Santana to form a six-man corps.
"The key is from the sixth inning on," Gordon said earlier this week. "Sometimes the toughest innings are the seventh and eighth inning, and we definitely need a guy we can count on. The setup guys are vital. Every team needs a good setup guy and a good closer to be a championship ballclub."
The deal offers another benefit in that it shifts Ryan Madson to the starting rotation. Manuel has made no secret of his desire to have Madson as his fifth starter, and the pitcher is firmly on board with that idea. While he's pitched effectively out of the bullpen during the past two seasons -- winning 15 games with a 3.28 ERA -- Madson had been a starter throughout his Minor League career.
The righty will round out a rotation that consists of Jon Lieber, Brett Myers, Cory Lidle and Ryan Franklin.
Michaels leaves after spending four seasons in Philadelphia. In 2005, he batted .304 with four homers and 31 RBIs. His season was marred somewhat in July, when an altercation outside a nightclub with a Philadelphia police officer eventually led to six months' probation and 100 hours of community service for the outfielder.
Gillick insisted that Michaels' off-the-field issues had nothing to do with his trade.
"Absolutely not," he said. "We had been talking all along and the one excess we had on this ballclub was in our outfield. There were a lot of hits on a lot of our outfielders over the last couple of months. This fit in the direction we wanted to go. We needed to solidify the back end of our bullpen and Rhodes helps us do that."
Michaels will inherit Crisp's spot in left at Jacobs Field, and could see his most playing time yet. He combined with center fielder Kenny Lofton last season to form one of the league's most productive center field duos.
The completion of this deal ends a week of intrigue that had taken many turns. On Tuesday, both deals seemed to hinge on a physical by Guillermo Mota. The swap appeared to crumble amid reports that Mota failed his physical.
Rumors then suggested that the Reds would re-enter the picture as part of a three-team deal with the Red Sox and Indians, leaving the Phillies in the cold. As recently as Thursday, reports surfaced that Cleveland was having second thoughts about dealing Crisp, while a person close to the talks believed the Phillies were less than optimistic that a deal would be completed.
Less than 24 hours later, the Phillies had their setup man.

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

Reds to interview Phils assistant GM

01/29/2006
CINCINNATI -- Add one more name to the list of candidates vying to become the next Reds general manager.
The club announced Sunday that Phillies assistant GM Mike Arbuckle would be the seventh person to get an interview. A scheduled date wasn't revealed but it was believed likely to happen some time this week.
Last week, new owner/chief executive officer Bob Castellini dismissed GM Dan O'Brien in his first major decision after taking over. Baseball operations director Brad Kullman has been serving as interim GM.
Arbuckle joined the Phillies as scouting director following the 1992 season after 12 years as a scout in the Braves organization. The 55-year-old has been given credit for building the Philadelphia farm system and became player development director in 2000 before assuming the assistant GM title in 2001.
Kullman is one of four internal candidates for the job besides international scouting director Johnny Almaraz, special assistant to the GM Leland Maddox and special advisor Jim Beattie.
Other external contenders besides Arbuckle are Cardinals assistant GM John Mozeliak and Twins assistant GM Wayne Krivsky.
Arbuckle interviewed this off-season for the Phillies GM job that went to Pat Gillick. He also had interviews in recent years for GM posts in Boston, Pittsburgh and Toronto.

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

Gordon, Rowand highlight Caravan tour

01/28/2006
MEDIA, Pa. -- The splash of applause gently rocked Tom "Flash" Gordon and Aaron Rowand back in their seats as they took questions from a live audience during a taping of "Meet The Phillies 2006" for Philadelphia's Comcast SportsNet.
Both Gordon and Rowand, two of the newest Phillies, had heard about the demanding nature of Philadelphia sports fans, but they didn't see any of that on Saturday afternoon in the very congested main concourse of the Granite Run Mall.
Rowand and Gordon were joined by Phillies teammates Jimmy Rollins and 2005 National League Rookie of the Year Ryan Howard, as well as Phillies general manager Pat Gillick and Phils manager Charlie Manuel.
The show will be aired on Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. on Comcast SportsNet.
For Gordon and Rowand, it was a time to get introduced and bond with their new fans.
"I heard so much about the fanbase here in Philly and how they want you to win, how they could be hard here, but that hasn't been the case at all, as far as I can see," said Gordon, whom the Phillies signed as a free agent to replace departed closer Billy Wagner. "It's been great to me. Just being with the fans has been wonderful. I haven't done one of these since I was with Kansas City in 1993 and '94."
Rowand was slightly familiar with the concept, but when he was with the world champion Chicago White Sox, the center fielder was part of a FanFest affair in which fans could meet prominent White Sox players in a public setting for autographs and pictures.
"The Sox never did anything like this, going from city to city, mall to mall," said Rowand, whom the Phillies obtained in a trade from the White Sox for Jim Thome. "It's been a surprise with all the people who have turned out."
Rowand thinks that this 2006 version of the Phillies has a great chance to win -- a sentiment he wasn't afraid to express to the eager throng of fans who had gathered in front of the makeshift stage, where the players and Comcast SportsNet hosts Michael Barkann and Leslie Gudel sat.
"This team has a great nucleus of older, established guys and veteran leadership and a lot of proven young guys, like Ryan Howard and Chase Utley," Rowand said. "They bring energy to the game. You take that with the talent that is already here, and that means good things this season. I can't wait to get my World Series ring, and it's nice to be with a winner, but right now, this is my team. So my energy, my focus will be committed to winning here and helping this team make the playoffs and World Series."
Howard and Rollins received big ovations. Rollins spoke briefly about carrying the pressure of a 36-game hitting streak into the 2006 season, while Howard discussed how he plans to build on his 2005 Rookie of the Year season and start this season as the Phillies' regular first baseman.
"This has been great," said Howard, who slammed 22 homers and drove in 63 runs last season. "The fans have kind of accepted me. This is about the fans, and being excited. Whether some people want to accept it or not, this is about the fans. This was my first time on the Caravan, and it's been a great ride."
"I like the whole sum of our team," said Gillick to the gathering.
Rowand added, "Everywhere we've been going, with all the different areas, people have been behind us. The fans are going to be pleasantly surprised with this team. You don't need big egos and big names to win as a team -- that's something we proved last year with the White Sox."
Finally, for the fans, meeting their heroes up close was a special thrill.
"We're longtime Phillies fans," said Henny Schultz, from Boothwyn, Pa. "I brought my three sons, and I wanted to give them a chance to see everyone up close. We're also part-time season-ticket holders. We have some big expectations for this year."
Perhaps no one on Saturday afternoon was a more experienced fan than 88-year-old Dorothy Cook, who was there with her son, Don, from Prospect Park, Pa.
"This has been great," Dorothy said. "I don't miss a game, even games on the West Coast. I'm glad to be here."

