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Phils fall as magic number remains three: The Astros clearly have the Phillies' number in 2009. As a result, the Phils' magic number remains at three. Cole Hamels gave up six runs in 6 2/3 innings as Houston beat Philadelphia for the fifth consecutive time this season, 8-2, on Monday night.
Hamels resembling '08 postseason ace: It has been a trying season for Phillies ace Cole Hamels, who has struggled with his command at times and has also struggled with expectations. But Hamels has pitched better recently and looks like he is returning to form at just the right time.
Romero activated, pitches in Phils' loss: The Phillies received a dose of good news Monday when they were able to activate lefty reliever J.C. Romero from the disabled list. Manager Charlie Manuel didn't waste time sending in Romero, who threw a scoreless eighth, giving up two hits.
Phillies' lead trimmed to 4 with another loss: Yorman Bazardo pitched 5 2/3 effective innings against the team that cut him in spring training, and helped the Houston Astros beat Philadelphia 8-2 on Monday night, preventing the Phillies from reducing their magic number.<p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/AMK5kIceHRyHv9U0QjEiUxQuAm8/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/AMK5kIceHRyHv9U0QjEiUxQuAm8/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/AMK5kIceHRyHv9U0QjEiUxQuAm8/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/AMK5kIceHRyHv9U0QjEiUxQuAm8/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/UsatodaycomMlbNl-TopStories/~4/hXOIez7HFEE" height="1" width="1"/>
Phillies Notes: Phils have pitching questions as season winds down: With the regular season ending Sunday, the Phillies have many unanswered questions, especially in their bullpen.Who will be the closer? Who will be able to pitch? Who will be left off the playoff roster?
Phillies can't blow it, can they?: It can't happen, of course, because the Phillies have been too good for too long in the National League East this season. They have stood above the imperfect minions of the division like a colossus for the last four months.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies still waiting for clincher, but decisions ahead: With 8 days remaining before the start of the National League Division Series, the Phillies have yet to ensure their participation in a third straight postseason. But once they do clinch - and heading into tonight, they needed a combination of just three wins or Braves losses to do so - their attention will turn toward selecting the 25-man roster best suited for a second title run.
Phils keep struggling in loss to Astros: In a season that has lacked suspense, the Phillies appear intent on creating some. Their once comfortable lead in the National League East continues to dwindle, and their magic number is slow to decrease.
Phillies vs. Astros preview: 7:05, Citizens Bank Park. TV: Comcast SportsNet. Radio: WPHT (1210-AM); WUBA (1480-AM) Spanish. Ticket info: The Phillies have about 1,500 tickets remaining for tonight's game.
Gillick open to 'right situation': Former Phillies general manager Pat Gillick said yesterday that he would consider returning to another team to oversee baseball operations, according to a report by Buster Olney, of ESPN The Magazine.
Phils lose; Braves creep closer: In a season that has lacked suspense, the Phillies appear intent on creating some. Their once-comfortable lead in the National League East continues to dwindle, and their magic number is slow to decrease.
Bill Conlin: Bullpen issues led to 1964 Phillies collapse: JACK BALDSCHUN was the Brad Lidge of a generation that still bears the psychic scars of the most infamous collapse in baseball history. I heard Ray Didinger say on WIP Saturday that the trauma of what happened to the 1964 Phillies nearly caused him to flunk out of Temple University the first semester of his freshman year.
Paul Hagen: Only bubbly passengers on Phillies' flight came in bottles: MILWAUKEE - Looks like this is going to be a bit of a slog after all. Instead of closing out the regular season with a leisurely victory lap, the Phillies are apparently going to drag toward their third straight division championship like a soldier on his stomach, inching forward by his elbows to avoid enemy fire.
Madson powers his way to save: MILWAUKEE -"I don't have a good change-up today," Ryan Madson told his catcher, Paul Bako, when he entered the game in the eighth inning yesterday with one on, two out, and the Phillies leading Milwaukee, 6-5.
Phillies defeat Brewers, 6-5: MILWAUKEE - Rolled-up sheets of plastic hung above the Phillies' lockers in Miller Park when the team arrived Thursday. Brewers staffers, wanting to protect the visitors' clubhouse from beer and champagne, assumed they would host a clinching party.
Phillies Notebook: Key Phillies looking to shake September slumps: MILWAUKEE - For this Phillies team, the next seven games are an opportunity. Not just to clinch a division title in front of their home crowd for the third straight season - although yesterday's 6-5 win over the Brewers lowered their magic number to three and took them one step closer - but to put a month of offensive sluggishness behind them and enter the postseason the way they did last season: hot.
Phils beat Brewers, end so-so trip: MILWAUKEE - Rolled-up sheets of plastic hung above the Phillies' lockers in Miller Park when the team arrived on Thursday. Brewers staffers, wanting to protect the visitors' clubhouse from beer and champagne, assumed they would host a clinching party.
Phillies Notes: Phils could activate Romero soon: MILWAUKEE - J.C. Romero has been missed in the Phillies' bullpen, especially since fellow lefthander Scott Eyre began pitching with an injured elbow.
Phillies fall to Brewers on walk-off homer: MILWAUKEE - After the Phillies lost, 7-5, to the Milwaukee Brewers last night, Charlie Manuel stood in a corner of the visitors' clubhouse at Miller Park, speaking softly to five of his players.
Lee looks flat in Phillies loss: MILWAUKEE - In a way, Cliff Lee's career is defined by extremes. Demoted to the minor leagues in 2007, Cy Young Award winner in 2008. Shutdown ace for the Phillies from late July to late August, up-and-down enigma in the weeks since.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies acknowledge it's time for alternative to Lidge: MILWAUKEE - Nobody is sure how Charlie Manuel will handle the Phillies' next save situation, not even the manager himself. One thing is clear, though: The team feels it must find an option other than Brad Lidge, who blew his 11th save and saw his ERA climb to 7.48 in a 7-6 loss to the Marlins Wednesday.
Lee's woes against Brewers keep Phillies' clincher on hold: MILWAUKEE - The last two seasons, the Phillies clinched the National League East title at Citizens Bank Park in front of sellout crowds.
Phillies Notes: Martinez taking no chances with injury: MILWAUKEE - If the Phillies' lead in the National League East were slimmer, Pedro Martinez would pitch tonight. But despite improvement in his sore neck, Martinez decided not to make his scheduled start. Kyle Kendrick will fill in.
Phillies Notebook: No early celebrations from Phillies: MILWAUKEE - When the Phillies arrived in the visitor's clubhouse at Miller Park yesterday, protective plastic covering already had been installed above the lockers lining the room, rolled neatly and tucked into metal brackets drilled into the drywall. In many ways, it presented the feel of a ball hovering above Times Square on New Year's Eve, waiting to be dropped at the first pop of champagne.
Manuel playing it coy on Walker: MILWAUKEE - Brad Lidge, Ryan Madson, and injuries have turned late-inning relief into the Phillies' top concern. Before last night's game, manager Charlie Manuel offered cryptic answers when asked how he would handle save situations.
Ruiz heads back to Philly for exam: Phillies starting catcher Carlos Ruiz, who has been bothered by a sprained left wrist, was sent back to Philadelphia for X-rays on Wednesday morning.
Imperfect Phillies lineup gets job done: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel is the first to admit he doesn't have the perfect lineup. But with speed and power to burn, the Phillies are the NL's most productive squad.
Pedro, Happ scheduled to start this week: Coming back from injuries, Phillies rookie J.A. Happ (rib cage) is fine and will start Thursday in Milwaukee as scheduled. As for Pedro Martinez (neck), to give him extra time to recover, the Phils pushed back his start from Friday to Saturday in Milwaukee.
Phillies Notebook: Injured Phils relievers Romero, Eyre making progress: MIAMI - If the Phillies' injury report gets any longer, Ruben Amaro Jr. might be able to hold his periodic press briefings in a Barnes&Noble and open them to the public. Yesterday, however, the news he reported was mostly positive.
Phillies move closer to crown: MIAMI - The Phillies realize that a division title appears imminent, but they also trust the mentality preached by manager Charlie Manuel: Focus only on the moment, and success will come.
Phillies Notes: Myers optimistic about return: MIAMI - Brett Myers boarded an airplane to South Florida last night, ready to rejoin the Phillies today and hoping to pitch by early next week. But a timetable set by the team was more conservative.
Jim Salisbury: For Phils, fall ushers in a load of concerns: MIAMI - We've reached the time of year the Phillies have waited for since they assembled on the dew-covered lawns of Clearwater, Fla., seven months ago.
Phils settle for split with Marlins: MIAMI - The Phillies realize that a division title appears imminent, but they also trust the mentality preached by manager Charlie Manuel: Focus only on the moment, and success will come.
Blanton helps Phillies beat Marlins 9-3: Joe Blanton said he approached his matchup against Josh Johnson like any other, and for the Philadelphia Phillies, that worked fine.
Sam Donnellon: Phillies making their pitch for the postseason: THEY ARE FIVE wins away from last summer's total with 14 to play. Five more wins and the Phillies will have as many regular-season victories as they did in 2008, despite playing huge chunks of this season without a dependable closer, without Brett Myers, and without the real Cole Hamels, too.
Myers joins injury list as Phillies prevail: ATLANTA - No Phillies pitchers were injured in yesterday's 4-2 win over Atlanta at Turner Field, which seemed an improvement over the first two games of this series.
Phils fight past Braves, 4-2: ATLANTA - No Phillies pitchers were injured in today's 4-2 win over Atlanta at Turner Field, which seemed an improvement over the first two games of this series.
Relievers rely on mix of luck and skill: Before the 2001 season, the Phillies signed veteran relief pitcher Rheal Cormier.The lefthander struggled in his first two seasons with the team. In fact, if his contract hadn't been for three years, he probably would not have been invited back in 2003.
Martinez newest source of concern: ATLANTA - Heading into this weekend's series at Turner Field, the most compelling story line for the Phillies involved J.A. Happ and Pedro Martinez, and which of the two would earn the final spot in a playoff rotation.
Inside the Phillies: Capable of greatness - or a letdown: ATLANTA - September has been an unexpectedly up-and-down month for Charlie Manuel. Despite the Phillies' comfy division lead, the manager two weeks ago expressed deeper frustration in his team than at any other point this season, then watched happily as his players appeared to uncloud their minds and performances.
Phillies Notes: Phillies' lefties say they're on mend: ATLANTA - All three of the Phillies' injured lefthanded pitchers reported progress yesterday.With Scott Eyre (elbow) and J.C. Romero (forearm) planning to pitch through pain, and J.A. Happ (muscle strain in his right side) hoping to recover fully and remain in the rotation, the bullpen remains unsettled as the Phils prepare for a likely playoff berth.
Phillies' Francisco gets a chance in center as Victorino recoups: ATLANTA - Shane Victorino wasn't in much of a mood to talk before the Phillies' series opener against the Braves, thanks to a stomach illness that caused an early exit from a 4-2 win over Washington on Thursday.
Phillies get 4 homers in victory over Braves: ATLANTA - On a practical level, the Phillies' 9-4 victory over the Braves last night served its purpose. It improved them to a season-high 26 games over .500. It lowered their magic number - the combination of wins and Marlins losses it will take to clinch a third straight National League East title - to eight. It knocked the Braves to third place, 8 1/2 games back, and held the Marlins 8 games back and in second place.
Finishing strong is what motivates Phils: If Sunday's twin-bill sweep over the Mets was the day the Phillies began their push to the 2009 World Series, what a day.
Pedro's gem gives Phils twin-bill sweep: Behind eight stellar shutout innings from Pedro Martinez, the Phillies blanked the Mets, 1-0, to sweep a day-night twin bill on Sunday night at Citizens Bank Park. Chase Utley drove in the game's lone run with a first-inning single.
Martinez throws gem, helps Phillies take two from Mets: Pedro Martinez pitched eight strong innings to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 1-0 win and a double-header sweep of the New York Mets. The Phillies took Game 1 5-4.<p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/Hv4JoNuyqVp8exc9bQ2Pq7IYqnM/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/Hv4JoNuyqVp8exc9bQ2Pq7IYqnM/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/Hv4JoNuyqVp8exc9bQ2Pq7IYqnM/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/Hv4JoNuyqVp8exc9bQ2Pq7IYqnM/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/UsatodaycomMlbNl-TopStories/~4/0CoDFH51p88" height="1" width="1"/>
Matsui powers Yankees to 13-3 win over Orioles: Pedro Martinez pitched eight strong innings to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 1-0 win and a double-header sweep of the New York Mets. The Phillies took Game 1 5-4.<p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/faH5YCxZ-DvCboAmElNoXrsgF9Q/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/faH5YCxZ-DvCboAmElNoXrsgF9Q/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/faH5YCxZ-DvCboAmElNoXrsgF9Q/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/faH5YCxZ-DvCboAmElNoXrsgF9Q/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/UsatodaycomMlbAl-TopStories/~4/0CoDFH51p88" height="1" width="1"/>
Pedro shuts down Mets as Phils sweep doubleheader: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Pedro Martinez was considered finished. Then he put on the Phillies pinstripes and made everyone remember how good he once was....
Lee's arm, Howard's bat propel Phillies: Ryan Howard hit two home runs and Cliff Lee continued to be perfect as the Phillies beat the Mets on Monday afternoon at Citi Field, 6-2.
Bruntlett joins rare company: Eric Bruntlett caught the ball, landed on second base in perfect stride and spun around to tag a bewildered Daniel Murphy. Bruntlett had turned an unassisted triple play to end the Phillies' 9-7 victory over the Mets, just the second time in baseball history that a game ended in that fashion.
Phils back Pedro in NY, win on rare feat: Pedro Martinez's homecoming began with a warm welcome from the New York fans. It concluded with Eric Bruntlett's rare unassisted triple play, only the second to end a game as the Phillies beat the Mets, 9-7, on Sunday at Citi Field.
Howard, Lee send Phillies to 6-2 win over Mets: NEW YORK (AP) -- Ryan Howard homered twice and drove in five runs, Cliff Lee won his eighth straight start and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the New York Mets 6-2 on Monday....
It all starts with starters: If you believe in the power of threes, the Cardinals, Yankees, Red Sox, and Phillies have a chance to emerge as very good postseason teams, because having three top starters is important in the playoffs.
Phillies blast past Haren, D-Backs: Cliff Lee tossed a complete game and shut down the D-Backs Wednesday in Phillies' 8-1 win.
Bruntlett's unassisted triple play seals Phillies' win: Second baseman Eric Bruntlett turned an unassisted triple play to end the Philadelphia Phillies' wild 9-7 victory over the New York Mets on Sunday.
Around the majors: 8/23/09: Phillies 4, Mets 1: Chase Utley hit a two-run homer as part of a three-run sixth as visiting Philadelphia took advantage of New York's bullpen for the victory.
Commentary: Does Rose's punishment fit his crime?: EDITOR'S NOTE: On Aug. 23, 1989, Pete Rose signed an agreement banning him from baseball. Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt and Rose led the Phillies to the 1980 World Series title.
Around the Majors: 8/22/09: Mets 4, Phillies 2: Jeff Francoeur homered and Mike Pelfrey outpitched a struggling Cole Hamels, leading host New York past Philadelphia.
MLB bests and worsts, who’s hot and who’s not: <p><strong><span class="subhead">American League</span></strong><p/><strong>Best team:</strong>It doesn’t look as though the New York Yankees are going to get any competition in the AL East, but they still have something to shoot for. New York is in a heated race with the Los Angeles Angels for the best record in baseball. The Yankees entered their series against Boston with three more wins than the Angels.<p/><strong>Rising:</strong>Few teams do a better job of manufacturing runs than the Tampa Bay Rays. Entering Saturday’s games, Tampa Bay was fifth in the AL in batting average, and fourth in runs scored. The Rays’ ability to steal bases helps. The Rays have 38 more steals than their closest competitor. Carl Crawford and B.J. Upton have accounted for 89 of the steals.<p/><strong>Falling:</strong>It hasn’t been a real good month for the Toronto Blue Jays. First, they couldn’t trade Roy Halladay. Then, they went into the tank in the East. Halladay hasn’t been the same since the July 31 trade deadline. He’s 2-2, and has allowed 35 hits in 30 innings pitched.<p/><strong>Worst team:</strong>The offense in Kansas City has been wretched. The Royals have a chance to pull off the Triple Crown for offensive ineptitude. They entered Saturday with the worst batting average and fewest RBI in the AL and were next-to-last in homers. Oakland had four fewer homers.<p/><strong><span class="subhead">National League</span></strong><p/><strong>Best team:</strong>The Philadelphia Phillies have wrestled this spot away from the Los Angeles Dodgers, and their trade for Cliff Lee has a lot to do with that. Lee is having a CC Sabathia-like effect with the Phillies. He’s won all four of his starts with Philly and has allowed three earned runs.<p/><strong>Rising:</strong>The St. Louis Cardinals have had enough of the logjam in the Central, and have left the competition to fight it out for the wild card. The Cardinals won eight of 10 games to build the biggest lead in the Central. Albert Pujols, who will repeat at MVP, leads the league in homers and is second in RBI.<p/><strong>Falling:</strong>Shaking up the roster in Milwaukee didn’t exactly jump start the Brewers. Getting rid of Bill Hall and demoting J.J. Hardy hasn’t had the desired effect as Milwaukee entered the weekend 10 games behind St. Louis and four games under .500.<p/><strong>Worst team:</strong>The Washington Nationals are coming back to earth after playing .900 baseball for nearly two weeks. But they can take solace in that they’ve accomplished their No. 1 goal for the season— signing No. 1 pick Stephen Strasburg.<p/><strong><span class="subhead">Who’s hot</span></strong><p/><strong>OF Julio Borbon, Texas Rangers:</strong>Borbon is really making it tough for the Rangers to take it slow with him. From Aug. 15 until Thursday, Borbon made five starts and had 13 hits and seven stolen bases. He went into the Tampa Bay series carrying a .485 average.<p/><strong><span class="subhead">Who’s not</span></strong><p/><strong>RHP Joba Chamberlain, New York Yankees:</strong>Chamberlain allowed four runs in each of three consecutive starts, and put the bullpen in a bind by pitching 16 innings in those starts.</p>
Phillies Notebook: Phillies place Dobbs on disabled list with calf injury: NEW YORK - Greg Dobbs headed back to Philadelphia last night for tests on his strained left calf, and the Phillies placed him on the 15-day disabled list.
Unassisted triple play helps Martinez beat Mets: Pedro Martinez was anxiously watching the Phillies lead dwindle on a television in the clubhouse when Eric Bruntlett put an end to his worries with an unassisted triple play.
Anatomy of an unassisted tripleplay: 1 Phillies' Eric Bruntlett catches line drive from Mets' Jeff Francoeur.2 Bruntlett steps on second base to force out Luis Castillo, who has started for third.
Utley's homer is good for grand: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel elected to sit second baseman Chase Utley for yesterday's Phillies-Mets game. Thankfully for Jonathan Swan, Manuel didn't have that inkling the night before.
Inside the Phillies: Phillies' Park blossoms in bullpen: A Southern California van ride and a weekend of Korean food began the process, and months of quality relief pitching sealed it. Chan Ho Park did not want to be a member of the Phillies' bullpen, but he is finishing the season as one of its key contributors - and enjoying it.
Phillies Notes: Lee, Blanton waste no time: NEW YORK - Cliff Lee and Joe Blanton would take financial hits if they got paid by the hour.The two pitchers are the quickest workers on the Phillies staff, which is the way pitching coach Rich Dubee likes it.
Manuel says Phillies control their own destiny: Charlie Manuel said yesterday what most people have been thinking since the Phillies acquired Cliff Lee and Ben Francisco in a deal with the Cleveland Indians prior to the trade deadline.
John Smallwood: Blanton finally benefits from Phillies' offense: JOE BLANTON has been waiting for some of that good love other Phillies pitchers have been getting.In his previous 13 starts, Blanton surrendered more than three runs only once, but his record was an unremarkable 4-3, with six no-decisions.
Drabek blanks Portland as Reading rolls to win: PORTLAND, Maine - Kyle Drabek allowed just three hits in seven shutout innings last night as the Reading Phillies beat the Portland Sea Dogs, 6-0, in the Eastern League. Domonic Brown had two hits, including a triple.
Moyer's relief job carries Phillies to 5-1 win: Jamie Moyer had a quality start Tuesday night for the Philadelphia Phillies out of the bullpen.<p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/4wSai2PA0ioScCC1yxf_XWvkylw/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/4wSai2PA0ioScCC1yxf_XWvkylw/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/4wSai2PA0ioScCC1yxf_XWvkylw/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/4wSai2PA0ioScCC1yxf_XWvkylw/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/UsatodaycomMlbNl-TopStories/~4/h7NWrDJqUq4" height="1" width="1"/>
Around the Majors: 8/19/09: Phillies 5, Diamondbacks 1: Jamie Moyer pitched six scoreless innings in relief Pedro Martinez, who took his spot in the starting rotation, as host Philadelphia beat Arizona.
Rich Hofmann: Moyer does his job well for Phillies: 'IF I GOT A CALL in themiddle of the night and somebody said they wanted [me] to come pitch, I'd think I'd probably be able to figure out a way to do it," Jamie Moyer said, after it was over. But this call came earlier. The skies had opened in the third inning and, at some point during the delay, Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee sent word that this would be Moyer's night after all.
After rain delay, Moyer relieves Martinez, shuts down Diamondbacks in Phillies win: AT THE BEGINNING of the evening, while the pregame festivities took over the field and the fans wandered through Ashburn Alley, the most insistent storyline facing the Phillies was this:
Worley, Savery pounded by foes: PORTLAND, Maine - The Portland Sea Dogs roughed up Reading starter Vance Worley for six runs in five innings and went on to a 9-4 Eastern League win over the Phillies last night.
Rain dampens Martinez's start for Phils: It wasn't until Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee came up to Pedro Martinez near the end of the 66-minute rain delay last night that the 37-year-old pitcher knew his night was over.
Manuel explains handling of Lidge in Atlanta: It was a save situation in an important game for the Phillies on Sunday night - make that early Monday morning - in Atlanta.
Changing closers in the Windy City: The Phillies are not the only NL team with a closer who makes fans squirm uncomfortably in their seats.
Phils' Martinez looking for more in second start: ATLANTA - The Phillies signed Pedro Martinez as a fifth starter, a complementary piece for their team. But the veteran righthander said that he could be more than a five-inning, back-of-the-rotation pitcher; tonight, he will continue in his effort to prove it.
Phillies standing behind Lidge: ATLANTA - The uncomfortable questions hang over the first-place Phillies as the final month of the season approaches: Will Brad Lidge stabilize? And if not, what will the team do?
Rehab moving slowly for Phillies reliever Condrey: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Phillies righthander Clay Condrey said it might be a while before he rejoins his teammates."This is going to go a bit slower," Condrey said after his workout yesterday morning,"We're probably not looking for anytime before Sept. 1, but hopefully we'll see how it's going next week."
Phillies Notebook: Phillies pitcher Myers says he wasn't playing, he tripped: ATLANTA - The good news for the Phillies is that Brett Myers' hip continues to respond well to rehabilitation. The bad news is that what he says was a freak accident to his eye could push his first rehab start back a week.
Brown gives Reading 1-0 win: READING - Domonic Brown led off the ninth inning with a double and then scored later on Kevin Mahar's single to give the Reading Phillies a 1-0 win over the Binghamton Mets yesterday in the Eastern League.
Witnesses confirm Myers wasn't in altercation: ATLANTA - Phillies pitcher Brett Myers said he was not involved in an altercation that occurred early Saturday morning while he was at a bar in Jacksonville, Fla., and multiple eyewitnesses confirmed his account.
Howard goes deep twice to power Phils past Braves: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel knows Ryan Howard is a dangerous hitter even when he's not tracking pitches perfectly.
The races: Lee leading Phils in NL East: Cliff Lee won his third straight start since joining Philadelphia by tossing eight strong innings against the Cubs in the Phillies' 6-1 win on Thursday. But even with Lee's heroics, the Phillies couldn't add to their lead in the National League East.
Phillies clicking with revamped rotation: It does not appear that the Philadelphia Phillies will find anything of deep and abiding concern confronting them until they run into the Los Angeles Dodgers, at some point in October.
Lee pitches eight sharp innings as Phillies sweep Cubs: Cliff Lee showed again why the Philadelphia Phillies may have made the best deal of all before the trade deadline.<p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/5XJYvKGuPxQcAF-dVVX-NGEQGQg/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/5XJYvKGuPxQcAF-dVVX-NGEQGQg/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/5XJYvKGuPxQcAF-dVVX-NGEQGQg/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/5XJYvKGuPxQcAF-dVVX-NGEQGQg/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/UsatodaycomMlbNl-TopStories/~4/sc-DUIsgnK4" height="1" width="1"/>
Police charge man in Victorino beer incident: Chicago police charged a 21-year-old man with two misdemeanor counts Thursday in connection with a beer-throwing incident that showered Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino.<p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/ksTsxmjKlXhUSdSEnSQZ4_PYTL0/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/ksTsxmjKlXhUSdSEnSQZ4_PYTL0/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/ksTsxmjKlXhUSdSEnSQZ4_PYTL0/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/ksTsxmjKlXhUSdSEnSQZ4_PYTL0/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/UsatodaycomMlbNl-TopStories/~4/NkRKQOheP5I" height="1" width="1"/>
Pedro returns with a win as Phils power past Cubs: Pedro Martinez returned to the majors with a win, pitching five innings and leading the Philadelphia Phillies over the Chicago Cubs 12-5 Wednesday night.<p><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/W56J9wbVLAFBQjdb4kMA23wIreU/0/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/W56J9wbVLAFBQjdb4kMA23wIreU/0/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a><br/><a href="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/W56J9wbVLAFBQjdb4kMA23wIreU/1/da"><img src="http://feedads.g.doubleclick.net/~at/W56J9wbVLAFBQjdb4kMA23wIreU/1/di" border="0" ismap="true"></img></a></p><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/UsatodaycomMlbNl-TopStories/~4/EmdLue9Jccw" height="1" width="1"/>
Lee mows down Cubs to improve to 3-0 with Phillies: CHICAGO (AP) -- Nothing beats adding a Cy Young Award winner to your pitching staff at the trading deadline. Just ask the Philadelphia Phillies how good Cliff Lee has been since coming over from the Cleveland Indians late last month....
Victorino files police report after beer shower: CHICAGO (AP) -- Police charged a 21-year-old man with two misdemeanor counts Thursday in connection with a beer-throwing incident that showered Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino....
MLB Network to add August telecasts: The MLB Network will launch a new lineup of live afternoon telecasts with Thursday's game between the Rockies and the Phillies from Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park.
Phils undecided on Pedro's role on staff: Manager Charlie Manuel got asked every which way he might shape the rotation once Pedro Martinez joins the Phillies. J.A. Happ to the bullpen? Jamie Moyer? Martinez? How about a six-man rotation?"It's something we'll go over when it's time,"Manuel said before Tuesday's game.
Atkins, Hammel carry Rox to fifth straight: Garrett Atkins knocked a two run-homer and a two-run double in pacing the National League Wild Card-leading Rockies to their fifth straight victory, 8-3, over the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday night in front of 45,203.
Giants beat / In a blur, Velez returns and makes impact: Two things, one expected and one unexpected, defined the Giants' 6-1 homestand against the Pirates and Phillies. The expected: good pitching. San Francisco gave up a total of 14 runs in the seven games. The unexpected: Eugenio Velez. Recalled from Triple-A...
Happ belongs in Phillies' rotation: They were at opposite ends of the Phillies' clubhouse yesterday. Fitting since they're at opposite ends of their careers.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies' Lee trade shows importance of good draft picks: In addition to landing them a reigning Cy Young winner, the Phillies' acquisition of Cliff Lee last week served as a referendum on the importance of drafting and signing quality players each June.
Empty feeling for fans, Phils in loss to Rockies: BY THE NINTH inning, the stands were empty, the closer was on the mound with a five-run deficit, and the electricity that had greeted the Phillies upon their return from a seven-game West Coast trip had dissipated into the humid night air.
No relief for Phillies' bullpen: It appears the Phillies' troika of middle relievers who factored significantly in last season's World Series title run will be out a little longer than the club had originally hoped.
Too much pitching? A welcome problem for Phils: Pedro Martinez will make his third, and possibly final, minor-league rehab start tonight. The three-time Cy Young Award winner is itching to join the Phillies and help in the push for a third straight division title.
Rockies rough up Moyer and Phils: Typically when Jamie Moyer pitches, the Phillies turn on the spigot and runs come pouring out, a strategy that is likely most appreciated by a 46-year-old who thrives on floaters and sleight of hand.
Phillies prospect's blog is downright bush league: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Hey, have you heard the story about the magic quarter that a couple of the Gulf Coast League Phillies pitchers have?
If Phils are to stay on top, they can't afford poor at-bats.: SAN FRANCISCO - The Phillies have a day off today, and, boy, do they need it.They spent the last four days in the house that Barry Bonds built (on counterfeit muscles) and, save for a magnificent outing by newcomer Cliff Lee, didn't look all that good.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies not big on Giants' spacious ballpark: SAN FRANCISCO - If the season ended today, and if the Phillies faced the Giants in the first round of the playoffs, the series would begin at Citizens Bank Park. That is a good thing, at least judging by the talk in the Phillies' clubhouse after their 7-2 loss at AT&T Park yesterday.
Manuel says Ruiz still starting catcher: SAN FRANCISCO - Paul Bako has enjoyed significant playing time of late, but Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said that Bako and Carlos Ruiz are not sharing starting duties.
Inside the Phillies: Amaro's team performed on deadline: SAN FRANCISCO - Many fascinating questions surrounded the Phillies last week: Would they trade for Roy Halladay? Or bolster the bench and bullpen? Was another pitcher on their radar? But one of the most interesting and essential mysteries was: What kind of general manager is Ruben Amaro Jr.?
Phillies Notes: Phils promote prospect Brown: SAN FRANCISCO - Dominic Brown could have reported to any number of teams this weekend. But the trade deadline passed Friday without the Phillies having to part with Brown, whom they instead promoted from single-A Clearwater to double-A Reading yesterday.
Fans charged in fatal beating outside Philadelphia Phillies stadium in court: Three men allegedly involved in a fatal fight over spilled beer at a Philadelphia Phillies stadium bar are in court for a preliminary hearing.
Philly trio in court over fatal fight outside park: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Three men allegedly involved in a fatal fight over spilled beer at a Philadelphia Phillies stadium bar are in court for a preliminary hearing.
Hamels returns to dominant form in win: Cole Hamels dominated through eight innings and Shane Victorino fell a triple shy of the cycle as the Phillies won their second straight over the D-backs by a 4-3 margin.
Hamels outduels Haren as Phillies clip Diamondbacks: Shane Victorino homered and drove in two runs, Cole Hamels pitched eight dominant innings and the red-hot Philadelphia Phillies ...
AP source: Phillies make offer for Indians' Lee: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Looking for a top starter to bolster their so-so rotation, the Philadelphia Phillies are pursuing reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Cliff Lee....
Duel not delivered in D-Backs' loss: Haren vs. Hamels wasn't all it was cracked up to be as the Phillies topped the D-Backs 4-3.
Streaking Phillies still want Halladay: The Phillies have been playing at a high level of late but maintain there is room for improvement.
D-Backs up next: Philadelphia Phillies: The Phillies entered Sunday with a 6 1/2-game lead in the NL East over the Braves and Marlins.
Man beaten to death in lot outside Phillies' park: A man who was attending a bachelor party at a bar next to the Philadelphia Phillies' ballpark has been beaten to death during a melee outside.
Inside Pitch: Homers push Phillies past Cardinals: Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins and Raul Ibanez all hit two-run homers to lead the Phillies to a 9-2 win over the Cardinals on Sunday. Joe Blanton (7-4) allowed two runs and struck out six over eight innings.
Man beaten to death outside Phillies'ballpark: Philadelphia police are investigating the beating death of a man during a melee outside the Philadelphia Phillies'ballpark.
Source: Phillies make offer for Indians ace Cliff Lee:
Looking for a top starter to bolster their so-so rotation, the Phillies have turned their attention from Roy Halladay to the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner, Cliff Lee.
Phillies take advantage of errors in win over Diamondbacks: PHOENIX - Defense isn't the most quantifiable of baseball actions. Fielding percentages and error totals provide some insight into the overall health of a unit, but both are relatively meaningless without some sort of context. But here's a stat that should make some sense, both in the grand scheme of the Phillies' season and their 4-3 win over the Diamondbacks last night at Chase Field.
It's not about Philly fans: We all need to stop - here in Philly and across the country. We need to stop right now.Over the weekend, a 22-year-old man from Lansdale went to the Phillies game with a group of friends for a bachelor party. His name was David Sale. He was probably excited when he woke up that day. When you're young and your pal is about to get married and you head off to celebrate, life can't get any better. But it can get worse.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies, Manuel go from Halladay heat, to heat: PHOENIX - Seventy-two hours before the nonwaiver trade deadline, you can only imagine what life was like for Charlie Manuel. Closed-door meetings, a cell phone that won't shut up, a computer dialed in to Philly.com for all the latest developments surrounding the Phillies' search for roster help.
Karen Heller: Another sad episode of fans behaving badly: The Phillies are a beautiful thing, a team of considerable talent and rectitude, the latter no small achievement in the juicing-and-brawling world of professional sports.
Heidi Hamels: Changeup on the player's-wife image: Game nights mean Heidi Hamels doesn't get to bed until 2 a.m., and on this Tuesday - after the Phillies' joyous blowout of the Cincinnati Reds - she has to be up extra early.
Phils keeping options if Halladay deal doesn't happen: PHOENIX - Talks between the Phillies and Blue Jays about a potential Roy Halladay deal are ongoing, said a person with direct knowledge of the negotiations. But the Phils remained open yesterday to exploring the trade market for starters other than the Toronto ace.
Drabek picks up a win as trade rumors swirl: READING - Someone last night described pitcher Kyle Drabek as the"linchpin" in a trade that could possibly bring Toronto Blue Jays ace Roy Halladay to the Phillies.
Deal looking closer for Halladay: Fans in Philadelphia may be giving up on acquiring Toronto ace Roy Halladay, but people elsewhere think it's just a matter of time before the righthander joins Cole Hamels atop the Phillies' rotation.
Phillies prospect Brown tries to tune out trade talk: CLEARWATER, Fla. - During spring training, he was a whisper in the wind. The No. 1 prospect in the Phillies' organization, but honing his craft in the lower reaches of the minor league system, still known mostly only to those who pore over Baseball America.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies GM Amaro lying low as deadline approaches: PHOENIX - Almost as fascinating as the Phillies' pursuit of Toronto righthander Roy Halladay is the way general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. has navigated the media circus that has surrounded it.
Hot Phils expand lead to 7 games: PHOENIX - It had to be a peculiar feeling for Ruben Amaro Jr. as he sat in the visiting general manager's box at Chase Field. With 4 days remaining before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, the Phillies' GM was joined by a who's who of team executives, some of them sitting with him above the field, some of them watching from a section of seats behind home plate blocked off for scouts. None of them was in town with the purpose of watching the Phillies win for the 18th time in 21 games.
Kennelly, Phillies get past Sea Dogs: READING - Tim Kennelly scored three runs, two on RBI doubles by Jeremy Slayden, to help the Reading Phillies to a 4-3 win over the Portland Sea Dogs last night in the Eastern League.
Romero may be ready soon; longer wait for Condrey: PHOENIX - Chad Durbin, J.C. Romero and Clay Condrey shared a common experience last fall as relievers who played significant roles in the Phillies' ability to reach and subsequently win in the postseason. Now, they are together in a less glamorous and enjoyable situation, rehabbing in Clearwater, Fla.
Phils’ trade talks continue: PHOENIX - Talks between the Phillies and Blue Jays about a potential Roy Halladay deal are ongoing, said a person with direct knowledge of the negotiations. But the Phils remained open tonight to exploring the trade market for starters other than the Toronto ace.
Drabek blocks out scouts: READING - Someone tonight described pitcher Kyle Drabek as the"lynchpin" in a trade that could possibly bring Toronto Blue Jays ace Roy Halladay to the Phillies.
Phillies Notebook: Source: Blue Jays turned down Phillies' offer for Halladay: The past few days concerning the Phillies and their quest to land Toronto pitcher Roy Halladay have been a lot like summer weather in the Delaware Valley– a lot of thunder and lightning. But no rain. Yet.
Phils fans: The new Broad Street bullies?: Here we go again.A rowdy weekend at Citizens Bank Park - punctuated by the killing of a fan in a brawl - marred the Phillies' two wins over the Cards this weekend and dealt another blow to the reputation of Philadelphia sports fans.
Source: Phillies in discussions for ace lefty Lee: The Phillies are in discussions with the Indians to obtain left-hander Cliff Lee and possibly another player for Class A right-hander Jason Knapp, Class AAA right-hander Carlos Carrasco, shortstop Jason Donald and catcher Lou Marson, according to a major-league source.
Behind Happ, Phillies win eighth in a row: J.A. Happ continued to impress his manager, teammates and opponents Sunday as he picked up his seventh win. The Phillies got another excellent start from the rookie lefty as they beat the Marlins, 5-0, to pick up their season-high eighth consecutive win Sunday afternoon.
Happ still unbeaten as Phillies run win streak to eight: Unbeaten rookie J.A. Happ won again, and so did the Philadelphia Phillies. Happ allowed five hits in seven innings, and the Phillies ...
Charlie Manuel fears complacency: MIAMI - Tonight, the Phillies will begin a seven-game homestand with more separation between them and the runner-up in the NL East since they had a six-game lead June 3, 2001.
Trade? Phillies starter Happ shows he's the real deal in win over Marlins: MIAMI - It was the type of situation that has spelled doom for many young pitchers. With no outs and runners on first and second in the sixth inning, Marlins outfielder Cody Ross sent a grounder toward third base that looked like an easy doubleplay ball. But Phillies third baseman Pedro Feliz failed to glove it cleanly, and all three runners were safe with three righthanded hitters due up.
Unbeaten Happ pitches Phils past Marlins 5-0: The Philadelphia Phillies finished with a flourish Sunday. As Jimmy Rollins squeezed a routine popup for the final out, he delivered a one-legged dance kick.
The Making of a Phillie: MIAMI - It started with two little questions.On June 19, Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. and two of his lieutenants, Scott Proefrock and Dallas Green, sat casually in Amaro's office at Citizens Bank Park and talked about a familiar topic: the team's search for pitching.
Phillies-Marlins postponed by rain: MIAMI - A couple of hours before the Phillies were to face Florida's Josh Johnson last night, manager Charlie Manuel joked that perhaps he should have pitched the hard-throwing righthander in Tuesday's All-Star Game so he could have tired him out.
Phillies Notes: Martinez throws first bullpen session for Phils: MIAMI - Under the watchful eye of pitching coach Rich Dubee, Pedro Martinez threw his first bullpen session yesterday since signing with the Phillies last week.