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

Dreams a reality at Phantasy Camp

01/29/2006
CLEARWATER, Fla. -- A bum knee was not going to keep Frank Holberg from playing baseball against some of his heroes. The 59-year-old Philadelphian had been walking with a crutch for a couple of days, but desperately wanted a chance to hit against former Phillies pitcher Tyler Green.
For Holberg, it ended up being the greatest strikeout of his life.
Holberg was one of 140 campers participating in Phillies Phantasy Camp, a five-day event at the Phillies' Spring Training complex that ends with the Veterans vs. Campers game at Bright House Networks Field. On Sunday, the campers were split up on 10 teams that played two innings each against a team of former Phils.
Holberg was running the bases the day before, when he felt something pull in his knee. In the big game, though, he was able to put down the crutch long enough to hobble up to the plate for an at-bat against Green.
"The first pitch he threw to me was inside and he saw me buckle because I couldn't stand up," Holberg said. "Then the second one he really slowed down and threw it outside, and I fouled it back into the stands for strike one. I took the next one because it was a little low, but they called it strike two. The next one was a little bit high and I whiffed at it."
With a teammate ready to run down the first-base line had he hit the ball in play, Holberg swung and missed for strike three. Still, he walked off the field with a smile.
"It's just unbelievable, playing alongside these guys that were your heroes all those years," said Holberg, who said he has been a Phillies fan for 50 years. "It was unbelievable. I can't tell you how great it was."
It was Holberg's first fantasy camp. He said little things like hearing the former players use baseball terminology and smelling the sun tan lotion they wore, and even hearing the rattles of the bottles of pain relievers, made him feel like he was a part of the game.
"The first morning, they had all of our lockers set up," Holberg said. "They announced all of our names when we came in. It was your locker with your name at the top. John Kruk was one of the guys I was excited to see, because he's kind of a flamboyant individual. He's a real character. Mitch Williams is a character, too -- he was one of our coaches."
Kruk and other former Phillies like Dickie Noles, Ricky Jordan, Mariano Duncan, Dave Hollins, Kevin Stocker, Williams and others participated in the camp. Jim Eisenreich, Bruce Ruffin, Del Unser and Marty Bystrom were also there.
It was easy to see the campers weren't the only ones having fun.
"I guess we kind of get the same kind of feeling that the campers do," said Eisenreich, a former Phillies outfielder who coached one of the camper teams called the Drillers. "Most of us haven't played in a few years, and to come back and just be on the field again with some of our former teammates and some of the guys that played for the organization and won a World Series is cool."
Eisenreich said the camp is supposed to resemble the way things were for the players during Spring Training.
"The campers know that they're only here for five days, and they are going through a lot of stuff that we did pretty much every day of Spring Training," Eisenreich said. "In some ways, we're in the same boat they are. We're here coming back and kind of reliving what we did. And it's fun to be able to share stories and kind of get their side of it, what [the campers] thought of what it was like when we played [in Philadelphia]."
Fifty-year-old John DiOttavio of Coatesville, Pa., earned the nickname Forrest Gump at the camp because of the way he ran. At a banquet on Saturday night, DiOttavio, whose team was called the Bay Sox, received the Charlie Hustle award.
Meeting the players was a definite highlight for DiOttavio.
"I met every one of the legends at one time or another [during the week] and got to talk to them," DiOttavio said. "I took pictures with them and they signed autographs for me. They were all great.
"I have never experienced anything like this. That's why I came. When they say living the dream, it's definitely living the dream. First you've got to get used to playing on the big field with the big boys, but once you get the hang of it, you are feeling pretty good about yourself. I just had the most fabulous time of my life."