Phils-Marlins washed out: MIAMI - The Florida Marlins' game against the Philadelphia Phillies was postponed after a 90-minute rain delay last night with the Marlins leading 2-0 in the second inning.
Phillies Notes: Phillies' pitching has been on the upswing: MIAMI - It hasn't reached a point where the Phillies no longer see a need for a top-of-the-rotation starter. Yet if their pitching continues on its roll, they soon will detonate the rest of the National League East Division.
Phils win as Lidge walks tightrope: MIAMI - Upside down as it may seem, the Phillies last night needed the comfort of having Cole Hamels live up to the pitching standards recently established by Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ and Jamie Moyer.
Phillies outlast Marlins in 12 innings: MIAMI - Upside down as it may seem, the Phillies last night needed the comfort of having Cole Hamels live up to the pitching standards recently established by Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ and Jamie Moyer.
Power Rankings: Phillies make their move: The Phillies are riding an eight-game win streak, looking like the champs again and climbing up Aram Tolegian's Power Rankings.
Phils activate Condrey, cut Walker: The Phillies activated right-hander Clay Condrey from the 15-day disabled list on Friday and designated right-hander Tyler Walker for assignment in order to make room on the 25-man roster.
Veterans Moyer, Ibanez carry Phillies: Thanks to two home runs by 37-year-old Raul Ibanez and a dazzling seven shutout innings by 46-year-old Jamie Moyer, the Phillies blanked the Marlins, 4-0, to move five games up in the National League East and get the second half off on the right foot.
Upbeat Pedro visits Phillies, plays catch: Simply getting a feel is what Pedro Martinez was doing at the Phillies clubhouse at Land Shark Stadium on Thursday. Getting a feel for his new teammates, a different Major League clubhouse and having a baseball in his hands again.
Phils' Ibanez homers twice as Moyer masters Marlins again: The mismatches between Jamie Moyer and the Florida Marlins are becoming more one-sided. Moyer allowed one hit in seven innings to continue his domination of Florida, Ryan Howard hit his 200th homer to sustain an unprecedented pace and the Philadelphia Phillies extended their winning streak to six games with a 4-0 victory Thursday night.
Phillies land Pedro Martinez, then put him on DL: Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. says three-time Cy Young winner Pedro Martinez has agreed to a contract with the team.
Pedro Martinez ready to revive career with Phillies:
Pedro Martinez promised to put on quite a show when he returns to the majors with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Sam Donnellon: Pedro Martinez just adds more questions for Phillies: "I'M NOT ready yet to pitch, everybody knows that," Pedro Martinez was saying yesterday, and therein lies the rub. One day after signing the three-time Cy Young Award winner to a contract, the Phillies have no idea if they have improved impressively, incrementally, or not at all.
Phils' Hamels gets extra rest: MIAMI - By starting Jamie Moyer against the Florida Marlins last night, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel gave Cole Hamels an extra day of rest.
Phils' Lopez takes Martinez's arrival in stride: MIAMI - As he was approached by a few reporters yesterday in the Phillies' clubhouse, the righthander smiled and said,"I'm Rodrigo, not Pedro."
Even Martinez unsure if he can help Phils: Well, this isn't going to work.Pedro Martinez arrived yesterday, bringing the long-shot possibility of some help for the Phillies' starting rotation, but also carrying more disclaimers, conditions, and fine print than a retirement home insurance policy.
Pedro's pitch: Honesty: At least he's honest. Funny, too.Yesterday at Citizens Bank Park, the Phillies presented their newest pitcher, 37-year-old Pedro Martinez, to Philadelphia and the media. Introductory news conferences are a lot like first dates. There are some strategic do's and don't's that you generally
All-stars assess the Phillies: ST. LOUIS - The Phillies are good, but repeating as World Series champions is a profoundly difficult task.That was the consensus around baseball during this week's all-star festivities, which featured an uncommon amount of exposure for the Phils.
Phillies look to Pedro Martinez: Both parties were desperate. The Phillies needed another pitcher; Pedro Martinez sought an opportunity. The two are not perfectly suited for one another, but they will try to make a short-term partnership fulfilling for both.
Pedro Martinez ready for return with Phillies: Pedro Martinez promised to put on quite a show when he returns to the majors with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Reading's Worley gets win in All-Star Game: TRENTON - Vance Worley of the Reading Phillies picked up the win in the Eastern League All-Star Game, pitching a shutout inning as the South beat the North, 5-3, last night at Waterfront Park.
Pedro’s happy he’s a Phillie: A happy Pedro Martinez was introduced as a member of the Philadelphia Phillies at a noon press conference at Citizens Bank Park today and took questions from the media in the typical manner the baseball world has grown accustomed to from the future Hall of Famer: serious but with plenty of jokes and laughs.
Phils hope they've found a prize in Pedro: Pedro Martinez arrived with his trademark smile, the one that seems to suggest that he knows something no one else does. Perhaps he does, and if that turns out to be the case, the Phillies may really have helped themselves.
Martinez ready for return to Phillies: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Pedro Martinez says he was "too brave" when he pitched hurt his final years in New York, and he's excited about his return to the major leagues with the Philadelphia Phillies....
Nathan prevails in key showdown: Twins pitcher strikes out Phillies' Howard with two out and the tying run at third in the eighth.
Phillies sign 3-time Cy Young winner Martinez: Pedro Martinez is returning to the major leagues. Martinez agreed to a contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Wednesday.
Pedro Martinez gets one-year deal from Phillies: Pedro Martinez has agreed to a $1 million, one-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, a person familiar with the negotiations said Tuesday night.
Pirates on course for history after 5-2 flattening: Loss to Phillies brings 38-50 mark at break, on pace for 17th losing year
Duke's All-Star selection give Pirates rare duo: Phillies'Manuel looks past record in choosing him to replace Cain
Martinez ready for return to Phillies: Pedro Martinez says he was "too brave" when he pitched hurt his final years in New York, and he's excited about his return to the major leagues with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Phillies' All-Stars fall short as National League loses another to American League: ST. LOUIS - What a story it would have been, 45 years after Johnny Callison won the All-Star Game at New York's Shea Stadium with a walkoff homer, securing a spot in Phillies lore forever.
American League tops National League again: ST. LOUIS - Charlie Manuel basked in a standing ovation, Shane Victorino presented the president with macadamia nuts, and four other Phillies joined them in an All-Star Game that celebrated their team's success.
Phils bask in All-Star Game; AL wins: ST. LOUIS - Charlie Manuel basked in a standing ovation, Shane Victorino presented the president with macadamia nuts, and four other Phillies joined them in an All-Star Game that celebrated their team's success.
Phillies stick together in St. Louis for All-Star Game: ST. LOUIS - Here's how it usually goes: A Phillies player makes the All-Star team. Maybe more than one if they're lucky. When the last game before the break ends, the player or players find their way to whatever city the game is being played in that year.
Phillies looking to host All-Star Game again in future: ST. LOUIS - Dave Montgomery will be at the All-Star Game. And while he's in town, the Phillies president will make a point of running into Bob DuPuy, Major League Baseball's president and chief operating officer.
Sources say Phillies to sign Martinez if he passes physical: THE SUREST sign that Pedro Martinez will soon wear Phillies red came yesterday when the pitcher himself was scheduled to touch down in Philadelphia in advance of a physical that team sources suggest will take place today.
Roy Halladay, Phils make eyes at one another: ST. LOUIS - Roy Halladay wants to play for a winning team. The Phillies won the World Series last year, and, of course, hope to repeat. Should the Phils try to acquire the pitcher many consider the best in baseball?
Phillies' Manuel enjoying perch atop baseball: The latest coverage of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Prince Fielder is home-run king in St. Louis: ST. LOUIS - It had all the ingredients to be a fairy-tale story. Phillies slugger Ryan Howard returns to his hometown for the All-Star Game. He also competes in the Home Run contest where, cheered on by the crowd, he wins the event for the second time in his career.
Media whiff on all-star fun: On Sunday, before they beat the Pirates, the Phillies held a ceremony to introduce their emissaries for tonight's All-Star Game in St. Louis. It took a while.
Phils take a closer look at Pedro Martinez: ST. LOUIS - Pedro Martinez, one of the top righthanders in baseball history, will try to prove to the Phillies that he can still pitch.
Phillies' All-Star Game history: There are no certainties in baseball. But as tonight's All-Star Game unfolds in St. Louis, it is not unrealistic to expect a Phillies player to capture at least a part of the spotlight.
Reading rallies past Senators, 5-3: HARRISBURG - Doubles by Ozzie Chavez and pitcher Mike Stutes sparked a three-run rally in the sixth inning yesterday as the Reading Phillies beat the Harrisburg Senators, 5-3, in the Eastern League.
Money counts: If the Phillies really want to land Toronto ace Roy Halladay, who will start tonight's All-Star Game for the American League, they may have to outbid the New York Yankees.
Drabek, Flande represent Reading Phils at All-Star Futures Game: ST. LOUIS - There could come a day, after the Pedro Martinez situation is resolved once and for all and the Roy Halladay rumors recede and the nonwaiver trading deadline has come and gone, when the Phillies' most practical option to plug a pitching hole might just be inside their own organization.
Cole Hamels remains an enigma: The Phillies' pitchers head into the all-star break off their best 10-game stretch of the season, illustrated by the 2.70 earned run average during a 9-1 homestand they completed yesterday with a methodical 5-2 win over the Pirates.
Drabek throws well at Futures Game: ST. LOUIS - The Phillies learned more about Kyle Drabek, their righthanded prodigy, yesterday.He's good at Frisbee.He's better after long rain delays.
NL skipper Manuel has dilemma at first: Phillies manager Charlie Manuel finds himself in an interesting position for next week's All-Star Game in St. Louis with four first basemen on his roster.
Phillies express interest in Halladay: The Blue Jays have let the whole world know that Roy Halladay is available. Not that they're shopping him. The Phillies are interested, but at what price? It is going to take a serious package of top prospects and some financial flexibility to make it happen.
Reds recover, rally past Phillies 4-3: Ramon Hernandez hit a tiebreaking RBI single off Brad Lidge in the ninth inning, lifting the Cincinnati Reds to a 4-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night.
'Vote Pablo' push goes international: This 33rd-man All-Star elections are getting down and dirty. The Dodgers have an alliance with the Angels to promote each other's candidates, Matt Kemp and Chone Figgins. The Phillies have the governors of Pennsylvania and Hawaii wagering over how many votes...
Former Phillies star Lenny Dykstra files for bankruptcy: In the strongest evidence yet that his financial empire is crumbling, former Phillies star Lenny Dykstra filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Wednesday in a California court.
Dykstra files for bankruptcy protection: NEW YORK - Lenny Dykstra, the former star centerfielder for the Phillies and Mets, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, Reuters news service reports.
Ex-Phil Dykstra files for bankruptcy: In the strongest evidence yet that his financial empire is crumbling, former Phillies star Lenny Dykstra filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection yesterday in a California court.
Rich Hofmann: Taking a look out Phillies' window: EIGHT MONTHS after the Phillies finally kicked down the door, all of the talk is about windows.Manager Charlie Manuel said,"I think we have a window in there of at least 3 years. That gives us a chance to go back and repeat in the World Series for the next 3 years."
Phillies Notes: What would Halladay cost?: The Phillies would, of course, love to trade for Toronto pitcher Roy Halladay. But is their farm system rich enough in talent to entice the Blue Jays into dealing one of the best pitchers in baseball? And if it is, will the Phils sacrifice their top prospects?
Star material: Victorino vanquishes Reds: It was a better night for Shane Victorino than it was for Rodrigo Lopez. The centerfielder, who is campaigning for a final All-Star Game roster spot, heard loud cheers from the fans at Citizens Bank Park, stole two bases and singled home the winning run in the ninth inning of a 3-2 Phillies victory over the Cincinnati Reds.
Phillies Notebook: Drabek one of Phillies' untouchable prospects?: IF YOU TAKE Ruben Amaro Jr. and Charlie Manuel at face value, then Kyle Drabek will remain in the Phillies organization for a long time. The 21-year-old righthander, who appears to have passed Carlos Carrasco as the team's top pitching prospect, will not be included in a trade for a major league-ready starting pitcher, whether that starting pitcher is Roy Halladay or Cy Young.
Letters: The Phillies Corner: ARECENT ARTICLE purporting to show that the current Phillies aren't betteror worse than last year's team at the same point in the season brought to mind this familiar old joke:
Phils win on Victorino’s hit in 9th: It was a different night for Shane Victorino than it was for Rodrigo Lopez. The centerfielder, campaigning for a final all-star roster spot, heard loud cheers from the fans at Citizens Bank Park, stole two bases and singled in the winning run in the ninth inning of a 3-2 Phillies victory over the Cincinnati Reds.
Phillies waste Happ's outing: In the Phillies' exhaustive search for a starting pitcher, the speculation has ranged from Toronto's Ray Halladay, arguably the best righthander in the game, to Pedro Martinez, inarguably well past his prime.
BITTER AFTER TASTE: IN THE DUGOUT in the third inning, Charlie Manuel could feel the pendulum swing.Just moments before, the Phillies had taken a 3-0 lead on a double by Chase Utley, then loaded the bases with no outs on a walk by Ryan Howard. Reds starter Aaron Harang was in trouble. Phillies starter J.A. Happ seemed poised to retake the mound with a comfortable lead.
Phillies Notebook: For Manuel, Phillies' rout recalls some not-to-fond memories: FOR CHARLIE MANUEL, it is a date that lives in infamy: June 13, 2008. Friday the 13th. What should have been a highlight of the Phillies' season, a 20-2 win over the Cardinals in which they rapped 21 hits and four home runs, instead became a moment he would rue for much of the next calendar year.
Reds rally past Lidge and Phils: In the Phillies' exhaustive search for a starting pitcher, the speculation has ranged from Toronto's Ray Halladay, arguably the best righthander in the game, to Pedro Martinez, inarguably well past his prime.
Phillies rout Reds, 22-1: FOR THE PREVIOUS few days, Pinatubo had worn Phillies red, spitting intermittent clouds of steam into the sky above Citizens Bank Park. Seven runs against Livan Hernandez, then four against Fernando Nieve, then two solo home runs against Mets ace Johan Santana, each performance aided by the resurgent star in the leadoff spot.
Paul Hagen: As Hamels goes, so go the Phillies: EVERYBODY KNOWS that Phillies starting pitchers have a 5.04 earned run average, second worst in the National League.See, that's how rumors get started.
Search for starter leads to Martinez: Are the Phillies seriously interested in signing free agent Pedro Martinez?They'll have a better idea today after Charley Kerfeld watches the 37-year-old righthander pitch a simulated game in the Dominican Republic. Kerfeld is a special assistant to general manager Ruben Amaro Jr.
First basemen to play 'bombs away': The Phillies' Ryan Howard will represent the NL in the All-Star Home Run Derby next week, along with sluggers Albert Pujols of St. Louis, Prince Fielder of Milwaukee and Adrian Gonzalez of San Diego. Pujols leads the majors with 31 home runs. Howard won the home run contest in 2006.
Big first inning leads Phillies over Reds 22-1: Chase Utley hit a three-run homer and Shane Victorino and Greg Dobbs each had two-run shots during a 10-run first inning, leading the Philadelphia Phillies to a 22-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Monday night.
Phils to scout Pedro in Dominican Republic: A source confirmed the Phillies will watch Martinez throw Monday or Tuesday in the Dominican Republic.
Blanton outduels Johan in Phils' sweep: Joe Blanton made quick work of the Mets' depleted lineup, allowing four hits in 7 1/3 scoreless innings, while Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley homered in Sunday's 2-0 Phillies victory, completing a three-game sweep.
Moyer's strong start helps Phillies baffle Mets: Jamie Moyer pitched neatly into the seventh inning, Jimmy Rollins hit a two-run double and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the ...
Baseball roundup: Phillies 2, Mets 0: NL ROUNDUP Phillies 2, Mets 0 — Joe Blanton pitched four-hit ball into the eighth inning and Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley each homered off Johan Santana, leading host Philadelphia to victory and a three-game sweep of New York. Astros 7, Gia...
Ibanez unlikely to return from DL Friday: Phillies left fielder Raul Ibanez said last week that his strained left groin feels much better, but the team indicated that he probably won't be activated when eligible on Friday.
Romero may face battery charge: The St. Petersburg Police Department has handed a complaint against Phillies left-hander J.C. Romero to the Pinellas-Pasco State Attorney's Office to determine if prosecutors will charge him with battery.
MLB Notebook: Phillies'Romero said to have run-in with fan: The Philadelphia Phillies confirmed yesterday that one of their players had a confrontation with a fan after the game Thursday at Tampa Bay. The Phillies did not identify the player.
Minor league pitcher Yohan Flande has Phillies' attention: CLEARWATER, Fla. - It was just another day in La Romana, Dominican Republic. Just another tryout on an isolated baseball diamond. And, frankly, when Phillies international scouting supervisor Sal Agostinelli saw Yohan Flande throw that day in December 2004, he thought he was looking at just another pitcher.
Savery wins 10th as Reading rolls: TRENTON - Joe Savery raised his record to 10-1 yesterday afternoon by allowing only two hits in six shutout innings as the Reading Phillies clubbed the Trenton Thunder, 12-2, in the Eastern League.
Utley, Ibanez remain atop All-Star voting: Phillies second baseman Chase Utley and outfielder Raul Ibanez continue to lead in the National League All-Star fan balloting, and shortstop Jimmy Rollins has fallen back in the voting with 4 days remaining.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies put Bastardo on 15-day disabled list: Whether it is Carlos Carrasco or Andrew Carpenter or another member of the Phillies' farm system, somebody is going to get a chance to pitch his way into the team's rotation.
Too soon to tell whether Phillies' swoon is history: Turning points are difficult to identify when you still might be in the midst of one, so as the Phillies take the field in Atlanta tonight, the questions remain:
Phils rally to win with bullpen help: TORONTO - Brad Lidge felt nervous at first, entering yesterday's game in the ninth inning with a one-run lead.The closer who was perfect last season had not earned a save since June 1, spending most of the month on the disabled list with a sprained right knee. He had blown six saves before that, but the Phillies suffered in his absence, losing 12 of 16 games.
Phils showing less cool and more fire: Along with a numbing series of baseball games, the Phillies may have lost something they needed to lose on this road trip.
Rollins to return tomorrow: TORONTO - Charlie Manuel has never wavered in his belief that Jimmy Rollins is the most capable leadoff hitter on the Phillies' roster, despite the shortstop's paltry average and on-base percentage this season.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies closer Lidge survives Blue Jays' tests for first save since June 1: TORONTO - At first, Brad Lidge was not happy.Blue Jays catcher Raul Chavez had just surprised the Phillies closer by bunting the first pitch of the ninth inning toward the left side of the infield, forcing Lidge and his uncertain right knee to scramble toward the ball and make an off-balance throw, which did not get to first base in time.
Inside the Phillies: Manuel decides to speak out: TORONTO - The visitors' clubhouse at the Rogers Centre is small, with minimal floor space between the rows of lockers that line each wall. After Friday night's game, manager Charlie Manuel stood on the carpet in the middle of the room, according to several Phillies players. He spoke passionately, but did not shout. The players sat in folding chairs in front of their lockers, most looking at Manuel and listening.
Signs of Life: TORONTO - One of manager Charlie Manuel's complaints, which eventually led to a team meeting Friday night, was that the Phillies could not seem to pitch and hit well in the same game.
Fla. man accuses Romero of assault: TORONTO - A Florida man has accused Phillies reliever J.C. Romero of assaulting him after Thursday's game against the Tampa Bay Rays in St. Petersburg, Fla.
Phillies Notes: Hamels regrets his outburst: TORONTO - Cole Hamels was too upset to answer questions after Friday's ugly loss to the Blue Jays, but the Phillies lefthander expressed regret yesterday about his behavior toward home-plate umpire Mark Carlson.
Werth, Happ lead Phils past Toronto: TORONTO - One of manager Charlie Manuel's complaints, which eventually led to a team meeting Friday night, was that the Phillies could not seem to pitch and hit well in the same game.
Phillies Notes: Bastardo likely to miss start: TORONTO - The Phillies do not yet know the severity of Antonio Bastardo's shoulder injury, but expect the pitcher to miss at least one start.
Hard-luck Hamels ejected as struggling Phillies fall to Blue Jays: TORONTO - For roughly 20 minutes, the doors remained shut, bottling up whatever emotion lay percolating inside. It isn't clear what exchanges took place inside the Phillies clubhouse last night - manager Charlie Manuel politely sent word that he would not
Phillies not content with knowing umps blew replay vs. Rays: TORONTO - At some point in the near future, Charlie Manuel wouldn't mind having a chat with Bob Watson, a Major League Baseball vice president who has a large role in the execution of the sport's instant replay system. Back when replay was instituted last season, Manuel said he was in favor of anything that resulted in the correct judgment being made. But after two replay controversies in the past 2 weeks, the Phillies manager isn't sure quite what to think about the system.
For the Birds: TORONTO - Charlie Manuel recently compared himself to a dam about to burst, frustrated by watching the Phillies drop nearly every game for two weeks. After last night's debacle, he finally reacted.
Lidge secures series win for Moyer, Phils: It didn't take long for Phillies closer Brad Lidge to be tested in his club's 5-4 win over the Blue Jays at Rogers Centre on Sunday. With his first save since June 1, Lidge preseved a series victory as Jamie Moyer won his 252nd game.
Phils' Moyer wins 252nd career game, passes Bob Gibson: Chase Utley hit a two-run triple, Jamie Moyer won back-to-back starts for the first time in more than two months and the Philadelphia Phillies held on to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 5-4 on Sunday afternoon.
Phillies confirm player involved in confrontation with fan in Tampa: The World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies confirmed one of their players was involved in a confrontation with a fan following Thursday's game at the Tampa Bay Rays.
Happ, Werth lift slumping Phillies over Jays 10-0: J.A. Happ pitched a five-hit shutout, Jayson Werth homered twice and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Toronto Blue Jays 10-0 Saturday.
Hamels ejected as Blue Jays shut down Phillies again: Ricky Romero held Philadelphia hitless for six innings and Aaron Hill hit a two-run double in the Toronto Blue Jays' 6-1 victory over the slumping Phillies on Friday night.
Hinch still pushing for 3 All-Star spots: Diamondbacks manager A.J. Hinch said he has traded voice mails with Phillies manager Charlie Manuel.
Phillies player in confrontation with fan: The Philadelphia Phillies confirmed Saturday that one of their players was involved in a confrontation with a fan following Thursday's game at the Tampa Bay Rays.
Lidge set to return to action Thursday: Brad Lidge has been on the disabled list since June 6 because of a sprained right knee, but Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Wednesday that Lidge will be activated before Thursday's series finale.
Zobrist's wife to sing national anthem: Julianna Zobrist will perform the national anthem prior to Thursday night's Rays-Phillies contest at Tropicana Field, and her husband, Rays second baseman/utilityman Ben Zobrist, is eager to see his bride perform.
Phils' 'pen to help feed hungry children: The Phillies announced the Citizens Bank Foundation will donate $150 for every scoreless inning the bullpen throws this season, up to $25,000, for its Citizens Relief for Hunger campaign.
Closers: Phils' Lidge on the mend, Marlins' Lindstom on DL: The Philadelphia Phillies are getting their closer back. The Florida Marlins just lost theirs.
Phillies snap skid, rout Rays in World Series rematch: Chase Utley homered and drove in four runs Tuesday night, helping the Philadelphia Phillies rout the Tampa Bay Rays 10-1 in the first regular season meeting between the teams since last year's World Series.
Howard back in lineup: Phillies slugger Ryan Howard is in the starting lineup as the designated hitter for Tuesday night's game at Tampa Bay after being hospitalized over the weekend with acute sinusitis.
Phillies blow out Rays, 10-1: ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - It will be 10 days before the Phillies can test themselves again at Citizens Bank Park, and try to reverse a trend that recently went from curious to alarming.
Howard improving, could return to Phils soon: Ryan Howard, hospitalized twice over the weekend with flu symptoms, has been diagnosed with acute sinusitis, and could rejoin the Phillies lineup as early as Tuesday night.
Howard could return to Phillies' lineup Tuesday: Phillies slugger Ryan Howard could return to the lineup Tuesday at Tampa Bay after being hospitalized over the weekend with flu symptoms.
Roberts leads O's past Phillies again, sweep series: Brian Roberts had the decisive hit for the second straight game, a tiebreaking single in the eighth inning, and the Baltimore Orioles completed a three-game sweep of the slumping Philadelphia Phillies with a 2-1 victory Sunday.
Howard released from hospital, misses game vs. Orioles: Ryan Howard was released from the hospital Sunday but was not expected to play for the Philadelphia Phillies against Baltimore.
Phillies’ Howard released from hospital: Ryan Howard was released from the hospital Sunday but did not play for the Philadelphia Phillies against Baltimore, ending his consecutive games streak at 343.
Lidge set for one more rehab assignment: Phillies closer Brad Lidge expects to be activated off the disabled list this week now that his right knee is close to full strength.
Roberts delivers again as Orioles win fifth straight: Sweep of Phillies ties season-high for consecutive victories
Ailing Howard hopes to rejoin Phils: Hospitalized twice over the weekend because of flu-like symptoms, Ryan Howard could be back in the Phillies' lineup tonight when the club begins a nine-game road trip that starts with the defending American League champion Tampa Bay Rays.
Utley, Ibanez continue to lead All-Star voting: The Phillies' Chase Utley and Raul Ibanez continue to lead in the National League All-Star voting at their positions, but Jimmy Rollins has been passed by Florida's Hanley Ramirez for the starting spot at shortstop.
Howard likely to rejoin Phillies tonight: Ryan Howard will begin a new consecutive-games streak, perhaps as soon as tonight. The slugging first baseman, whose major league-leading 343-game stretch was snapped Sunday when a bout with acute sinusitis prevented him from showing up at Citizens Bank Park, is expected to fly to Tampa today and rejoin the Phillies in time for the start of tonight's rematch with the defending American League champion Rays.
Phillies reliever Condrey to go on DL: The Phillies' battered bullpen has taken another hit, as the team plans to place righthander Clay Condrey on the disabled list with a strained oblique.
Phillies hit the road hoping to end skid: Basic and homespun as it sounded, the most poignant comment Charlie Manuel made during a Phillies homestand that came to a merciful end with Sunday's 2-1 loss to Baltimore was this:
No offense Phillies, but pitching is to blame: IN SOME WAYS, the concern is understandable. After all, we aren't dealing with your run-of-the-mill major league offense here. These are the big, bad home-run-hitting, rawhide-splitting Philadelphia Phillies. Charlie Manuel didn't rise through the coaching ranks churning out pitchers. Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins didn't win MVPs because of the velocity on their fastballs. The Phillies haven't heaped dumptruck loads of cash on their shiny batting order in hopes of winning low-scoring games.
Condrey to the DL: The Phillies have placed righthanded reliever Clay Condrey on the 15-day disabled list with a strained muscle in his rib cage.
10 rules to take to Bank: A friend recently went to a Phillies home game. He had some food and some drinks and the Fightin's won. There was one problem: An inconsiderate fan in his section kept jabbering loudly into his cell phone
HBO feature suggests Dykstra's empire in trouble: In a provocative piece scheduled to air on the HBO program"Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel" tomorrow night (10 o'clock), correspondent Bernard Goldberg updates a segment that initially aired in March 2008 on Lenny Dykstra, the former Phillies star who has since become the target of some 20 lawsuits from his activities as a financial entrepreneur.
Phils showing how hard it is to repeat: As the Phillies staggered through a horrific homestand - bad baseball interrupted by players in the emergency room and on the disabled list - a small voice in the back of your mind grew louder and more shrill:
Bill Conlin: Phillies need to visit when they're back in town: THERE IS ONLY one thing left to do now that the Phillies are officially the worst home team since France.
No trade now: This was going to be an entry about how the Phillies needed to make a trade now. Pronto. . . .
Howard too ill to play; streak ends at 343: Ryan Howard's dramatic pinch-hit home run against the Orioles on Saturday night gave the Phillies a temporary boost, but it did nothing for his ailing condition.
Phillies end homestand with another loss: Maybe Charlie Manuel was truly angry at the umpire's call. Or he was simply trying to blow off steam from the frustration that is building within the Phillies. Or he was looking to get ejected so he could be spared of watching the futility that has a vise grip on his hitters.
Phillies Notebook: For Phillies' Howard, mystery illness ends consecutive-game streak: A continuing fight against an unidentified illness kept Ryan Howard out of the lineup for a second straight day. Unlike Saturday night, when his dramatic three-run, pinch-hit home run gave the Phillies a two-run lead in the seventh inning, the star first baseman did not even show up at Citizens Bank Park after going to the emergency room for a second time early yesterday morning with flulike symptoms.
WOES AT HOME: Phillies' worst homestands in franchise history:Record Dates. . . Opponents0-7 Sept. 21-27, 1964. . . Cincinnati, Milwaukee0-6 May 1-7, 1883. . . Providence, Boston
Orioles sweep flailing Phils: Maybe Charlie Manuel was truly angry at the umpire's call. Or he was simply trying to blow off steam from the frustration that is building within the Phillies. Or he was looking to get ejected so he could be spared of watching the futility that has a vise grip on his hitters.
Phillies 1B Ryan Howard released from hospital: Ryan Howard was released from the hospital Sunday but did not play for the Philadelphia Phillies against Baltimore, ending his consecutive games streak at 343.
Utterly Utley: Chase Utley is just trying to relax. The Phillies defeated San Diego a few hours ago, and Utley is talking quietly with a teammate at a rooftop lounge next to Petco Park. Someone told them it would be quiet here, a good place for conversation, but the roof is stuffed with baseball fans, young men in Padres and Phillies jerseys shouting over techno music.
Orioles get past Phils in ninth: Maybe it would have been too perfect for the Phillies and their excited fans. A flu-stricken Ryan Howard hit a pinch-hit three-run homer, which woke the disgruntled crowd and seemed as if it would lift the Phils out of a losing streak last night at Citizens Bank Park.
Lidge pitches inning in minors, says knee is fine: READING - Phillies closer Brad Lidge never appeared so happy to be pitching in the minor leagues. Lidge, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to June 7 with a sprained right knee, pitched one scoreless inning for the Reading Phillies in last night's game with the visiting Harrisburg Senators.
Inside the Phillies: Phils and Rays finally meet again: The Phillies and Tampa Bay Rays shared an experience in October, as two unlikely teams fighting through a rainy World Series. This week, they meet for the first time since the postseason, spring training aside. Both are dealing with the repercussions of success, though the Phils have enjoyed a smoother encore so far.
Lidge‘very happy’ with rehab in Reading: READING - Phillies closer Brad Lidge made his first rehabilitation appearance, pitching one scoreless inning for the Reading Phillies in tonight's game against the visiting Harrisburg Senators.
Hill does it all to down Phillies: The night started badly for Rich Hill, but he found a way to finish strong -- and so did the Orioles with a 7-2 win over the slumping Phillies on Friday night.
Lidge to make rehab appearance Saturday: Phillies closer Brad Lidge will make a rehab appearance for the Double-A Reading Phillies on Saturday night at 6:35 p.m. ET against Harrisburg.
Hill pitches, hits Orioles to 7-2 win over Phils: Rich Hill pitched into the seventh inning and singled in the go-ahead run, leading the Baltimore Orioles to a 7-2 victory over the slumping Philadelphia Phillies on Friday night.
Phillies Notes: MRI on Ibanez's injury shows it's just a strain: A sense of relief wafted through the Phillies' clubhouse yesterday after it was learned an MRI on Raul Ibanez showed his groin injury was no more severe than the team announced on Thursday.
Need to Get Away?: There's a long way to go and the Phillies remain, after all, in first place in a National League East Division that has yet to show another club as a worthy challenger.
As Phillies' bats go silent, team gives fans reason to boo: THEY WEREN'T saying"Ra-oooooool!"This time, they were indeed saying"Booooo!"On a night where the Phillies lost their sixth game in seven days - against a team that was eight games under .500 - they also received their first vociferous tongue-lashing of the post-World Series era, drawing hearty choruses of boos throughout their 7-2 defeat at the hands of the Orioles at Citizens Bank Park.
Minor Leagues: Reading's Drabek has strong outing in 4-0 win: READING - Kyle Drabek scattered four hits over eight scoreless innings last night as the Reading Phillies beat the Harrisburg Senators, 4-0, in the Eastern League.
Phillies’ home woes continue: There's a long way to go and the Phillies remain, after all, in first place in a National League East Division that has yet to show another club as a worthy challenger.
Barajas torments former club in ninth: Rod Barajas launched a pinch-hit solo home run to center field in the ninth inning, propelling the Blue Jays to an 8-7 victory over the Phillies on Thursday.
Barajas' late HR helps Blue Jays sweep Phillies: Pinch-hitter Rod Barajas led off the ninth inning with a tiebreaking homer and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Philadelphia Phillies 8-7 on Thursday to complete a three-game sweep of the World Series champions.
Phillies place Ibanez on 15-day disabled list with strained groin: Phillies left fielder Raul Ibanez has gone on the 15-day disabled list with a strained left groin. John Mayberry Jr. was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Thursday to take Ibanez's roster spot. Ibanez is batting .312 with 22 homers and 59 RBI, ranking second in the NL in homers and RBI.
Orioles scouting report: Phillies update: Phillies update World champion Philadelphia is still leading the National League East, but the team has to be looking forward to the end of interleague play. The Phillies are 3-6 against the AL East, winning their first series at new Yankee Stadium, but losing five of six at home this week to the RedSox and Blue Jays. The Phillies are coming off a sweep by the Jays, who outscored them 23-11. Philadelphia (36-28) is a dismal 13-19 at Citizens Bank Park. And the news gets worse for the Phillies. Outfielder Raul Ibanez, who was in the top three in the NL in homers (22), RBIs (59) and runs scored (51), was placed on the 15-day disabled list Thursday with a strained left groin. It'll put a dent in their power production, but Philadelphia still has three other hitters in double digits in homers: Ryan Howard (19), Chase Utley (15) and Jayson Werth (12). On the flip side, the Phillies' pitching staff has the second worst ERA in the NL, behind only the Nationals. And no big league team has allowed more homers than Philadelphia's 98 in 64 games. The Orioles are 21-21 against the Phillies in regular-season contests, but just 13-17 against them since 2000.
Monday's Phillies Phestival pheatures the champs: On Monday the Phillies will host their annual Phestival for fans, but this time the players are the defending champs.
Manuel is near boiling point with listless Phils: The Phillies continued their amazing home disappearing act yesterday, losing for the third straight day to the Toronto Blue Jays and falling to 1-5 on this homestand.
Phillies place Ibanez on disabled list: The struggling Phillies are going to have to get through at least the next two weeks without the hitter who has been their most productive so far this season.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies hope Ibanez injury not long-term: THE MOST unsettling part for the Phillies had to be the uncertainty when they waited for the results of an MRI that was scheduled to be conducted late yesterday evening. As of the end of the team's 8-7 loss to the Blue Jays, the only definite about the ailing left groin of Raul Ibanez was that it would sideline the star leftfielder for at least the 15 days he is required to be on the disabled list.
Blue Jays complete sweep of Phillies: As he watched the Phillies stumble through their fifth loss in the last six games at Citizens Bank Park, and as their home record sagged to 13-19, manager Charlie Manuel could feel a slow burn rising toward his cap.
Blue Jays sweep flat Phillies: As he watched the Phillies stumble through their fifth loss in the last six games at Citizens Bank Park, as their home record sagged to 13-19, manager Charlie Manuel could feel a slow burn rising toward his cap.
Phillies' Ibanez lands on disabled list: The Phillies placed outfielder Raul Ibanez on the 15-day disabled list on Thursday with a strained left groin. Outfielder John Mayberry Jr. was recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to take his place.
Barajas belts pinch-hit homer in ninth: Rod Barajas launched a pinch-hit solo home run to center field in the ninth inning, propelling the Blue Jays to an 8-7 victory over the Phillies on Thursday.
McLouth, Hanson join Braves in hopes of NL East contention: The National League East has been a battle between the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets over the last three seasons. But the Atlanta Braves are hoping two new additions will give them a boost and help them join the fight this season.
Barajas' homer helps Blue Jays sweep Phillies: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Pinch-hitter Rod Barajas led off the ninth inning with a tiebreaking homer and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Philadelphia Phillies 8-7 on Thursday to complete a three-game sweep of the World Series champions....
Phillies'slugger Raul Ibanez on DL:
Philadelphia -- Phillies left fielder Raul Ibanez has gone on the 15-day disabled list with a strained left groin. Ibanez is batting .312 with 22 homers and 59 RBIs, ranking second in the National League in homers and RBIs.
Ibanez placed on 15-day DL: Phillies left fielder Raul Ibanez has gone on the 15-day disabled list with a strained left groin.
Phils put Ibanez on 15-day DL with strained groin: The Phillies are going to have to get through at least the next two weeks without the hitter who has been their most productive so far this season.
Phillies lose another one at home: In the Phillies' clubhouse, a pink notice taped to a door leading into the showers reminds the players to take their passports on the next road trip because they eventually will cross the border into Canada.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies' Blanton lives up to billing as innings eater: Some people eat cheeseburgers. Some people eat sushi. Joe Blanton eats innings. That's what the Phillies said when they acquired him from the Athletics last July, and that is what he has done this season, leading the team with 71 1/3 innings in 12 starts.
Richmond no holiday for Phillies in second loss to Blue Jays: WHEN THE NEWS came out last week that a strained groin would prevent Roy Halladay from making his scheduled start last night, the Phillies thought they were catching a break. Instead, they caught Scott Richmond, a heretofore unknown righthander who spent the majority of the evening mowing them down, striking out 11 in eight innings while leading the Blue Jays to a 7-1 victory.
Ryan Howard creates philanthropy: Ryan Howard came to Hunting Park yesterday not to bury it but to praise it."Seeing the look on these kids," the Phillies first baseman said, gazing around at swarms of upturned, eager faces,"that's what it's all about for me: giving back."
Park adjusting to bullpen role: Chan Ho Park doesn't agree with the assessment by Phillies manager Charlie Manuel and pitching coach Rich Dubee that he's better suited to be a reliever than a starter at this stage in his career.
Phillies whiff in loss at home to Jays: In the Phillies' clubhouse, there's a pink notice taped to a door leading into the showers reminding the players to take their passports on the next road trip because they'll eventually be crossing the border into Canada.
When Hamels the ace doesn't win: This is how it is every start for Cole Hamels: He is supposed to win.He is supposed to win because he is considered the only sure thing the Phillies have, the only pitcher who, when his turn comes around, has a weight of expectation leaning against him, as if the game is nearly in the win column before it is played.
Bill Conlin: Conlin's All-Time Phillies Call-Stars: CALL THEM THE All-Time Phillies Call-Stars, 20 gifted athletes with brain-powered tonsils that elevated them from the playing field to the broadcast booth or TV studio.
Lidge buoyed by workout: Phillies closer Brad Lidge tested his wounded right knee in a 30-pitch bullpen workout yesterday and was encouraged by the results.
Near-win turns into extra-homely loss for Phillies against Blue Jays: THE QUESTION has been asked on plenty of occasions - not quite 17, because back when the Phillies lost their first two home games, nobody was aware that it would later become a trend. The point is, it has been asked multiple times, in multiple variations, each one of them resulting in the same general response: a shrug of the shoulders, a shake of the head, an exasperated tone.
Phillies GM looking for pitching: After playing three extra-innings games last week and enduring a 95-minute rain delay on Saturday night, the Phillies got a much-needed day away from the ballpark yesterday.
Savery is showing how sharp he is at Reading: READING - Now that he's riding high again, leading the Reading Phillies' staff, trim and mature and clear-eyed, Joe Savery can reflect with a calm wisdom.
Utley tops all-star votes: Phillies second baseman Chase Utley is in line to make his fourth straight start for the National League in next month's All-Star Game.
With 250th win, Moyer joined select group of Phillies: When Jamie Moyer recorded his 250th career win recently, he not only became the 46th major-league pitcher to win at least that many games, but he also added his name to a highly select group of pitchers with Phillies connections who rank at the top of the list of big league winners.
Three Phillies among NL All-Star leaders: If the All-Star voting ended yesterday, the Phillies would have three starters in the National League lineup.Second baseman Chase Utley, outfielder Raul Ibanez and shortstop Jimmy Rollins all lead in the voting at their respective positions.
Reading's Savery beats Harrisburg to improve to 8-1: READING - Lefthander Joe Savery allowed just one hit in six shutout innings yesterday as the Reading Phillies handed the Harrisburg Senators a 5-2 Eastern League loss.
Lidge feels no pain in right leg: For the first time since April, Phillies closer Brad Lidge said he felt nothing when he pushed off the rubber with his right leg -- no pain or discomfort.
Park feeling comfortable in bullpen: It has taken right-hander Chan Ho Park some time, but he is finally starting to feel comfortable in the Phillies' bullpen.
NL East race reflected in All-Star votes: While the defending World Series champion Phillies continue to hold down three of the eight starting spots in All-Star voting, the Mets maintain two in position to make the start July 14 in St. Louis themselves.
With six-run seventh, Phils sink Red Sox: Entering the seventh inning Sunday, Jimmy Rollins had no hits in his past 16 at-bats, but he sent a Josh Beckett full-count fastball over the right-field scoreboard, breaking a tie and sending the Phillies to an 11-6 victory over the Red Sox at Citizens Bank Park.
The Week Ahead: By the numbers: While the defending World Series champion Phillies continue to hold down three of the eight starting spots in All-Star voting, the Mets maintain two in position to make the start July 14 in St. Louis themselves.
Rollins homers in Phillies' win over Red Sox: Jimmy Rollins homered as part of a six-run seventh inning to help the Philadelphia Phillies bust the game open late, avoid a ...
Rollins homers in Phillies' 11-6 win over Red Sox: Jimmy Rollins is starting to feel like his old J-Roll self. The former MVP mired in a season-long slump believes the tiebreaking home run he hit to lift the Philadelphia Phillies to an 11-6 win over the Boston Red Sox on Sunday could be the hit that sparks his season and back into All-Star form.
Jimmy Rollins could give Phils a charge: There are many reasons to believe that this Phillies season, like the last one, could be headed somewhere special. One of them is hitting a paltry .217 with a woeful .254 on-base percentage.
John Smallwood: With Phillies, save 'big win' talk for October: OK, SO the Phillies have wrapped up their much-anticipated series with the Boston Red Sox.And what have we learned?
Phillies draft pick Dugan visits big stage before Act 1 of his career: The work begins after Kelly Dugan, the Phillies' top draft pick, reports to the Gulf Coast (Rookie) League Phillies in Clearwater, Fla.
Harman's single helps Reading salvage a split: READING - Brad Harman's single in the bottom of the ninth drove in the winning run as the Reading Phillies beat the Harrisburg Senators, 6-5, in the Eastern League yesterday.
Raul Ibanez sits one out: After starting 222 straight games, including the first 60 for the Phillies this season, Raul Ibanez sat out yesterday's game against the Boston Red Sox with what he described as a sore left Achilles tendon.
Why no review?: For eight innings, the story of Friday's game was a great pitchers' duel, with Joe Blanton holding the dangerous Red Sox to two runs on two solo homers, and Jon Lester flat-out dominating the Phillies. Until the bottom of the ninth, when Ryan Howard hit a titanic blast into the right-field seats, tying the game at 2-2 and sending the contest toextras.
Feliz powers Phillies past Red Sox: His demeanor is stately, almost regal, so it was a little unusual to see Phillies third baseman Pedro Feliz remove his glove, playfully flip it in the air, and catch it during a pause with two outs in the ninth inning of yesterday's 11-6 bashing of the Boston Red Sox at Citizens Bank Park.
Feliz and Phils rout Red Sox: His demeanor is stately, almost regal, so it was a little unusual to see Phillies third baseman Pedro Feliz remove his glove, playfully flip it in the air and catch it during a pause with two outs in the ninth inning of today's 11-6 bashing of the Boston Red Sox at Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies melt in the rain, fall to Red Sox, 11-6: The Phillies' mysterious home issues returned last night as they couldn't recover from a disastrous first inning and fell to Boston, 11-6, in an interleague game that was delayed 95 minutes because of rain.
Inside the Phillies: Bunch of closers who are close: The Phillies' bullpen is a tight-knit group. They often huddle in the locker room, sharing private jokes and crossword puzzles. They star in their own television reality show, and sometimes (really), they give one another haircuts. But most important to the team, they take seriously their job of supporting any member who is struggling.
Bob Ford: Time for Phillies' fantasy camp to end: Even before Antonio Bastardo stumbled through a five-run first inning last night - an untidy display matched only by the fielding behind him - it was clear that the Phillies needed to do something about their starting rotation.
Phillies go down in a deluge: The Phillies' mysterious home issues returned last night as they fell to Boston, 11-6, in an interleague game that was delayed 95 minutes because of rain.
Injured calf lands reliever Eyre on the disabled list: Scott Eyre threw two pitches to one batter yet walked away with the decision in the Phillies' 6-3 win over the New York Mets on Thursday night.
Rude Welcome: The Phillies had two hits and had struck out 14 times when Ryan Howard stepped into the batter's box with one out in the bottom of the ninth inning and the team trailing the Boston Red Sox by a run last night at lively Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies fall to the Red Sox in 13 innings: SUDDENLY, BUT ever so briefly, it was in their grasp, just as it has always been this year for the Phillies.
Minor Leagues: Harrisburg rips Reading; Trenton, Lakewood win: READING - The Harrisburg Senators used the shutout pitching of Carlos Martinez to take an 11-0 victory over the Reading Phillies in an Eastern League contest. Luke Montz's grand slam in the seventh inning was the big blow for the visitors.
Kendrick recalled as Eyre goes on disabled list for Phillies: Scott Eyre is out.Kyle Kendrick is in.The Phillies summoned Kendrick yesterday from Triple A Lehigh Valley to replace the injured Eyre, who strained his left calf muscle Thursday night in New York and was placed on the 15-day disabled list yesterday.
Draft pick Dugan set to sign contract with Phillies today: As reported in Thursday's Daily News, the Phillies agreed to terms on a professional contract with Kelly Dugan, their second-round pick in this week's amateur player draft.
Red Sox top Phils, 5-2, in 13: The Phillies had two hits and had struck out 14 times when Ryan Howard stepped into the batter's box with one out in the bottom of the ninth inning tonight. The Phils were trailing the Red Sox by a run at lively Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies minor league INF Ozuna suspended: Philadelphia Phillies infielder Pablo Ozuna has been suspended for 50 games under baseball's minor league drug program.
Slayden's pinch-hit slam gives Reading a sweep: READING - Jeremy Slayden slugged a pinch-hit grand slam in the bottom of the ninth to propel the Reading Phillies to a 6-3 Eastern League victory over the Trenton Thunder last night.
Ibanez's 3-run homer in 10th lifts Phils over Mets: NEW YORK - Raul Ibanez spent most of the week angry, hurt and uncharacteristically defiant.Yesterday, he declared that he was done talking about steroids, and after a quiet 0 for 4 in the first nine innings, he won last night's Phillies game against the New York Mets, 6-3, with a three-run homer with two outs in the 10th.
Madson the answer for now, and maybe later: NEW YORK - The only downside of what Brad Lidge accomplished as the Phillies' closer in 2008 was that he put together an act no one could follow, Brad Lidge included.
Paul Hagen: Phillies pass road-trip test, but there is more to come: NEW YORK - Before they departed, suitcases bulging, for a trip that would consume 11 days, require them to cross the continent twice and check in and out of hotels three times, the Phillies mixed bravado with just a whiff of trepidation.
No question, Madson fits into closing role for Phillies: NEW YORK - Questions? What questions?Ryan Madson has answered all takers who questioned whether he can fill the Phillies' closer role in the absence of Brad Lidge.
Ibanez homers in 10th to lifts Phillies past Mets: Raul Ibanez is fitting in nicely with the gritty Philadelphia Phillies.
Ibanez, Phillies too tough for Mets: NEW YORK - It was the situation Charlie Manuel was supposed to dread, the fire the Phillies manager supposedly played with whenever he sat with his lineup card and penciled in Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez in succession.
Phils-Red Sox series will run on electricity: BOSTON - The baseball landscape in Philadelphia has changed since Terry Francona managed the Phillies from 1997 to 2000.In those days, the Phils were a rebuilding club that piled up losses and second-division finishes in front of mostly small crowds at cavernous Veterans Stadium. Phillies Nation? Not quite. The team was lucky to have Padilla's Flotilla in those days.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies starting to hit better against top pitchers: NEW YORK - With a date against Red Sox righthander Josh Beckett on Sunday and a likely one against Blue Jays ace Roy Halladay on Wednesday, not to mention showdowns with struggling yet usually productive starters Jon Lester and Daisuke Matsuzaka, the Phillies face a tough task when the second round of interleague play begins tonight at Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies close draft with locals, including GM’s nephew: The Phillies closed out Day 3 of the baseball draft with 20 more selections, including four local players.
Ibanez rips 3-run HR to lift Phils over Mets in 10: Raul Ibanez hit a three-run homer with two outs in the 10th inning and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the New York Mets 6-3 Thursday night, handing their NL East rivals another difficult loss.
Ibanez's HR in 10th gets Phils past Mets (AP):
Phillies'Shane Victorino(notes) claps as he comes home on a three-run home run by teammate Raul Ibanez(notes) during the tenth inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets, Thursday, June 11, 2009, at Citi Field in New York. The Phillies won 6-3." align="left" border="0">
Charlie Manuel sounded like a proud father after the Philadelphia Phillies' latest dramatic win. "My team always comes back," the manager said. "That's what's good about them." Raul Ibanez hit a three-run homer with two outs in the 10th inning and Philadelphia beat the New York Mets 6-3 on Thursday night, handing its NL East rivals another difficult loss.
Phillies INF Ozuna suspended 50 games (AP): Philadelphia Phillies infielder Pablo Ozuna was suspended Thursday for 50 games under baseball's minor league drug program. Major League Baseball said he had an elevated ratio of testosterone to epitestosterone, a violation of its drug rules. "It is unfortunate that Pablo has been suspended for 50 games," general manager Ruben Amaro Jr.
Phils minor leaguer Ozuna suspended 50 games: NEW YORK (AP) -- Philadelphia Phillies infielder Pablo Ozuna has been suspended for 50 games under baseball's minor league drug program.
Lidge hopeful he won't miss much time: The Phillies told Brad Lidge they were placing him on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right knee on Tuesday. Lidge said he wasn't happy about the decision when he learned about it, but he said he ultimately agreed with it.
Werth, Utley combine to sink Mets in 11: After Jayson Werth made a game-saving catch in the bottom of the 10th inning, Chase Utley hit a game-winning home run in the 11th, lifting the Phillies over the Mets, 5-4, on Wednesday at Citi Field.
Ibanez vows to fight PED innuendo: Phillies outfielder Raul Ibanez has vowed to go after those who claim that his outstanding start this season has been the result of his use of performance-enhancing drugs.
Utley homers twice, powers Phillies past Mets in extras: Chase Utley led off the 11th inning with his second homer of the game, moments after right fielder Jayson Werth saved Philadelphia with a diving catch, and the Phillies beat the New York Mets 5-4 on Wednesday night.
Jimmy Rollins back in leadoff spot for Phillies: Jimmy Rollins is back in the leadoff spot for the Philadelphia Phillies.
Phillies take draft to new heights: Basketball?The best word to describe the Phillies' 27 picks in yesterday's rounds 4-30 would be tall.Eight of the Phillies' first nine picks yesterday were 6-2 or taller. Five of those first nine picks were pitchers, highlighted by 6-4 righthander Steven Inch, from Vauxhall High in Alberta, Canada. Maybe they thought they were trying to field a team to rival the 76ers.
Utley's home runs lead Phils over Mets: NEW YORK - When asked to assess the importance of this week's series against the New York Mets, Phillies players relied on two words, repeating endlessly and usually with a shrug:"It's early."
Werthwhile catch, Utmost hit lead Phillies over Mets in 11 innings: NEW YORK - The difference between 33 wins and 34, and a one-game lead and a three-game lead, and a heartbreaking win and a heartbreaking loss, was so narrow last night that pinpointing the exact moment in which the Phillies' fortunes turned is better left to the mathematicians.
Phillies Notebook: Stint on disabled list now sits well with Phillies closer Lidge: NEW YORK - Watching will be the hardest part, particularly for an athlete whose job for the better part of eight seasons has been to take the ball in the ninth inning of a close game and deliver a victory. Brad Lidge got a taste of it Tuesday night, when he returned to his home in South Jersey and watched the Phillies' 6-5 loss to the Mets, fighting the urge to loosen up in the later stages of a game that they briefly led in the sixth inning.
Lidge accepts Phillies' decision to put him on DL: NEW YORK - Brad Lidge does not like being on the disabled list, but the Phillies' closer said yesterday that he understood the team's decision to place him there.
Reading's Savery improves record to 7-1: READING - Lefthander Joe Savery gave up just one run in 62/3 innings and raised his record to 7-1 as the Reading Phillies beat the Trenton Thunder, 4-1, in the Eastern League last night.
Local players selected in major-league draft: Mike Modica has never spoken to former Phillies and current Houston Astros general manager Ed Wade, but the George Mason lefthander out of Washington Township High in South Jersey feels a kinship.
Day 2 of draft: Team ranges far and wide: NEW YORK - After selecting outfielders Kelly Dugan and Kyrell Hudson on the first night of the amateur draft Tuesday, the Phillies continued with their selections yesterday. In the fourth round, (137th overall), they chose second baseman Adam Buschini from Cal Poly-San Luis Obispo. Buschini is 6-foot-2, 204 pounds, and batted .422 with 11 home runs and 61 RBIs this year, his junior season.
Phils beat Mets on Utley’s homer in 11th: NEW YORK - When asked to assess the importance of this week's series against the New York Mets, Phillies players relied on two words, repeating endlessly and usually with a shrug:"It's early."
Phillies go for pitching early in Day 2 of draft: The Phillies were back at work as Day 2 of baseball's amateur draft began.
Right knee sprain forces Lidge to DL: The Phillies placed closer Brad Lidge on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right knee Tuesday, and recalled catcher Paul Bako from Double-A Reading into his roster spot. The Phillies have placed closer Brad Lidge on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right knee, and recalled catcher Paul Bako from Double-A Reading into his roster spot. Ryan Madson will be the closer in Lidge's absence.
Reyes rejoins Mets, but return uncertain: Jose Reyes returned to the Mets' clubhouse Tuesday before the team's game with the Phillies. When Reyes returns to the lineup, however, is still up in the air.
Home runs bail out Santana as Mets top Phillies 6-5: On a rare off-night for Johan Santana, the New York Mets bailed their ace out with their bats.David Wright, Carlos Beltran and Ryan Church homered, and the Mets beat the Philadelphia Phillies 6-5 Tuesday night.
Phillies' Lidge on DL with sprained knee: Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge has gone on the 15-day disabled list because of a sprained right knee.
Fuentes Sox' 1st pick: The first call Reymond Fuentes received last night after the Red Sox selected him in the first round of the amateur draft was not from a Sox representative. It came from a representative of the New York Mets. Carlos Beltran is Fuentes's cousin, and Beltran called him in the middle of the Mets' 6-5 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies to ...
Phillies place Lidge on DL with sprained knee: The Phillies put struggling closer Brad Lidge on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with what the team said was a sprained right knee.
Around the majors: 6/10/09: Mets 6, Phillies 5: David Wright, Carlos Beltran and Ryan Church homered -- with Church sending a drive over the 16-foot wall and into the well where the Home Run Apple sits in straightaway
I'm clean, angry Ibanez says: NEW YORK - Raul Ibanez has a message for those who say his spectacular offensive performance in a Phillies uniform could be a result of performance-enhancing drugs.
Drabek wins for Reading; Carrasco loses for IronPigs: READING - Neil Sellers' three-run homer in the first inning helped the Reading Phillies to a 5-4 Eastern League victory over the Trenton Thunder last night.
Phillies draft California slugger: The Phillies selected outfielder/first baseman Kelly Dugan out of Notre Dame High in Sherman Oaks, Calif., with their top pick in baseball's first-year player draft last night.
Drabek wins again for Double A Phillies: Kyle Drabek gave up two runs over five innings and earned his second win in as many starts for the Reading Phillies as they beat the visiting Trenton Thunder, 5-3, in an Eastern League game last night.
Ryan Madson becomes Phillies' closer: NEW YORK - Now we get to see how much money Ryan Madson left on the table.The Phillies hope it's a lot.
Brad Lidge shut down for knee injury: NEW YORK - Brad Lidge's performance for most of this season has been a mystery, but the Phillies offered a potential explanation yesterday.
Santana, Mets edge the Phillies: NEW YORK - The Phillies came to Citi Field with the intention of putting some distance between themselves and the New York Mets in the NL East race during a three-game series that began last night.
Santana and Mets outlast Phils: NEW YORK - The Phillies came to Citi Field with the intentions of putting some distance between them and the Mets in the NL East race in a three-game series that began tonight.
Brad Lidge of Philadelphia Phillies on 15-day disabled list with sprained knee: Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge has gone on the 15-day disabled list because of a sprained right knee.
Mets' bats bail out Santana in win vs. Phillies: David Wright, Carlos Beltran and Ryan Church homered -- with Church sending a drive over the 16-foot wall and into the well where the Home Run Apple sits in straightaway center field -- and the Mets beat the Phillies 6-5.
Santana allows 4 HRs, but Mets top Phils (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Clay Condrey(notes) reacts in the sixth inning with New York Mets' Johan Santana(notes) at third and Alex Cora(notes) at second in the Phillies' 6-5 loss to the Mets in a baseball game at Citi Field in New York, Tuesday, June 9, 2009." align="left" border="0">
Johan Santana was angry. He had just allowed four home runs in a game for only the second time in 221 major league starts, and Mets manager Jerry Manuel was out at the mound to give him the hook in the eighth inning after a season-low 91 pitches. "I'm a man. I'm a man," Manuel remembered his ace telling him.
Phillies' Lidge on DL with sprained knee (AP): Charlie Manuel watched Brad Lidge struggle with reduced velocity and a bad arm slot. A cortisone shot didn't help enough. A one-week rest didn't solve the problem. So the Philadelphia Phillies put their struggling close on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with what the team said was a sprained right knee.
Closer Lidge goes on 15-day DL: NEW YORK (AP) -- Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge has gone on the 15-day disabled list because of a sprained right knee.
Phillies hit three homers, split series with Dodgers: Ryan Howard, Carlos Ruiz and Shane Victorino homered, and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 7-2 Sunday to split a four-game series between teams with the top two records in baseball.
Phillies' Lidge on DL with sprained knee: NEW YORK (AP) -- Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge has gone on the 15-day disabled list because of a sprained right knee....
Lidge goes on disabled list: Righthander Brad Lidge was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right knee, retroactive to June 7, the Phillies said today.
Phillies manager Manuel wants more from his team: LOS ANGELES - The numbers suggest that the Phillies' recent four-game swing through Dodgers Stadium was a rousing success. But as helpful as numbers can be in quantifying the game of baseball, you cannot always adhere to their suggestions.
Phillies looking to score in draft, even without first-round pick: So, yeah, technically the Phillies won't have a first-round pick when baseball's annual amateur draft cranks up.The reality, of course, is that they made that selection last December by signing Raul Ibanez, forfeiting their choice as compensation. And nobody is going to argue with that, not with Ibanez batting .329 with 19 home runs, a league-leading 54 RBI and the most votes of all National League outfielders in the All-Star balloting.
Phillies, Mets resume rivalry tonight: NEW YORK - The Phillies did not look like a championship team. It was July 24, 2008, at Shea Stadium, and the Phils had lost, 3-1, to the Mets, falling out of first place in the National League East.
Advantage, Phillies, in big rivalry: Not so long ago, it was a pretty good baseball argument:Phillies or Mets? Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, and Chase Utley or David Wright, Carlos Delgado, and Jose Reyes?
Bill Conlin: 28 years ago, Rose and baseball were put on hold: JUNE 10, 1981, was the night Major League Baseball went eyeball-to-eyeball on two levels.On the field, Pete Rose blinked. The Phillies' leadoff hitter slapped a historic single, then Nolan Ryan blew him away three times.
West, Carroll lead Marlins over Giants: The latest coverage of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Jimmy Rollins believes he's found hitting glitch: LOS ANGELES - Jimmy Rollins was dropped to sixth in the Phillies' batting order yesterday, but he believes he has discovered the cause of his West Coast slump.
Pitching key as Phillies beat Dodgers: LOS ANGELES - The Phillies were set to board a plane to New York after last night's game, heading back East with something that had eluded them through the early season: excellent starting pitching.
Bastardo strikes again: Phils beat Dodgers: LOS ANGELES - The Phillies are heading back East later tonight with something that has eluded them through the early season: excellent starting pitching.
On Baseball: Phillies have bargaining chips in search for pitching: The calendar has turned to June and the Phillies are in first place in the National League East.Once upon a time, this might have brought a level of contentment to the organization. First place in June. Let's ride it and see where it takes us.
Lidge blows save as Phils fall to L.A.: LOS ANGELES - Brad Lidge's jaw was clenched tighter than usual yesterday, and his voice was softer."Maybe I shouldn't feel as confident, I don't know, but that's the only way I know how to do it," Lidge said after the Phillies lost, 3-2, to Los Angeles in 12 innings at Dodger Stadium.
Phillies Notes: Phils' Blanton turns in another solid performance: LOS ANGELES - Lost in the concern about Brad Lidge's sixth blown save yesterday in a 12-inning loss to Los Angeles was a positive development for the Phillies: Joe Blanton extended the team's run of excellent starting pitching on the trip and built on his own progress.
Phils put struggling Lidge on DL with knee sprain: Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge has gone on the 15-day disabled list because of a sprained right knee.The move was announced before Tuesday's series opener at the New York Mets and was retroactive to Sunday. Lidge is 13 for 19 in save attempts this season with an 0-3 record and 7.27 ERA in 28 games. Last year, he was 41 for 41 in save chances as Philadelphia won its second World Series title andfirst since 1980.
Dodgers rally from brink to stun Phils: After a two-out error, Andre Ethier's knock off Phillies closer Brad Lidge in the bottom of the ninth plated a pair and gave the Dodgers a 4-3 walk-off win Friday.
Philly shows interest in Boston's Penny: It is no secret Philadelphia continues to look for starting pitching help. A scout for a Major League team said the Phillies have been following Red Sox right-hander Brad Penny recently.
Dodgers end Phillies' win streak at 7: LOS ANGELES - The Phillies were one strike - or one cleanly fielded ground ball - from an eight-game winning streak Friday night.
Phils' diamonds in the rough: LAKEWOOD, N.J. - The framed photographs that line a wall leading into the Lakewood BlueClaws clubhouse at FirstEnergy Park are persistent reminders of what could be for the youngest among the Phillies' minor-league prospects.
Phillies Notes: High-flying Bastardo gets another start: LOS ANGELES - Rookie Antonio Bastardo will get his second start tomorrow against the Dodgers, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said yesterday.
Dodgers win in 9th, snap Phillies' win streak at 7: LOS ANGELES - For eight innings, it looked as if the Phillies would extend their winning streak to eight games.
Phillies at Dodgers preview: 4:05 p.m., Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles. TV: Fox. Radio: WPHT (1210-AM); WUBA (1480-AM) Spanish.Phillies RHP Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.86) vs. Dodgers RHP Hiroki Kuroda (1-1, 2.53)
Ethier propels Dodgers to snap Phillies' streak: Andre Ethier hit a two-run double with the bases loaded in the ninth inning after third baseman Pedro Feliz made a fielding error with two outs, giving the Dodgers a 4-3 victory and snapping the Phillies' seven-game winning streak.
Dodgers' walk-off win ends Phils' streak (AP): Brad Lidge isn't nearly as invincible as he was last season. Andre Ethier was only too happy to prove that point. Ethier drove a fastball by the Philadelphia closer into the right-field corner with the bases loaded for a two-run double in the ninth inning, giving the Los Angeles Dodgers a 4-3 victory Friday night and snapping the Philadelphia Phillies' seven-game winning streak.
Hamels shuts out Dodgers as Phillies win seventh in a row: Cole Hamels turned in another dominating performance against the Los Angeles Dodgers, pitching a five-hitter for his third career shutout, and the Philadelphia Phillies extended their winning streak to seven games with a 3-0 victory Thursday night.
Howard leads Phils to 6th straight win; Romero returns to the mound: Ryan Howard hit a two-run homer off Chris Young and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the San Diego Padres 5-1 Wednesday night for their sixth straight victory.
Victorino leaves game with strained left hip: Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino left Wednesday night's game against San Diego with a strained left hip.
Ibanez hits pair as Bastardo wins debut: Antonio Bastardo couldn't have had a better interpreter. Raul Ibanez provided big assistance on and off the field to Bastardo, who won his Major League debut Tuesday night as the Phillies pounded Jake Peavy and the Padres, 10-5, at PETCO Park.
Ibanez's 5 RBIs key Phillies' 10-5 win over Pads: SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Raul Ibanez homered twice and drove in five runs, and left-hander Antonio Bastardo won his major league debut as the Philadelphia Phillies jumped on ailing Padres ace Jake Peavy in a 10-5 win on Tuesday night....
Phils' prospect Taylor bides his time: READING - It seems as if it were just yesterday that a Phillies hitting prospect was tearing up the Eastern League and being mentioned in trade rumors.
Kyle Drabek's debut moved up: READING - The double-A debut of Philadelphia Phillies pitching prospect Kyle Drabek was moved up 24 hours to tonight. Drabek will start for the Reading Phillies against the Akron Aeros at 7:05 at Reading's FirstEnergy Stadium.
Ibanez's 5 RBIs key Phillies' 10-5 win over Pads: Raul Ibanez homered twice and drove in five runs, and left-hander Antonio Bastardo won his major league debut as the Philadelphia Phillies jumped on ailing Padres ace Jake Peavy in a 10-5 win on Tuesday night.
Phillies Notebook: Bottom of the order helps put Phillies at top: SAN DIEGO - A baseball lineup that is clicking in unison can be a beautiful thing to watch, and over the past 2-plus weeks, the Phillies' lineup had been exactly that.
Utley, Howard go back-to-back in win: On a night of double back-to-back jacks, Joe Blanton and the Phillies outlasted the Padres, 5-3, Monday at PETCO Park. The win was the fourth in a row for the Phils, who lead the National League East by 1 1/2 games over the Mets.
Phillies beginning to pile up ASG votes: Charlie Manuel's NL East-leading Phillies are starting to pile up some votes, while suspended Dodgers outfielder Manny Ramirez continues to garner votes.
Howard, Utley hit consecutive HRs, power Phillies past Padres: Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hit consecutive home runs in the fifth inning and Philadelphia beat Adrian Gonzalez and the San Diego Padres 5-3 on Monday night, the Phillies' fourth straight win.
Division leaders flip the 2008 script: The Philadelphia Phillies are the lone division leader who was in first place a year ago. The rest of the division leaders were looking up, with only two teams the Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers managing to make the playoffs after their early-season swoons in 2008.
Moyer, 46, wins 250th career game in Phillies victory vs. Nats: Jamie Moyer went six strong innings to win his 250th career game, and the Philadelphia Phillies won their third straight, 4-2 over the bumbling Washington Nationals on Sunday.
Howard, Utley hit consecutive HRs to lead Phillies: SAN DIEGO (AP) -- Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hit consecutive home runs in the fifth inning and Philadelphia beat Adrian Gonzalez and the San Diego Padres 5-3 on Monday night, the Phillies' fourth straight win....
All-Star votes piling up for Ibanez: If voting for the All-Star Game ended today, Raul Ibanez would be a starter. The Phillies' leftfielder, who ranked just sixth when the first tally of votes was announced last week, is second among National League outfielders with 817,849 votes. Milwaukee's Ryan Braun is roughly 90,000 votes ahead of him in first place.
Kyle Drabek gets a June promotion: READING - The Phillies' most exciting pitching prospect since Cole Hamels has moved one step closer to the major leagues.
Howard, Utley hit consecutive HRs to lead Phillies: Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hit consecutive home runs in the fifth inning and Philadelphia beat Adrian Gonzalez and the San Diego Padres 5-3 on Monday night, the Phillies' fourth straight win.
Phillies pelt Padres with 1-2 punch: SAN DIEGO - Want to test the patience of a member of this Phillies lineup? It's easy, really. Just suggest that the barrage of home runs that annually keeps them near the top of the league leaders has some sort of correlation with the cozy confines of the
Intriguing pitcher face-off: SAN DIEGO - Tonight's scheduled pitching matchup features an interesting juxtaposition for the Phillies: Antonio Bastardo vs. San Diego's Jake Peavy. One is a product of the farm system in a tryout to replace Brett Myers, while the other's name has been raised - though never by the Phillies - as part of the intense rumor mill that has followed Myers' injury.
Blanton continues comeback, beats Padres: SAN DIEGO - Joe Blanton's resurgence could not come at a better time for the Phillies. With Brett Myers likely gone for the season, leaving rookies and questions in the rotation behind ace Cole Hamels, the team needed stability from Blanton more than ever before.
Phillies Notebook: Calculating how Peavy would fit in with Phillies: SAN DIEGO - With his tender ankle still undergoing treatment and a looming start occupying his undivided attention, Padres righthander Jake Peavy said through a team spokesman yesterday that he would not discuss his trade availability with Philadelphia reporters until after he pitches tonight against the Phillies.
Utley, Howard hammer Padres for Phillies' win: Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hit consecutive home runs in the fifth inning and Philadelphia beat Adrian Gonzalez and the San Diego Padres 5-3 on Monday night, the Phillies' fourth straight win.
Phils end Padres' home win streak at 10 (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies' Ryan Howard(notes) flings his bat after striking out for the fourth time in the eighth inning against the San Diego Padres during their baseball game, Monday, June 1, 2009. Howard did homer in the game." align="left" border="0">
The back-to-back home runs allowed by Joe Blanton didn't hurt as much as the ones Kevin Correia gave up. Chase Utley and Ryan Howard hit consecutive home runs off Correia in the fifth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies beat Adrian Gonzalez and the San Diego Padres 5-3 on Monday night for their fourth straight win.
Jon Heyman: With Myers on the shelf, Philly is searching for starting pitching: With Brett Myers out, the Phillies need starting pitching help. Jon Heyman looks at the logical targets.
Modest Moyer reaches 250-win plateau: Jamie Moyer secured his 250th career victory on Sunday after the Phillies beat the Nats, 4-2. The veteran joins 43 pitchers, including just 10 other southpaws, in the exclusive club.
Romero slated to return from suspension: J.C. Romero will return to the Phillies on Wednesday after serving a 50-game suspension for violating baseball's policy against performance-enhancing substances.
NL Capsules: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Jamie Moyer went six strong innings to win his 250th career game, and the Philadelphia Phillies won their third straight game, 4-2 over the bumbling Washington Nationals on Sunday....
Baseball roundup: Brewers 5, Reds 2: NL ROUNDUP Dodgers 8, Cubs 2 — Eric Milton pitched into the sixth inning for his second straight win, and Los Angeles backed him with a five-run first to salvage a four-game split with host Chicago. Phillies 4, Nationals 2 — Jamie Moyer went ...
Moyer wins 250th career game in Phillies victory:
Moyer went six strong innings to lead the Phillies to their third straight victory, 4-2 over the bumbling Washington Nationals on Sunday.
Jamie Moyer earns 250th win: Jamie Moyer reached a rare mark for a pitcher, becoming the 44th to win 250 games. The veteran Phillies left-hander would have been just...
NL Capsules: Jamie Moyer went six strong innings to win his 250th career game, and the Philadelphia Phillies won their third straight game, 4-2 over the bumbling Washington Nationals on Sunday.
David Aardsma blows it in the ninth: Jamie Moyer reached a rare mark for a pitcher, becoming the 44th to win 250 games. The veteran Phillies left-hander would have been just...
Moyer's win comes at a good time: The last time there was champagne in the Phillies' clubhouse, it sprayed through the air in geysers, ruining carpet and clothing, burning eyes in celebration of a World Series title.
Romero gets IronPigs started: ALLENTOWN - Phillies reliever J.C. Romero made a start for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs yesterday, pitching two-thirds of a scoreless inning while allowing a hit and a walk against Rochester in the International League.
Phillies head West: There will be more awaiting the Phillies than San Diego's relentless sunshine and Los Angeles' excessive glitz during a 10-game trip that ends with three games against the New York Mets.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies' league-best road record about to face major test: The Phillies have the best road record in baseball. They are 16-6 outside The Bank.Check back around midnight on June 11.
Happ gets win over Nationals: J.A. Happ had his back turned to the Phillies' dugout, so at first he didn't see Charlie Manuel ambling toward the mound after the lefthander had plunked Washington's Josh Willingham with a pitch for the second time.
Phillies Notes: Pitching coming from Lehigh Valley: While he pursues a deal to fill the hole in the rotation left by the loss of Brett Myers for the season, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said yesterday that the Phillies probably will call up a pitcher from triple-A Lehigh Valley to start Tuesday in San Diego.
Minor Leagues: Phillies get past Fisher Cats in 11: READING - An error with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 11th enabled Michael Taylor to score the winning run as the Reading Phillies edged the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, 8-7, last night in the Eastern League.
Phillies' Myers to have hip surgery, likely to miss rest of season: IN THEIR HEARTS, and the pits of their stomachs, the Phillies knew what was coming. Sure enough, right around game time, the announcement was made.
Phils' Amaro must keep window on winning open: Phillies officials believe they have a three-year window to win another World Series with their current nucleus. They may not say this explicitly because there is little value in setting limits, but, trust us, it is what they believe.
Jewelers appraise Phils' 'portable trophy': At the White House on May 15, President Obama injected some levity into a ceremony honoring the Phillies when he asked Jimmy Rollins if he could have J-Roll's World Championship ring.
IronPigs thump Bisons; Reading splits twin bill: The latest coverage of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Kalas to be inducted into Phillies Wall of Fame: Harry Kalas will be inducted posthumously into the Phillies Wall of Fame on Aug. 7 at Citizens Bank Park before a game against the Florida Marlins, the team announced yesterday.
Hip surgery likely for Phillies starter Myers: ONE OF THE KEY aspects of the Phillies' title run last season was their impeccable health. If they are to make a title defense, however, they will have at least one hurdle to clear.
Myers may need surgery: After having an MRI today, Phillies pitcher Brett Myers was told that there was fraying to the labrum in his right hip, an injury that could require surgery and jeopardize the remainder of his season.
Moyer gets 250th win as Phillies top lowly Nats: Jamie Moyer went six strong innings to win his 250th career game, and the Philadelphia Phillies won their third straight game, 4-2 over the bumbling Washington Nationals on Sunday.
Howard sets club mark with eighth slam: Ryan Howard homered in his first two at-bats Saturday night, and in the process, broke a tie for the most grand slams in Phillies history with his eighth, a 475-foot blast to the third deck at Citizens Bank Park.
Resilient Phillies move on without Myers: The Phillies received distressing news Friday that Brett Myers will need to undergo hip surgery. Myers is expected to miss 10 to 12 weeks and could be out for the remainder of the season. In the meantime, the Phillies have to move forward without their No. 2 starter. But they're hardly panicking.
Bastardo to fill Myers' spot, make debut: Left-hander Antonio Bastardo will be summoned from Triple-A Lehigh Valley to make his Major League debut for the Phillies on Tuesday in Brett Myers' rotation slot.
Phillies' Myers to undergo hip surgery, could miss season: Phillies right-hander Brett Myers will have hip surgery, and he could miss the rest of the season. Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Myers has a torn labrum and no date has been set for surgery. Myers was examined by Dr. Bryan Kelly in New York on Friday and Kelly recommended the surgery.
Howard's 2 homers lifts Phillies past Nationals: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Ryan Howard hit his club-record eighth career grand slam and added a solo homer to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 9-6 victory over the Washington Nationals on Saturday night....
Ryan Rowland-Smith to start for Mariners on June 11 in Baltimore: Jamie Moyer went six strong innings to win his 250th career game, and the Philadelphia Phillies won their third straight game, 4-2 over the bumbling Washington Nationals on Sunday.
On Baseball: For Phillies, hurdles to a Peavy deal: Even before Brett Myers limped off the mound Wednesday night, the Phillies were looking to improve their starting pitching rotation.
Ryan Howard's slam truly grand: Where will Ryan Howard rank among the great power hitters in Phillies history?Last night, he continued to argue persuasively for early consideration as one of the finest. Howard, in his 619th major-league game, passed Mike Schmidt (2,404 games) to claim the franchise lead with eight career grand slams. It was one of two home runs that led the Phillies past Washington, 9-6, at Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies Notes: Phillies cautious in replacing Myers: The Phillies need another starting pitcher, whether he arrives via the farm system or a trade. Ruben Amaro Jr. knows this, but the general manager is determined to proceed carefully in his effort to replace Brett Myers.
Howard's two homers lifts Phillies past Nationals: Ryan Howard hit his club-record eighth career grand slam and added a solo homer to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 9-6 victory over the Washington Nationals on Saturday night.
Bob Ford: Not time yet to say this is not Phils' year: The latest coverage of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Myers likely to have hip surgery: If Brett Myers can find a way to pitch this season with an injured right hip, he said he will try. But surgery sounds inevitable, which would jeopardize his season and significantly weaken the Phillies' rotation.
Phillies RHP Myers has MRI on injured hip: Phillies pitcher Brett Myers could miss his next start and potentially more with an injured right hip.
Myers injures hip in loss to Marlins: Brett Myers was strong through the first three innings Wednesday, but he struggled thereafter, leaving in the sixth with right hip inflammation as the Phillies fell to the Marlins, 6-2.
Peavy's agent comments on Philly: If the Phillies decide they need starting pitching help before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline, the hottest name available would be San Diego Padres right-hander Jake Peavy. But would Peavy play in Philadelphia?