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

Fan Guide: Philadelphia Phillies

01/30/2006
The Phillies have been training in Clearwater, Fla., since 1948, but are beginning just their third season at Bright House Networks Field. Players can also be found working out across the street at the Carpenter Complex, located on the west side of U.S. Highway 19.
Philadelphia begins this campaign with expectations of advancing to the postseason for the first time since 1993. It fell one game short of a Wild Card berth last season, fighting with Houston until the final day of the season.
New general manager Pat Gillick has made some major changes already, starting with the deal that sent Jim Thome to the White Sox for Aaron Rowand and two pitching prospects. Other new additions are Tom Gordon, Ryan Franklin, Abraham Nunez, Sal Fasano and Ricardo Rodriguez. They will be asked to replace guys like Billy Wagner and Vicente Padilla, and mesh with returning mainstays Jimmy Rollins, Pat Burrell, Bobby Abreu, Jon Lieber and Brett Myers.
Manager Charlie Manuel returns for his second season at the helm, after guiding the Phillies to 88 wins, their highest total since the 97-win tally of 1993.
As Phillies fans prepare for their journey to the Florida beaches, here are some questions and answers that should help:
When do the Phillies arrive at camp?Pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training on Feb. 16, with the full squad scheduled to arrive on Feb. 21.
When do games start?The Phillies travel to Tampa for their first Spring Training game, March 2 against the Yankees at Legends Field. The first home game at Bright House Networks Field is March 3, also against the Yankees. The home opener begins at 1:05 p.m. ET.
As a bonus to the Grapefruit League schedule, the Phillies will host Abreu and the Venezuelan national team in an exhibition on March 4, also at 1:05 p.m. It should be an interesting experience for Abreu, who has been a Phillie since 1998.
The Phillies remain in Florida through March 30, then head north for an On-Deck Series hosting the Red Sox at Citizens Bank Park on April 1 and 2.
How do I get tickets?Tickets for all spring games, including the exhibition with Venezuela, are now on sale and can be purchased online at phillies.com and in person. The Phillies' ticket office at Citizens Bank Park is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET. The Clearwater ticket office at Bright House Networks Field is open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets for the On-Deck Series are available online and in Philadelphia only.
Tickets for Spring Training games in Clearwater range from $9 for berm seats to $25 for club-level seats. Tickets for the On-Deck Series will be sold at discounted regular-season prices.
Bright House Networks Field features Frenchy's Tiki Bar. The park has a maximum seating capacity of about 9,200, with 7,200 fixed seats and the remainder spilling out on the sloping lawn beyond the outfield fences.
Ticket prices and other information can be found at Phillies' Spring Training Tickets page.
Where is Clearwater, and how do I get there?Located on the Gulf of Mexico, Clearwater is about 25 minutes west of Tampa International Airport. Take Highway 60 across the Courtney Campbell Causeway.
The park is located on the west side of U.S. Highway 19, adjacent to Carpenter Field at 601 Old Coachman Road and near the intersection of U.S. 19 and Drew Street (Old Coachman runs parallel to U.S. 19. The field is one block north of Drew).
How can I watch the team work out?Before Grapefruit League games begin, Phillies workouts are held at the Paul Owens Training Facility at Carpenter Complex, across the way from Bright House Networks Field. Workouts are free and open to the public. The best time to see players working out is between 9:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Where can I get some autographs?The best spot for Phillies is down the left-field line as they enter and exit the clubhouse. For visiting players, you'll want to line up on the first-base side.
Phillies fans should also take note of the parking area just beyond the half-field that is adjacent to the main entrance, which is along the third-base side.
What else is there to do in Clearwater?Besides the 35 miles of beaches, Clearwater is within minutes of many popular Florida attractions. It's 30 minutes to Busch Gardens in Tampa and 90 minutes to Walt Disney World, Sea World and Universal Studios in Orlando. The city of Tampa is a short drive for museums and shopping, including International Plaza and Bay Street. Channelside, at the port of Tampa, has every kind of entertainment: cruises, IMAX movies, dance clubs and the Florida Aquarium.
For more information on Clearwater, you can visit www.floridasbeach.com.
When do the Phillies open the regular season?The Phils open the regular season against the Cardinals at Citizens Bank Park on Monday, April 3, at 3:05 p.m.

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

Mailbag: Madson moving into rotation?