Hanley day-to-day with tight right groin: Marlins All-Star shortstop Hanley Ramirez exited Tuesday's game against the Phillies with tightness in his right groin, and his status is day-to-day.
Time for fans to get a little tougher on Phillies: Charlie Manuel thinks Philly has gone a little soft. That means you, me, all of us.Before last night's game against the Marlins, Manuel was entertaining the media in his office at Citizens Bank Park. The conversation turned to the love affair between the Phillies and the city and how the relationship is different now compared to the same point last season. Hardly a home game goes by without the fans telling Manuel or one of the players how much the championship meant to Philly.
Blanton, Phillies top Marlins: Joe Blanton and Shane Victorino have explained their recent transgressions differently, in ways that suited their personalities. After every poor outing this season, Blanton stood in the Phillies' locker room and quietly said he expected to improve.
Paul Hagen: Starting pitchers will be available, if Phillies need one: ONE OF THE perks of having the Phillies occasionally featured as the nationally televised game is the opportunity to hear a from-the-outside-looking-in perspective on the team.
Sotomayor helped to end baseball strike: On the day Judge Sonia Sotomayor delivered the ruling that essentially ended baseball's 232-day strike in April 1995, the Phillies' replacement players were summoned into manager Jim Fregosi's tiny office at Jack Russell Stadium in Clearwater, Fla.
Blanton, Lidge pitch Phillies to win over Marlins: BASEBALL IS NOT a sport for the reactionary, a reality that the Phillies impressed upon the fans who braved a precipitous 24-hour temperature drop to catch last night's 5-3 win over the Marlins.
Blanton, Victorino lead way in Phils’ win: Joe Blanton and Shane Victorino have explained their recent transgressions differently, in ways that suited their personalities. After every poor outing this season, Blanton stood in the Phillies' locker room and quietly said he expected to improve.
Tonight’s Phillies game sold out: Tonight's game Phillies game vs. Florida is sold out, the Phillies announced.
Sloppy Astros fall to Reds for 5th straight loss: Carlos Ruiz hit a two-out RBI double in the 11th inning and the Phillies overcame another blown save by Brad Lidge to beat the Yankees 4-3 in New York.
Marlins LHP Pinto placed on DL: The Florida Marlins placed reliever Renyel Pinto on the 15-day disabled list before Monday night's game against the Philadelphia Phillies.
John Smallwood: Phillies should allow Lidge to save face: IT'S NOT LIKE the Phillies have a lot of options.Actually, right now, they have no other option.Brad Lidge has struggled.
What's wrong with Lidge?: Something is wrong with Brad Lidge.The manager and pitching coach say the Phillies closer is throwing well. However, the results would say otherwise.
Lidge, Moyer deserve our patience: If the Phillies have a one-run lead against the Florida Marlins tonight, Brad Lidge will be the guy running out to pitch the ninth inning. And he should be.
Reading's Savery stymies Altoona: ALTOONA, Pa. - Reading starter Joe Savery (4-1) scattered four hits over six innings yesterday as the Phillies posted a 6-0 Eastern League victory over the Altoona Curve. Relievers Pat Overholt and Francisco Butto completed the shutout.
Struggling Lidge to remain Phils' closer: Something is not right with Phillies closer Brad Lidge. He blew his second save of the weekend Sunday in a 4-3 victory over the Yankees in 11 innings at Yankee Stadium, and has blown four saves in 12 opportunities this season. Manager Charlie Manuel said Lidge remains his closer.
A-Rod, Yankees stage rally in ninth to defeat Lidge, Phillies: Alex Rodriguez hit a tying homer off Brad Lidge in the ninth inning and Melky Cabrera capped the three-run rally with a game-ending single, giving the New York Yankees a 5-4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday.
Inside Pitch: Phillies overcome Lidge's blown save: Carlos Ruiz hit a two-out RBI double in the 11th inning and the Phillies overcame another blown save by Brad Lidge to beat the Yankees 4-3 in New York.
Around the Majors: 5/24/09: Yankees 5, Phillies 4: Alex Rodriguez hit a tying homer off Brad Lidge in the ninth and Melky Cabrera capped the three-run rally with an RBI single, giving host New York the victory against
A-Rod sparks Yankees rally over Lidge, Phillies:
Alex Rodriguez hit a tying homer off Brad Lidge in the ninth inning and Melky Cabrera completed the three-run rally with an RBI single, giving the New York Yankees a 5-4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday.
Blue Jays, Dodgers riding high: Best team:What’s kept the Toronto Blue Jays at the top of the standings in the AL East despite the recent hot play of Boston and New York? The Jays know how to win close games. Toronto won nine of its first 14 one-run games. It helps having relievers such as Jason Frasor (0.60 ERA) and Scott Downs (1.86) when you’re in a pinch.Rising:If the Detroit Tigers need a winning streak, they can invite the Texas Rangers to Comerica Park. It worked again last week as the Tigers turned a modest three-game streak into a six-game run. They did it without Magglio Ordonez and are at the top of the heap in the mediocre Central.Falling:It wasn’t exactly a good Thursday for the Chicago White Sox. First, they were rejected by Jake Peavy in their bid to add the ace to their starting rotation. Then they went out and got pummeled 20-1 by the Minnesota Twins, which is the worst loss in franchise history. It was Chicago’s seventh loss in 10 games and had the defending division champs in fourth place in the Central.Worst team:The Cleveland Indians still have a worse record than the Oakland Athletics, but Oakland’s inability to hit the ball has landed the A’s here. Despite the off-season addition of Matt Holliday, Oakland has the worst batting average in the AL. The A’s also hit just 25 home runs in their first 39 games.National LeagueBest team:So who’s been the biggest beneficiary in the absence of Manny Ramirez on the Los Angeles Dodgers? Juan Pierre. Ramirez’ replacement in left field is playing like he did when he was with the Florida Marlins. In his first 35 games, Pierre was hitting .404, with nine extra-base hits. His on-base percentage was .475.Rising:Baseball’s defending champions are being downright rude when they’re on the road. Despite having a record under .500 at home, the Philadelphia Phillies have made their way to the top of the standings in the East. They’ve done it by dominating on the road. The Phillies went 15-5 as visitors to open the season.Falling:The Florida Marlins have lost their way by catching teams at the wrong time. First they were swept by the Milwaukee Brewers when they were on a roll. Then they dropped two of three to the powerful Dodgers. That must have worn Florida down, as a bad Arizona Diamondbacks team took three of four.Worst team:It gets tough coming up with something to write about the same team week after week. Washington can at least look forward to the June draft, when Stephen Strasburg will be picked by the Nationals. If Washington fans can’t wait that long, they can go to San Diego State’s baseball page (http://goaztecs.cstv.com/sports/m-basebl/strasburg09.html) for Strasburg Central.Who’s hotRaul Ibanez, Philadelphia:The Phillies signed Ibanez to be the left-field replacement for Pat Burrell. What they’ve got instead is an early candidate for NL MVP. Ibanez hit five homers in a six-game stretch and added 12 RBI. He’s now Philadelphia’s runaway leader in both homers and RBI.Who’s notAdrian Beltre, Seattle:The Mariners’ third baseman is longing for two weeks ago, when he went a seemingly torrid 2-for-13 in a three-game series against the Rangers. That’s because Beltre followed that by going hitless in his next five games and striking out seven times. His 0-for-4 Wednesday dropped his average to .200.
Phillies put away Yanks in 11th: NEW YORK - On May 15, the Phillies packed their bags and headed for Washington looking a bit disheveled. They were a .500 club and sinking. The starting pitching was a mess, and key hitters such as Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley were searching for their swings.
Phillies Notes: Lidge sees signs for hope: NEW YORK - For the second game in two days, Phillies closer Brad Lidge gave up a lead in the ninth inning. This time, he gave up two ground-ball singles and the Yankees stole two bases to score the run that sent the game into extra innings.
Phils beat Yankees, 4-3: NEW YORK - On May 15, the Phillies packed their bags and headed for Washington looking a bit disheveled. They were a .500 club and sinking. The starting pitching was a mess, and key hitters such as Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley were searching for their swings.
Lidge, Phils save the worst for last: NEW YORK - In the gloom of a loser's clubhouse, especially after a defeat as gut-wrenching as the one the Phillies experienced yesterday in a taut game against the New York Yankees, any sense of satisfaction comes hard.
Minor Leagues: Reading beats Altoona in both games: ALTOONA, Pa. - The Reading Phillies' Alex Concepcion and Pat Overholt combined on a one-hit shutout for a 5-0 victory in the second game and a doubleheader sweep of the Altoona Curve last night in the Eastern League.
Baseball Notes: Injured Ankiel not ready to return: It'll be at least a few more days before the St. Louis Cardinals activate outfielder Rick Ankiel.Manager Tony La Russa said Ankiel still was not ready during this weekend's series against the Kansas City Royals. He has been sidelined with a bruised right shoulder after crashing into an outfield wall during a May 4 game against the Phillies.
Phils to face two familiar pitchers: NEW YORK - New York Yankees pitchers CC Sabathia and Andy Pettitte both have places in Phillies lore.A decade ago, the Phillies had a well-publicized trade in place to acquire Pettitte for a package of prospects. The deal was so close to done that arrangements had been made for Phillies pitcher Carlton Loewer to give up his No. 46 so Pettitte could have it. Loewer didn't have to surrender his number because Yankees ownerGeorge Steinbrenner killed the deal minutes before the trade deadline.
The Inside Pitch: Yankees lose; Twin hits for cycle: Jimmy Rollins sent A.J. Burnett’s first pitch of the night deep over the right-field scoreboard, and Jayson Werth, Carlos Ruiz and Raul Ibanez also homered in the Philadelphia Phillies’ 7-3 victory Friday night in the first interleague game at new Yankee Stadium. The Phillies’ win ended New York’s nine-game winning streak. Seven homers were hit at the $1.5 billion ballpark, three by the Yankees.
Phils to face 2 familiar pitchers: NEW YORK - New York Yankees pitchers CC Sabathia and Andy Pettitte both have places in Phillies lore.A decade ago, the Phillies had a well-publicized trade in place to acquire Pettitte for a package of prospects. The deal was so close to done that arrangements had been made for Phillies pitcher Carlton Loewer to give up his No. 46 so Pettitte could have it. Loewer didn't have to surrender his number because Yankees owner George Steinbrenner killed the deal minutes before the trade deadline.
Homer Haven: NEW YORK - A jolt of energy pulsates through the Phillies' lineup whenever Jimmy Rollins is swinging the bat well, getting on base, and being the offensive force that helped him win the 2007 National League Most Valuable Player award.
MYERS, BATS WORK IN UNISON: NEW YORK - Charlie Manuel didn't waste any time sharing how he felt. Seated in the visiting manager's office at the sparkling new Yankee Stadium, the Phillies manager eyed the gaggle of reporters who surrounded him and informed them that the story they were searching for existed elsewhere.
Phillies Notes: Moyer, A-Rod have words, but good ones: NEW YORK - Jamie Moyer was finishing up a conversation with a reporter near the Phillies' dugout yesterday afternoon when a voice by the batting cage summoned him.
Phillies waste no time in win over Yankees: NEW YORK - A jolt of energy pulsates through the Phillies' lineup whenever Jimmy Rollins is swinging the bat well, getting on base, and being the offensive force that helped him win the 2007 National League Most Valuable Player award.
Bill Conlin: List of top 50 players arguable: GENTLEMEN, START your arguments.When the Phillies take on the Yankees this weekend in the $1.5 billion House That Ruthless Built, the teams will field nine of the 50 greatest players in the game today.
Phillies burn Burnett to end Yankees' win streak: Jimmy Rollins sent A.J. Burnett's first pitch of the night deep over the right-field scoreboard, and Jayson Werth, Carlos Ruiz and Raul Ibanez also homered as the Philadelphia Phillies rolled to a 7-3 victory and ended New York's nine-game winning streak.
Phils hit 4 HRs to end Yanks' 9-game run (AP):
Alex Rodriguez(notes) follows through on a home run during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday, May 22, 2009, in New York." align="left" border="0">
Jimmy Rollins sent A.J. Burnett's first pitch of the night deep over the right-field scoreboard. Carlos Ruiz had his first homer since Game 3 of last October's World Series and Jayson Werth became the first player to reach the left field second deck. For the Yankees, Mark Teixeria hit the first drive into the suite level, just below the upper deck.
Phils rout Reds, continue road success: The Phillies beat the Reds, 12-5, on Thursday afternoon at Great American Ball Park, to improve to 6-1 on their current 10-game road trip through Washington, Cincinnati and New York. They are 14-5 on the road, which is the best mark in baseball.
Baseball roundup: Nationals 5, Pirates 4: NL ROUNDUP Nationals 5, Pirates 4 — Ryan Zimmerman and Adam Dunn had RBI singles in the eighth inning, helping Washington win at home against Pittsburgh. Phillies 12, Reds 5 — Chase Utley homered and drove in four runs, and Philadelphia t...
Bombs away as Phillies head to the Bronx to face Yankees: CINCINNATI - Fewer than 40 games into its official existence, the new Yankee Stadium has developed a reputation as a bit of a fishbowl, and the Phillies' left-leaning lineup will get its first chance to test the jet stream that supposedly runs out to rightfield tonight when they open interleague play against righthander A.J. Burnett in New York.
Phillies Notes: Condrey is bullpen's hidden weapon: CINCINNATI - Clay Condrey, the Phillies' hidden bullpen weapon, often wears camouflage in the locker room, a wardrobe choice that pitching coach Rich Dubee considers appropriate.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies have DH decisions going into weekend series with Yankees: CINCINNATI - In six interleague games played in American League cities last season, the Phillies faced two lefthanded starters. That made it relatively easy for manager Charlie Manuel to decide who he would use as a designated hitter, given the glut of lefthanded bats he had on his bench.
Archive: Mike Schmidt retires: I HAD FORGOTTEN all about this until seeing the story in Sunday's New York Times on the 30th anniversary of the craziest game in modern major league history: Phillies 23, Cubs 22.
Archive: Rich Ashburn writes about Schmidt's retirement: ALLENTOWN - The Phillies thought highly enough of Carlos Carrasco's ability and potential to enter his name in their spring-training pitching sweepstakes.
Phils' Happ out to revive curveball: CINCINNATI - J.A. Happ had little to say Tuesday after the Phillies made him a part of their starting rotation, and he remained mostly quiet yesterday as he began his new routine, throwing about 40 pitches in a bullpen session.
Jamie Moyer falls short of No. 250: CINCINNATI - Jamie Moyer made sure to offer the appropriate comment after the Phillies lost, 5-1, to Cincinnati at Great American Ball Park last night.
Reds end Phillies' win streak at five: CINCINNATI - In every visitors' clubhouse, there is an area set aside for the fleet of video monitors that the equipment staff sets up for players to watch film before and after games. After the Phillies' 5-1 loss to the Reds last night, when they managed just four hits and scored their only run on a solo homer by Raul Ibanez, Chris Coste spent some time in this area, watching a masterful pitching performance by Cincinnati righthander Aaron Harang.
Hamels pitches Phils to fifth straight win: Phillies ace Cole Hamels entered Tuesday's start against the Reds with a 2-0 record and a 0.86 ERA in Cincinnati. He didn't pitch his best Tuesday, but he pitched well enough in a 4-3 victory.
Hamels stays unbeaten vs. Reds as Phillies win fifth in a row: Philadelphia's Ryan Howard hit a solo homer, and left-hander Cole Hamels stayed unbeaten against the Cincinnati Reds with a 4-3 victory Tuesday night, the Phillies' fifth in a row.
Phillies move struggling Park to bullpen: The Philadelphia Phillies are moving Chan Ho Park to their bullpen in an attempt to shake up their struggling rotation.
Rich Hofmann: Hard to believe, Harry: Phillies 23, Cubs 22: I HAD FORGOTTEN all about this until seeing the story in Sunday's New York Times on the 30th anniversary of the craziest game in modern major league history: Phillies 23, Cubs 22.
Hamels, Lidge top Reds: CINCINNATI - Cole Hamels could only sigh. After throwing 117 pitches, narrowly escaping the sixth inning, contributing a key hit and winning his second game in three starts, the Phillies' ace inhaled deeply and grinned.
Dan Gross: Utley's wife sues mover: JEN UTLEY, VP of the board of the Pennsylvania SPCA and wife of Phillies slugger Chase Utley, has filed suit against Sanford Alderfer Transport, Inc., of Hatfield, seeking $13,000 to replace"various personal items," allegedly lost by the company while the Utleys moved from one Center City condo to another last year.
Lidge getting into form, his pitching coach says: CINCINNATI - Brad Lidge has been inconsistent this season, but his pitching coach saw significant improvement after the Phillies' closer earned two saves - following a blown save Friday - in last weekend's sweep of the Nationals in Washington.
Phillies pitching prospect Carrasco still working his way up: ALLENTOWN - The Phillies thought highly enough of Carlos Carrasco's ability and potential to enter his name in their spring-training pitching sweepstakes.
Rollins rolling for Phillies, who beat Reds for fifth straight win: CINCINNATI - It was Jimmy Rollins as the Phillies need him to be. With men on first and third and one out in the fifth inning, the star shortstop found himself staring out of an 0-2 hole against a righthander named Johnny Cueto who has sparkled through th
J.C. Romero plunges back in: ALLENTOWN - J.C. Romero's road back to the Phillies' bullpen took him to a minor-league stadium that had an unusual promotional giveaway last night.
Reading, Harrisburg split: READING - Mike Spidale scored on a bases-loaded groundout in the bottom of the ninth to give the Reading Phillies a 7-6 victory over the Harrisburg Senators yesterday in the Eastern League.
Bullpen steers Phillies to four-game sweep of Nationals: WASHINGTON - Considering Friday night's 12-inning, come-from-behind victory and Saturday's sweep of a rain-shortened day/night doubleheader, the Phillies already had compiled one of the more improbable three-game win streaks you'll see. So, really, was the 8-6 victory they put together yesterday to cap a four-game sweep of the Nationals out of the question?
For Escalona, joy; for Park, uncertainty: WASHINGTON - The lockers for Chan Ho Park and Sergio Escalona sat across the room from each other in the visitors' clubhouse at Nationals Park, and after yesterday's 8-6 Phillies win, their occupants presented a strong contrast in moods.
Phillies' starters need a push: WASHINGTON - Sometimes it seems as if the Phillies haven't used J.A. Happ enough this season.We're not just taking about on the mound, where he has turned in 101/3 scoreless innings over his last six appearances.
Ibanez homers starting to pay off for Phillies fans: Just in case Raul Ibanez hasn't done enough to get Phillies fans in his corner with a great start at the plate, he has now taken an additional tack:
Manuel says winning must begin at home for Phillies: WASHINGTON - The Phillies' four-game sweep of the Nationals improved their road record to 12-4. But at home, where they were unbeaten last postseason, they are just 8-12.
Letters: A very disappointed fan of Phillies ALS Festival: THE PHILLIES dropped the ball on their annual Phillies ALS Festival. My daughter and I have been going to it ever since the first one at the Vet. If the Phils were winning or losing, we were there. Breezy 80-degree day, or cold, rainy night, we stood in the lines and had a ball.
Phillies win 8-6, complete sweep of Nationals: A four-game series of perilous pitching and dodgy fielding mercifully came to an end Sunday, with the Philadelphia Phillies completing a sweep of the worst-in-NL staff of the Washington Nationals.
On Baseball: Phillies eyed a jewel in the making: While preparing for the 2002 draft, Phillies officials took inventory of their organization. They knew the relationship between third baseman Scott Rolen and the team had deteriorated beyond repair. They also knew that attempts to make Chase Utley a third baseman were not going well at triple A.
No easy answers for starters' woes: There are problems in the Phillies' rotation, and there are no easy answers at the moment. The Phils enter Tuesday's series opener against the Reds at Great American Ball Park with a 6.35 starter's ERA, which is the highest in baseball.
Suspended P Romero makes first appearance on Triple-A mound: J.C. Romero made his season debut with Philadelphia's Triple-A affiliate Monday night, beginning to prepare for his return to the Phillies after a 50-game suspension for flunking a drug test.
Ibanez hits three homers as Phillies sweep Nationals: Brett Myers cranked out seven innings in the afternoon, emergency callup Andrew Carpenter pitched into the fifth in his first major league start in a nightcap that was called in the sixth inning due to rain, and the Philadelphia Phillies swept a doubleheader from Washington on Saturday night.
Phillies visit Obama at White House: President Barack Obama has told the Philadelphia Phillies that their 2008 World Series run was similar to his winning presidential campaign.
Martin's double in 10th leads Dodgers over Phillies: Russell Martin hit a tiebreaking double in the 10th inning and Matt Kemp followed with an RBI double to lift the Los Angeles Dodgers over the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 Thursday.
Phillies' fans better than their team: Business has been great at Citizens Bank Park this season.The baseball has not.The Phillies played their 20th home game yesterday in front of their 15th sellout crowd. They have sold more than three million tickets for the season and should be able to roll out of bed and break the franchise attendance record of 3.42 million, set during the magical season of 2008.
From Jimmy Rollins, another cold shoulder: After batting fifth in back-to-back games, Jimmy Rollins returned to his customary role as leadoff hitter yesterday in the Phillies' 5-3, 10-inning loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Hamels strong, but bats quiet in loss to LA: The Phillies game in front of another sellout crowd at Citizens Bank Park yesterday looked similar to quite a few last season when Cole Hamels was on the mound.
Hamels sharp but lumber slumbers in Phillies' loss to Dodgers: FOR ALL the ups and downs of the first month-and-a-half of this 2009 season, as well as the roller-coaster ride that was 2008, the two constants with this Phillies team have been the ability to play mistake-free baseball and the ability to put together late-game rallies.
Rich Hofmann: The real Hamels back in house for Phillies: ONCE YOU SPRAY all the mud and muck off of this baseball team (and it would take a fire hose at this point, given the current ineptitude up and down the lineup), the truth is that the most important fact established yesterday by the Phillies is that Cole Hamels looks like Cole Hamels again.
Paul Hagen: So far, Lidge, Moyer less than striking for Phillies: DON'T PANIC, Phillies fans. There will be plenty of time for that later if need be. And it's still early enough in the baseball season that serious concern is also an overreaction.
Phillies Notebook: Manuel on Phillies' lack of offense: 'We're not hitting the ball good': IT TOOK THE Phillies seven games to break .500, then another 10 to break it again. Fourteen games later, with a 10-game road swing on tap, they are back even.
Phillies visit White House to celebrate Series win: The Philadelphia Phillies are set to visit the White House to celebrate their World Series victory.
Martin's double in 10th lifts LA over Phillies 5-3: The Phillies' two-out rally tied the game. The Dodgers' two-out burst won it.
Michael Smerconish: When teams play the White House: WHEN the Phillies visit the White House tomorrow, they'll meet with a president already fond of hosting these familiar sports grip-and-grins.
Hamels is fine, but Phils falter: The Phillies game in front of another sellout crowd at Citizens Bank Park today looked similar to quite a few last season when Cole Hamels was on the mound.
Bill Conlin: History no cure for 2008 Phillies hangover: IF YOU'VE been following the ebb and flow of the Phillies' fortunes most of your conscious life, you're probably in the throes of the George Patton syndrome. Thirty games into this season in progress, you are gripped with a powerful sense that both you an
Paul Hagen: Struggling Moyer giving Phillies more gray hairs: WHEN IT all went kerflooey for Brett Myers in the first half of last season, the Phillies crafted what turned out to be an inspired solution. They convinced the headstrong righthander that a brief tour of their minor league system was just what he needed. And it turned out they were right.
Wolf dominates ex-team as Dodgers beat Phillies: Randy Wolf had the kind of performance that used to get the fans howling in Philadelphia. Wolf dominated his former team, James Loney homered and drove in four runs and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Phillies 9-2 on Wednesday night.
Another poor outing for Moyer in Phillies' loss to Dodgers: WELL AFTER Raul Ibanez stepped into the batter's box to face Will Ohman to start the ninth inning last night, the giant scoreboard at Citizens Bank Park displayed the number"3" next to the word"Outs." Perhaps it was a simple mistake on the part of a Phillies employee who took just long enough at the bathroom to miss erasing the public record of the previous inning's events.
Happ could get start for Saturday's game: J.A. Happ has long wanted to be a member of the Phillies' starting rotation, but his importance to the bullpen precludes the team from committing to the pitcher for Saturday's extra start.
Lineup change good for Rollins, Phils: To understand what Jimmy Rollins felt when he walked into the Phillies' clubhouse yesterday and saw that he'd been dropped from the leadoff spot, you have to know this:
Werth steals 4 in Phillies victory: Jayson Werth was feeling frisky last night. That's what his manager said, and that's how Werth looked on the bases during the Phillies' 5-3 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park.
Sam Donnellon: Feliz is feeling no pain and it shows in his stats: AMID ALL the leftfield worship of the newest Phillies face and our civic anxiety over starting pitching, Pedro Feliz has quietly re-established his reputation.
Showdown: Billingsley vs. Rollins: Chad Billingsley strode into the 2008 National League Championship Series after a sensational season for the surprising Dodgers, but Jimmy Rollins and the Phillies took the wind out of him early and often.
Ex-Phillie Wolf's terrific outing lifts LA: Dodgers left-hander Randy Wolf was masterful in holding the Phillies to three hits in Wednesday's 9-2 victory before 45,273 at Citizens Bank Park.
Torre picked by Manuel to coach in All-Star game: Joe Torre is going back to the All-Star game.Torre said Wednesday that Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel asked him to be part of the National League coaching staff for the Midsummer Classic in St. Louis on July 14.
Werth swipes four bases, steals home, as Phillies edge Dodgers: Chan Ho Park had his second straight effective outing to win his first game with Philadelphia, and Jayson Werth stole home to lead the Phillies to a 5-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday night.
Wolf dominates ex-team as Dodgers beat Phillies: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Randy Wolf had the kind of performance that used to get the fans howling in Philadelphia. Wolf dominated his former team, James Loney homered and drove in four runs and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the Phillies 9-2 on Wednesday night....
NL: Dodgers continue to struggle minus Manny: Chan Ho Park had his second straight effective outing to win his first game with Philadelphia, and Jayson Werth stole home to lead the Phillies to a 5-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday night.
Around the Majors: 5/13/09: Phillies 5, Dodgers 3: Chan Ho Park had his second consecutive effective outing to win his first game with Philadelphia, and Jayson Werth stole home to lead the Phillies past
Dan Gross: Utleys&Specters at La Collina: SEN. ARLEN SPECTER and wife Joan dined with Phillies slugger Chase Utley and wife Jen at La Collina (37 Ashland) in Belmont Hills after Sunday's game. The senator attends most Sunday home games. We're told Specter and Utley were gracious to fellow diners and said hello to those who approached them. Also dining there Sunday was
Phillies' Moyer urges graduates to"give back": Phillies pitcher Jamie Moyer told the 536 graduates of Holy Family University yesterday that although they will experience obstacles in life, they must always give back to the community.
Jamie Moyer urges grads to give back: Phillies Pitcher Jamie Moyer told the 536 Holy Family University graduates today that although they will experience obstacles in life they must always give back to the community.
Hamels gets first win of 2009: It's debatable which was more uplifting for the Phillies tonight at Citizens Bank Park - Cole Hamels running hell-bent down the first-base line without slipping on a banana peel; or the Atlanta Braves flailing at his clever mixture of fastballs and change-ups.
Hamels sharp in return from injury as Phillies beat Braves: FOR AN indication of how highly Cole Hamels' teammates value the young lefthander, witness the encounter manager Charlie Manuel had with them as he walked out of the dugout and approached the mound in the sixth inning of the Phillies' 10-6 win over the Braves last night. Hamels had just walked two batters, then spent several minutes pacing around the infield as security guards at Citizens Bank Park tried to corral a fan who had burst onto the field.
Hyperextended elbow sidelines Chipper: Braves third baseman Chipper Jones hyperextended his right elbow during Sunday's win over the Phillies and removed himself from the lineup. He may miss Monday's opening game against the Mets at Citi Field.
Kotchman's two-run single in seventh lifts Braves: Casey Kotchman had three hits and three RBI, Kenshin Kawakami pitched six effective innings and the Atlanta Braves rallied for a 4-2 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday.
Phillies Notebook: Without Romero, Phillies bullpen has not been the same: As much as the Phillies will tell you that they must fight the war with the men they have, it is impossible not to think what some battles might have looked like had suspended reliever J.C. Romero been available.
Too early to panic on Phillies: Five weeks into the new season, the Phillies are just a game over .500. They have been inconsistent in almost every phase of the game. Even though 4 1/2 months remain in the season, the hand-wringing has begun.
Lineup change may be in order for struggling Phillies leadoff man Rollins: CHARLIE MANUEL says he has considered what 2 years ago would seem unfathomable. That would be taking Jimmy Rollins, your 2007 National League MVP, out of the leadoff spot he has manned for the past nine seasons and moving him down in the batting order. But even after the Phillies' 4-2 loss to the Braves yesterday, when the star shortstop went 0-for-5 and saw his batting average drop back below the Mendoza Line, Manuel still could not convince himself that such a move would work.
Reading gets by Altoona, 2-1: READING, Pa. - Orlando Guevara's RBI single knocked in the deciding run in the bottom of the seventh yesterday as the Reading Phillies earned a 2-1 Eastern League victory over the Altoona Curve.
Phils produce little offense in loss: When the top of the order struggles, the Phillies' bottom line is not good.The Phils completed a difficult weekend yesterday with a 4-2 loss to Atlanta at sun-splashed Citizens Bank Park, which allowed the Braves to get out of town with two wins in the three-game series as the Phillies dropped 11/2 games behind the streaking New York Mets.
Inqlings: Howard is covering another base: It's a home run for Ryan Howard.The Phillies first baseman has traded an apartment by the Delaware for a house in the burbs, paying $2.3 million for a new five-bedroom on nearly two acres in Blue Bell, making his commute to Citizens Bank Park a long drive.
Braves come back to beat Phils: For the most part, the Phillies' season has gone pretty much like this: Just when they open one window to let in some light, another slams shut and the room dims again.
Inside the Phillies: Matching up with Mets: An early look: Say this for the Mets in their first four games against the Phillies this season: The bullpen imploded only once. When New York reliever Sean Green walked Shane Victorino with the bases loaded in the 10th inning May 2, his team lost in a manner common to last season, when Mets relievers blew an astonishing 29 saves, and the Phillies won the National League East by three games.
Phillies Notes: Phils' Lidge encouraged by last outing: Brad Lidge's outing Friday night might not have appeared productive. But the Phillies' closer said yesterday that, while embarrassed by the results, he felt healthy and was encouraged by his progress.
Strong outing by Vazquez helps Braves beat Phils: Javier Vazquez pitched neatly into the eighth inning, Yunel Escobar and Brian McCann hit two-run homers and the Atlanta Braves beat the Philadelphia Phillies 6-2 on Saturday.
Phillies Notes: Phils' Happ aims to show his stuff: J.A. Happ insists he doesn't spend much time thinking about whether or when he will move into the Phillies' starting rotation, but that's not keeping him from making a case for himself.
Phil Sheridan: No bumps or bruises come with first win: Cole Hamels stepped in against the young righthander, then thought better of it.He walked away, leaving Brett Myers' son to continue a clubhouse game of catch with his father - without the ace of the Phillies' pitching staff standing in like a hitter.
Hamels, Phils beat Braves: The latest coverage of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Mets jump Moyer, Phillies early to get two-game sweep: Carlos Beltran and David Wright each hit a two-run homer in the first inning, and the New York Mets beat the Philadelphia Phillies ...
Ozark, former Phillies manager, dead at 85: Former Philadelphia Phillies manager Danny Ozark has died at his home in Florida. He was 85.
Pitch counts revisited: Mets 1, Phillies 0: Johan Santana extended his dominant start to the season, striking out 10 in seven innings of two-hit ball, as host New York scratched out a run on Pedro Feliz's throwing
Around the Majors: 5/5/09: Phillies 6, Cardinals 1: Ryan Howard hit his seventh career grand slam, tying Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt for the Philadelphia record, in the victory against host St. Louis.
Danny Ozark, former Phillies manager, dies at 85: Former Phillies manager Danny Ozark, who led Philadelphia to three consecutive National League East titles but fell short of the World Series each time, died Thursday. He was 85.
Paul Hagen: Manuel managing to join select Phillies company: IT DIDN'T get a lot of attention when the Phillies swept the Cardinals earlier this week, giving Charlie Manuel 368 managerial wins since taking over for Larry Bowa and moving him past Bill Shettsline and into eighth place on the club's all-time list.
Former players remember Ozark as father figure, leader: WHEN DANNY OZARK attended the first two World Series games played in Citizens Bank Park last October, one of the people the former Phillies manager wanted to see was his former leftfielder, Greg"The Bull'' Luzinski.
Ex-manager paved way for Phillies' first title: Danny Ozark, 85, the Phillies manager whose hound-dog face and penchant for malaprops sometimes obscured the success his teams enjoyed in the 1970s, died yesterday in Florida.
Manuel reflects on Ozark: NEW YORK - Thirty years is a long time, and that is how long it has been since Danny Ozark managed the Phillies. But Charlie Manuel knew Ozark before that, from back when Manuel was a minor league player in the Minnesota Twins organization, and later when Manuel was with Ozark in the Dodgers organization.
Danny Ozark: In his own words: Former Phillies manager Danny Ozark was known for his malapropisms. Here are some favorites:* During spring training 1974, asked whether he would ever consider trading Mike Schmidt:"I'd trade him for a wagon-load of pumpkins."
Bill Conlin: Ozark's calming influence helped move Phillies from chaos to quality in 1970s: DANNY OZARK already had two strikes against him when he took over as Phillies manager in 1973.The first came at the World Series in '72, when Phillies general manager/manager Paul Owens informed the media that they could not announce the hiring but that Dave Bristol was going to be his next manager. The Pope then told another reporter the new mana
Mixed reaction from Phillies on Ramirez suspension: NEW YORK - Phillies reliever Chad Durbin is a logical person. He reads the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. He is an entrepeneur who, along with a friend, founded a Web site for potential college recruits called ShowcaseU.com. He is as comfortable talking about business plans and equity as he is about balls and strikes.
Rich Hofmann: Phillies need Hamels' luck to change: NEW YORK - The Phillies have lost three out of four games so far this season to the Mets. Jamie Moyer got rocked last night, annihilated. It is May 8. There are 136 games left to play. The search for meaning continues.
Former Phillies manager Danny Ozark dies: Danny Ozark, the Phillies manager whose hound-dog face and penchant for malaprops sometimes obscured the success his teams enjoyed during the 1970s, died today in Vero Beach, Fla. He was 85.
Mets' new park a challenge for Phils: NEW YORK - The first thing Shane Victorino did when the Phillies walked into the New York Mets' new $900 million digs for the first time yesterday was take a peek at the outfield.
Rich Hofmann: Phillies GM Amaro decisive in the early going: NEW YORK - Bankrolled to an unprecedented extent by his bosses, Ruben Amaro Jr. got all of the contracts done in good order, even the most significant ones. Sensing his lineup's biggest need, he grabbed free agent Raul Ibanez as his leftfielder and did it fast. In his first months as the Phillies' general manager, Amaro reworked the major league staff, re-upped the manager, lined up his front-office lieutenants and continued to build a reputation for being quick and decisive.
Feliz' error foils Park's strong outing in Phillies' loss to Mets: NEW YORK - Chan Ho Park did not even stop to consider the question. After the righthander allowed one hit in six scoreless innings last night in the Phillies' 1-0 loss to the Mets, a reporter wanted to know whether he had felt any pressure prior to the game. His first four starts in a Phillies uniform had eroded some of the team's confidence in him, and the rhetoric from manager Charlie Manuel suggested that Park was not only pitching for a victory last night, but also his job.
Santana strikes out 10, Mets edge Phillies 1-0: Johan Santana extended his dominant start to the season, striking out 10 in seven innings of two-hit ball, and the New York Mets scratched out a run Wednesday night on Pedro Feliz's throwing error for a 1-0 win over the Philadelphia Phillies.
Phillies' Park loses pitching duel: NEW YORK - When Chan Ho Park was pitching for the fifth spot in the Phillies' starting rotation this March, he was focused, aggressive, and dominant. In the weeks since, manager Charlie Manuel could only shrug and shake his head while trying to diagnose Park's problems, observing that the pitcher's confidence was mysteriously gone. In last night's 1-0 loss to the New York Mets, Park seemed to rediscover whatever he had lost.
Park sparkles but Phils fall to Mets, 1-0: NEW YORK - When Chan Ho Park was pitching for the fifth spot in the Phillies' starting rotation this March, he was focused, aggressive, and dominant.
Bill Conlin: Phillies rotation paying price for being ill-prepared: WHEN I'M KING of the World . . .Three-and-a-half months will be certified as enough rest for any pitchers whose seasons were extended by three tiers of postseason baseball . . . Because nearly the entire Phillies staff is in disarray - I call it the Lefty Syndrome - most of the blame sh
Phillies Notebook: Could be now or never for Phillies pitcher Park: ST. LOUIS - A perception has taken root that righthander Chan Ho Park already has reached his first or-else moment with the Phillies. Manager Charlie Manuel and pitching coach Rich Dubee won't say that in so many words. Thing is, they don't deny it, either.
Santana fans 10 as Mets shut out Phils: Johan Santana struck out 10 Phillies over seven strong innings, and Carlos Delgado scored allthe way from first base on a seventh-inning error, giving the Mets a 1-0 win.
Danny Ozark, former Phillies manager, dead at 85: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Former Philadelphia Phillies manager Danny Ozark has died at his home in Florida. He was 85....
Hamels nailed by liner in Phillies' loss: Matt Stairs' solo home run with one out in the eighth broke up a no-hitter, but the Phillies lost, 6-1, to the Brewers on Thursday. Cole Hamels left in the fourth after being hit by a line drive.
Another ex-Brewer thwarts Bush's no-no: For the third time in his career, Dave Bush carried a no-hitter past the seventh inning. And for the third time, the opponent who broke it up had Brewers ties; on Thursday, it was the Phillies' Matt Stairs.
Bush takes no-hit bid into 8th inning, Brewers beat Phillies: Dave Bush held Philadelphia hitless for 7 1-3 innings before pinch-hitter Matt Stairs homered off the foul pole, and the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Phillies 6-1 Thursday.
D-Backs keep Scherzer on slow track: Hard-throwing Max Scherzer sees struggles of the Phillies' Cole Hamels and understands tactic.
NL | Feeling safe at home, Brewer takes no-hit bid into eighth in Philly: After spending a few days relaxing at his parents'suburban house, Dave Bush dominated at the Phillies'home on Thursday. Bush had a no-hitter...
Hamels leaves game after being hit by line drive: Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels left Thursday's series finale against the Milwaukee Brewers after being struck in the shoulder by a line drive.
A hometown boy nearly no-hit the Phils: Dave Bush was under a bit of stress when he and his teammates on the Milwaukee Brewers arrived in Philadelphia early this week for a three-game series against the Phillies.
Taylor's second homer lifts Reading past Bowie: READING - Michael Taylor led off the bottom of the 11th inning with his second home run of the night as the Reading Phillies beat the Bowie Baysox, 7-6, last night in the Eastern League.
Close call for Hamels in Phils' loss: The Phillies lost a ball game yesterday, and they're lucky they didn't lose their best pitcher, too.Ace lefthander Cole Hamels took a vicious line drive off the back of his pitching shoulder in the fourth inning of the Phils' 6-1 loss to Milwaukee at Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies at Marlins preview: 7:10, Dolphin Stadium, Miami. TV: CN. Radio: WPHT (1210-AM); WUBA (1480-AM) SpanishPhillies RHP Brett Myers (1-1, 5.03) vs. Marlins RHP Josh Johnson (2-0, 2.91)
Close call for Hamels in Phils’ loss: The Phillies lost a ball game today, and they're lucky they didn't lose their best pitcher, too.
Hamels hit by line drive, leaves game: Phillies ace Cole Hamels left today's game in the top of the fourth inning after being hit in his left pitching arm on a line drive by Milwaukee's Prince Fielder.
Bush's no-hit bid lifts Brewers by Phils (AP):
Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Dave Bush throws in the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Thursday, April 23, 2009, in Philadelphia. The Brewers won 6-1." align="left" border="0">
After spending a few days relaxing at his parents' suburban house, Dave Bush dominated at the Phillies' home. Bush held Philadelphia hitless for 7 1-3 innings before pinch-hitter Matt Stairs homered off the foul pole, and the Milwaukee Brewers cruised to a 6-1 win Thursday. One batter after third baseman Bill Hall made a tremendous play to preserve Bush's try, Stairs batted for reliever Chad Durbin...
Hamels leaves game after being hit by line drive: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels left Thursday's series finale against the Milwaukee Brewers after being struck in the shoulder by a line drive.
Catching Phillie$ fever: We haven't been to a Phillies game this season. Maybe we'll go Tuesday. That will give me time to prepare, because going to a ball game these days is considerably more complicated than it used to be.
Kendrick and Carrasco are improving at triple A: The development of Kyle Kendrick and Carlos Carrasco, and John Mayberry Jr.'s prodigious power were among the most compelling spring-training story lines for the Phillies this year.
After loss to Brewers, Phillies still looking for rhythm: JAYSON WERTH has a word for what the Phillies' offense looks like when it is playing well.Rhythmatic.It isn't a real word, but the imagery fits.
Phils fall to Brewers, 3-1: Joe Blanton allowed himself to smile a few times while dissecting his 3-1 loss to Milwaukee last night. The pitcher, although disappointed, considered both he and the Phillies to be in a similar place: improving, not immune to small setbacks, but close to showing more consistency.
Brewers beat Blanton and Phils: The question has hovered over the Phillies since shortly after opening night: What is wrong with the starting rotation? Is it the cold weather? Too many days off? Too many innings last year?
Phils pounce early, cruise past Brewers: The last time the Phillies played the Brewers at Citizens Bank Park, Shane Victorino hit a grand slam off CC Sabathia in Game 2 of the NLDS. The atmosphere Tuesday night at the Bank couldn't match the 2008 playoffs, but the Phillies still beat the Brewers, 11-4.
Weeks OK after colliding with Hardy: Brewers second baseman Rickie Weeks left Tuesday's game against the Phillies complaining of dizziness after he was clipped by shortstop J.J. Hardy on a funky play near second base.
Around the majors: 4/22/09: Phillies 11, Brewers 4: Pedro Feliz homered and drove in three runs, Jamie Moyer pitched six-plus effective innings as host Philadelphia beat Milwaukee.
Rollins: Phils ready to defend title: Charlie Manuel expressed concern Monday about the readiness of some Phillies players to defend their World Series title. Jimmy Rollins disagreed with the assessment.
Phillies pummel Brewers: Charlie Manuel did not mention Shane Victorino - or any other player - when he criticized some Phillies on Monday for being unprepared to defend their World Series championship.
Feliz, Moyer lead Phillies over Brewers 11-4: In a lineup filled with big hitters, Pedro Feliz is giving the Philadelphia Phillies a strong presence at the bottom of the order.
Letters: The aching void that Harry Kalas left behind: IWAS JUST 9 when Harry Kalas broadcast his first game for the Phils, and since I am a huge Phillies fan, he was a big part of my life. Players, managers and even owners come and go, but Harry has always been there. He's all I've ever known.
Feliz, Moyer lead Phils by Brewers 11-4 (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies' Jack Taschner, left, and Chris Coste (27) celebrate the Phillies' 11-4 win against the Milwaukee Brewers at the end of a baseball game Tuesday, April 21, 2009, in Philadelphia." align="left" border="0">
In a lineup filled with big hitters, Pedro Feliz is giving the Philadelphia Phillies a strong presence at the bottom of the order. Feliz homered and drove in three runs, Jamie Moyer pitched six-plus effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Milwaukee Brewers 11-4 Tuesday night. Ryan Braun had a career-high five hits, including two homers, for the Brewers in a rematch of last year's...
Cole Hamels takes the blame: Early-season games played on chilly April nights count just as much as the high-stakes, high-intensity games the Phillies have played in the last few Septembers. That's why Cole Hamels is so disappointed with the way he has begun the 2009 season.
Phils' Manuel fears a Series hangover: Photographs of last year's most exuberant moments adorn the walls of the Phillies' clubhouse. A panoramic of the post-championship pileup hangs in the hallway between the locker room and dugout, and framed shots of Brad Lidge falling to his knees, Cole Hamels receiving his MVP trophy, and many other memories decorate Charlie Manuel's office.
Manuel says Phillies need to make winning a priority: THERE WAS a time period yesterday afternoon when the Phillies thought they might get a chance to play San Diego last night, that the rain would clear and the opportunity would arise for them to build some momentum off their dramatic, come-from-behind win
Letters: Some poetic tributes to Harry: Harry the K(To the rhythm of"Casey at the Bat, by E.L. Thayer.)The outlook was pretty good for the Phillies nine that day.
Saint Joseph's to honor the Moyers: Phillies lefthander Jamie Moyer and his wife, Karen, will receive honorary doctorates from Saint Joseph's University on April 30.The Moyers will receive degrees as doctor of public service for their charitable work with the Jamie Moyer Foundation at a special academic convocation on campus.
Phillies vs. Brewers preview: 7:05, Citizens Bank Park. TV: Comcast Network. Radio: WPHT (1210-AM); WUBA (1480-AM) Spanish. Tickets: Some 38,000 have been sold.Brewers LHP Manny Parra (0-2, 6.97) vs. Phillies LHP Jamie Moyer (1-1, 6.55)
Dan Gross: Olney guy's arm is 'outta here': SOME Harry Kalas tributes last forever. Artist Rob Fiore of Inkwell 309, in Montgomeryville, spent nearly three hours Thursday tattooing a color portrait of the legendary Phillies broadcaster on Michael Schwarz's right arm.
Ibanez's blast propels Phils past Padres: Raul Ibanez hit a game-winning two-run home run in the bottom of the ninth inning on Sunday in the Phillies' 5-4 victory over the San Diego Padres.
Upstart Marlins refuse to lose, own MLB-best 11-1 record: Two weeks into the baseball season, the Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets, Los Angeles Angels, Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees are looking up at unexpected division leaders.
Ibanez's walk-off HR lifts Phillies over Padres: Raul Ibanez hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning to give the Philadelphia Phillies a 5-4 victory over the San Diego Padres on Sunday.
Moyers to receive honorary degrees from St. Joe’s: Phillies pitcher Jamie Moyer and his wife, Karen, will receive honorary doctorates from Saint Joseph's University on April 30.
Reading pitchers sharp in win over Harrisburg: HARRISBURG - Alex Concepcion and three relief pitchers combined to hold Harrisburg to six hits yesterday as the Reading Phillies beat the Senators, 6-2, in the Eastern League.
In a slump, Rollins finds rhythm as pinch-hitter: Eric Bruntlett started at shortstop yesterday in place of Jimmy Rollins, the same substitution that Phillies manager Charlie Manuel made last July 24 when Rollins arrived late to a game in New York.
Ibanez gets Phils on track: Jayson Werth felt that Raul Ibanez deserved to go to the White House. Recently, the Phillies determined that only members of their 2008 team would be invited to receive congratulations for their World Series victory from President Obama.
Goodbye, Harry: IT'S FITTING that Harry Kalas will rest forever on"a long drive." After the ceremonies at Citizens Bank Park, the legendary Phillies broadcaster was buried Saturday afternoon at Laurel Hill Cemetery, on a hill overlooking Kelly Drive and the Schuylkill. Harry's grave does not yet have a headstone. Burial arrangements were made by the James A. McCafferty Funeral Home in the Northeast.
Phillies Notebook: Hard-hitting Howard adding defense to repertoire for Phillies: In some instances, when dealing with a new pupil, Phillies third-base coach Sam Perlozzo might have done his homework. He might have watched film, taken notes, developed a mental game plan. But during his first meeting with Ryan Howard at the University of South Florida in January, the longtime coach and fielding guru wanted to enter with a clean slate.
Thanks to Ibanez, Phils walk off with a win: EARLY YESTERDAY evening, after most of his teammates had already slipped out of their uniforms and into the Sunday dusk, Raul Ibanez emerged from a set of double doors in the Phillies' clubhouse wearing gym shorts and sneakers and socks pulled up to just below his knees.
Phils beat Padres on Ibanez homer in 9th: Jayson Werth felt that Raul Ibanez deserved to go to the White House. Recently, the Phillies determined that only members of their championship team would be invited to receive congratulations for their World Series victory from President Obama.
Ibanez lifts Phillies to 5-4 victory over Padres: Raul Ibanez relished the celebration following his first game-ending homer with the Philadelphia Phillies. He even enjoyed his shaving cream pie.
Philadelphia Phillies fans gather at Citizens Bank Park to mourn Harry Kalas: Thousands of fans have filed into Citizens Bank Park to bid farewell to legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas, the voice of the Phillies.
Ibanez's 2-run HR in 9th lifts Phillies (AP): Raul Ibanez relished the celebration following his first game-ending homer with the Philadelphia Phillies. He even enjoyed his shaving cream pie. Ibanez hit a two-run shot in the ninth inning to give the Phillies a 5-4 victory over the San Diego Padres on Sunday. "They got me good," said Ibanez, who still had traces of the postgame celebration in his left ear.
Lidge proven human as Phils fall: The Phillies rallied for two runs in the bottom of the eighth to take the lead over the Padres, but Brad Lidge surrendered four runs in the ninth inning of an 8-5 defeat.
Phillies players recall Kalas fondly: The Phillies paid their respects to the late Harry Kalas on Saturday afternoon at Citizens Bank Park. Though it meant some players had to arrive at the ballpark earlier than usual, this was a no-brainer.
Phillies fans pay tribute to Kalas: They came in vans, buses, trucks and cars. They came on foot from nearby homes. For legendary Phillies announcer Harry Kalas, who died Monday at the age of 73, these fans would do anything. And they did.
Phillies' fans pay respects to Kalas at ballpark: Thousands of fans filed into Citizens Bank Park on Saturday to bid farewell to legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas, the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Phillies fans honor legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas: They began lining up outside Citizens Bank Park long before sunrise, carrying their heartfelt signs and waiting for a chance to say goodbye to the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Phillies fans pay respects to Kalas at ballpark: Thousands of fans have filed into Citizens Bank Park to bid farewell to legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas, the voice of the Phillies. The Hall of Fame announcer known for his signature“Outta here!” home-run call, died Monday in Washington. He collapsed in the broadcast booth before a game against the Nationals. He was 73.
MLB Notebook: Phillies fans turn out to mourn loss of voice: They began lining up outside Citizens Bank Park long before sunrise, carrying their heartfelt signs and waiting for a chance to say goodbye to the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Thousands pay final respects to Harry Kalas:
Philadelphia -- They began lining up outside Citizens Bank Park long before sunrise, carrying their heartfelt signs and waiting for a chance to say goodbye to the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Phillies honor Harry Kalas with numerous tributes:
"Harry Kalas, if you can look past Ben Franklin and William Penn, may have been the greatest person to grace Philadelphia in the history of the city," Mike Schmidt said of the Phillies Hall of Fame broadcaster, who died Monday.
Phillies'fans pay respects to Kalas at ballpark: They began lining up outside Citizens Bank Park long before sunrise, carrying their heartfelt signs and waiting for a chance to say goodbye to the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Lidge's save streak ends in loss to Padres: On a day that began with fans and players filing past late announcer Harry Kalas' casket at Citizens Bank Park, Brad Lidge provided the Phillies with a heartbreak they had not yet experienced.
Memories and mementos at Kalas sendoff: The sun swept down the third-base line and by 8 a.m. shined on Harry Kalas' casket, warming the skin and spirits of Phillies fans who came by the thousands to pay respects to their beloved Hall of Fame broadcaster.
Gonzo: E-mails about Harry Kalas: While thinking about how baseball will never sound the same, it's time for an all-Harry Kalas e-mail bag.Since 1971, Phillies fans have been comfortable inviting Harry into their living rooms, cars, backyards, beach blankets and anyplace else they wanted to hear or see the game. And we were always comfortable with Harry in our presence. How many times have you heard someone say about an announcer,"That guy gets on my nerves." You never heard that about Harry.
Phillies Notes: Phils' bullpen shaky lately: Through the first seven games of the season, the Phillies' bullpen helped stabilize a team suffering from shaky starting pitching and inconsistent hitting.
Minor Leagues: Reading wins on a grand slam: HARRISBURG - Kevin Mahar's grand slam in the seventh inning last night sent the Reading Phillies to a 7-5 win over the Harrisburg Senators in the Eastern League.
Phillies let one slip away: Even an 8-7 Phillies loss to the Padres last night couldn't spoil a night full of high hopes.And that's exactly the way Harry Kalas, the eternal optimist, would have called it.
Phillies' pitching fails to support plenty of scoring in loss to Padres: FOR A short time last night, everything seemed right in the Phillies' world.The temperature was in the 60s, whisps of pinkish clouds drifted above the slate-blue skyline, and Jimmy Rollins set the stage for a big first inning in which the Phillies scored five runs against the seemingly overmatched Chris Young.
Phils honor Kalas but lose game: Even an 8-7 Phillies loss to the Padres tonight couldn't spoil a night full of high hopes.
Lidge's saves streak ends as Padres rally: Brad Lidge blew his first save in 47 opportunities, allowing four runs, including a three-run homer to Kevin Kouzmanoff, and the Padres beat the Phillies 8-5 on Saturday night.
Phils' Lidge blows first save since '07 (AP): It is not often a closer in Philadelphia blows a save and gets a standing ovation. But Brad Lidge is an exception, a player whose perfection was applauded by the sellout crowd, even in the face of his first blown save with the Phillies. The right-hander allowed four runs, including a three-run homer to Kevin Kouzmanoff, and the San Diego Padres beat the Phillies 8-5 on Saturday night.
Kalas tributes slated for Friday, Saturday: The Phillies have announced plans for tributes to Harry Kalas on Friday and Saturday at Citizens Bank Park.
Martis, Dunn help Nationals finally get their first win: Adam Dunn hit one of Washington's four homers, Shairon Martis threw 6 1/3 solid innings, and the Nationals avoided setting a club record for most consecutive losses to start a season by beating the Philadelphia Phillies 8-2 Thursday night.
Phils' Lidge off to shaky start: WASHINGTON - Brad Lidge has saved 47 consecutive regular-season games, but in two of his first five appearances this year, only multiple-run Phillies leads saved his streak.
Kalas made Phillies games vivid for blind fan: For David Hoppman, Harry Kalas was much more than an iconic broadcaster of Phillies games.He was a matchmaker.He was a pair of eyes.
Off Night: WASHINGTON - Before last night's 8-2 loss to Washington, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel sat in the visitors' dugout, shaking his head.
Phillies welcome trip home after loss at Washington: WASHINGTON - There is a thin line between making excuses and acknowledging reality, and professional baseball players are often hesitant to walk it for fear the latter will be confused with the former. But as the Phillies wrapped up their first road trip of the season with a 8-2 loss to the Nationals last night, it was clear that the first week-and-a-half of this 2009 season had transpired like few others.
Phillies Notebook: Prospect Bastardo adds to Phillies' bounty of lefthanders: WASHINGTON - Prospect Antonio Bastardo impressed Phillies brass enough as a starter over the past two seasons that they invited him to major league camp this spring to get a better look. Afterward, the organization decided he could have the makings of a quality lefthanded reliever, a position they have spent much of the last year looking to bolster.
Nationals rough up Phils, 8-2: WASHINGTON - Before tonight's 8-2 loss to Washington, the Nationals' first win of the season, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel sat in the visitors' dugout and shook his head.
Nats finally get first win, top Phillies (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas, who died after collapsing at the Nationals stadium before Monday's game, is shown on the scoreboard before the Washington Nationals baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies in Washington, Thursday, April 16, 2009." align="left" border="0">
A Washington Nationals starting pitcher finally left a game in 2009 with his head held high, getting a standing ovation from fans sitting near the home dugout and fist bumps and backslaps from teammates. Not coincidentally, the Nationals finally won a game in 2009. Shairon Martis threw 6 1-3 solid innings, Adam Dunn hit one of Washington's four homers, and the Nationals avoided setting a club...
Phillies to pay tribute to Kalas on Friday: The Phillies will pay tribute to Harry Kalas prior to their game vs. the Padres on Friday, four days after the legendary broadcaster passed away.
Power Rankings: Rays, Cubs co-No. 1's; Braves, Marlins rise: The Atlanta Braves jumped seven spots to No. 7 and the Florida Marlins six spots to No. 10. The defending World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies, who were ranked No. 1, fell to No. 4.
Wednesday's rainout keeps Washington winless: Manny Acta wasn't pleased to hear his winless Nationals'game against the Philadelphia Phillies was rained out Wednesday.
With Kalas gone, Phillies must find new face: Harry Kalas would have hated it.The broadcaster's sudden death has put his beloved Phillies in a delicate position, one they've never really occupied before:
Phillies Tribute to Harry Kalas: The Phillies plan a memorial tribute to Harry Kalas at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday.Fans can pay their respects to the Hall of Fame broadcaster from 8 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. The Phillies plan an on-field tribute at 1 p.m.
Game rained out; Phils still dealing with Kalas' death: WASHINGTON - The Phillies' clubhouse was quiet yesterday afternoon, two days after the team lost its longtime broadcaster Harry Kalas to heart disease. After a win Monday and an off-day Tuesday, many Phillies remained saddened yesterday in the hours before their game against the Washington Nationals was postponed because of rain.
For Phillies' Ruiz, oblique injury is no laughing matter: WASHINGTON - Prior to games and after wins, the Phillies' clubhouse can be a lighthearted place. There are plenty of jokes. After last night's game against the Nationals was rained out, Clay Condrey feigned disappointment that he wasn't starting today (Joe Blanton will again get the nod).
Phillies set plans to honor Kalas: The Phillies plan several tributes to Harry Kalas tomorrow night before their game against the Padres at 7:05. It will be the first time the team is at Citizens Bank Park since the broadcaster's death on Monday afternoon in Washington.
Harry Kalas' casket at home plate of Philadelphia Phillies' ballpark for memorial: The casket containing the body of Hall of Fame Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas will be on view beginning at 8:45 a.m. Saturday at home plate at Citizens Bank Park.
Phillies plan public memorial for late broadcaster Kalas: Harry Kalas fans will have a chance to pay their respects to the legendary Phillies broadcaster. The Phillies and Kalas family announced that a public memorial for Kalas will be held Saturday at Citizens Bank Park. Fans will be welcome from 8 a.m. until 12:45 p.m., when all fans in attendance will be directed to their seats for an on-field tribute at 1 p.m.
Power Rankings: Rays, Cubs co-No. 1's, Braves, Marlins rise: The Atlanta Braves jumped seven spots to No. 7 and the Florida Marlins six spots to No. 10. The defending World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies, who were ranked No. 1, fell to No. 4.
Phillies plan public memorial for Kalas: Harry Kalas fans will have a chance to pay their respects to the legendary Phillies broadcaster.
Harry Kalas died of cardiovascular disease: Autopsy results show that longtime Phillies'TV and radio broadcaster Harry Kalas died from heart disease.
Kalas' son recalls final meeting: WASHINGTON - The impulse was not a typical one for Todd Kalas. A broadcasting job with the Tampa Bay Rays and life in Tampa kept Harry Kalas' eldest son busy, and he did not often appear unannounced at the Phillies' spring-training facility in Clearwater, Fla.
What was Harry Kalas' best call?: There's a poll on Philly.com, and I thought we might as well take it. Best Harry call:987: Mike Schmidt's 500th homer.1993: The Phillies beat the Braves in Game 6 of the NLCS.2007: Brett Myers closes out the NL East championship clincher.2008: Brad Lidge strikes out Eric Hinske in Game 5 of the World Series.
Dan Gross: More on the loss of Harry: WITH MONDAY'S death of legendary Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas, we wondered when fans would see the SuperPretzel commercial he was to appear in, taped last month in Ardmore.
Better hitting through dentistry?: WASHINGTON - Ryan Howard has made a number of changes since the Phillies won a World Series championship last October. He signed a multiyear contract. He dropped about 20 pounds. He labored to improve his defense. And, canny observers may have noticed, he began wearing a mouthpiece during games.
Phillies schedule tributes for Kalas: A memorial tribute for Harry Kalas will be held at Citizens Bank Park on Saturday, the Phillies and the Kalas family announced yesterday.
Phillies at Nationals preview: 7:05, Nationals Park, Washington, D.C. TV: Channel 17. Radio: WPHT (1210-AM); WUBA (1480-AM) Spanish.Phillies RHP Joe Blanton (0-0, 15.75) vs. RHP Shairon Martis (0-0, 9.00)
Harry Kalas died of cardiovascular disease: Autopsy results show that longtime Phillies' TV and radio broadcaster Harry Kalas died from heart disease.
Harry Kalas died from heart disease: Autopsy results show that longtime Phillies' TV and radio broadcaster Harry Kalas died from heart disease.
Phils pull out emotional win over Nats: The Phillies scored a wild 9-8 victory over the Nationals on Monday, spoiling Washington's home opener. But even though the Phils won, the mood in Philadelphia's clubhouse was dark and somber.
Kalas' passing stuns, saddens Phillies: There wasn't much talking going on in the Phillies' clubhouse Monday. The shock and sadness remained palpable. Those with the team were seemingly making their peace with what happened by how legendary brodacaster Harry Kalas died -- at the place he loved most, in the booth at the ballpark.
Kalas, Phillies and NFL Films voice, dies: Harry Kalas, an iconic Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster and NFL Films narrator, died Monday after collapsing in the broadcast booth before the Phillies game in Washington. He was 73.
Team: Phillies announcer Harry Kalas dead: Longtime Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas has died at age 73.
Hall of Fame Phillies, ex-Astros voice Kalas dies: Harry Kalas, who began his Hall of Fame broadcasting career with the Astros in 1965 before becoming the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies for 38 seasons, was remembered Monday as one of baseball’s distinctive voices and a civic treasure who was beloved by even the game’s most fractious fans.
Phillies announcer Kalas dies after collapsing in booth: Harry Kalas, who began his Hall of Fame broadcasting career with the Astros in 1965 before becoming the voice of the Philadelphia Phillies for 38 seasons, was remembered Monday as one of the game’s distinctive voices and a civic treasure who was beloved by even the game’s most fractious fans.
Longtime Phillies announcer Harry Kalas dead at 73: Harry Kalas stood near the mound, wearing a bright red sportcoat and blowing kisses to adoring fans, ready to deliver the ceremonial first pitch on a day the Philadelphia Phillies received their World Series championship rings.
Broadcaster Harry Kalas became Phillies'voice, heart, soul: Harry Kalas, the sincere and sentimental Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster whose smoky voice and singular home-run calls were for nearly...
Phillies announcer Harry Kalas dead at 73: Longtime Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas, who punctuated innumerable home runs with his"Outta Here!"call, died Monday after being found in the broadcast booth before a game against the Washington Nationals. He was 73.
Kalas is mourned inside baseball and out: Members of the Phillies' family and notables elsewhere in baseball were joined by individuals from other professions yesterday in reacting to the sudden death of Hall of Fame broadcaster Harry Kalas.
Rich Hofmann: Harry Kalas had just the right touch for Philly: WASHINGTON - The Nationals are ahead of the Phillies by 3-2 in the third inning as this is being typed, or maybe it is the other way around. Yes, it is the other way around. Not that it matters, on the day that Harry Kalas died.
Hamels on track for start: WASHINGTON - With a scheduled day off today, several Phillies pitchers threw bullpen sessions yesterday at Nationals Park.Of most note, Cole Hamels threw what pitching coach Rich Dubee called"a light bullpen."
Kalas touched them all: Workers in the Phillies' offices at Citizens Bank Park were saddened by the death of Harry Kalas yesterday, but those who knew the broadcaster took comfort in describing a man who was always looking to give while never seeking anything in return other than a smile.
We'll all miss Harry Kalas' voice: In all the years that sports have been played in Philadelphia, few people have had a greater impact for a longer time than Harry Kalas. For nearly 40 years, Kalas was the hugely popular voice of the Phillies. He was a Hall of Famer who brought the art of broadcasting a baseball game to its highest level.
Former Phillies writers share their memories: Several former Inquirer Phillies beat writers offer personal memories of broadcaster Harry Kalas:Bob Brookover, 1988-2003Like everybody else in this region, I knew Harry Kalas before I knew him. His voice was in my head from the moment I started listening to Phillies games at the age of 8.
Baseball and other memories: Readers of The Phillies Zone, a blog by Inquirer beat writer Andy Martino, offered comments about Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas:
'We lost our voice today': WASHINGTON - Just before noon yesterday, Harry Kalas got off the Phillies team bus and walked into the visiting clubhouse at Nationals Park. As always, Kalas said something nice to everyone he encountered, then stopped, pulled out a pen and wrote down the lineup that had been posted on the wall.
Phillies icon Harry Kalas dies: Harry Kalas, the sincere and sentimental Phillies broadcaster whose smoky voice and singular home-run calls were for nearly 40 years as much a franchise fixture as the"P" on its players' red caps, died yesterday at 73.
Phillies post quiet win over Nationals: WASHINGTON - Here is what happened in the game that nobody watched:The Phillies won, 9-8, on the day that Harry Kalas died.
Colleagues agree: Kalas was a joy: WASHINGTON - Scott Franzke was hired by the Phillies shortly before the 2006 season. That first year, he hosted pre- and postgame shows and did a little play-by-play in the middle innings.
For the Phillies, an ordinary day darkened by extraordinary loss: WASHINGTON - It started like any other day, like thousands of ordinary baseball days before it.Shortly before 11:30 yesterday morning, Harry Kalas boarded the team bus that would take any members of the Phillies traveling party who weren't already at Nationals Park to the stadium. The rest of the broadcasting crew. Former general manager Pat Gillick. Clubhouse manager Frank Coppenbarger. Reliever Ryan Madson.
Players remember Kalas as a good friend: WASHINGTON - After the game was over, grim duty on a terrible afternoon, the Phillies all had their stories about Harry Kalas. Not surprisingly, Jamie Moyer's were the oldest.
Remembering Harry Kalas: Notable quotes: Mayor Nutter:"The one absolute constant with the Philadelphia Phillies was Harry Kalas ... My expectation is for a long, long time we will continue to hear the voice of Harry Kalas in a number of different ways."
Editorial: The voice of summer: For generations of Phillies fans, Harry Kalas narrated the soundtrack of summer.The legendary broadcaster died yesterday after collapsing in the booth in Washington, hours before a Phillies-Nationals game. He was 73, and had called Phillies games since 1971.
Phils announcer Harry Kalas dies: WASHINGTON - Just before noon today, Harry Kalas got off the Phillies team bus and walked into the visiting clubhouse at Nationals Park. As always, Kalas said something nice to everyone he encountered, then stopped, pulled out a pen and wrote down the lineup which had been posted on the wall.
Harry Kalas dies: WASHINGTON - Legendary Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas has died. He was 73.
Tributes to Harry Kalas: The tributes to legendary Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas have been rolling in:
Jayson Stark: Voice of Philadelphia Phillies baseball goes quiet: Hall of Fame voice of the Phillies died Monday at the age of 73
Harry Kalas, Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster and NFL Films voice, dies at 73 in Washington: Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas has died at the age of 73, team president David Montgomery said Monday.
Phillies broadcaster Kalas dead at 73 (AP):
Harry Kalas has a beer poured on him by former Phillies' center fielder Aaron Rowand, right, as he broadcasts from the field following the teams' winning the East Division Championship on Sept. 30, 2007. Kalas passed away Monday, April 13, 2009, after collapsing in the broadcast booth prior to Philadelphia's game at Washington. He was 73." align="left" border="0">
Harry Kalas stood near the mound, wearing a bright red sportcoat and blowing kisses to adoring fans, ready to deliver the ceremonial first pitch on a day the Philadelphia Phillies received their World Series championship rings. The Hall of Fame announcer shook his head, pretending to call off the catcher's sign, blew more kisses, wound up and threw a one-hop strike to Carlos Ruiz before last...
Phils broadcaster Kalas dies at age 73: Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster Harry Kalas dies at age 73
Stairs' pinch-hit homer beats Rox: Matt Stairs belted a pinch-hit, two-run home run to right-center field in the ninth inning to give the Phillies a 7-5 victory over the Rockies on Sunday.
Phillies 7, Rockies 5: DENVER (AP) -- Pinch-hitter Matt Stairs connected for a tiebreaking two-run homer in the ninth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies rallied to beat the Colorado Rockies 7-5 on Sunday.
Stairs' pinch-hit homer in the ninth rallies Phillies past Rockies: Pinch-hitter Matt Stairs connected for a tiebreaking two-run homer in the ninth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies rallied to beat the Colorado Rockies 7-5 on Sunday.
Shea: The Sunday Bull Pen: They don't call themselves the Philly Liberation Front, but several Phillies are wearing "Free J.C." T-shirts, apparently a light-hearted response to J.C. Romero's 50-game suspension for his performance-enhancing-drug bust. - The Phillies, who won the...
Shea Hey: Boobirds flock to ballparks: Before the season, everyone has a perfect slate. No team lost. No pitcher gave up a run. No batter struck out. And no one got booed. It didn't take long for that to change. There was talk among demanding Phillies fans that they'd call for a moratorium on...
Hamels in trouble?: Cole Hamels looked fine in the first inning [Friday] after he became the first Phillies pitcher to get out of the first frame without giving up a run this season.
Starters getting heat, not bringing it: DENVER, Colo. - The first three games of the Phillies' season shared a remarkably similar beginning: In the top of the first inning of their respective starts against Atlanta, Brett Myers, Jamie Moyer, and Joe Blanton each allowed a home run and handed a 2-0 deficit to the offense.
Phillies Notebook: So far, Phillies hitters have been selective: DENVER - Here's something you haven't had a chance to read very often over the last few years:The Phillies enter today's game against the Washington Nationals having struck out the fewest times of any team baseball.
12 WINNERS: There were 12 winners in the Daily News Home Run Payoff contest over the weekend.Each winning a Phillies Gift Pack in the fourth inning of yesterday's Phillies-Rockies game were:
Blasts and bullpen deliver for Phils: DENVER - Chad Durbin was the only one. Every Phillies reliever except Durbin had enjoyed an excellent first week of the season, helping the Phillies maintain a 2-3 record in the absence of a single quality outing from their starting pitchers.
Bullpen delivers in Phils’ win: DENVER - Chad Durbin was the only one. Every Phillies reliever except Durbin had enjoyed an excellent first week of the season, helping the Phillies maintain a 2-3 record in the absence of a single quality outing from their starting pitchers.
Phils find their bats: DENVER - Through four games, the Phillies were scarcely able to determine who had performed worse: their starting pitchers or their sluggish lineup. None of their first four starters lasted past the sixth inning or recorded a win and, save for an eight-run seventh inning Wednesday against Atlanta, their offense had managed just seven runs.
Phillies' Manuel sees surprises in NL East: The National League East title has not come easily for the Phillies the last two seasons, and this year will be no exception - for whichever team prevails.
Minor Leagues: Rundown lifts Reading: READING - Kevin Mahar scored the winning run from third base during a rundown in the sixth inning to give the Reading Phillies a 3-2 win over the Harrisburg Senators last night in the Eastern League.
Stairs' HR in 9th caps Phillies' rally (AP): Matt Stairs showed why he's made a living as a pinch hitter. Stairs hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the ninth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies rallied to beat the Colorado Rockies 7-5 on Sunday. "That's a tough job to do, and he does it pretty good," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. "Hitting a pinch-hit home run is pretty hard, especially when they know what kind of hitter he is.
Atkins rediscovers stroke as Rox roll: Garrett Atkins parked a game-breaking two-run homer off the Phillies' Cole Hamels in the third inning of the Rockies' third straight victory, 10-3, on Friday afternoon in the Coors Field opener before a regular-season record 49,427.
Phillies Notes: As if a pounding wasn't enough, Ruiz out with strained rib cage: DENVER - While the Phillies were reeling from Cole Hamels' ineffective start, they received still more unfortunate news. Catcher Carlos Ruiz left in the seventh inning of the 10-3 loss to Colorado after straining his right oblique muscle in the third inning. Though there was no immediate decision on whether to place Ruiz on the disabled list, catcher Lou Marson boarded an airplane to Denver last night as a precaution.
Phillies Notebook: With Ruiz ailing, Phillies summon Marson just in case: DENVER - Ten minutes before Triple A Lehigh Valley's game with Scranton/Wilkes-Barre last night, top Phillies catching prospect Lou Marson was removed from the lineup and dispatched to an airport, where a plane was scheduled to take him to Denver to join the Phillies in case Carlos Ruiz is unable to play.
Phillies Notes: Phils open road schedule in mile-high territory: The Phillies begin their first road series of the season against Colorado today, facing the team that defeated them in the 2007 National League Division Series. The two franchises have seen their fortunes turn since, as the Phillies won the World Series last year and the Rockies fell to 74-88.
Hamels gets shelled in Rockies' rout of Phillies: After his start was pushed back because of spring training elbow trouble, Hamels was roughed up and chased early by the Rockies on Friday in Colorado's 10-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.
Rockies rough up Hamels, rout Phillies (AP):
Colorado Rockies' Dexter Fowler, front, is congratulated by teammate Garrett Atkins after Fowler scored on a sacrifice fly hit by Todd Helton in the eighth inning of the Rockies' 10-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in a baseball game in Denver on Friday, April 10, 2009." align="left" border="0">
Cole Hamels hardly looked like a World Series MVP in his 2009 debut, which resembled batting practice for the Colorado Rockies. After his start was pushed back because of spring training elbow trouble, Hamels was roughed up and chased early Friday in Colorado's 10-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.
Giants Beat: The dirt on China Basin infield: The Giants' brand-new infielders are playing on brand-new dirt. The Giants replaced the old stuff with special clay found only in Pennsylvania called Pittsburgh redbed that also is used by the Mets and Phillies. Senior vice president of ballpark operations...
Phils look like champs after getting rings: Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded during an eight-run seventh inning and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory over the Braves on Wednesday.
Phils thrilled to get championship rings: The Phillies were overcome with emotion Wednesday when, prior to their 12-11 win over the Braves, they were presented with their World Series champions rings.
Roundup: Phillies Avoid Three-Game Sweep by Braves: Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded in an eight-run seventh inning, and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory at home over the Atlanta Braves.
Phillies 12, Braves 11: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded during an eight-run seventh inning and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday. Raul Ibanez hit a two-run homer, helping the defending World Series champions overcome a 10-3 deficit and avoid a three-game sweep on a day they received their shiny, new rings.
Down 7 runs, Phillies rally for 12-11 win over Braves: Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded during an eight-run seventh inning and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday.
Defending champ Phillies off to 0-2 start for 4th straight year: Two games in, these Philadelphia Phillies are playing like last year's team.
Phillies receive rings, then avoid three-game sweep:
Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded during an eight-run seventh inning and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday.
Phillies receive World Series rings: The Philadelphia Phillies received their World Series championship bling on Wednesday, a 14-carat white gold ring featuring 103 diamonds.
NL | Phillies'rings are diamond dandies: First they got their bling, then they got their first win. The World Series champ Phillies received 14-carat white gold championship rings...
No shortage of bling for World Champion Phillies: JERRY CLOTHIER, a Phillies senior vice president who was part of the seven-person committee that designed the team's world championship rings, acknowledged he was a little taken aback when it was proposed that the baubles should contain 103 diamonds, one for every win the team had last year.
Sam Donnellon: Phillies' comeback win over Braves had a certain ring to it: JAMIE MOYER gazed again at the huge ring on his finger, his words once again chopping through the emotions it evoked. Eleven solid minutes of choked-up words and raw-nerved feelings in the Phillies' media room after yesterday's ring ceremony had been followed by this impromptu session with television reporters outside of it, extending into the start of Game 3 of the 162-game schedule.
Jim Salisbury: Victory a gift the Phils will take: As much as Phillies players tried to call this a character win, it was mostly a charitable donation.The Atlanta Braves gave the Phillies their first win of the 2009 season yesterday. Gave it to them.
ABOUT THE RING: * Made of 14-karat white gold.* 103 diamonds, totaling 3.84 karats. The 103 diamonds represent the Phillies' 92 regular-season and 11 postseason wins in 2008.
You Talking to Me? Nats need fans - anyone's fans: From: Fitzpatrick, FrankTo: Jensen, Mike; Fox, AshleySubject: Come on downDid you hear Nationals GM Stan Kasten on ESPN-AM (950) with Jody Mac the other day? (It's a radio station. Yes, right here in Philadelphia.) He was actually urging -"begging" might be a more appropriate verb - Phillies fans to go down to Washin
Phillies to visit White House: The Phillies will get one last chance to bask in the afterglow of their World Series victory on Tuesday, when the team makes the traditional visit to the White House.
Down 7, Phillies rally for 12-11 win over Braves: Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded during an eight-run seventh inning and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday. Raul Ibanez hit a two-run homer, helping the defending World Series champions overcome a 10-3 deficit and avoid a three-game sweep on a day they received their shiny, new rings.
Phil Sheridan: Games in April count: It was just one game, the Phillies reminded us all after a lackluster performance in their opening-night loss. Indeed, they were so unconcerned about losing the opener, they delivered a nearly identical performance last night.
Phillies to fans: Arrive early for World Series ring ceremony: The Phillies are asking fans to arrive early today for the World Series ring ceremony.Players and coaches will receive their championship rings in a pregame ceremony at 2:15 p.m., before the Phillies play the Atlanta Braves at 3:05. Parking lots will open at noon and Citizens Bank Park gates will open at 1:35.
Phils tag Braves pen for nine earned in first win: Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded during an eight-run seventh inning and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory over the Braves.