01/30/2006
I know Arthur Rhodes had a decent year for Cleveland last season, but I was hoping to get more in return for Jason Michaels, who has been a quality player for the last few seasons. Why didn't the Phillies continue to pursue trading Bobby Abreu for a top-line starter? Instead, they dealt Michaels, an adequate replacement for Abreu, for a setup man, which they already had in Ryan Madson. -- Tammy R., Pennsauken, N.J.
You guys have been busy this weekend, and this was easily the most popular question received over the past 72 hours. It came down to the fact that Madson was going to fill whatever role the Phillies couldn't in a trade, and Abreu and Michaels were the two chips. If Abreu landed the top-notch starter, Madson would be the eighth-inning setup man. If Michaels went for a back-end reliever, Madson would become the No. 5 starter. It was never a case of Abreu going for a top-notch reliever or Michaels going for a second-tier starter.
Option B played out, because no team was willing to give away its ace (for Abreu) in an inflated market for starting pitching. I'm not completely sold on Rhodes, either. He's older and missed time in 2005 because of physical and family-related issues. He was good when healthy, though, easing some concerns over his subpar 2004 season, and that was enough to satisfy the Phillies. If they're right, he'll provide an effective bridge to closer Tom Gordon.
I'm also a fan of Michaels, who had become a nice player and pinch-hitter who feverishly worked counts and hustled on every play. The X-factor to this trade could be Madson, who had been an effective starter in the Minor Leagues through 2003, then pitched his way onto the Phillies as a reliever in 2004.
General manager Pat Gillick and his staff deduced that Madson represented the best option for the rotation, and they may be right. The right-handed Madson has plenty of movement on his pitches and possesses a devastating changeup. Hitters such as Chipper Jones and Scott Rolen are on record as saying that Madson is one of their least favorite pitchers to face.
The last relatively big-name pitcher on the market is Jeff Weaver. At this point, I'd rather see the Phillies have Weaver and Abreu than trade Abreu for a Freddy Garcia or Mark Buerhle. I've even heard that the Mets may pursue Weaver after trading Benson. Weaver may not be a No. 1, but he, Lieber, and Myers could be a nasty 1-2-3. Why haven't the Phillies gone after this guy? -- R.K., Springfield, Pa.
Gillick said last week that the Phillies never had any interest in Weaver, Kevin Brown, Jose Lima, Josh Fogg or Pedro Astacio, the most popular suggested names in mailbag questions. The team had interest in Wade Miller, who signed with the Cubs, but didn't like something they saw in the medical report. In Weaver's case, his salary demands of roughly $40 million over four years was out of Philadelphia's price range.
Will the fourth and fifth spots in the rotation be given to Ryan Franklin and Madson, or will they be given to whomever has the best Spring Training? Also, who is favored to start Opening Day? -- John B., Port Royal, Pa.
Madson and Franklin would have to struggle mightily to not make the starting rotation, while someone else would have to pitch exceptionally well. The candidates there would be Rob Tejeda or Gavin Floyd. As for Opening Day, my money is on Lieber making his seventh career season-opening start.
How much of an impact do you think Aaron Rowand and Gordon are going to have? Could the Phillies have done better in the free agency market? -- Bobby S., Allentown, Pa.
Rowand will provide tremendous defense and an aggressive style in every aspect of his game. His offense will likely be somewhere between his 2004 and 2005 campaigns, and his leadership and wisdom gained from winning a World Series should also go a long way. Gordon's biggest problem is he's not Billy Wagner, but he also comes at just half the price. The Phillies hope for 40 saves and a healthy and full season from the 38-year-old.
How does Julio Santana figure into the bullpen this year? I think he deserves a shot to be our setup man. He had a great strikeouts-per-nine innings ratio last year. -- Eugene S., Easton, Pa.
Santana figures into the bullpen mix in a seventh-inning role, and that was the case before the team acquired Rhodes. Of course, injuries and ineffectiveness could change the equation. Though his name hasn't been brought up a lot, the Phillies intend to take a long look at Santana this spring.
Does Matt Kata have a future with the Phillies? -- John S., Hazleton, Pa.
Gillick identified Kata as a darkhorse candidate to make the roster this spring in last week's online chat with fans. The reality, however, may be that the team has too many guys just like Kata in Abraham Nunez and Tomas Perez, both of whom have more lucrative contracts. Kata managed just six at-bats for the Phillies after being acquired from the Diamondbacks last season, and had only 31 at-bats with Arizona before that. A darkhorse candidate may be putting it kindly.
Steelers or Seahawks? -- Bill W., Pittsburgh, Pa.
Steelers all the way, baby! Judging from your hometown, I'll assume your allegiance is the same. They're playing so well right now. Final score: Steelers 24, Seahawks 10.

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

Around the Horn: Middle infielders

02/01/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Try these numbers on for size: a .290 average, 354 hits, 208 runs, 77 doubles, 17 triples, 40 homers, 159 RBIs, 57 stolen bases and 585 total bases.
If you guessed that was the production of Philadelphia's electric middle-infield combination of Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley last season, give yourself a point. Add an extra one if you further identified that as the most productive regular tandem in the National League, just ahead of Atlanta's Rafael Furcal and Marcus Giles, who bested the Phils duo only in stolen bases.
With the Braves pair splitting up for 2006 -- though Giles and Edgar Renteria in Atlanta and Jeff Kent and Furcal in Los Angeles will be formidable -- the Utley-Rollins tag team is primed to defend that distinction.
Rollins, the Phils' leadoff hitter and catalyst, enters the season with a club-record 36-game hitting streak. He's hit .379 during the streak, and fell just four hits shy of 200 last year. The switch-hitter achieved career highs in hits and at-bats (677) while stealing at least 30 bases for the fourth time in five seasons.
If he's able to break Hall of Famer Joe DiMaggio's record of hitting in 56 straight games, he'll be recognized as the all-time leader, though DiMaggio would keep the single-season record -- unless Rollins managed a hit in 56 straight games this season.
"I've had fun with the record in that I don't want to place too much extra stress on myself about it," said Rollins. "I've been trying to relax while getting my workouts in during the offseason. I don't mind when people ask me about it. If I'm meant to break a record, then I will. I want to help this team win games in 2006."
The buzz surrounding his streak has carried throughout the offseason, on radio talk shows, newspapers and in the local grocery store. Rollins' streak is already the ninth-longest hitting streak in Major League history. Barring rainouts and games not started, Rollins could eclipse DiMaggio on April 26 at home against the Rockies.
Paul Molitor hit in 39 straight games in 1989, and Pete Rose holds the National League record with a 44-game streak in 1978. Wee Willie Keeler hit in 45 straight games, but one came on the final day of the previous season.
"If he passed Molitor and Rose and then challenged DiMaggio, I wouldn't be surprised," said manager Charlie Manuel. "What's impressive about Jimmy is his hits came at big moments in games for us. He's improved so much as a hitter last year with his patience at the plate. He was such a tough out at the end of the season because pitchers couldn't pitch around him. If they threw him away, he went with the pitch. If they came in, he pulled it down the line. He did a great job in being selective up there and going with pitches."
His partner in crime also came a long way last season, as Utley clubbed 28 homers. The fact that he hit one long ball each as a first baseman and pinch-hitter is the only thing keeping him from tying the Phillies' all-time record by a second baseman, set by Juan Samuel in 1987. Utley might have set the mark had he not lost playing time to Placido Polanco early in the season.
The lefty wasn't in the Opening Day lineup -- creating a minor controversy -- then batted seventh in the second game. By the end of the season, Utley was entrenched as the team's No. 3 hitter. Bobby Abreu will likely remain hitting cleanup, keeping Utley in the three-hole.
"Chase did an outstanding job for us last season," Manuel said. "He got a lot of big hits. He's a [heck of a] player. He wore down a bit at the end, but it was always exciting when he was up and we needed a hit."
With all the individual accomplishments and accolades received in 2005, there's no escaping the reality that Utley and Rollins watched the postseason. Especially disappointing was watching the Astros -- the team that beat them in six regular-season meetings -- reach the World Series.
"I want to go to the playoffs and help this team win a World Series," said Rollins. "Records are nice, but I want to win. If the records come along with it, that's cool with me. I want to experience the playoffs. That's why you play the game, to win a title. Hopefully, we can keep it going into some October baseball in the playoffs."

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

Phillies' college media day a big hit

02/03/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Questions came swiftly for Ruben Amaro Jr. during Friday afternoon's press conference, giving the Phillies' assistant general manager little time to take a breath between responses.
What about David Bell and Mike Lieberthal? Where do Gavin Floyd and Rob Tejeda fit in to the rotation? Are you concerned about Tom Gordon's age and five-year gap between closing jobs? Can this team compete as currently constructed?
Amaro answered each question candidly from the packed interview room at Citizens Bank Park. In many aspects, the session had the look and feel of an old-fashioned media grilling, except for the fact that each person raised their hand and waited to be called on.
That level of politeness stems from the fact that none of the interviewers had a college degree.
Amaro spent 45 minutes addressing inquiries from 120 college students from 12 area schools, including Temple University, Rowan University and Drexel University. His participation was the final part of College Media Day, in which students interested in sports careers learned about facets of media coverage and the working of the organization.
The Phillies held a similar event some 30 years ago, remembered Larry Shenk, the team's vice president of public relations since the winter of 1963. With the return of College Nights at home -- where college students can receive discounted admission to five home games -- the team wanted to reach out further to their younger fan base.
Those college nights are scheduled for April 19, 20, 26 and 27 and May 4. The April 26 game is the night Jimmy Rollins could break Joe DiMaggio's 56-game hitting streak.
So much has changed in the 30 years since the last event of this kind, with the immediacy of the Internet and the wider television and radio coverage opening many different doors.
The early-morning session featured team employees John Brazer (marketing publicist), Dave Abramson (technical services), Michele DeVicaris (entertainment representative), Gene Dias (director, community relations), Meghan Leary (fan development and education programs) and Leigh Tobin (director, media relations) explaining the nuances of their day-to-day jobs.
Each took a somewhat unorthodox approach to their current jobs.
"If you tell enough people your dream and meet enough people, you never know who you might meet that turn your life around," said Brazer, who got his job through someone he met at a wedding. "It can happen."
Students learned about the aspects of working for a baseball team that go beyond writing about the team and moves made by the front office. They heard about aspects of giving back to the community through charity ventures and player appearances.
The afternoon featured a lively Q&A with broadcaster Scott Graham, Leslie Gudel (Comcast), Paul Hagen (Philadelphia Daily News) and Andy Shenk (MLB.com). Each described the challenges of their jobs and the way that they broke into the business.
"There's no one direct road to get here," said Scott Palmer, a former Channel 6 sportscaster who is now a consultant with the Phillies. "No one goes directly to where they want to get. It's important to embrace the smaller markets, where you have the freedom to make mistakes."
Other tips included be yourself, rather than try assume a "persona," work often, meet as many people as you can and and don't be discouraged by the word, "No," a common term in any business.
Temple University junior Jeremy Kusnir was particularly impressed with the day, and he was not just there to take notes. Teaming with cameraperson Colleen Herron, a sophomore and fellow broadcasting, telecommunications and mass media (BTM&M) major, he interviewed Larry Shenk for "Temple Update," a feature for the school's television station.
"They have to do this again," Kusnir said. "It's so hard to get in the door, so any time you have a chance to learn about working in the business, you should take it."

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

Mailbag: Hamels OK to handle Majors?