Down 7 in 7th, Phils beat Braves 12-11 (AP): First, they got their bling. Then, they got their first win. Four Phillies walked with the bases loaded during an eight-run seventh inning and Philadelphia rallied for a 12-11 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday. Raul Ibanez hit a two-run homer, helping the defending World Series champions overcome a 10-3 deficit and avoid a three-game sweep on the day they received their shiny, new rings.
Phillies off to familiar slow start in '09: The Phillies have been here before. Last year, in fact. The Phis lost Tuesday night to the Braves at Citizens Bank Park, 4-0, to drop to 0-2 in 2009. Philadelphia opened its 2008 championship season 0-2.
Jurrjens remains flawless in Philly: Jair Jurrjens managed to continue his success at Citizens Bank Park, and Kelly Johnson provided the Braves the spark they needed to claim a 4-0 win over the Phillies on Tuesday night.
Roundup: Strong Pitching Helps Braves Top the Phillies: Kelly Johnson and Chipper Jones hit solo homers and the Atlanta Braves beat the defending World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies 4-0 to send the Phillies to their fourth straight 0-2 start.
Braves 4, Phillies 0: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Jair Jurrjens and four relievers combined on a six-hitter, Kelly Johnson and Chipper Jones hit solo homers and the Atlanta Braves beat the Philadelphia Phillies 4-0 on Tuesday night.
Winless Phillies blanked by Braves but see progress in their hitting: ALTHOUGH THE scoreboard did not bear evidence, the Phillies' offense made some strides last night. Not enough strides to avoid a fourth straight 0-2 start. Not enough strides to put any runs on the scoreboard. And not enough strides to dig out of the early hole that lefthander Jamie Moyer found himself in.
Phillies Notes: Manuel adjusts lineup to split lefthanded hitters: Two minutes after 4 o'clock yesterday afternoon, Raul Ibanez bolted through the tunnel that connects the Phillies' clubhouse to the dugout.
Police seeking Phillies tailgater who slugged off-duty cop: Police are looking for a man with an Eagles tattoo on his back after he allegedly assaulted an off-duty cop while tailgating at the Phillies' home opener on Sunday.
Will lefty-heavy cluster hurt Phils?: When Jayson Werth drove in Eric Bruntlett with a ninth-inning single Sunday night, the sellout crowd at Citizens Bank Park enjoyed its first opportunity to cheer since the pregame championship ceremony. The Phillies had reduced the Braves' lead to 4-1, and the middle of their order prepared to face lefty closer Mike Gonzalez with one out.
Phillies vs. Braves preview: 7:05, Citizens Bank Park. TV: Channel 17. Radio: WPHT (1210-AM); WUBA (1480-AM) Spanish.Braves RHP Jair Jurrjens (13-10, 3.68 in 2008) vs. Phillies LHP Jamie Moyer (16-7, 3.71)
Gridlock Alert: There will be plenty of fans at the sports complex in South Philadelphia tonight.The Flyers will play the Florida Panthers at the Wachovia Center at 7 and the Phillies will host the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park at 7:05.
Busy night ahead at sports complex: Fans are urged to arrive earlier than usual and take public transportation to the sports complex tonight because of Phillies and Flyers games.
Phillies Notes: Hamels is trying to adopt a child: King Cole can relate to the Material Girl. Phillies ace Cole Hamels, 25, and his wife, Heidi Strobel, are working to adopt a child from Ethiopia after the process in Malawi proved too onerous.
Phil Sheridan: Honeymoon doesn't last long: The Phillies began defense of their 2008 World Series title at 8:10 last night, when Brett Myers' 91 miles-per-hour fastball disappeared into the mitt of catcher Carlos Ruiz.
Parade hangover lasts into 2009 for Phillies: A RED-CARPET entrance, an appearance by skydivers, the long-awaited unfurling of a championship banner– all of the hype and hoopla that preceded the Phillies' nationally televised season opener last night made for great theater. But it also made for a manager's worst nightmare, a litany of distractions that, combined with the usual sluggishness that has often plagued this team early in the year, seemed to shroud the fact that a new season had officially begun.
Long-time Phillies fan basks in his 44th opener: Bob Phillips attended his 44th straight Phillies home opener last night - and he attributes the streak to his ninth-grade art teacher at Shaw Junior High School in West Philadelphia, Mrs. Romanelli.
Not a Banner Night: Last night's on-field action at Citizens Bank Park began when the Phillies marched from the stands in left-center field onto a red runner, savoring visceral cheers and a final moment of the off-season following their World Series championship. It ended fewer than 21/2 hours later when a Raul Ibanez strikeout squashed a ninth-inning rally and sealed a 4-1 loss to Atlanta.
Phils will contend: So says the math man: The Phillies will be in the thick of the playoff race again this year.That's no mere baseball expert talking. The prediction comes from a mathematician: Bruce Bukiet, of the New Jersey Institute of Technology.
Phillies' salaries for 2009: The Phillies will begin defense of their world championship with 21 of the 25 players who were on the postseason roster, plus newcomers Raul Ibanez, Chan Ho Park, Jack Taschner and Miguel Cairo.
Braves slug Phils in opener: Tonight's on-field action at Citizens Bank Park began when the Phillies marched from the stands in left-center field onto a red runner, savoring visceral cheers and a final moment of the off-season following their World Series championship. It ended fewer than 21/2 hours later when a Raul Ibanez strikeout squashed a ninth-inning rally and sealed a 4-1 loss to Atlanta.
Phil Sheridan: A chance to be great for a whole season: On the first day of the Season After, we can finally say this about 2008: The Phillies did not have a great season.
Cool, calm Lowe tosses gem in debut: Derek Lowe surrendered two hits over eight scoreless innings and helped the Braves open the 2009 season with a 4-1 win over the defending World Series champion Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on Sunday night.
Who will claim World Series glory in '09?: Before the Phillies even had a chance to throw the first pitch in defense of their 2008 World Series championship, the question had already been asked -- and answered -- many times over: Who's next?
Celebration yields to frustration for Philly: It was a frustrating night for Phillies skipper Charlie Manuel, who watched Atlanta's Derek Lowe baffle his hitters en route to an easy 4-1 victory that ruined the long-awaited Opening Night celebration.
Season openers of last 10 champs: With the Phillies' loss in Sunday's 2009 Opening Night game, the last 10 defending World Series champions have a record of 6-4 in the first game of the season after they hoisted the hardware.
Phillies' payroll club-record $132.3M: The Phillies purchased infielder Miguel Cairo's contract Saturday to not only finalize their 25-man roster, but also their franchise-record Opening Day payroll at an estimated $132.345 million.
Schafer homers in first career at-bat: Making his Major League debut against the Phillies on Sunday night, Braves center fielder Jordan Schafer joined the short list of players to record a homer in his first career at-bat.
Braves’Fast Start Ruins Party for Phillies: The Phillies tried to celebrate their World Series title on Sunday night, but the Braves spoiled the evening with a 4-1 victory in the Major League opener.
Lowe's performance leads Braves over Phillies 4-1: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Once the Philadelphia Phillies finished celebrating their World Series title, the Atlanta Braves spoiled the rest of the opening-night party....
Lowe, Braves ruin Phillies' opening night party: Once the Philadelphia Phillies finished celebrating their World Series title, the Atlanta Braves spoiled the rest of the opening-night party.
Phillies start title defense in opener against Braves: The championship banner that'll hang above Ashburn Alley and those shiny rings they'll soon receive will be a constant reminder that the Philadelphia Phillies are 2008 World Series champions.
Lowe propels Atlanta in opener: If Derek Lowe had been this dominant last October, the Philadelphia Phillies might not be World Series champions.
MLB Opener: Braves spoil Phillies'championship party: PHILADELPHIA -- Once the Philadelphia Phillies finished celebrating their World Series title, the Atlanta Braves spoiled the rest of the opening-night party.
Happ, Taschner make Phils' roster: Left-handers J.A. Happ and Jack Taschner received good news on Friday. They have been placed on the Phillies' roster for Opening Day.
Burrell reflects on time with Phillies: As Pat Burrell was quickly surrounded by a horde of media on Friday, he took good bit of time reminiscing with his former Phillies teammates.
Getting defensive about Ruiz: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies speak highly of Carlos Ruiz's defense, but The Fielding Bible does not. The recently published second edition of John Dewan's book, widely praised as a breakthrough in evaluating defense, ranked Ruiz toward the bottom of major-league catchers last season.
A warm reception for all: INQUIRER STAFF WRITERThere weren't two million-plus fans and he wasn't riding a wagon pulled by Clydesdales, but Pat Burrell was given a fitting send-off by the Phillies and their faithful last night.
Fans flock to preseason Phillies game: For Phillies fanatics, it was a long winter.But the 156-day dry spell for baseball at Citizens Bank Park was broken last night, and the Speers family of Fort Washington wouldn't have been anywhere else.
Phillies Notes: Team's final roster is nearly complete: The Phillies' opening-day roster is taking shape.The team announced yesterday that lefthanded relievers J.A. Happ and Jack Taschner had made the team and that righthander Gary Majewski would be sent to the minors after this weekend's exhibition games with the Tampa Rays.
Though Burrell is with Rays, he steals show from Phillies: JIMMY ROLLINS stood on the top step of the dugout, hands on hips, flabbergasted.Lead-footed former leftfielder Pat Burrell had just Frankensteined his way to second base, a clean steal from first. This, from a guy who the Phillies didn't re-sign, in part, due to his immobility. Burrell instead went to Tampa Bay to be a designated hitter.
Phils win in Burrell's return with Rays: There weren't two million-plus fans and he wasn't riding a wagon pulled by Clydesdales, but Pat Burrell was given a fitting send-off by the Phillies and their faithful tonight.
Health a key to Phillies' repeat hopes: The Phillies were able to keep virtually everyone from their World Series championship team, but they'll need to keep key players healthy to repeat.
National League Preview: From Bottom of Barrel to Top of the Heap: The Phillies are in strong position to repeat, but will face a revitalized Mets bullpen, while the Chicago Cubs have bolstered their lineup to make a run at history.
NL East: World champ Phils know how to back it up: Are the Mets really choke artists, as Phillies ace Cole Hamels (right) claimed this past winter? Phils shortstop Jimmy Rollins talked the talk and walked the walk in 2007, but New York outfielder Carlos Beltran ate his words in 2008 after predicting greatness for his club. The Mets fortified their bullpen over the winter.
Best lefthanded starter: Making the case for Cole Hamels as Phillies best: COLE HAMELS has a ton of potential. Everybody can agree on that.He was voted the Most Valuable Player of both the National League Championship Series and the World Series. No Phillies pitcher has ever done that.
Meet your 2009 Phillies: LHP Cole HamelsFinally, an ace. Right? Hamels has the moxie and talent to be the horse the Phillies have needed since Curt Schilling traded himself— Hamels' 262 innings pitched and NLCS and World Series MVPs, earning him a 3-year, $20.5 million contract. This will be the year that tells the tale for Hamels and his durability. Spring-training arm issues rang alarm bells that went off each year from 2004 to '2007.
Phillies manager Manuel almost has all the answers as spring training wraps up: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The scene in the Phillies' clubhouse late yesterday afternoon was a welcome one. Players hurriedly slipped out of their uniforms and into their traveling clothes, packing up the last of their belongings before heading out to four buses that idled outside Bright House Field.
Defensive outfielder: Making the case for Shane Victorino as Phillies best: Shane Victorino might have the best arm of any centerfielder in Phillies history. Give him that.Still, it's tough to make the argument that he's a better overall defensive player than Garry Maddox. Or Rich Ashburn, for that matter. Not after just 1 year as the Phillies regular centerfielder, even if he did win a Gold Glove.
Closer: Making the case for Brad Lidge: Brad Lidge had the best season a Phillies closer ever had.Period. End of discussion. Case closed.
Second baseman: Making the case for Chase Utley as Phillies best: There are 32 players who have worn a Phillies uniform who were later inducted into the Hall of Fame. Five of them were second basemen.
Shortstop: Making the case for Jimmy Rollins as Phillies best: Hanging on the wall of the Phillies' staff lunch room at Bright House Field is a slightly faded poster commemorating the franchise's all-centennial team that was selected in 1983. The shortstop: Larry Bowa.
Questions remain as Phillies fly north: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies flew north from Clearwater late last night looking much the same as they did during last season's World Series. But a title defense is difficult, and has not been achieved by a National League team since the Cincinnati Reds repeated in 1975-76.
Tinkering with a championship formula: From: Sheridan, PhilTo: Salisbury, James T.; Martino, AndySubject: Phillies chemistry lessonThe Phillies are back at Citizens Bank Park tonight for the first time since the championship parade ended with Chase Utley's often-quoted proclamation.
New GM Amaro is man with the plan: CLEARWATER, Fla.— It is often said that, in football, a backup quarterback is the most popular man in town...until he actually gets a few games under his belt. In baseball, a parallel can be drawn to the assistant general manager, an observation that Ruben Amaro Jr. noted while in Bradenton to watch a GrapefruitLeague game between the Phillies and Pirates last week.
Fans' guide to the 2009 season: TELEVISION* Game broadcasts: Comcast SportsNet will air 107 games (all in high definition). All games that air at 7 p.m. will be replayed at 10:30. Myphl17 replaces CW57 as a Phillies affiliate and will air 45 games.
Yankees spoil reward of a maturing Drabek: TAMPA, Fla. - The Phillies did not have a jersey with Kyle Drabek's name on the back, so they issued their onetime top draft pick an anonymous shirt with the number 96 yesterday.
Phillies' Howard hits 10th HR of spring (AP): Ryan Zimmerman hit two home runs off Jamie Moyer and the Washington National overcame Ryan Howard's 10th longball of spring training to beat the Philadelphia Phillies 12-10 Thursday. The 46-year-old Moyer, entering his 23rd major league season, gave up 11 hits and nine runs in four innings. He is scheduled to start the Phillies' second game, Tuesday against the Atlanta Braves.
Happ awaits word of his fate from Phils: J.A. Happ has pitched well enough to earn a spot in the Phillies' rotation, and they have said they think he can pitch effectively out of the bullpen.
National League Preview: Ibáñez Hopes to Be Part of Phillies’Next Celebration: The Phillies are in strong position to repeat, but will face a revitalized Mets bullpen, while the Chicago Cubs have bolstered their lineup to make a run at history.
Phillies, others, show interest in Gary Sheffield: Gary Sheffield, released Tuesday by the Detroit Tigers, has attracted interest from at least three teams, according to his former manager, Jim Leyland. Sheffield didn't identify the teams that have called his agent, but Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro confirmed that his team is interested in the slugger.
Travels of World Series Trophy: Philadelphia's most valuable piece of hardware, the World Series Trophy, continues to rack up the frequent-flyer miles.The trophy, won by the Phillies on the cold night of Oct. 29, 2008, has touched down in Phoenix, Las Vegas and Dallas as part of its tour.
Philly Mayor Nutter sees city's spirits lifted by Phillies' World Series win: Mayor Nutter called the the Phillies' run to a championship an"incredibly uplifting experience" that came at an emotionally charged time - the 2008 general election for president and the start of what would become a worldwide economic crisis.
Phillies Notebook: Happ won't sleep over decision on whether he remains with Phillies: TAMPA, Fla. - J.A. Happ came clean yesterday when asked whether he will have trouble sleeping until the Phillies make their final roster decisions, the most pressing of which involves picking two of three remaining players to fill out the team's bullpen.
Fregosi felt '93 Phils were special: There's no way to accurately predict how a team will perform going into a season. But coming out of spring training in 1993, manager Jim Fregosi believed his Phillies were on the verge of something big. It didn't matter that the club had finished last in the National League East, winning just 70 games, the year before.
Phillies Notes: Yankees spoil reward of a maturing Drabek: TAMPA, Fla. - The Phillies did not have a jersey with Kyle Drabek's name on the back, so they issued their onetime top draft pick an anonymous shirt with the number 96 yesterday.
Phillies unlikely to pursue Sheffield: The latest coverage of the Philadelphia Phillies.
Sabathia strong in last spring start (AP): The New York Yankees got a major scare in opening-day starter CC Sabathia's final spring outing. The left-hander had Jason Ellison's line-drive RBI single go off his glove in the second inning of New York's 8-5 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday. "Not what to you want to see," New York manager Joe Girardi said.
Phils release Jenkins, contact Sheffield: While Geoff Jenkins had one of the biggest pinch-hit at-bats in Phillies' history, Philadelphia did not think he could be as effective a pinch-hitter as Matt Stairs, and the club unconditionally released Jenkins on Tuesday -- paving the way for an additional right-handed bat off the bench.
Park overjoyed to be Phils' No. 5 starter: Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. said Tuesday that Chan Ho Park beat J.A. Happ for the fifth starter's job. Happ's fate with the team has not been decided, although Amaro said Happ, Gary Majewski, Jack Taschner and Bobby Mosebach are comepting for two bullpen jobs.
Myers handed Opening Night honors: The Phillies have made it official: Brett Myers will start Opening Night. It will be the third consecutive Opening Day start for Myers. The Phillies had tabbed left-hander Cole Hamels to start Sunday, but he had to be pushed back because he missed time in March with inflammation in his left elbow.
Phillies beat Blue Jays 9-1, pick Myers for opener: CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) -- Brett Myers had a strong outing in his final spring appearance and earned the opening-day start for the Philadelphia Phillies for the third straight year....
Park wins fifth starter's job: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Although Chan Ho Park's goal to win the fifth spot in the Phillies' starting rotation was motivated by patriotism, J.A. Happ said yesterday that his own desire for the job was equally strong.
Fan's view of Phillies in 2009: How has the Phils winning the World Series changed me? My 6-year-old son and I, for no reason at all, will just shout out"the Phillies won the World Series" . . . to anyone and everyone. It fixes a bad day at work, a bump on the little guy's head, a fight with his sister . . . Really just about anything. It's a great diversion from real life, and makes me smile just remembering September, through the playoffs, and the craziest Halloween ever, anywhere.
Phillies release veteran Geoff Jenkins: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Late yesterday afternoon, Geoff Jenkins exchanged hugs with teammates as a clubhouse attendant grabbed his red duffle bag and carried it away from the veteran's locker. But even as the Phillies parted ways with the well-liked - and well-compensated - rightfielder by releasing him and placing him on waivers, there were strong indications the team was not yet done with its roster maneuvering.
Sam Donnellon: How long before boos kick in for Phillies?: Third in a seriesTHE PHOTO is somewhere in every Phillies fan's home, ingrained in their heads, representative of every emotion they have felt over 2
Bill Conlin: Hamels had a worrisome spring in 2008, too: CLEARWATER, Fla. - When I'm King of the World . . .The Phillies will have a spring training without a Top of the
Phillies Notes: Phillies unlikely to pursue Sheffield: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Gary Sheffield was one of the preeminent righthanded sluggers of his generation, and the Phillies need a righty bat for their bench.
Bowa: '78 club 'best team we had': The 1976 and '77 Phillies each won 101 games. The 1980 Phillies gave the long-suffering franchise its first-ever World Series championship.
Myers gets to pitch in opener: CLEARWATER, Fla. - During an active afternoon yesterday, the Phillies released Geoff Jenkins, named Chan Ho Park their fifth starter, told J.A. Happ that his immediate future was uncertain and spoke with free-agent slugger Gary Sheffield.
With 499 homers, Sheffield cut by Tigers (AP):
Detroit Tigers' Gary Sheffield walking through the dugout before their baseball game against the Toronto Blue Jays, in Detroit. The Tigers released the nine-time All-Star on Tuesday March 31, 2009, leaving him without a team as he closes in on becoming the 25th player to reach 500 career homeruns." align="left" border="0">
Gary Sheffield's next home run will be his 500th in the major leagues. The question is: What uniform will he be wearing when he hits it? The Detroit Tigers released the nine-time All-Star on Tuesday, leaving him without a team as he closes in on becoming the 25th player to reach the milestone. The World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies, however, quickly called the slugger to see if there was a...
Phillies release veteran OF Jenkins (AP): Geoff Jenkins, who had a key hit for Philadelphia in the resumption of Game 5 of last year's World Series, is no longer a Phillie. The Phillies released Jenkins on Tuesday, giving them 29 players as Saturday's deadline approaches for the team to set its 25-man roster. Philadelphia also named Chan Ho Park its fifth starter.
Hamels improving, but out of opener: Cole Hamels is out for Opening Night at Citizens Bank Park. Brett Myers or Joe Blanton is in. Phillies manager Charlie Manuel and pitching coach Rich Dubee said Monday afternoon they have not decided who will pitch Sunday against the Braves, but that it would be Myers or Blanton.
Phillies' fifth-starter battle undecided: The competition for the fifth spot in the Phillies' rotation got even more interesting Monday.The front-runner between Chan Ho Park and J.A. Happ? Phillies manager Charlie Manuel and pitching coach Rich Dubee aren't saying.
Phillies go deep on Hampton, rout Astros 13-3: Chan Ho Park made his final bid for the No. 5 spot in the Philadelphia Phillies' rotation, working effectively into the sixth inning of a 13-3 win over the Houston Astros on Monday.
Cole Hamels to miss Phillies'opener: Some of the questions surrounding the Philadelphia Phillies'starting rotation were answered Monday, while others continued to hang like...
Hamels will not pitch Phils' opener: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Some of the questions surrounding the Phillies' starting pitching rotation were answered yesterday, while others continued to hang like a Ray Guy punt.
Park clearly wants spot in Phillies rotation: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee had a choice. He could stay at Bright House Field and watch Chan Ho Park in what is expected to be his final bid to win the fifth spot in the starting rotation. Or he could stroll out the back door to the Carpenter Complex to see Cole Hamels continue his comeback from elbow inflammation.
Longtime Phillies executives agree 2008 title was more satisfying than 1980: Second in a seriesCLEARWATER, Fla. - On the morning after, with the confetti bagged and The Parade a fond memory of the day before, veteran Phillies salesman Richard Deats roamed from his Center City home, reveling in the merchandise in store windows and the smiles on fans' faces in a second day of glorious weather.
Lidge saved the day but he’s two behind Yankees’ Rivera: TAMPA, Fla. - Two more, and Phillies closer Brad Lidge would join the Yankees' Mariano Rivera in World Series lore.
Benson could be in Texas' rotation after solid spring: The Phillies gave Kris Benson a shot last season to resurrect his once-promising career, signing him to a minor league deal. He flopped at Triple A Lehigh Valley, going 1-4 with a 5.52 ERA in 11 starts before the Phils released him on Aug. 30.
Philadelphia Phillies officially rule out Cole Hamels for opener: Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee said Monday afternoon that Cole Hamels was officially out of the running for an opening-night start this Sunday against the Braves.
Get ready for the real thing: Beginning Sunday, April 5 at 8 p.m. ET, when the Atlanta Braves take on the soon-to-be-defending World Series champion Phillies in Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, real baseball is back, and each game counts until the final out of the World Series.
Phillies release Giles, option two others: Marcus Giles had hoped to resurrect his baseball career with the Phillies. He learned Monday that if that happens, it will happen someplace else.
Lester solid, Red Sox beat Phillies 3-1: Jon Lester pitched five solid innings and Chris Carter hit his sixth home run of spring training, sending the Boston Red Sox over the Philadelphia Phillies 3-1 Sunday.
Spring Synopsis: McCutchen 5 for 5 with blast: The game: Andrew McCutchen showed why he might be the Pirates'top prospect by going 5 for 5 with a home run, three doubles and two RBIs in the 10-4 rout of the Philadelphia Phillies yesterday at McKechnie Field in Bradenton, Fla.
McCutchen 5 for 5 with a blast in Pirates'10-4 rout: BRADENTON, Fla. -- Andrew McCutchen homered, doubled three times and went 5 for 5 in the Pirates'10-4 rout of the Philadelphia Phillies this afternoon at windy McKechnie Field.
World Series champion Phillies get plenty of media attention: Winning the World Series brings massive media attention in the offseason and spring training.The Phillies have done even better after they went through the playoffs with style and flair and ended Philadelphia's 25-year streak of having no major titles.
The Phillies family does swimmingly well in this pool: Along with the glittering championship rings they will receive April 8 and offseason income from appearances, the Phillies each received an extra paycheck for postseason play.
Eyre says Taschner will be 'good addition' to Phillies bullpen: CLEARWATER, Fla. - All Jack Taschner was missing was a backpack and a G.I. Joe Lunch Box."It's the first day of school," the wide-eyed reliever said early in his first day at Bright House Field since being traded from the Giants to the Phillies in exchange for catcher Ronny Paulino.
A Red Machine mauling: What Strat-O-Matic said: KISSIMMEE, Fla. - The Phillies have acquired lefthanded reliever Jack Taschner from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for catcher Ronny Paulino, multiple sources have confirmed to the Daily News.
Phils acquire Taschner from Giants: Ronny Paulino couldn't give the Phillies what they wanted, so they traded him to the Giants late Friday night for left-handed relief pitcher Jack Taschner.
Phillies beef up bullpen with trade for lefty: KISSIMMEE, Fla. - Asked to assess the Phillies' bullpen eight days before opening night, Rich Dubee paused and leaned forward on the dugout bench. He spit once and offered a characteristically blunt and brief answer.
Phillies acquire LHP Taschner from Giants for catcher Paulino: KISSIMMEE, Fla. - The Phillies have acquired lefthanded reliever Jack Taschner from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for catcher Ronny Paulino, multiple sources have confirmed to the Daily News.
Phils deal C Paulino to Giants for lefty Taschner: The Philadelphia Phillies acquired reliever Jack Taschner from the San Francisco Giants on Friday for catcher Ronny Paulino.
Hamels' moment was NLCS clincher: Cole Hamels was the winning pitcher in the clinching fifth game of the National League Championship Series. The feeling he had before and after that game was his favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season.
Phillies and Phil encourage recycling at Citizens Bank Park: The Phillies won't just start defending their World Series title come Opening Night, they also will try to make it consecutive seasons of purchasing 100 percent renewable energy.
Phillies Notebook: Coste family avoiding flooding in Fargo, N.D.: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Although it is looking more and more as if Chris Coste will once again enter the season as the Phillies' backup catcher, the 36-year-old has more important things to worry about than a potential challenge from offseason acquisition Ronny Paulino.
Oswalt returns to mound for Astros: Roy Oswalt made his first appearance in Kissimmee in nearly three weeks when he returned to Astros camp Friday, hours before he was to take the mound against the Phillies.
Phillies' Bruntlett hits .350 in Grapefruit League: When the Phillies took the field against the Houston Astros on Friday, their leading hitter was playing first base and hitting second.
St. Louisan Ryan Howard slims down to tune up his game: Phillies slugger took a disciplined offseason approach and trimmed down.
Rays send playoff star Price to minors: Playoff star David Price was optioned to triple-A Durham by the American League champion Tampa Bay Rays yesterday.The No. 1 pick in the 2007 draft, the lefthander was called up late last season and earned his first big-league win in Game 7 of the AL Championship Series. He pitched in two World Series games against the Phillies.
Final out fulfilled Victorino's dream: Shane Victorino's favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season was the final out of the clinching fifth game.
Key decisions await the Phillies: Ten days before opening night, the Phillies have yet to arrive at a number of important decisions. The final spots in the rotation, bench and bullpen remain contested, though front-runners have emerged.
Rollins, Victorino return to Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - During Jimmy Rollins' first 20 minutes in the Phillies' clubhouse yesterday morning, Brad Lidge, Rich Dubee, and Charlie Manuel all walked to the shortstop's locker and shook his hand.
Hamels feels good after Minors start: No pain, no tightness, no swelling. Everything seemed OK with Phillies ace Cole Hamels after he threw 3 2/3 scoreless innings in a Minor League Spring Training game Tuesday afternoon at the Carpenter Complex.
Park states his case for rotation spot: Chan Ho Park, who is competing with J.A. Happ for the fifth spot in the Phillies' rotation, allowed four hits, three hits and one run and struck out seven in four innings. Park caught a couple tough breaks. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. and pitching Rich Dubee liked what they saw.
Schmidt: WBC was great, but what about its future?: Well, it's over. The World Baseball Classic champion again did not come from the United States. I guess Japan and South Korea have a right to say they are better, since Team USA watched the final between them. We'll not get into who would win if Japan played the Phillies in a seven-game series. Take it from me, a Phillies lover, it would go at least six....
Phillies' pieces falling into place: DUNEDIN, Fla. - With the season opener 12 days away, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel was finally able to use something that resembled his regular lineup yesterday.
For Hamels, major progress in minor effort: CLEARWATER, Fla. - After the most anticipated re-debut of the spring came to its anticlimactic end, Phillies lefthander Cole Hamels huddled with minor league pitching coordinator Gorman Heimueller and several young pitching prospects to demonstrate the grip he uses on his vaunted changeup. Hamels, his baseball pants hiked up to his knees as is required of all of the organization's minor leaguers, chatted easily and smiled freely as he commiserated with the eager hopefuls yesterday.
Bill Conlin: Phillies have better than even chance of winning second straight pennant: "Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown."- Henry the IV, Part 2CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies haven't had a lot of experience with crown-wearing. Or in this case, World Series title-defending.
Hamels returns to mound, reports no elbow problems: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The setting for Cole Hamels' return to game action yesterday was decidedly low-key: a smattering of fans on steel bleachers, a minor-league opponent, and no scoreboard or public address system. But the appearance itself was high drama for Hamels and the Phillies after a week of anxiety and relief.
Phillies Notes: Rollins, Victorino return to Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - During Jimmy Rollins' first 20 minutes in the Phillies' clubhouse yesterday morning, Brad Lidge, Rich Dubee, and Charlie Manuel all walked to the shortstop's locker and shook his hand.
Hamels feels good after start in minors (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies baseball team. Hamels is scheduled to leave training camp Monday afternoon,March 16, 2009, and fly to Philadelphia to have his left elbow examined by the team physician." align="left" border="0">
Phillies ace Cole Hamels pitched in a minor league game Tuesday, his first start since experiencing elbow tightness last week. The World Series MVP threw 3 2-3 scoreless innings against Pittsburgh Pirates minor leaguers at Philadelphia's spring training complex. It was his first appearance in a game since receiving an anti-inflammatory shot in his arm last Tuesday.
Utley hits first homer since hip surgery (AP): Chase Utley hit his first home run since hip surgery and Chan Ho Park made his latest bid for a rotation spot, helping the Philadelphia Phillies rally past the Toronto Blue Jays 7-6 on Tuesday. Utley drove in three runs, two on a homer off closer B.J. Ryan. It was the All-Star second baseman's first long ball since he had hip surgery in November.
Phils' Hamels tests elbow in minor league game: CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) -- Phillies ace Cole Hamels pitched in a minor league game Tuesday, his first start since experiencing elbow tightness last week.
Hamels' debut may come April 10: If everything goes well, Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels could start the fourth game of the regular season, April 10 against the Rockies in Denver.
Sent to Minors, Kendrick vows to return: Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee had called Kyle Kendrick the favorite to win the fifth spot in the rotation. But Kendrick struggled much of the spring, and on Monday, the Phils optioned him to Minor League camp.
Posada, Wang finally locate dry land: With all Minor League action washed out at the Yankees' Himes Avenue complex, Chien-Ming Wang and Jorge Posada went in search of a dry field. After finding out Dunedin was also drenched, the pair made it to Clearwater in time to play the Phillies.
Fifth rotation spot now two-man race: They have less than two weeks before Opening Night on April 5, but while the Phillies said they have not talked about it, we know this much: it will be left-hander J.A. Happ or right-hander Chan Ho Park.
Phillies send righty Kendrick to minors: Right-hander Kyle Kendrick, who won 21 games as a member of the Phillies' rotation the last two seasons, was optioned to minor league camp Monday.
Astros Notes: Team USA duo returning to club:
Team USA duo returning
Team USA teammatesRoy OswaltandLaTroy Hawkinsare expected to be in camp by Wednesday, at the latest, and pitch for the Astros on Friday against the Phillies.Schilling retires with 'zero regrets': Curt Schilling retired from baseball Monday, ending a career in which he won World Series titles with the Boston Red Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks and was one of the game's most dominant pitchers. Schilling, 42, said on his blog that he's leaving after 23years with "zero regrets." The right-hander missed all of last season with a shoulder injury after signing a one-year, $8million contract. Schilling, a former Oriole, had surgery in June and had said he might come back in the middle of this season, though he was not under contract. He made no reference to his injury on his blog. He was co-Most Valuable Player of the 2001 World Series with Randy Johnson while in Arizona. Schilling also won World Series titles with Boston in 2004 and 2007. He was drafted by the Red Sox in 1986 but was traded to the Orioles before playing for the big league club. He pitched for the Orioles from 1988 to 1990. He also played for the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies. Schilling ended his career with 3,116 strikeouts, 14th most in history, a 216-146 record and a 3.46 ERA. In the postseason, he was 11-2, the best record of any pitcher with at least 10 decisions, and 2.23ERA in 19 starts.
Sharing with fans: Manager Charlie Manuel's favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 championship season?What else could it be but hoisting that World Series trophy and shouting,"Hey, this is for Philadelphia! This is for our fans," on the night of Oct. 29?
Ranking the National League East: Starting pitching1. Marlins: Ricky Nolasco, Josh Johnson, Chris Volstad, Anibal Sanchez, Andrew Miller (L)2. Phillies: Cole Hamels (L), Brett Myers, Jamie Moyer (L), Joe Blanton, J.A. Happ (L) or Chan Ho Park
NL East race should be tight once again: The Phillies won the NL East for the second year in a row in 2008 on their way to winning the World Series, and this year they'll try to hold off the Mets, Braves, Marlins and Nationals to make it three straight.
Beckett pitches 5 scoreless innings for Red Sox: Josh Beckett was sharp against the Philadelphia Phillies. The Red Sox ace allowed four hits in five innings Sunday, leading Boston to a 3-0 victory over the World Series champions.
Righthander Koplove hopes to hang around Phillies' neighborhood: FORT MYERS, Fla. - At one point yesterday afternoon, Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee picked up the phone in the visitors' dugout and placed a call to the bullpen in right-centerfield at City of Palms Stadium. He did not recognize the voice who picked up on the other end, and was further confused when that voice identified himself as"Mike."
Two memories for Phils' clubhouse man: It's not easy picking just one favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season. Phil Sheridan, who manages the Phillies' clubhouse and has been with the club since 1992, has two.
Myers disappointed by outing vs. Red Sox: FORT MYERS, Fla. - Brett Myers does not want to talk about whether he will start for the Phillies against Atlanta on opening night.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies management not sweating decision on who will start Opening Night: FORT MYERS, Fla. - The only sure thing about the identity of the Phillies' Opening Night starter is that the media and fans will publicly obsess over it far more intensely than anyone inside the organization. Manager Charlie Manuel and pitching coach Rich Dubee always downplayed the ramifications of the decision, even when naming Brett Myers the surprise starter last season and Cole Hamels the obvious choice this year before a mild case of elbow inflammation that currently leaves his status uncertain.
Phillies Notes: In race for fifth starter, Park idled by hamstring: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Chan Ho Park and J.A. Happ have traded quality outings for most of spring training, and their competition for the fifth spot in the Phillies' starting rotation has remained tight.
Hamels feels no pain and no urgency to pitch the opener: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Midway through Cole Hamels' bullpen session yesterday morning, the lefthander retreated to a bench behind the mound and waited. Though Hamels laughed and joked with pitching coach Rich Dubee for part of that time, his five-minute break held serious implications for the Phillies' season.
One walk, one blast: Former general manager Pat Gillick has two favorite memories from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season: Brett Myers' nine-pitch walk against Milwaukee's CC Sabathia in Game 2 of the division series and Matt Stairs' tiebreaking home run against the Dodgers in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series.
Philadelphia Phillies' Cole Hamels throws bullpen session: Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels had a bullpen session Saturday morning, throwing 41 pitches and reporting no elbow stiffness afterward.
ChiSox's Floyd agrees to $15.5M, 4 years (AP): Right-hander Gavin Floyd and the Chicago White Sox agreed Sunday to a $15.5 million, four-year contract, a deal that includes a club option for 2013. The 26-year-old was 17-8 with a 3.84 ERA for the White Sox last year and is 25-18 in 73 games over parts of five big league seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies and White Sox.
Red Sox RHP Beckett sharp in 5 innings (AP): Josh Beckett was sharp against the Philadelphia Phillies. The Red Sox ace allowed four hits in five innings Sunday, leading Boston to a 3-0 victory over the World Series champions. "They have a really good team. I kind of compare them to us," Beckett said. "There's not a whole lot of guys that end up making that team that probably couldn't start every day for a lot of other teams, including their...
Phillies send Kendrick to Minors camp: Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee had called Kyle Kendrick the favorite to win the fifth spot in the rotation. But Kendrick struggled much of the spring, and on Monday, the Phils optioned him to Minor League camp.
Phils' fifth starter won't be Kendrick (AP): The Phillies have optioned pitcher Kyle Kendrick to their minor league camp, cutting the candidates for the final spot in the rotation to three. Kendrick has won 21 games for the Phillies since June of 2007. He was competing for the fifth-starter spot with veteran Chan Ho Park, rookie J.A. Happ and top prospect Carlos Carrasco.
Phillies option P Kendrick to minor league camp: CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) -- The Phillies have optioned pitcher Kyle Kendrick to their minor league camp, cutting the candidates for the final spot in the rotation to three.
Hamels reports no pain after session: On Saturday, Phillies lefty Cole Hamels threw his first bullpen session since he received an anti-inflammatory injection into his left elbow Tuesday in Philadelphia. Hamels said he felt no tightness and had no swelling in the elbow during or after he threw.
Romero returns to Phils from Classic: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero looked at the World Baseball Classic as a diversion to the reality that ultimately awaited him. But now he's back in camp, ready to get some work in before beginning his 50-game suspension.
Phillies Notes: Hamels is closer to making return: JUPITER, Fla. - While the Phillies played the St. Louis Cardinals to a 2-2 tie in 10 innings yesterday, they received positive news from Clearwater about two ailing pitchers.
Phils scout recalls four-game glory: As a special assistant to the general manager, Charley Kerfeld spends much of his time on the road, scouting any player who might help the Phillies.
Utley ready to test hip over 9 innings (AP): Chase Utley is getting ready to put his hip to the nine-inning test. Utley played into the sixth inning Friday on his surgically repaired hip and had two hits and scored a run as the Philadelphia Phillies and St. Louis Cardinals played to a 2-2 tie in 10 innings. He had three at-bats for the first time in four games this spring.
Hamels fine after long toss session: Phillies ace Cole Hamels long tossed with Jamie Moyer from about 150 feet Thursday morning at Bright House Field in Clearwater, Fla., and said he felt fine. Hamels is considered a long shot to be ready to pitch Opening Day on April 5 against the Braves at Citizens Bank Park.
Hamels fine after long-toss session: Phillies ace Cole Hamels long tossed with Jamie Moyer from about 150 feet Thursday morning at Bright House Field in Clearwater, Fla., and said he felt fine. Hamels is considered a long shot to be ready to pitch Opening Day on April 5 against the Braves at Citizens Bank Park.