02/06/2006
Maybe you've answered this before, but is Cole Hamels anywhere near Major League-ready? Will he be given a shot to make the roster at Spring Training?-- Carl J., Philadelphia
No one questions whether the Phillies' top pitching prospect has the stuff to dominate Major League hitters. The problem is always going to be his health, especially his back. The prized lefty was diagnosed with a back condition he'll likely have to deal with his entire career. He had a cortisone shot in December, and an MRI last week that showed nothing different. He's been doing exercises to stabilize his lower back and throwing on flat ground.
On to your question, the Phillies don't believe Hamels will be ready to start the season, let alone be in the big-league rotation. Hamels disputes this notion and plans to be ready for the start of the season. Elbow, hand and back injuries have limited him to just 10 starts over the last two years, so the team will be cautious. Hamels is expected to start at Double-A Reading, and he could appear in the Majors at some point this season.
What impact, if any, is Eude Brito expected to make this year?-- Kevin S., Philadelphia
Barring an injury or two, Brito is an unlikely candidate for the rotation, despite the lack of a left-handed starter. In a cruel twist, the fact that he's left-handed may hurt his chances of making the team as a reliever, since the Phillies already have Arthur Rhodes, Aaron Fultz and Rheal Cormier, and they are unlikely to go with four southpaws. If Brito winds up at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and pitches well there (in a starting role, most likely), he could poke his head in the Major Leagues at some point this season.
Who would you rather have as a backup catcher, Sal Fasano or Carlos Ruiz?--Kyle M., Dupont, Pa.
As a fan of pitching and defense, I'd have a slight preference for Ruiz, though he'd still have to hit enough to not be a liability. Ruiz showed that ability last season at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and he had a good showing in winter ball. After a two at-bat stint in 2002, Fasano resurfaced in the big leagues in 2005, hitting 11 homers with the Orioles last season. It's likely that manager Charlie Manuel will go with Fasano, and Ruiz's time could come in 2007, after Mike Lieberthal departs as a free agent.
What is the status of Mike Costanzo? Is he the future at third base?--Daniel E., West Chester, Pa.
The Phillies hope so. Their first pick in the 2005 First-Year Player Draft (drafted in the second round) had a nice first professional season at Class A Batavia, hitting .274 with 11 homers in 281 at-bats. That future, however, is at least two years away, and more likely, three to four. In the meantime, the Phillies will have to find someone else to replace David Bell after this season.
How does the acquisition of Rhodes affect the other two lefties in the bullpen, Fultz and Cormier? Will one of them be traded for a fifth outfielder with speed?-- Colin W., Moorestown, N.J.
While allowing for the possibility of a trade changing the equation, I'll answer the question as if they're all going to be members of the bullpen. Rhodes' arrival appears to affect the bullpen in the same way Wagner's did. Wagner was a closer who just happened to be left-handed. Rhodes falls into the same classification, except he's the setup man. Of course, there will be certain situations when Manuel will want to go with a righty in a crucial spot late in the game -- and he'll have to find that guy -- but he's said that he wants Rhodes to be his eighth-inning guy. Fultz and Cormier fall into the sixth- and seventh-inning situational scenarios. Each could be called on for a batter or an inning, depending on the situation and how they've been pitching.
What about the whole situation with Pat Burrell moving to first base when a lefty starts because Ryan Howard didn't do too well against lefties? -- Andrew S., Philadelphia, Pa.
I've answered this one before, but it's been asked a lot since, so I'll tackle it again.
While Manuel plans to play Howard every day at first, and the manager is confident Howard will hit left-handed pitching, putting Burrell at first base occasionally was one idea he came up with over the winter. He hadn't discussed it with Burrell, and may actually not put it into action this season.
One potential reason was to ease Howard's transition to everyday first baseman. Another was to find more outfield at-bats for Jason Michaels, and that is now Indians manager Eric Wedge's problem. If Burrell remains in left field, perhaps Abraham Nunez, Tomas Perez or Chase Utley will occasionally shift to first. The Utley option is doubtful, but it's an option, nonetheless.
What are your expectations for Shane Victorino? I think he could be a great everyday replacement should the Phillies trade Bobby Abreu.-- Lindsay U., Folsom, Pa.
I respectfully disagree with you on this one. While Victorino opened some eyes with a strong season at Triple-A, he wouldn't do well on an everyday basis, and wouldn't come close to replacing Abreu.
Despite a wonderful Minor League season, Victorino projects as a fourth outfielder. The Phillies like him there because he can play all three spots well, and he provides switch-hitting ability and some speed off the bench. Victorino needs to produce more consistently at the Major League level before I'm convinced. Of course, he's young and is certainly capable.

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

Allen and Howard honored by writers

02/07/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Dick Allen, Ryan Howard and Paul Richardson were among the Phillies acknowledged at the 102nd Philadelphia Sports Writers Association banquet on Monday.
Allen, the 1964 Rookie of the Year with the Phillies and the Most Valuable Player in 1972, received the Living Legend Award, and Howard was acknowledged as the National League Rookie of the Year for 2006.
Also honored was Paul Richardson, who is retiring after 35 years as the Phillies' organist.
Manager Charlie Manuel and general manager Pat Gillick spoke at the event, which was emceed by Hall of Fame broadcaster Harry Kalas.
"We're supposed to be dreamers, and I guess we are," said Allen. "In my life, I never dreamed I'd be in Philadelphia accepting any kind of award. This is a special day for me and my family."
Allen's line about receiving an award in Philadelphia spurred one of the evening's bigger laughs, as it referenced a career that was often controversial -- he was suspended for nearly a month in 1969 after skipping a twi-night doubleheader. Still, the prolific slugger was remembered for his 351 home runs, some of which may still be orbiting the strasosphere.
After the show of love, Allen turned to Howard, and said, "Job well done, Ryan," eliciting more applause from the 850 in attendance.
As he has done all winter, Manuel performed stand-up comedy, and offered a positive message for Phillies fans.
"I hear we're supposed to finish third," said Manuel. "Last year the Marlins were supposed to win the division because they had the pitching, and that didn't happen. This year it's supposed to be the Mets. Let me tell you something, we'll be all right. We're here to win."

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

Phillies come to terms with Gonzalez

02/08/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Alex S. Gonzalez officially joined the Phillies on Wednesday, agreeing to a one-year, $750,000 contract, adding another utility infielder and bench player as the Phils ready to head to Clearwater, Fla., for Spring Training in a little more than a week.
The right-handed batter -- not to be confused with Alex L. Gonzalez, who signed with the Red Sox earlier this week -- batted .269 with nine homers and 38 RBIs in 109 games for the Devil Rays in 2005.
The signing reunites Gonzalez, 32, with general manager Pat Gillick, who summoned him to the big leagues with the Blue Jays in 1994. At the time, Gonzalez, then 20, was the youngest player in the Major Leagues.
"This is a guy that has had a lot of success at the Major League level as an everyday player," said Gillick. "He's a professional who will add some much-needed depth to our infield and provide a strong right-handed bat off our bench."
Though known mostly for his glove at shortstop -- he ranks seventh among active shortstops with a .975 career fielding mark and has twice led the league in fielding percentage there (1997 and 2003) -- Gonzalez played 91 games at third base for Tampa Bay last season.
Add in the fact that Abraham Nunez stated 98 games at third last season with the Cardinals, and news of Gonzalez's arrival will do nothing to quiet the whispers that incumbent David Bell's status as a full-time starter is in jeopardy. Bell batted .199 against right-handed pitchers in 2005, and either Gonzalez or Nunez could step in if Bell struggles.
"Third base is Bell's job to lose," said manager Charlie Manuel. "His role hasn't changed. He's the third baseman. I plan on talking to him when we get to Spring Training. He's a professional, and he's not going to give his position up lightly. He's going to fight for his job."
Manuel's words suggest there might be a competition for the third base job, with Bell the early favorite.
"We want to put the best team on the field every day," Manuel said. "If somebody is struggling and somebody else is swinging good, that's how the game is played."
Also in the mix is veteran infielder Tomas Perez, who may be the odd man out. The switch-hitter, who spent six years with the Phillies, hit .233 with no homers last season. He's expected to earn $700,000 for the 2006 season, and he has a club option for 2007 for $800,000 with a $75,000 buyout.
Manuel said Gonzalez, Nunez and Perez also could log time in the outfield this spring and during the season. That becomes more realistic in the wake of the trade of Jason Michaels to the Indians. The Phillies would like to find a fifth outfielder to go with Bobby Abreu, Aaron Rowand, Pat Burrell and Shane Victorino. Non-roster invitee Josh Kroeger may fit into that equation as well.
Of course, as the situation sorts itself out, the Phillies could deal from the excess of utilitymen and net an outfielder.
In the meantime, Manuel will find at-bats for the trio across the diamond, too. First baseman Ryan Howard and second baseman Chase Utley each had issues with southpaws in 2005, so Manuel intends to find at-bats at those positions as well, which would keep the bench sharp and provide rest for the starters.
"It gives us more options," Manuel said. "Nunez is a switch-hitter. Gonzalez is a right-hander with power. This lets us do more things off the bench."

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

Around the Horn: Outfielders

02/08/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- The Phillies' outfield takes a classic look this season, as a pair of power-hitting, high-average corners flank a center fielder who will run through a wall if in hot pursuit.
At the epicenter is Aaron Rowand -- one of the key members of the World Series champion White Sox. Fly balls won't escape easily from Rowand, who brings a tenacity and aggressive style to Philadelphia and will always be seen running at full speed.
"He doesn't give up," said manager Charlie Manuel. "He's going to be good for us. He'll be consistent and always play hard."
When some fans questioned why Kenny Lofton wasn't retained this winter, the Phillies responded by saying that the team wanted to get better defensively at the position and more right-handed in the batting order. It had been said that Rowand's team-first perspective was another important quality.
"I'm not going to come in and try to take over a team or try to be the guy in this organization," Rowand said. "I'm going to try and fit in with the 24 other guys on this team. There's not enough made about the chemistry and the ability of everyone trying to pull on the same end of the rope and worry about what matters, and that's winning. No matter what happens as far as bringing in big names, it all comes down to going out on the field and playing the game, and on any given day, any team can win."
Added general manager Pat Gillick: "It's pretty important [to bring in players who have won]. They've been through the wars and know how to handle situations. They have seniority and stature. If a guy is a regular and has the added ingredients you're looking for, that means a lot. He's bringing his ability and makeup and winning attitude to the table. That is infectious throughout the clubhouse."
Rowand's statistics last year dropped from his outstanding 2004 campaign, when he batted .310 with 24 homers. In 2005, he hit .270 with 13 homers and 69 RBIs. His true ability likely lies somewhere in between.
Pat Burrell flanks Rowand in left field, and he's coming off a season in which he smacked 32 homers and drove in 117 runs. The RBI total was second in the National League to Atlanta's Andruw Jones. In staying consistent, Burrell shook off two subpar seasons in which he struggled at the plate and with injuries.
Burrell will again provide crucial right-handed power in a lefty-laden lineup, batting either fourth or fifth, depending on the opposing pitcher. Manuel understands Burrell's importance to the club.
"He's a huge part of our lineup," said Manuel. "He got a lot of big hits for us last season. He'll do that again."
Perhaps the surprise returnee is Bobby Abreu. The right fielder was involved in trade rumors with several teams over the winter as the Phillies searched for a top-of-the-line starter. Instead, the two-time All-Star and defending Home Run Derby champ is expected to return for a ninth season in Philadelphia.
Consistency has been Abreu's trademark over the past eight seasons, as he's averaged 24 homers and 94 RBIs, while hitting .305. Abreu's struggles last September can be attributed to an injured right shoulder and leg, pain that should have subsided with a winter's rest.
The trade of Jason Michaels to Cleveland all but guarantees Shane Victorino a roster spot. The switch-hitter was named International League Most Valuable Player after a brilliant season with Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and he recorded some big hits for the Phillies in September.
Victorino can play all three outfield positions, and he's expected to be the team's fourth outfielder.
"I think he'll play quite a bit," Manuel said. "I like what he showed at the end of last season, and he improved as the season went along. This guy has got a lot of upside. He can run and throw, he's got some power and hits from both sides. He's going to be good."