Park has sore hamstring, but expects to start: CLEARWATER, Fla. - After a nearly flawless spring, Chan Ho Park has suffered the first setback of his Phillies career.
Bruntlett lives utility man's uncertain life: JUPITER, Fla. - Eric Bruntlett, sitting on a stool in front of his locker, pauses frequently while attempting to describe his status with the Phillies.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies ace Hamels scheduled for bullpen session: JUPITER, Fla. - The Phillies are hoping that Cole Hamels makes his next significant step in shaking a case of elbow tightness tomorrow, when he is tentatively scheduled to throw a bullpen session in Clearwater.
Aaron Boone to have open-heart surgery: Aaron Boone of the Houston Astros said yesterday he will have open-heart surgery to replace an aortic valve.Boone, the son of longtime Phillies catcher Bob Boone, said that he has known about his heart condition since college but that tests after his routine physical determined he needed surgery. It is not an emergency, but doctors indicated the procedure was needed.
Kalas' final-out call was his favorite: "Struck him out! The Philadelphia Phillies are 2008 world champions of baseball!"That was Harry Kalas' call for the final out of the World Series, and it was also his favorite memory from the season.
Ailing Hamels endorses Myers for opening day: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Having survived one of Philadelphia International Airport's infamous delays Tuesday night, Cole Hamels returned to Phillies camp yesterday and quickly endorsed Brett Myers for opening-night starter.
Hamels tells Phillies fans that his elbow will be just fine: CLEARWATER, Fla. - If Cole Hamels wasn't aware of the level of concern that existed in the city of Philadelphia about the health of his left arm, he realized it when a pack of television cameras filmed him walking into the office of team doctor Michael Ciccotti on Tuesday morning. But the 25-year-old lefthander sought to silence the alarm bells clanging inside the heads of Phillies fans yesterday, stating that he intends to make all 34 of his scheduled starts, regardless of when the first one may be.
Phils' Blanton goes 6 scoreless innings (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies Marcus Giles, center, for the third out of the fifth inning of the spring training baseball game in Jupiter, Fla. Thursday, March 19, 2009. Officiating is Todd Tichenor on left." align="left" border="0">
Joe Blanton had his best start of spring training, allowing just one hit over six scoreless innings for the Philadelphia Phillies in a 5-1 win over the Florida Marlins on Thursday. "He threw strikes," manager Charlie Manuel said. "(Pitching coach Rich) Dubee said he threw 19 first-pitch strikes out of 20.
Myers possible Opening Day starter: Brett Myers has been the Phillies' Opening Day starter each of the past two seasons and he could be in line to start a third.
Hamels upbeat, not worried about elbow: Cole Hamels has a funny feeling there are a few panicked Phillies fans out there. But the Phillies ace has two quick words for anyone worried about his precious left elbow: don't be.
Happ disappointed in latest outing: J.A. Happ has pitched well enough this spring to be considered a front-runner with Chan Ho Park for the fifth spot in the Phillies rotation, but he allowed three hits, three runs, one walk and two home runs in four innings in a 7-7 tie in nine innings against the Toronto Blue Jays.
Werth's blast caps big day vs. Jays: Jayson Werth went 2-for-4 with a double and a home run as the Phillies ended in a 7-7 tie with the Blue Jays on Wednesday.
No damage in World Series MVP Hamels' sore left elbow: Phillies ace Cole Hamels will return to camp after a team physician found no damage in his sore left elbow.
Happ, Richmond hit hard in Phillies-Blue Jays' tie: CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) -- J.A. Happ failed to improve his chances of earning the No. 5 spot in the Philadelphia Phillies' rotation, giving up three runs and three hits in four innings of a 7-7 tie with the Toronto Blue Jays on Wednesday....
Milwaukee closer Trevor Hoffman sidelined by strained muscle; Hamels long shot for opening day: The Milwaukee Brewers may have to look at some other options at closer with Trevor Hoffman sidelined by a strain on his right side. The Phillies'plan to start Cole Hamels on opening day also is in flux.
Take the pledge: No booing Phils all season?: One of those years when the Phillies were lollygagging around in last place, I had an idea for a special Phillies promotion:
Phillies happy prospect Dominic Brown chose baseball: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Late last fall, over a couple adult beverages, the National League scout posed a question. Who is the Phillies' best prospect? Then he scribbled a name on a piece of paper and slid it across the table.
Hamels' injury is nothing. Maybe.: The Phillies put their special yellow crime-scene tape around the left elbow of Cole Hamels this week, turned down the volume, and urged bystanders to keep moving.
Bill Conlin: Hard to predict what Phillies will do with roster: CLEARWATER, Fla. - This is an official announcement: Many of you are expecting to read the St. Patrick's Day column I have done since 1993, which predicts where the Phillies will finish and why. It's the"Farmer's Almanac" of predictions - somet
Unforgettable perspective on walk, slam: Phillies broadcaster Tom McCarthy did pregame and postgame work in the playoffs and World Series. During the games, he was able to roam the ballpark. His favorite memory from the 2008 World Series championship season came as he watched the second inning of Game 2 of the National League division series from a suite down the left-field line at Citizens Bank Park.
Phils' Hamels gets a clean bill of health: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Scheduled opening-night starter Cole Hamels will return to Phillies camp today, his mind eased by an encouraging medical exam and his sore left elbow soothed by a cortisone injection.
Shadowing Hamels, Bourne-style: Just saw Cole Hamels in Center City. He was leaving his building, and I was walking home. So I did what any intrepid columnist would do when he sees the injured (?) ace of the Phillies out for a stroll. I followed him.
Ninth-inning rally gets it done for Team USA: Hobbled and humbled in the World Baseball Classic, Team USA is still swinging. And the Phillies' Shane Victorino and Jimmy Rollins are helping to lead the charge in Miami.
Phillies Notebook: Lidge, Majewski have constructive criticism for WBC: CLEARWATER, Fla. - When Hall of Fame third baseman Mike Schmidt phoned Brad Lidge this offseason to gauge his interest in participating in the World Baseball Classic, the Phillies closer politely declined for two reasons. First, he and his wife Lindsay had just given birth to a baby boy. Secondly, Lidge cited his experience in 2006, when he felt his regular-season performance was compromised by his play in the WBC.
Dykstra: GQ story is a 'lie': CLEARWATER, Fla. - A story in the April issue of GQ magazine paints a damning portrait of Lenny Dykstra, the former Phillies star turned businessman.
After 12-0 pasting, Kendrick frustrated: TAMPA, Fla. - Kyle Kendrick has watched J.A. Happ and Chan Ho Park trade dominant outings and become the front-runners in the competition for the final spot in the Phillies starting rotation. But the 24-year-old righthander said he was focused on his own incremental progress.
'Charlie, Charlie' rings true for Giles: Phillies chairman Bill Giles' favorite memory from the team's 2008 World Series championship season was the fan reaction that manager Charlie Manuel received during the victory parade.
Phils' Hamels to have sore elbow examined: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Cole Hamels threw more innings in 2008 than during his entire minor-league career. Now, the Phillies hope that the cost of a lengthy World Series run will not be their young ace's health.
Hamels' left elbow to be examined: Phillies ace Cole Hamels has left Spring Training camp to fly to Philadelphia to have his left elbow examined by the team physician.
World Series MVP Hamels to have sore elbow examined: Phillies star pitcher Cole Hamels is scheduled to leave training camp Monday afternoon and fly to Philadelphia to have his left elbow examined by the team physician.
Hamels' elbow to be examined: The Phillies are calling the discomfort in Cole Hamels' left elbow nothing more than a little soreness or tightness. But whatever it is, it has been persistent, which is why Hamels will fly to Philadelphia on Monday night to be examined.
Utley feeling good after spring debut: Chase Utley, whose recovery time from hip surgery had been estimated to be anywhere from four to six months, made his Grapefruit League debut Sunday and appears to be well on schedule to be in the Phillies' Opening Day lineup April 5.
GQ paints unflattering portrait of Dykstra: CLEARWATER, Fla. - A story in the April issue of GQ magazine paints a damning portrait of Lenny Dykstra, the former Phillies star turned business man.
Phillies Notebook: Park making pitch for Phillies' No. 5 spot: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The sellout crowd yesterday at sun-splashed Bright House Field saw what the Phillies' coaching staff has seen all spring from Chan Ho Park - a crisp fastball, a devilishly effective changeup, a nice curveball, and enough command of each
Phillies second baseman Utley remains optimistic about Opening Day: CLEARWATER, Fla. - There were several anxious members of the Phillies organization when Chase Utley arrived at the ballpark yesterday morning, not the least of whom was the veteran second baseman himself. The previous day, Utley had played four innings in a minor league game at the Carpenter Complex, his first game action since undergoing hip surgery on Nov. 24. While all reports were positive - Utley went 2-for-4 with a double - the true test would come after a night's sleep.
Phils' Utley makes a second spring appearance: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Chase Utley received a standing ovation before leading off for the Phillies yesterday, as the public address system at Bright House Field played the chorus from John Fogerty's song"Centerfield" - Put me in coach, I'm ready to play, today.
Happ's first win was extra special: Pitcher J.A. Happ had no trouble recalling his favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season.He even remembers the date.
Family made clincher special for Blanton: Joe Blanton hit his first career home run and was the winning pitcher in Game 4 of the World Series. As thrilling as those accomplishments were, his favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season was the celebration after the Game 5 clincher.
Personal loss drives Phillies' Marcus Giles: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Just after 8 on Wednesday morning, the Phillies filed quietly into the locker room at Bright House Field, many rubbing their eyes and yawning.
Phillies Notes: Utley takes field for four innings: KISSIMMEE, Fla. - While the Phillies defeated the Houston Astros, 5-2, yesterday afternoon, one of the most significant developments of their spring training unfolded about 95 miles away, as second baseman Chase Utley made his first appearance in a game.
Utley plays in first game: KISSIMMEE, Fla. - While the Phillies defeated the Houston Astros 5-2 yesterday afternoon, one of the most significant developments of their spring training unfolded about 95 miles away, as second baseman Chase Utley made his first appearance in a game.
Carrasco leads Phillies over Astros: Carlos Carrasco turned in a solid outing on Saturday, giving the top pitching prospect a boost in the race for the Philadelphia Phillies' open rotation spot.
When Wheels did his victory dance: Chris Wheeler's favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season was Brad Lidge's clinching strikeout of Tampa Bay's Eric Hinske in Game 5.
Giles' tattoos keep some cherished memories alive: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Just after 8 on Wednesday morning, The Phillies filed quietly into the locker room at Bright House Field, many rubbing their eyes and yawning.
Phillies pitching prospects Drabek, Savery hoping for major breakthroughs: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The focus was on Bright House Field, where the Phillies and Braves were slugging it out in an exhibition game before a packed house. Meanwhile, the sounds and smells of big-league baseball drifted over the leftfield fence, past the Tiki Bar and to the Carpenter Complex.
Utley's big play impressed Andersen: Pitchers always appreciate good defense, so it was no surprise that Phillies broadcaster Larry Andersen, a former pitcher, said his favorite memory from the 2008 World Series championship season was second baseman Chase Utley's run-saving play in the clinching fifth game.
Phillies Notebook: Veteran Cairo out to show Phillies he still has skills: PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. - When Miguel Cairo arrived at Charlotte Sports Park yesterday prior to the Phillies' 3-2 loss to Tampa Bay, he extended a warm greeting to Rays bench coach Dave Martinez. Then, the veteran infielder was hit with a realization.
Phillies' fifth starter could be a Happy guy: PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. - J.A. Happ could have returned to Allentown a bitter man last July 11. The young lefthander had done everything in his power to earn a lasting spot on the Phillies' roster, allowing four runs in two starts against the Mets and the Ca
Kruk, Daulton, Dykstra among Phillies Wall of Fame candidates: John Kruk, Darren Daulton and Lenny Dykstra are among the 15 Phillies alumni listed on the team's Wall of Fame online ballot.
Phillies' Utley hitless in spring debut (AP):
St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Kyle Lohse (26) watches after first baseman Albert Pujols put out Philadelphia Phillies' Chase Utley on a third-inning grounder in a spring training baseball game in Clearwater, Fla., Sunday, March 15, 2009." align="left" border="0">
Chase Utley sees no reason why he won't be able to play for the Philadelphia Phillies on opening day. The All-Star second baseman went 0-for-2 in his first spring training game since offseason hip surgery and Philadelphia beat the St. Louis Cardinals 2-1 on Sunday. Utley led off and played four innings after going 2-for-4 in a minor league intrasquad game at Philadelphia's training complex on...
Duke sharp as Pirates defeat Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Jeff Salazar thumped a three-run homer in the top of the ninth to preserve Zach Duke's solid start and rally the Pirates, ahead by three runs when Duke exited, to a 6-5 victory over the world-champion Phillies at Bright House Field this afternoon
'Sunday MLB on TBS' returns in April: TBS announced Thursday the first two months of its"Sunday MLB on TBS"schedule for 2009, and the package, which includes Sunday afternoon games on TBS throughout the regular season, includes multiple appearances by the World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies.
Percival pleased with first '09 outing: Troy Percival made his first appearance of the spring Thursday against the Phillies, and all went well. The Rays' veteran reliever retired the Phillies in order in the fifth inning, using nine pitches, and he said he felt encouraged about the outing.
Lidge, Feliz, Durbin enjoy '09 debuts: Phillies closer Brad Lidge, third baseman Pedro Feliz and reliever Chad Durbin all made their spring debuts in a scrimmage Wednesday in Clearwater, Fla., and all three felt good afterward.
Kendrick takes step back in rotation bid: There is no question J.A. Happ and Chan Ho Park are running first and second in the battle to be the fifth starter in the Phillies' rotation. Kyle Kendrick is running well behind after Wednesday.
Phillies Notes: Stairs is hopeful of keeping his roster spot: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Greg Dobbs embraced Matt Stairs in the Phillies' locker room yesterday morning."I missed the big guy," Dobbs said, although no one knows how long Stairs will remain with the team.
Top Prospects For the Phillies: Here are some Phillies minor-leaguers worth keeping an eye on. (With their ages on opening day.)C Lou Marson, 22 - The system's top catching prospect will play at triple A. Scouts say they'd like to see more from his throwing arm.
Dubee savors strikeout by Lidge to end Series: Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee has two favorite memories from the 2008 World Series championship season.His first is Brad Lidge's strikeout of Tampa Bay's Eric Hinske to end the clinching fifth game.
Phillies' minor-league camp opens: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The clubhouse door at Carpenter Complex will open this morning and 165 players with big-league dreams will flood four fields as Phillies minor-leaguers hold their first full-squad workout of the spring.
Can Phils do it again this year?: Outside of Philadelphia, the new baseball season fuels the hope of fans that 2009 will be their team's year to win a world championship. But here in the City of Brotherly Love, fans ruminate about the Phillies' chances of repeating that late October parade down Broad Street.
Paul Hagen: Werth must prove he's a Phillies' regular: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Sometimes perceptions harden into reality. And sometimes they prove to be as wispy as the puffy clouds that floated gently above Bright House Field as the Phillies and Reds committed exhibition baseball yesterday afternoon.
Flight of Stairs made Amaro want to celebrate: General manager Ruben Amaro Jr.'s favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season was Matt Stairs' go-ahead home run in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series.
Majewski getting back to top reliever form: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies sent their first batch of players over to the minor-league complex yesterday, a sure sign that opening day is beginning to draw a little closer on the horizon.
Phillies Notebook: Ailing Phillies slowly getting better: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The nagging - and not-so-nagging - injuries that have plagued some key Phillies early this spring are beginning to disappear. Catcher Chris Coste saw his first game action since the Grapefruit League opener in an 8-4 loss to the Reds yesterday, while three other key contributors are expected to see action tomorrow.
Reliever Majewski back in the game and having fun: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Bleep it.If you are looking for a reason why Gary Majewski is sitting in the Phillies' clubhouse these days with his long, brown hair flowing from beneath a backwards cap and a pinch of chewing tobacco tucked beneath his lip and his arm feeling as fresh as it did when it belonged to one of the top setup men in the game, those two words are the best place to start.
Phillies Notebook: Phils would like to avoid any World Baseball Classic injuries: LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Throughout the offseason, the Phillies publicly insisted that they had no problem with the World Baseball Classic - and in fact, they encouraged all of their players to participate. But less than a week into the 3-week tournament, the team has already had health scares involving two regular players.
Young catcher Marson learning from the ropes: KISSIMMEE, Fla. - In the third inning of Saturday's Grapefruit League game, Phillies catcher Lou Marson called for a fastball high and inside. Jamie Moyer thought it was a risky choice for the situation but decided to throw it anyway.
Picking fifth starter will spell relief for Phillies: LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The past 4 days have seen four candidates take their latest cracks at earning the final spot in the Phillies' pitching rotation. But decision day will eventually come, and when it does, a question will have to be answered:
From suit - to nuts: Not just the players have great memories of the night the Phillies won the World Series.Greg Casterioto, the Phils' director of baseball communications, offers his favorite memory from the 2008 championship season.
Carrasco has second straight rough outing for Phillies: LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Looking on the bright side, Carlos Carrasco now has a chance to prove to the Phillies that he can work through adversity.
Phillies C Ruiz back in Panama lineup after injury: Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz was back in the lineup for Panama on Sunday, a day after an injury scare.
A ringing double: Like many of his Phillies teammates, Greg Dobbs' favorite memory from the 2008 World Series championship season came in the clinching Game 5 victory.
Phillies Notes: Phillies' Ruiz leaves WBC game with neck injury: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz was removed from Panama's 7-0 loss to Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic last night after suffering a neck injury.
Injured Phillies nearing return to field: The Phillies continue to believe Chase Utley and Pedro Feliz could be in their Opening Day lineup.But first things first. They have to play in a Spring Training game.
Battle lines drawn: Who gets the last word in the NL East?: Jimmy Rollins walked into the Team USA clubhouse Monday and found his locker. The Philadelphia Phillies shortstop sized up the landscape and gulp just two lockers away, was New York Mets third baseman David Wright.
Utley's hip rehab going very well: Chase Utley's recovery from offseason hip surgery is nearly complete, and the Phillies' All-Star second baseman should see exhibition action within two weeks, barring a setback. With Opening Day a month away, he is one step from returning to game form. Utley,...
Amaro: Club unlikely to add lefty to 'pen: Joe Beimel and Will Ohman are the notable lefty relievers on the market. The Phillies could use one of them, but it looks like they will fill that void internally, if at all."I don't think that one is going to happen,"general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Saturday.
Happ mows down Tigers with heater: Left-hander J.A. Happ had his fastball working Saturday during an 8-2 victory over the Tigers. In three innings, Happ, who is competing for the fifth spot in the Phillies' rotation, struck out seven in three scoreless innings.
Homers help Moyer, Phils sink Tigers: Three-run homers by Ryan Howard and John Mayberry supported a strong outing from Jamie Moyer (four innings, one run, five strikeouts) as the Phillies crushed the Tigers, 8-2, on Saturday in Clearwater, Fla.
Howard, Mayberry power Phillies past Tigers, 8-2: CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) -- Ryan Howard and John Mayberry Jr. hit three-run home runs to power the Philadelphia Phillies to an 8-2 win over the Detroit Tigers in Grapefruit League play on Saturday....
Edwin Jackson sharp—other than disastrous first:
CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Edwin Jackson's day pretty much matched the Tigers' experience Saturday at Bright House Field as they lost to the Philadelphia Phillies, 8-2.
Howard, Mayberry power Phillies past Tigers, 8-2: Ryan Howard and John Mayberry Jr. hit three-run home runs to power the Philadelphia Phillies to an 8-2 win over the Detroit Tigers in Grapefruit League play on Saturday.
Park making a case to join Phillies' rotation: DUNEDIN, Fla. - Four pitchers, one spot left unclaimed in the Phillies rotation.Simple, right? Whoever throws best in spring training wins.
Blanton's homer inspires Myers: Brett Myers did some damage with his bat in the postseason, but his favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season was the offensive work of another starting pitcher.
Phillies Notes: Bid to join Phillies' rotation is a big deal for Park: DUNEDIN, Fla. - Chan Ho Park watched South Korea defeat Taiwan, 9-0, in the World Baseball Classic yesterday on a television in the Phillies' clubhouse. He could have been in Tokyo pitching for his country, but was busy trying to extend his major-league career instead. His thoughts, though, remained with Korea.
Rockies' Buchholz out with an injury: Colorado setup man Taylor Buchholz, the former Springfield (Delco) High star and Phillies minor-leaguer, will be sidelined for at least a month with a sprained ligament in his throwing elbow, the Rockies said yesterday.
Philadelphi Phillies' Chase Utley one step from returning to form: The Philadelphia Phillies' All-Star second baseman Chase Utley continued his daily routine Friday and, barring a setback, should see action in his first Grapefruit League game in the next two weeks.
Phillies 2B Utley nearing spring debut (AP): Chase Utley's recovery from offseason hip surgery is nearly complete. The Philadelphia Phillies' All-Star second baseman continued his daily routine Friday and, barring a setback, should see action in his first Grapefruit League game in the next two weeks. Before the team's "B" game at Bright House Field, Utley took part in fielding and batting practice.
Who will have the last word in National League East?: Jimmy Rollins walked into the Team USA clubhouse Monday and found his locker. The Philadelphia Phillies shortstop sized up the landscape and gulp just two lockers away, was New York Mets third baseman David Wright.
Who will have the last word in National League East?: Jimmy Rollins walked into the Team USA clubhouse Monday and found his locker. The Philadelphia Phillies shortstop sized up the landscape and gulp just two lockers away, was New York Mets third baseman David Wright.
Even raindrops forged memories: Jayson Werth has so many memories from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season that he couldn't pick a favorite one.
Phils castoff made the grade: CLEARWATER, Fla. - On the night the Phillies won the World Series, Brad Ziegler paid close attention as television cameras zoomed in on his former college teammate, Ryan Howard.
Phillies' Rollins says he has no health issues: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Jimmy Rollins wants people to stop worrying about him. The Phillies are nervous about his health, Davey Johnson is agonizing about playing time, and the shortstop says that everyone should just relax.
Kendrick shaky as Phils fall to Team USA: CLEARWATER, Fla. - After Team USA's Dustin Pedroia singled in the third inning of yesterday's exhibition, Phillies righthander Kyle Kendrick raised his arms skyward and shook his head. It was the third consecutive hit he had allowed, and his second emotional outburst.
Phillies Notebook: Phils pitching coach Dubee wants to see Kendrick control emotions: CLEARWATER, Fla. - When it finally comes time for the Phillies to name their fifth starting pitcher, Kyle Kendrick's appearance against Team USA likely will be long forgotten. After all, he was making his second start of the spring, and he was pitching against a lineup rife with All-Stars, and, aside from a home run by Chipper Jones, he didn't pitch all that bad. But for at least one day, there was one aspect of Kendrick's appearance that didn't sit well with pitching coach Rich Dubee.
Baseball Notes: Rockies' Buchholz out with an injury: Colorado setup man Taylor Buchholz, the former Springfield (Delco) High star and Phillies minor-leaguer, will be sidelined for at least a month with a sprained ligament in his throwing elbow, the Rockies said yesterday.
Kendrick is seeking redemption: CLEARWATER, Fla. - To watch the Phillies this spring is to see a group proud of its achievement, heading into the season with hard-won confidence.
Jim Salisbury: It's good to be king: CLEARWATER, Fla. - There are many reasons to like the Phillies team that is limbering up down here in the Florida warmth, and one of the biggest stepped out into the sunshine yesterday afternoon.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies catcher Coste resting sore hamstring: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Regardless of how big of a push Ronny Paulino will actually make for a roster spot this spring, Chris Coste believes he is fighting for his job. So it was with some degree of trepidation that the backup catcher decided to shut himself down last week after getting one at-bat in the Phillies' Grapefruit League opener against the Pirates.
Phils still on the hunt for lefthanded reliever: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies continue to monitor the free-agent market for lefthanded relievers and have kept open lines of communication with Will Ohman, his agent, Page Odle, said yesterday.
Wright makes most of Jeter's presence: Add"National League East peacekeeper"to the list of Derek Jeter's responsibilities this Grapefruit League season. When the members of Team USA converged this week to work out for the World Baseball Classic, Jeter found his locker sandwiched between those of the Phillies' Jimmy Rollins and the Mets' David Wright.
Ace alert: Hamels set for spring debut: Cole Hamels is not fighting for a job this spring. He will be the Phillies' Opening Day starter April 5 against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park. And because having Hamels ready for Opening Day is all that matters, he is taking the proper time to make sure he is truly prepared.
Phillies Notes: Phils still on the hunt for lefthanded reliever: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies continue to monitor the free-agent market for lefthanded relievers and have kept open lines of communication with Will Ohman, his agent, Page Odle, said yesterday.
Bill Conlin: Recession hasn't hit Phillies fans in Clearwater: CLEARWATER, Fla. - When I'm King of the World (Spring Training Edition) . . .It will be a misdemeanor to inform a child younger than 8 there is no Santa Claus or to tell a Phillies fan there's a big-time recession going on . . . The Clearwater area is awash in red. Pinstriped Nation has taken over both the beach towns and the U.S.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies' new leftfielder Ibanez showing ability as baserunner: DUNEDIN, Fla. - While there might be some dispute about how Raul Ibanez' capability at the plate compares to the man whom he replaced, the first couple weeks of spring training have left little doubt that the new leftfielder represents a significant upgrade on the basepaths. Despite being 4 years older than Pat Burrell, the 36-year-old Ibanez has impressed the Phillies with speed that - although not blazing - is certainly adequate.
Phils' slimmed-down Myers sharp in start: LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Brett Myers, the biggest loser on a slimmed-down Phillies team, offered some secrets to his off-season weight loss.
Park sharp in bid to be Phils' fifth starter: LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - Chan Ho Park entered the competition for the Phillies' No. 5 starter's job with three innings of one-run ball in yesterday's 7-3 win over Atlanta.
Phillies Notebook: Hamels ready but Phillies moving cautiously with Lidge: LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. - The two most important pitchers on the Phillies roster - at least in terms of MVP voting last year - have yet to pitch in a spring training game. That will likely change on Wednesday when lefthander Cole Hamels is tentatively scheduled to pitch an inning or two against Team Canada in an exhibition game at Bright House Field.
Adam Eaton lands in Baltimore, will compete for starting job: He's all yours, Baltimore. Lotsa luck.Adam Eaton, the righthander the Phillies couldn't trade so they released him, agreed to a minor league contract with the Orioles and will join the team's major league spring-training camp in Viera, Fla.
Phil Sheridan: Pat Burrell faces the Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Pat Burrell has walked to home plate in front of Phillies fans thousands of times. He has been cheered and booed and everything in between.
Phillies Notes: Kendrick shines in bid to start: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Another fifth-starter candidate delivered a solid outing yesterday as the Phillies posted their first exhibition win, 12-5, over the Tampa Bay Rays in front of 10,270, the largest crowd ever at Bright House Field.
Phillies get warnings from Fehr: CLEARWATER, Fla. - A year later, the message was different. Instead of telling Phillies players that they should be safe taking over-the-counter dietary supplements, officials from the Major League Baseball Players Association yesterday told the team to beware.
Phillies release veteran Eaton: The Phillies released Adam Eaton on Friday after consecutive seasons in which the right-hander was ineffective and derailed by injuries. Eaton is owed $9 million for the remainder of his contract.
Pitcher Adam Eaton released by Phillies: Pitcher Adam Eaton was released Friday by the Philadelphia Phillies, who owe the right-hander $9 million.
Phillies release pitcher Adam Eaton: SARASOTA, Fla. - Adam Eaton was supposed to make his spring debut today, but the more Phillies officials thought about it, the more they figured it would be best not to go through with the charade.
A very special sleepover 'guest': Here is another in a seriesof memories from the 2008 championship season.Frank Coppenbarger, the Phillies' director of team travel and clubhouse services, shares his favorite memory for the team's 2008 World Series championship season.
Phillies cut underachieving Eaton loose: SARASOTA, Fla. - Baseball is a game of failure, and general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. acknowledged yesterday that it sometimes extends to the front office. The signing of Adam Eaton to a 3-year, $24.5 million contract before the 2007 season can't be labeled anything but, a designation the Phillies made official yesterday when they released him with 1 year and $8.65 million remaining on the deal.
Votto homers, Reds beat Phillies 10-3: Joey Votto homered and hit an RBI single Friday as the Cincinnati Reds beat the Philadelphia Phillies 10-3.
Bill Conlin: Math suggests Howard will be Hall of Famer: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The smallish crowd of 5,791 in Bright House Field for the Phillies' spring-training home opener roared with anticipation when Ryan Howard finally got a ball airborne and in fair territory.
Grave marker honors first black Phillies player: Infielder John Kennedy, the first African-American to wear a Phillies uniform (1957), died in 1998. His remains lay in an unmarked grave in historic Evergreen Cemetery in Jacksonville, Fla.
Phils release Adam Eaton: SARASOTA, Fla.– Even after being released by the Phillies this morning, pitcher Adam Eaton was able to maintain his typical good nature.
Phillies' Werth yet to see action: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Jayson Werth emerged as the Phillies' starting rightfielder last season and earned a two-year, $10 million contract this winter.
Pirates open spring training with a win: BRADENTON, Fla. -- The Pirates opened their spring-training exhibition schedule with an 8-2 thumping of the world-champion Philadelphia Phillies today before 3,991 at McKechnie Field.
1 week left for Phils-Red Sox ticket lottery: Sorry, the deadline passed at noon today for a shot at Opening Night tickets through the Phillies.
Phil Sheridan: For Phils' Moyer, journey a joyride: BRADENTON, Fla. - Baseball is ageless, baseball players are not.Not even Jamie Moyer.The Phillies' 46-year-old lefthander pitched the first two exhibition innings of what will be his 23d major-league season. Think about those numbers: Moyer has spent almost exactly half his life in the big leagues.
Play Ball!: BRADENTON, Fla. - For the first time since Brad Lidge's biting slider branded Carlos Ruiz's mitt on that glorious October night, the Phillies played a baseball game yesterday.
Phillies Notebook: Now with Pirates, Hinske recalls strikeout that sealed World Series victory for Phillies: BRADENTON, Fla. - Just ask Willie Wilson: There are two sides to every historic moment.The man on the wrong end of one that will long live in the memory of Phillies fans sat at his locker at McKechnie Field yesterday afternoon, polishing off lunch before the Pirates' Grapefruit League opener.
Bill Conlin: No offense, but here are the Phillies you wouldn't want to marry your daughter: ASK AND YOU shall receive. You asked:"You gave us your All-Time Phillies Good Guys team from the 1950s . . . Now, what about the bad guys?" It's a slippery slope when you assign arbitrary negative labels to athletes based on personalities, demeanors and the dissonance that becomes pink noise in any baseball clubhouse. So, with apologies to anybody who might take offense, here are Bill Conlin's All-Time Phillies You Might Not Want to Marry Your Daughter.
Phillies' 2009 payroll to surpass $130 million: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Turns out winning the World Series isn't priceless after all.In fact, the Phillies' cost for player salaries projects to $130,844,098 on Opening Day, according to figures compiled by the Daily News. That's up almost $26.7 million from the $104,567,500 that was on the books at the start of last season.
Phillies Opening Day salaries, 2008 vs. 2009: Below are the Phillies players' salaries for Opening Day 2008, followed by Opening Day 2009.Eric Bruntlett: $600,000; $800,000Chris Coste: $415,000; $460,000
Phillies Notebook: Victorino won't be joining Rollins on Team USA: CLEARWATER, Fla. - When the Phillies square off against the United States' entrant in the World Baseball Classic March 5, they will only have to worry about facing one of their teammates.
Phillies' former prospects are A-OK after Blanton trade: PHOENIX - Infielder Adrian Cardenas was the Phillies' second-best prospect going into last season, according to Baseball America. And lefthander Josh Outman was ranked fourth.
Phil Sheridan: Phillies' slugging Mayberry gets his chance: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The clubhouse wall beyond the left-field fence will not miss John Mayberry Jr. After pelting it with baseballs for 10 days of batting practice, Mayberry will begin the real work of trying to win a spot on the Phillies' roster today.
Phillies Notes: Infield prospect Donald gets a start at second: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Phillies manager Charlie Manuel isn't wasting any time getting a look at Jason Donald. The team's top infield prospect will start at second base today against Pittsburgh in a Grapefruit League opener.
Condrey's big day with arm and bat: Reliever Clay Condrey recalled his favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 World Series championship season.It happened Aug. 26 at Citizens Bank Park. The New York Mets led the Phillies, 7-0, in the top of the fourth inning, but the Phils stormed back for a dramatic 8-7 win on Chris Coste's hit in the 13th inning.
Jimy Williams works with Braves: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Jimy Williams is not talking about his decision to step down as bench coach after the Phillies won the World Series last year.
Financial fraud scheme affecting Eyre: Phillies lefty reliever Scott Eyre has had more on his mind this spring than just baseball. Eyre, like many Americans, has found himself a victim of a massive financial fraud scheme.
Phillies' Dubee keeps things moving: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Most days during the regular season, Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee likes to squeeze in a workout.
Phil Sheridan: Manuel's mission: Beef up the bats: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Thirty-four regulars hit .300 or better in Major League Baseball last year. Not one of them played for the Phillies.
Phillies Notes: Jimy Williams works with Braves: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Jimy Williams is not talking about his decision to step down as bench coach after the Phillies won the World Series last year.
A 7th-inning hit, a lasting memory: Here is another in a series of memories from the 2008 championship seasonThird baseman Pedro Feliz had no trouble recalling his favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 championship season.
A perfect Mets-Phils trade: Insults: It's only February. This will likely come as news to the Phillies and Mets.Things have been so heated between the two sides that you'd think it's midsummer instead of late winter. It's as if everybody skipped their off-season vacations in favor of brushing each other back with insults.
Carrasco in mix as Phillies' fifth starter: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The competition for the Phillies' fifth starting pitcher's job is a little like a bowl of seafood gumbo down the road at Frenchy's Café on the beach.
Phillies' Stairs shares roots with his famous bat: CLEARWATER, Fla. - One of the most famous bats in recent Phillies history began its life in Quebec above the 45th parallel.
A's complicate Phillies' hopes for Garciaparra: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies' chances of signing Nomar Garciaparra could be dwindling, now that the Oakland Athletics have shown interest in the free-agent infielder.
Parade delighted assistant trainer: Phillies assistant athletic trainer Mark Andersen shares his favorite memory from the team's 2008 World Series championship season.
Phillies Notebook: A's join Phillies with interest in Garciaparra: CLEARWATER, Fla. - It is looking more and more like the 25 players who will represent the Phillies on Opening Day are already here at spring training. A team source said yesterday the club is not overly optimistic about the potential of landing free-agent infielder Nomar Garciaparra, whom they have reached out to several times over the course of the offseason. Reports out of Oakland had the A's interested in the righthanded-hitting veteran, although Garciaparra continues to mull retirement.
Homer hero Stairs gets right back in the swing: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Matt Stairs sat at his locker Friday morning and began chipping away at the small mountain of fan mail that awaited him when he showed up to Phillies spring training camp.
Phil Sheridan: The Amaro family and the Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The story of the Amaro family is a Phillies story. Zoom out a bit and it's a baseball story. Pull the camera back to a wider angle and it's an American story.
Phillies Notes: Different paces for Phils' Hamels, Utley: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Phillies ace Cole Hamels and second baseman Chase Utley are moving toward opening day at different speeds.
Baseball Notes: Rangers give Kris Benson a chance: Righthander Kris Benson signed a minor-league contract yesterday with the Texas Rangers.Benson spent most of last season in the Phillies' organization, trying to get back to the majors. He was 1-4 with a 5.52 ERA last year in 11 starts for Lehigh Valley. The Phils released him Aug. 30.
Romero to pitch for P.R. in Classic: J.C. Romero is participating in Spring Training with the Phillies and for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, but is participating knowing that he will open the regular season serving a 50-game suspension for violating the league's policy against performance-enhancing substances. And that fact is killing him.
Oakland eyes Garciaparra: Nomar Garciaparra is in serious talks with the A's about a backup third base/first base role. Garciaparra is also believed to be weighing an offer from the Phillies. Any deal with Garciaparra, 35, would not keep Oakland from signing free-agent shortstop...
On top of pile . . . on top of world: Here's another in a series of memories from the 2008 championship season.Utility infielder Mike Cervenak had his first big-league hit during the Phillies' championship season of 2008, but that wasn't his favorite memory.
Phillies' Durbin well-adjusted to reliever's role now: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Chad Durbin acknowledges he was unsure of the role early. After signing with the Phillies as a free agent following the 2007 season and entering last year's spring training as a candidate for a spot in the rotation, the veteran righthander found himself in a place he had been only sparingly in his 8-year career: the bullpen.
Nats invite Obama to toss first pitch: The Nationals have invited President Barack Obama to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at their home opener against the Phillies on April 13, according to team president Stan Kasten.
All dressed up: Phils don tuxedos: Chase Utley looked a little geeky Friday afternoon at Bright House Field, where he and 22 of his teammates put on tuxedos for a photo shoot for Phillies magazine.
Phillies'Raul Ibanez defends ex-teammate Ichiro: Raul Ibanez has a new team, the Philadelphia Phillies, but the former Mariner weighed in on the dysfunction of his former team. The outfielder defended Ichiro and spoke out against ex-teammates worrying to much about what others were doing.
Phillies Notes: Phillies sign three more; payroll over $132 million: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Pitcher J.A. Happ and catchers Chris Coste and Ronny Paulino all signed contracts this week, pushing the Phillies' 2009 payroll over $132.5 million.
Phillies Notebook: Upbeat Utley may even squeeze in Grapefruit games at Phillies spring training: CLEARWATER, Fla. - When Chase Utley underwent surgery on Nov. 24 to repair his right hip, his status for Opening Day was questionable at best, and his ability to return in time to see significant action in the Grapefruit League was even hazier. But after watching Utley field ground balls and hit in the batting cage over the past few days, the Phillies are upbeat about his chances of returning to game action sometime during the month of March.
South Philly's Koplove has work cut out: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The Phillies were one strike away from winning the World Series, but Mike Koplove couldn't wait for the images on his television screen to tell him what happened.
Phillies tickets are selling fast: Brandon Pizzo, 22, couldn't get to the World Series because he's been stationed in Iraq.So yesterday, when the Phillies officially put single-game tickets on sale, his father, Don, left his Drexel Hill home at 4:30 a.m., determined to beat the crowd to Citizens Bank Park.
Phil Sheridan: Phillies cope with media stardom: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Charlie Manuel was saying the sideshow that follows a championship team wouldn't distract his Phillies when the sound tech from HBO's Real Sports crouched and adjusted the settings on the microphone attached to the manager.
Two moments are emblazoned: Phillies hitting coach Milt Thompson shares his favorite memory from the 2008 World Series championship season."I probably have two of them," Thompson said."Jimmy Rollins' play up the middle to end the game where we clinched the division title, and Brad Lidge's strikeout of [Eric] Hinske to end the World Series. Both were unbelievable moments.