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

Phils aim to get over playoff hump

02/08/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- Judging from the facial expressions and body language as the 2005 season closed, the Phillies knew how close they came to their first postseason appearance since 1993.
The words didn't need to be spoken to receive that message, as thoughts of crucial losses and missed chances floated through the air. April games matter as much as September ones when a season comes down to one bounce, one strikeout or one dropped ball. So this spring, as with any other, the Phillies enter with the goal of overcoming the hump and lasting deep into October.
Close isn't good enough.
"You look at [the Astros] and say, 'That could have been us,'" Ryan Howard said of the team that edged the Phillies for the National League Wild Card and then went on to the World Series. "We could have been playing in the World Series. It was within our reach."
In saying this, Howard noticed new teammate Aaron Rowand, a member of the 2005 World Series champions, across the room and added, "That can be us."
In order for that to happen, the Phillies have to find a way to secure five more wins, a statement Pat Gillick said on the day he was hired as the team's general manager. And it starts with pitching.
The Phillies didn't make any changes at the top of their rotation, where Jon Lieber, Brett Myers and Cory Lidle return. The club replaced Vicente Padilla with Ryan Franklin, and it plans to shift Ryan Madson to the starting rotation, a move that has potential benefits but could also weaken the bullpen.
Despite the fact that Lieber, Myers and Lidle combined for 43 wins, it's been said that the team has no true ace.
"Ideally, we'd all like to have a No. 1 pitcher. We don't have that guy necessarily, but Jon or Brett can emerge to be that guy," said assistant general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. "They've all had great stretches for us last season."
Madson won 28 games and had a 3.34 ERA in his final two Minor League seasons as a starter, spanning 328 1/3 innings. The right-hander has a funky delivery and features three pitches, including an unfair changeup. Franklin, however, allowed 95 homers over the past three seasons, and he compiled a 5.10 ERA with the Mariners in 2005.
Gillick is confident in Franklin's ability to return to his 2003 form, and the GM is more concerned with adding a top-line starter, if possible.
"I like the pitchers we have in Jon Lieber and Brett Myers, but I think we still need a real power type of pitcher who can stop the bleeding or stop a losing streak," Gillick said, echoing a statement he made several times this offseason. "Is there someone out there? Sure, there are pitchers out there, but it's about what you need to give up to get. I'm talking to clubs all the time and evaluating this every day."
The soaring market for starting pitchers, as evidenced by the lucrative contracts given to veterans Kenny Rogers, Paul Byrd and Esteban Loaiza, hurt the Phillies' chances of securing a top-notch guy. Teams that had quality arms weren't dealing, even for a hitter of Bobby Abreu's ilk. The two-time All-Star was dangled for that No. 1 guy, but no matches were found.
Ultimately, the Phillies used Jason Michaels to secure the bullpen and "acquired" Madson for the rotation.
Tom Gordon takes over the closer role from Billy Wagner, who is now a member of the Mets. Gordon comes at about half the price Wagner received from New York, and he has been durable and reliable over the past three seasons in New York and Chicago.
"Tom Gordon hasn't been in [the closer] role because he pitched in front of Mariano Rivera for the past two seasons [in New York]," said Amaro. "He solidified that bullpen for them. He's pitched in pressure situations before and can close again. I see at least 40 saves."
This assumes that Arthur Rhodes can pitch the eighth inning enough times to get the ball to Gordon with a lead, that the offense will provide enough leads to protect and the starting pitching will toss seven quality innings more often than not.
Those challenges will play out over the course of 162 games. The important thing is that the Phillies come to the ballpark expecting to win, instead of hoping to win.
"There are probably some teams in our division that think we should be about .500," said manager Charlie Manuel. "But I look at us as better. On the field, we got a team that can catch the ball on the infield and a team that can produce runs. We basically have the same kind of rotation that we did at the end of last season, when we won some games. What we have to do is have some people step up.
"There's always somebody who steps up. I can look back at last year. We won 88 games and finished second, and that wasn't good enough. But I saw [Chase] Utley develop. Ryan Howard won the Rookie of the Year. I saw [Rob] Tejeda giving us five, six or seven innings; he stepped up. There always are guys who step up. [Aaron] Fultz pitched better for us. [Geoff] Geary pitched better. Can they repeat it? I don't know. That's what the game is all about. Can we win? I think we can. But we've got to play the best baseball."

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

Richardson plays swan song for Phils

02/10/2006
PHILADELPHIA -- It could be any home game during any baseball season in Philadelphia over the past 35 years. The aroma of cheese steaks floats through the air, while an organ echoes among the backdrop of crowd noise and baseballs hitting off bats.
More than 70 million people have attended more than 3,000 Phillies games, and all have heard the magic produced by Paul Richardson's organ, whether it's "Take Me Out to the Ballgame," "Tarantella" or "Havah Negila."
Those fans have cheered along with Richardson, who, after a 35-year-career that began at Connie Mack Stadium in 1970, is retiring.
"It's time," he said. "I've had a great run and enjoyed every minute. They gave me the freedom to do a lot here."
Richardson's reasons for leaving stem from health problems that have weakened his legs to the point where he can no longer accurately operate the foot pedals of his Roland AT-70. He was diagnosed with prostate cancer nearly eight years ago and has undergone chemotherapy and radiation treatments.
Emotionally, he knows he's doing the right thing, too.
"Thirty-five years is a long time," he said. "I've loved every day."
Richardson, who won't reveal his age, was a part-time realtor and organ teacher who also trolled the nightclub circuit after graduating from Wilmington High School in 1950. His Phillies tenure started innocently at a 1969 Christmas party for club employees. Quite the hit, he was hired by chairman Bill Giles, then the team's newly hired vice president of business operations, and became the team's first full-time organist in nearly a decade for the 1970 season at Connie Mack Stadium.
The previous organist? The wife of Mack's doctor. When offered the job, Richardson thought, "Why not?"
"At that point, I had been playing in nightclubs for about 20 years and it was time to find something else," he said. "Playing in nightclubs is a young man's job. I thought this wou