Phillies fans gobble up game tickets: Fans lined up at Citizens Bank Park and jammed the Phillies website this morning to buy single-game tickets to see the World Series champs this season.
Hamels not worried about SI cover jinx: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Wearing home whites and posing in the middle of his windup, Phillies ace Cole Hamels appears on the cover of the coming issue of Sports Illustrated.
Phillies' past, present share perspectives: CLEARWATER, Fla. - It's easy enough to picture a gray-bearded Jimmy Rollins strolling out under the Florida sun three decades from now to speak to reporters as the voice of the Phillies' glorious past - the role Mike Schmidt has played for some years now.
Utley dedicated to returning for Phillies' opener: After having surgery on his right hip on Nov. 24, Chase Utley is far ahead of the original prognosis and is dedicated to returning for the Phillies' season opener.
Lidge looks to follow up perfect season (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge throws a bullpen session during a spring training baseball workout on a cloudy day in Clearwater, Fla." align="left" border="0">
Join a new team. Convert every save. Strike out the final batter in the World Series. Brad Lidge's first season with the Philadelphia Phillies played out better than anyone could've imagined. What can Mr. Perfect do for a sequel? "This is baseball," Lidge said. "At some point, I will blow one and I know that.
Rollins: Phils have something to prove: Jimmy Rollins addressed a number of topics Wednesday, including which team was better, the 1980 Phillies or the 2008 Phillies, and whether the Phils still have something to prove after winning it all.
Phillies, Mets continue to trade barbs: The Mets, who collapsed each of the previous two Septembers to help the Phillies win the National League East, seem to have something new to say every day about their division rivals. Jimmy Rollins? He said he is out of the prediction business.
Phil Sheridan: Phillies' past, present share perspectives: CLEARWATER, Fla. - It's easy enough to picture a gray-bearded Jimmy Rollins strolling out under the Florida sun three decades from now to speak to reporters as the voice of the Phillies' glorious past - the role Mike Schmidt has played for some years now.
Phillies, Mets talking trash again: CLEARWATER, Fla. - You get the feeling that, deep down inside, Jimmy Rollins enjoys his role as the perceived instigator in the escalating rivalry between the Phillies and Mets. An offseason that featured a New York radio host baiting Cole Hamels into labeling the Mets"choke artists" and new Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez labeling him and his teammates"the team to beat" appears to have amused the Phillies' loquacious shortstop.
Rollins avoids big predictions: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Jimmy Rollins can't resist giving the New York Mets a little noogie now and then.Rollins came out to the picnic table behind the Phillies' clubhouse - official site of informal spring-training news conferences - and delivered his annual state-of-the-team address yesterday.
A pinch-hit double he'll never forget: Here's another in a series of memories from the 2008 championship season.No surprise here. Geoff Jenkins' favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 championship season was his dramatic, sixth-inning pinch-hit double leading off the resumption of the rain-delayed, World Series Game 5 clincher.
Phillies Notes: Hamels not worried about SI cover jinx: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Wearing home whites and posing in the middle of his windup, Phillies ace Cole Hamels appears on the cover of the coming issue of Sports Illustrated.
Phillies Notebook: Comparing Phillies' World Series teams: JIMMY ROLLINS: 2008 Phillies over the 1980 Phillies in seven.Mike Schmidt: 2008 Phillies in seven.The man who actually received a ring both years?
Now with Angels, Abreu happy Phillies won World Series: TEMPE, Ariz. - On the night the Phillies won the World Series, he sat in his apartment high above the streets of New York, eyes fixed on the high-definition screen. He'd been waiting for this moment for a long time.
Rollins, Phillies through trading insults with Mets: Jimmy Rollins is done making predictions. The Philadelphia Phillies are World Series champions. That says it all.
Utley closer to being ready for opener: The Phillies completed their first full squad workout Tuesday at the Carpenter Complex with Pedro Feliz on the sidelines and Chase Utley on the field. Right now, it seems like Utley has a better chance than Feliz to be ready by Opening Day.
Durbin recalls 'full sprint, full scream': Relief pitcher Chad Durbin shares his favorite memory from the Phillies' 2008 championship season.
Paul Hagen: Phillies still have a few moves to make: CLEARWATER, Fla. - To celebrate the Phillies' first official full workout, 64 players spread out to the far corners of the Carpenter Complex and Bright House Field. For only the second time in franchise history they were preparing to defend a world championship.
Winning title gave Phils economic lift: The Phillies would love to win the World Series every year, but a title in 2008 seemed especially fortuitous. While few people seem completely immune from the country's current economic issues, the Phillies are in better shape than most teams.
Burrell trading places this spring: After 11 seasons in the Phillies' organization, Pat Burrell feels a little strange this spring to be with the Rays -- and in a new role as DH, no less. But as he eases into Spring Training, the slugger has vowed to help his new team in any way he can.
Ibanez content with any spot in lineup: Raul Ibanez arrived in camp Monday, the biggest offseason acquisition for the Phillies. He will wear No. 29. He will play left field. But where will he hit?"As long as it's in the first nine lines, I'm happy,"Ibanez said.
Jamie Moyer rips ex-Mariners teammate Alex Rodriguez: Shortly after joining the Philadelphia Phillies in August 2006, pitcher Jamie Moyer reminisced about playing on a Mariners team with infielder...
Raul Ibanez arrives in Clearwater: CLEARWATER, Fla. - On his first day with the new team, Raul Ibanez wanted to make a low-key arrival."No waves," the new Phillies leftfielder said yesterday.
Paul Hagen: Howard, Rollins lead Phillies' list of costly assets: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The parade of Phillies cashing in on their success wasn't as long as the convoy of flatbeds that rolled down Broad Street 2 days after the World Series ended. It just seemed that way sometimes.
Bill Conlin: .255 reasons why Phillies could repeat as World Series champions: CLEARWATER, Fla. - For the second time since 1883, the Phillies will defend a World Series title. For the sixth time, they will defend a National League pennant. But I'm only interested in the pennants won in 1950, '80, '83 and '93 and the track record for a 2009 team that is about to be written.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies' Feliz still recovering from back surgery: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Charlie Manuel hesitated to use the word"behind" when talking about his starting third baseman, but all indications are that Pedro Feliz' recovery from back surgery is taking longer than initially expected. For starters, when Feliz underwent his back surgery on Nov. 20, the Phillies announced an expected recovery time of 8 to 12 weeks. But Feliz, who will reach 13 weeks postoperation on Thursday, said yesterday he hasn't swung a bat since his surgery.
Phillies president Montgomery wants lasting success: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Back in October, in the days before the Phillies clinched the World Series, David Montgomery told a local columnist,"Until you win a World Series, you haven't been great."
Phil Sheridan: Phillies' Perlozzo teaching and learning: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The balls sail in one after another, all chest-high, all popping the glove held like a target by Phillies coach Sam Perlozzo. After each catch, Perlozzo rolls the ball to the edge of the grass in front of second base.
Checking in on four camps as teams prepare to play ball: World Series MVP Cole Hamels says after the Philadelphia Phillies won their first championship in 28 years, he stuffed his gear from the series into a duffel bag and tossed it in his garage. Memorabilia aficionados might cringe at the thought. Hamels doesn't know when he'll retrieve it.
Phillies' Romero having tough time accepting 50-game ban: When J.C. Romero returns to the mound after serving a 50-game suspension, the Philadelphia Phillies reliever surely will hear some boos, steroid chants and other derisive insults. The 32-year-old lefty is ready, but wants it known he does not consider himself a cheater.
Kendrick leads in race for spot in Phils'rotation: Kyle Kendrick isn't the same gullible guy who thought the Philadelphia Phillies traded him to a Japanese team last year.
Fifth starter's job looks like Kendrick's to lose: CLEARWATER, Fla. - The race for the Phillies' fifth starter's job won't heat up until exhibition games start, but judging from pitching coach Rich Dubee's words, the job could be Kyle Kendrick's to lose.
Phillies Notebook: Kendrick is early favorite to reclaim No. 5 spot in Phillies' pitching rotation: CLEARWATER, Fla. - When Kyle Kendrick arrived at spring training, he did not walk into the Phillies' clubhouse and throw up his hands and shout,"Remember me?"
Versatile veteran Cairo signs deal with Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Continuing their search for both a righthanded hitter and a contingency plan should Chase Utley's hip rehabilitation extend into the regular season, the Phillies signed veteran utility man Miguel Cairo to a minor league contract yesterday.
Phillies' challenge: Try to repeat: CLEARWATER, Fla. - If the 2009 Phillies exhibit an increased swagger when they arrive at training camp, it's understandable. Figuratively at least, winning a World Series can have the same impact on ballplayers as steroids.
Moyer: A-Rod fell a long way: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Shortly after joining the Phillies in August 2006, Jamie Moyer reminisced about playing with Alex Rodriguez in Seattle.
Phillies Notes: Manuel: Hamels opening-day starter for Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Some years, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel doesn't decide on the opening-day starter until a few weeks have passed in spring training.
Phils give utilityman Cairo chance to make team: Utilityman Miguel Cairo signed a minor league contract with the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday and will get a chance to earn a roster spot in spring training.
It’s the No-Longer-Surprising Rays: After losing to the Phillies in last year’s World Series, the Rays—a plucky team defined by a youthful rotation—may redeem themselves quickly.
Don't count on Phils repeating as champs: The euphoria from the Phillies' 2008 World Series victory has yet to subside, but as spring training begins, the speculation already has started. Can the Phillies do it again?
Phillies Notes: Eaton figures not to start with Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Adam Eaton is the fifth man in a four-man competition for the Phillies' job of fifth starter.
Loss could be a gain: A fitter Brett Myers is looking to get the Phils off to a faster start.: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Did the Phillies sign Jenny Craig to a free-agent contract this winter, or what?Ryan Howard dropped 20 pounds. Brett Myers has him beat. He lost 30.
Eaton checks in with Phillies, but doesn't expect to remain with team: CLEARWATER, Fla. - As the rest of his teammates rode along the warning track at Citizens Bank park in gleaming sports cars at the end of the Phillies' World Series victory parade, righthander Adam Eaton was at home in Washington state after having been left off the postseason roster.
Svelte Howard reports to Phillies camp early: A noticeably trimmer Ryan Howard worked out at the Philadelphia Phillies' spring training facilities at Bright House Field, five days after agreeing to a three-year, $54 million contract.
The Phillies' recipe for a World Series repeat: THERE ARE TWO ways to look at the task with which general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. was charged when Phillies president David Montgomery handed him the reins of the organization following the retirement of Pat Gillick in November.
Surgery puts Phillies broadcaster Kalas on sideline: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Legendary broadcaster Harry Kalas will miss most of spring training after undergoing surgery earlier this week, sources told the Daily News yesterday. Rob Brooks, the Phillies' director of broadcasting, declined to discuss specifics of the situation except to confirm that Kalas had undergone a"minor medical procedure" and that there was no reason for concern.
Five questions the Phils must answer: The mitts will start popping again when the Phillies hold their first official workout of spring training tomorrow. Here are five questions the defending World Series champions must answer before the April 5 season opener.
Bill Conlin: Phillies spring training: Just a day at the beach: CLEARWATER, Fla. - This is no county for young men. At least not between the approximately 325 days that separate the sad April day when the Phillies break camp and the usually chilly morning when it all begins again, when pitchers and catchers report.
Well worth the wait to see World Series Trophy: AT THE END OF a very long line at the Moorestown Mall stood Barbara McCabe, who by her own count has been a Phillies fan for 60 years. She had come out on this Saturday to get an up-close look at the 2008 World Series Trophy and held in her hand the last
Phillies' Utley fields grounders amid positive reports on hip rehab: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Barely 2 months into his rehab expected to take 4 to 6 months, the reports on Phillies star Chase Utley's hip continue to come back positive. Yesterday, the second baseman fielded ground balls for the first time since his hip surgery Nov. 24, although the grounders weren't exactly lasers deep in the hole.
Phils increase '09 payroll to $131.5M: In a year when most teams seem to be cutting payroll or simply trying to maintain it because of a depressed economy, the Phillies' payroll has jumped from around $104 million on Opening Day 2008 to an estimated $131.5 million on Opening Day '09.
Minor-league deal for Aurilia: Rich Aurilia rejected minor-league offers from the Cubs, Phillies and Blue Jays to accept one from the Giants, he said Monday just before the team formally announced the deal. Aurilia will earn $1 million if he makes the team. Aurilia also revealed he turned...
Manuel helped the Phillies stay loose: WINTER HAVEN, Fla. - When he's sitting in the dugout wearing red pinstripes, Charlie Manuel insists on living in the now. Ah, but this is February, and Manuel is sitting in his living room wearing a pair of jeans. It's OK to look back, especially at the greatest year of his baseball life - the Phillies' World Series championship season of 2008.
Phillies keep relief options open: Now that Ryan Howard is signed to a three-year deal and the team's payroll is above $130 million, the Phillies are done dealing, right? Not necessarily.
At Phillies spring training, Zagurski will do as much as his elbow lets him: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Mike Zagurski spent part of yesterday morning the same way he has spent many mornings over the past 10 months: seated in an office chair in front of his locker, his left arm wrapped in ice, chatting casually with some fellow Phillies pr
Bill Conlin: Phillies' Good Guys since 1950: B LESSED ARE the good guys, for they shall inherit the clubhouse. Here is one man's Phillies Good Guy All-Star team - since 1950 - by position:
Howard agrees to $54 million contract: There will be no salary arbitration hearing later this week between the Phillies and Ryan Howard. On Sunday, the Phillies and Howard reached an agreement on a three-year, $54 million contract.
Howard, Phillies agree on three-year, $54 million deal: Ryan Howard has agreed to a $54 million, three-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, avoiding a potentially contentious arbitration hearing.
Phillies in good shape to defend championship: The Phillies were strong enough to overcome a 3-game deficit in the National League East during the season's final three weeks, oust the Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers from the playoffs, then dominate the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2008 World Series.
Howard, Phils agree on 3-year, $54 million deal: Ryan Howard has agreed to a $54 million, three-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies— avoiding a potentially contentious arbitration hearing.
Howard gets three-year deal: PHILADELPHIA -- Ryan Howard has agreed to a three-year, $54 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, avoiding an arbitration hearing.
Ryan Howard, Phillies make deal: Howard and the World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies agreed on a $54 million, three-year contract Sunday, avoiding a potentially contentious arbitration hearing.
Phillies' spending big gamble: In an uncertain economy, the Phillies are spending with a lot of confidence.Signing Ryan Howard to a three-year deal worth $54 million yesterday pushed the Phillies' 2009 payroll over $130 million. The team's payroll will jump more than $30 million from where it began last season and about $20 million from where it ended it. That's the biggest off-season increase in baseball in a year when more than half of the teams in the majors are projected to cut payroll or hold expenditures steady.
Phil Sheridan: Ryan Howard's big deal: With or without the new contract he signed yesterday, Ryan Howard was going to be with the Phillies through 2011. Look at it that way and his big deal - $54 million over three years - doesn't seem like such a big deal, at least to Phillies fans.
Phillies, Howard avoid arbitration with 3-year, $54 million deal: CLEARWATER, Fla. - Ryan Howard was never going anywhere, so you don't have to apologize if the speculation about his future was beginning to wear on you. Despite the Phillies' inability to avoid the arbitration table last season, the slugging first baseman wasn't eligible to become a free agent for another three seasons, which meant there was little pressure on either side to get a deal done.
Amaro Jumps Right Into the Job: Ruben Amaro Jr.'s notable dealings since becoming general manager of the Phillies on Nov. 3:Nov. 10: Signed pitcher Scott Eyre to a one-year, $2.5 million contract.
Phils, Howard agree on 3-year, $54 million deal: Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. was always optimistic.Even with much of the baseball world predicting that the club and slugger Ryan Howard would head back to the arbitrator's table for another salary showdown this winter, Amaro believed the two sides could reach a negotiated settlement and come away sporting big smiles.
Teammates give deal a thumbs-up: Brett Myers had little to say about the contract that Ryan Howard signed yesterday. But add Howard's deal to Ryan Madson's contract and Cole Hamels' contract and Jayson Werth's contract, and add it all up to the way the Phillies have moved to keep the World Series champs together and solidify the long-term future for their core group?
Howard's Deal: First baseman Ryan Howard, 29, signed a three-year, $54 million deal with the Phillies yesterday. His salaries, not including money he can earn through incentives:
Howard signs for three years, $54 million: Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. was always optimistic.
Phillies, 1B Howard agree to 3-year, $54M deal: The Phillies and Ryan Howard agreed Sunday to a three-year, $54 million contract to avoid an arbitration hearing.
Phillies' Howard gets 3-year, $54M deal (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies' Ryan Howard watches his three-run home during the fourth inning of Game 4 of the baseball World Series against the Tampa Bay Rays in Philadelphia. Howard has agreed to a $54 million, three-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies Sunday, Feb. 8, 2009, avoiding a potentially contentious arbitration hearing." align="left" border="0">
Ryan Howard just wanted to concentrate on baseball this spring. No squabbles over his contract. No daily questions about his future. The big slugger got his wish -- and a hefty raise, too. Howard and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed to a $54 million, three-year contract on Sunday, avoiding a potentially contentious arbitration hearing.
Baseball notes: D'backs bolster bullpen: Relief pitcher Tom Gordon, a 41-year-old right-hander who pitched for the world champion Phillies before being injured last season, agreed Friday to a $500,000, one-year contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks. He can make an additional $2.5 million in...
Gordon reaches deal with D-backs: Former Phillies relief pitcher Tom Gordon agreed yesterday to a $500,000, 1-year contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Phillies head south, standing pat for now: The Phillies are set to arrive in spring training next week without making another addition after an off-season in which their payroll is expected to rise more than $30 million - a bigger jump than any other team in baseball, according to figures compiled by ESPN.
Diamondbacks, RHP Gordon agree to deal (AP): Relief pitcher Tom Gordon agreed Friday to a $500,000, one-year contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks. The 41-year-old right-hander, a member of last season's World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies, can make an additional $2.5 million in bonuses based on days on the active roster. Gordon was 5-4 with two saves and a 5.16 ERA last year.
Truck Day foreshadows action ahead: The last time we saw the Phillies in uniform, they got the most out of it: Longest game in Major League history, suspended in the sixth inning due to rain and resumed two days later with Brad Lidge striking out Eric Hinske for a 4-3 Game 5 victory over Tampa Bay and their first world championship since 1980.
Phillies' bullpen picture a little unclear: Philadelphia certainly understands the importance of a good bullpen. But heading into Spring Training, the Phillies find themselves a little shorthanded in the 'pen with two spots open.
Sam Donnellon: Kendrick has something to prove with Phillies: CLEARWATER, Fla. - It's easy to spot him in the euphoric photos of last October, whether on the field immediately after the Phillies won the World Series, or on the float a few days later.
Phils' Jimmy Rollins talks WBC - only: This being early February, it's not surprising that Jimmy Rollins' mouth is a little out of shape.On several occasions yesterday during a conference call with reporters to promote the World Baseball Classic, the Phillies' loquacious shortstop passed on opportunities to stir up a little preseason controversy.
Experts suggest strategies for Phillies, Howard in arbitration: THE FIRST TIME the Phillies met Ryan Howard across the arbitration table, last spring at St. Petersburg's posh waterfront Renaissance Vinoy, all indications are that they decided to play nicey-nicey.
Phillies looking at lefthander Ohman: You can add Will Ohman to the list of names that the Phillies have explored in recent weeks as they attempt to fortify both their bullpen and their bench. But there are no indications that the Phillies are close to a deal with the free-agent lefthander, who went 4-1 with a 3.68 ERA for the Braves last season.
Analyzing Phillies' catchers Ruiz, Coste: CARLOS RUIZ was batting .232 at the conclusion of play on Sept. 11. And then the Phillies catcher really started to struggle. He went 4-for-35 (.114) the rest of the regular season.
Phillies 2009 spring training schedule: Salary arbitration hearings are scheduled to begin today in Phoenix, but the Phillies and Ryan Howard still have time to strike a deal before heading to the table.
Phils hopeful of avoiding Howard arbitration: Salary arbitration hearings are scheduled to begin today in Phoenix, but the Phillies and Ryan Howard still have time to strike a deal before heading to the table.
Phillies show off World Series trophy: Thousands of Phillies fans came to the Moorestown Mall on Saturday for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up close to the World Series trophy.
Howard swings for fences in arbitration: The Phillies have just one arbitration-eligible player left to sign, but it's a big one. Slugger Ryan Howard is asking for $18 million.
Sports of The Times: Phillies Pitchers of Old Revel in Past and Present: Outside, the wind was whipping down Park Avenue, but inside, the reminiscences of two veteran Phillies conjured a day game in mid-July.
Reliever Gordon may be going to Diamondbacks: Former Phillies reliever Tom Gordon appears to be close to a deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks that would officially seal his departure from the world champs.
Baseball Notes: Former Phils catcher called in Bonds trial: Former Phillies catcher Bobby Estalella has been subpoenaed by federal prosecutors to testify at Barry Bonds' trial, ESPN.com reported yesterday.
Ruiz reconsiders, will play in Classic: After declaring that he would not be suiting up for Team Panama in the World Baseball Classic this spring, Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz has changed his mind -- for good -- and has decided to take back his original decision and play for his native country, his agent said.
More trophy tour dates announced: On Thursday, the Phillies announced the schedule for Weeks 4-7 of the World Series Trophy Tour, as it will once again make appearances at various malls, schools, colleges, athletic events and recreation centers.
Inqlings: He barged right in on Game 5: Mike Rodia's great talent is getting into places where he shouldn't be - such as in the Phillies' clubhouse after they won the Series, where he kissed Jamie Moyer on the cheek, head-butted Matt Stairs, and poured a bottle of champagne over the head of Ryan Howard.
Jenkins' event to benefit Moyer's cause: Before Spring Training gets started and the Phillies begin their journey of repeating as World Series champions, Jamie Moyer and Geoff Jenkins are going to play a little poker -- for a good cause, of course.
Yankees’ move helps Rangers’ bid for Sheets:
Three teams entered Monday with reported interest in signing free-agent right-hander Ben Sheets. But that list had been pared to two before nightfall.
The New York Yankees filled out their 2009 rotation when they agreed to a one-year, $5.5 million deal with lefty Andy Pettitte. He and Sheets had been the club’s recent targets.The other New York team, the Mets, and the Texas Rangers are believed to be the two front-runners to add Sheets. The Mets, though, could soon be out of play if they decide to re-sign free-agent lefty Oliver Perez."Any time somebody signs another starting pitcher, it lessens the competition,"Rangers president Nolan Ryan said."Andy and Ben are at two different places in their careers. Andy signing certainly doesn’t hurt anything."Nothing else of substance has developed in the Rangers’ pursuit of Sheets, the National League’s starter in the 2008 All-Star Game. Reportedly, Sheets has made available a new round of tests on his right elbow, but the Rangers haven’t seen any medical records since before the holidays.Agent Casey Close continues to shop for a multiyear contract for Sheets, and the Rangers’ brass— including owner Tom Hicks— is debating how much guaranteed money to offer a pitcher who has been on the disabled list fives times in the past four seasons."The reason he’s still unsigned is because of his history,"said Ryan, who is part of the Rangers’ traveling party this week to their academy in the Dominican Republic."I think he’s looking for a multiyear deal. That probably comes down to his medical review and what Mr. Hicks’ position would be."Right-hander Kevin Millwood, who has been the Rangers’ starter on Opening Day the past three seasons, said he would welcome Sheets. They spoke last week at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington while Sheets played long toss, and Millwood said is willing to offer his advice should Sheets seek it."I think it would be great for us as a team,"Millwood said."I think he would make us a better team. It would be a good spot for him."—Jeff WilsonCasey retiringThree-time All-Star Sean Casey planned to announce his retirement today to join the MLB Network.Casey played in the major leagues from 1997-2008, hitting .302 with 130 homers and 735 RBI for Cleveland, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Detroit and Boston. His best seasons were with the Reds, his team from 1998-2005.BrieflyAstros:The Astros have agreed to one-year contracts with their last two players in salary arbitration, giving Wandy Rodriguez $2.6 million and Geoff Geary $1.7 million. Rodriguez, a 30-year-old left-hander, was 9-7 with a 3.54 ERA in 25 starts for the Astros last year. Geary, a 32-year-old right-hander, was 2-3 with a career-best 2.53 ERA in 55 appearances for Houston in 2008. He played for the Phillies from 2003-2007.Royals:Right-hander Zack Greinke agreed to a $38 million, four-year contract that avoided a salary arbitration hearing. Greinke went 13-10 with a 3.47 ERA in 32 starts for Kansas City last season, setting career highs in strikeouts (183) and innings (202 1/3 ).Athletics:Oakland was close to finalizing a one-year contract with reliever Russ Springer.1B Casey retires, headed to TV (AP):
Boston Red Sox first baseman Sean Casey catches a pop foul hit by Philadelphia Phillies' Chase Utley in the sixth inning of a baseball game in Philadelphia. The Red Sox won 3-0. Casey announced his retirement Tuesday Jan. 27, 2009 and his move to the fledgling MLB Network, a 24-hour channel launched this month to about 50 million homes. " align="left" border="0">
During his 12-year career, Sean Casey's most endearing trait became his most enduring. Fellow major leaguers dubbed him "The Mayor" because he seemed to know everyone he met. He chatted up runners at first base, making the game's luminaries smile by respectfully calling them "Mr." before offering a compliment.
Utley: 'I'm going to listen to my body': Chase Utley doesn't know when he'll be able to play again, but it's not for lack of effort. The Phillies' second baseman said Saturday that his rehabilitation from a November surgery on his right hip is progressing according to plan, and he also said that he won't risk aggravating the ailment just to be ready for Opening Day.
MLB: Utley plans to be ready for opening day: Chase Utley says his rehab from hip surgery is on schedule, and the Philadelphia Phillies second baseman expects to be ready by opening day.
Utley optimistic about Opening Day return to Phillies: CHASE UTLEY: All-Star second baseman, orthopedic nomad."I go where the trainers go," the Phillies' most important rehabilitative project told reporters over the weekend.
Phils' Utley plans to be ready by Opening Day: Chase Utley says his rehab from hip surgery is on schedule, and the Phillies second baseman expects to be ready by Opening Day.
Phils 2B Utley hopes to play opening day (AP): Chase Utley says his rehab from hip surgery is on schedule, and the Philadelphia Phillies second baseman expects to be ready by opening day. Utley, who underwent right hip surgery Nov. 24, said Saturday he is just weeks away from starting to swing a bat. "In two to three weeks -- that would be nice," Utley said.
Caution used when it comes to Utley: Phillies second baseman Chase Utley is close to nine weeks removed from Nov. 24 right hip surgery, and while an Opening Day return is still the goal, general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said the club is going to be very careful with their lefty-hitting slugger.
Ruiz forgoes Classic opportunity: Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz has opted not to play for his native Panama in the World Baseball Classic this spring, his agent, Marc Kligman, confirmed. Ruiz was originally on the provisional roster for Team Panama, but, with pitchers and catchers set to report to Clearwater, Fla., on Feb. 14, Ruiz has opted to forego the opportunity.
Phillies' Ruiz will not play in World Baseball Classic: Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz will not play in the World Baseball Classic for his native Panama, his agent Marc Kligman confirmed to the team's Web site.
Bill Conlin: Phillies' new management team gets an A so far: RUBEN AMARO has run through the arbitration season the way Charlie Manuel's baseball team ran through the postseason.The World Series champs lost one game in each series on the way to the parade-launching 11 victories. I'm giving a grade of"A" to the Phillies' rookie general manager and a negotiating team that includes new assistant GM Scott Proefrock, contra
Brewers, 1B Fielder complete 2-year deal (AP):
Milwaukee Brewers' Prince Fielder hits a home run during seventh-inning baseball action in Game 4 of the National League division series against the Philadelphia Phillies in Milwaukee. Fielder and the Milwaukee Brewers completed an $18 million, two-year contract on Friday, a deal that avoided salary arbitration. " align="left" border="0">
Prince Fielder no longer worries about money. Fielder and the Milwaukee Brewers completed an $18 million, two-year contract on Friday, a deal that avoided salary arbitration. "You wake up with no worries," Fielder said. "My kids will get toys, my wife can get purses. Everybody's good." The 24-year-old Fielder receives a $1 million signing bonus and salaries of $6.5 million this year and $10.5 million...
Wright visits kids at Children's Hospital: David Wright visited kids at the Schneider Children's Hospital on Thurdsday. The Mets' third baseman refused to get into a verbal war with the Phillies and said he'd welcome a motivated Manny Ramirez to the club.
Phillies sign Werth, leaving Howard as lone arbitration case: Outfielder Jayson Werth finalized a $10 million, two-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday to avoid salary arbitration.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies know Howard has a powerful arbitration case: Perhaps the most overlooked part of the $18 million arbitration request by Ryan Howard that has been hyped as the third-largest in history is that the Phillies' $14 million figure is also the third-largest offer in history.
Alou draws interest from Phils: Still waiting to hear whether Nomar Garciaparra wants to continue his playing career, the Phillies have shown an interest in several other righthanded hitters who might be able to fill a reserve role with the club.
Phillies, OF Werth finalize two-year contract: The World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies avoided arbitration with outfielder Jayson Werth by agreeing to a two-year contract, a source told ESPN.com.
Werth, Phils finalize $10M, 2-year deal (AP): Outfielder Jayson Werth finalized a $10 million, two-year contract with the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday to avoid salary arbitration. Werth set career highs in nine offensive categories last season as he helped the Phillies win their first World Series in 28 years. He hit .273 with 24 home runs and 67 RBIs to go along with 20 steals and boosted his batting average to .309 in the postseason.
Werth, Durbin agree to pacts with Phils: On Wednesday, the Phillies agreed to terms on a two-year deal with outfielder Jayson Werth, and a one-year, $1.635 million deal with reliever Chad Durbin.
Report says Werth, Phillies agree: Outfielder Jayson Werth and the Philadelphia Phillies reached a preliminary agreement on a two-year, $10 million contract, the Associated Press reported Wednesday.
Werth agrees to 2-year, $10 million deal with Phillies: It might be an overstatement to say that Phillies financial guru Scott Proefrock finally has a chance to breathe. After all, the new assistant general manager still has first baseman Ryan Howard to deal with. But after a flurry of deals capped yesterday by the signings of rightfielder Jayson Werth and righthanded reliever Chad Durbin, the Phillies can at least take some satisfaction in the light at the end of the tunnel.
Phils come to terms with Durbin, Werth: The Phillies' salary commitments for the coming season have risen to more than $112 million - and that doesn't include what the Big Guy will eventually get.
Source: Phillies, OF Werth agree to 2-year deal: The World Series champion Philadelphia Phillies avoided arbitration with outfielder Jayson Werth by agreeing to a two-year contract, a source told ESPN.com.
Source: Phillies reach deal with Werth (AP): Outfielder Jayson Werth and the Philadelphia Phillies reached a preliminary agreement on a $10 million, two-year contract, a person familiar with the agreement said Wednesday. Philadelphia also announced a one-year contract with reliever Chad Durbin worth $1,635,000. Werth's deal was disclosed by a person who spoke on condition of anonymity because it is subject to a physical.
Howard, others swing for salary fences: Ryan Howard and a host of Major Leaguers were swinging for the fences on Tuesday. The Philadelphia Phillies slugger, who led the big leagues in home runs and RBIs in 2008, rose above the rest of the game once more as salary arbitration figures were exchanged throughout baseball.
Phils offer Blanton one-year contract: After agreeing to a one-year deal with center fielder Shane Victorino, the Phillies also extended a one-year contract to starting pitcher Joe Blanton on Tuesday, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer, which reported the deal as being for $5.475 million.
Baseball's arbitration raises: Big and bigger: They might not have the freedom of their free agent brethren, but this year's salary-arbitration players not only have job security but also the assurance of handsome raises. Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard, awarded $10 million in an arbitration hearing last year, again could be this year's biggest winner.
Madson, LaRoche sign amid frenzied push before arbitration: Ryan Madson's $12 million, three-year contract was completed Tuesday by the Philadelphia Phillies, and Pittsburgh Pirates first baseman Adam LaRoche agreed to a $7.05 million, one-year contract as teams and players in arbitration rushed to settle cases.
Phillies slugger Howard seeks $18M in arbitration: NEW YORK (AP) -- Ryan Howard proposed a salary as prodigious as one of his home runs. The Philadelphia Phillies first baseman asked for $18 million in arbitration Tuesday, the third-highest figure submitted since the process began in 1974....
Madson, Phils strike $12 million, 3-year deal: PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Reliever Ryan Madson and the Philadelphia Phillies avoided arbitration by reaching a preliminary agreement Tuesday on a $12 million, three-year contract....
Howard seeks $18 million in arbitration: St. Louisan Ryan Howard and the Philadelphia Phillies could be headed toward another messy arbitration hearing.
Howard asks for $18 million in arbitration: Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard asked Tuesday for $18 million in arbitration, the third-highest figure submitted since the process began in 1974. Philadelphia offered $14 million to the 2006 NL MVP, who is not eligible for free agency until after the 2011...
Phils’ Howard seeks $18 million from arbitration: NEW YORK— Ryan Howard proposed a salary as prodigious as one of his home runs. The Philadelphia Phillies first baseman asked for $18 million in arbitration Tuesday, the third-highest figure submitted since the process began in 1974.
Baseball | Ryan Howard takes swing at making $18 million: Ryan Howard proposed a salary as prodigious as one of his home runs. The Philadelphia Phillies'first baseman asked for $18 million in arbitration...
Phillies slugger Howard seeks $18M in arbitration: Ryan Howard proposed a salary as prodigious as one of his home runs. The Philadelphia Phillies first baseman asked for $18 million in arbitration Tuesday, the third-highest figure submitted since the process began in 1974.
Madson, Phils strike $12 million, 3-year deal: Reliever Ryan Madson and the Philadelphia Phillies avoided arbitration by reaching a preliminary agreement Tuesday on a $12 million, three-year contract.
Sam Donnellon: Phillies showing they'll pay to play well: LAST WINTER, after slugging 47 home runs and knocking in 136 runs, Ryan Howard requested a $10 million salary.The Phillies countered with an offer of $7 million.
Phillies looking at Nomar Garciaparra: There has been so much focus in recent days on money and the Phillies' efforts to sign core talent to new contracts that it's easy to forget the team still is looking for a piece or two as it prepares to defend its World Series title.
Ryan Howard seeks $18 million: The numbers are in, and Ryan Howard once again is reaching high. The Phillies and Howard exchanged salary arbitration figures yesterday, with the slugger asking for $18 million and the team offering $14 million.
Phillies offer $14 million, but Ryan Howard seeks $18 million: CONSPICUOUSLY missing from the steady stream of multiyear deals announced by the Phillies in the past week has been any news about a potential long-term contract for star first baseman Ryan Howard.
Phils sign Victorino, Blanton to one-year deals: The Phillies have agreed to a one-year contract worth $3.125 million with outfielder Shane Victorino and a one-year deal worth $5.475 million with pitcher Joe Blanton. Both had been eligible for salary arbitration.
Phillies' Howard petitions for $18M in arbitration: Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard has asked for $18 million in salary arbitration, the third-highest figure submitted since the process began in 1974.
Howard asks for $18M in arbitration (AP):
Milwaukee Brewers' Prince Fielder watches his home run during the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Florida Marlins in Milwaukee. Fielder had the second-highest request in salary arbitration this year, at $8 million. In arbitration for the first time, he was offered $6 million, up from $670,000 last year. " align="left" border="0">
Ryan Howard proposed a salary as prodigious as one of his home runs. The Philadelphia Phillies first baseman asked for $18 million in arbitration Tuesday, the third-highest figure submitted since the process began in 1974. Philadelphia offered $14 million to the 2006 NL MVP, who is not eligible for free agency until after the 2011 season.
AP sources: Markakis, Madson get big deals: NEW YORK (AP) -- Nick Markakis reached a preliminary agreement on a $66 million, six-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles, and Ryan Madson struck a $12 million, three-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies as players and teams rushed Monday to settle salary arbitration cases....
Markakis gets a big contract: Outfielder Nick Markakis reached a preliminary agreement on a $66 million, six-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles, and Ryan Madson struck a $12 million, three-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies as players and teams rushed Monday to settle salary arbitration cases.
AP sources: Markakis, Madson get big deals: Nick Markakis reached a preliminary agreement on a $66 million, six-year contract with the Baltimore Orioles, and Ryan Madson struck a $12 million, three-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies as players and teams rushed Monday to settle salary arbitration cases.
Phillies give Madson 3-year deal, sources say: The Phillies will usher in an impressive era of bullpen stability today when, according to two sources familiar with the negotiations, they announce a 3-year, $12 million deal with righthanded reliever Ryan Madson.
J.C. Romero eligible for World Baseball Classic: The 50-game suspension that J.C. Romero incurred for violating Major League Baseball's policy against performance-enhancing substances will not keep the Phillies reliever out of the World Baseball Classic.
Phillies sign Madson for $12 million: The Phillies continued to knock names off their list of players eligible for salary arbitration when they agreed on a three-year, $12 million contract extension with reliever Ryan Madson yesterday.
Roundup: Phillies, Madson agree on 3-year deal: One day after locking up No. 1 starter Cole Hamels for the next three years, the Phillies are on the verge of doing the same with their top set-up man, Ryan Madson.
Madson, Phils strike $12M, 3-year deal (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ryan Madson pitchesagainst the Pittsburgh Pirates in the ninth inning of a MLB baseball game in Philadelphia. Madson and the Philadelphia Phillies avoided arbitration by reaching a preliminary agreement on a $12 million, three-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations said Monday, Jan. 19, 2009. " align="left" border="0">
Reliever Ryan Madson and the Philadelphia Phillies avoided arbitration by reaching a preliminary agreement on a $12 million, three-year contract, a person familiar with the negotiations said Monday. The person spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because an official announcement hadn't been made.
Iguchi planning to return to Japan: Tadahito Iguchi is set to sign with the Chiba Lotte Marines in his native Japan, according to Kyodo News. The 34-year-old infielder spent the past four years in the Majors, playing for the White Sox, Phillies and Padres.
Hamels signs 3-year, $20.5 million deal with Phillies: Cole Hamels can afford the finest mantel for his World Series MVP award. The 25-year-old left-hander has agreed to a three-year, $20.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, three people familiar with the negotiations said Saturday.
MLB: Phillies, Hamels agree to $20 million deal: Cole Hamels has agreed to a three-year, $20.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, three people familiar with the negotiations said Saturday.
Hamels hopes new 3-year contract won't be his last with Phillies: His actual day of reckoning did not change, even with this new 3-year, $20.5 million contract that the Phillies have heaped upon him. In 4 years, Cole Hamels could become a free agent, and throw himself at the mercy of the highest bidder, and depart Philadelphia at the beginning of his prime.
Hamels a Phil for 3 years - and counting: Cole Hamels sounded yesterday like a man who would like to be in Philadelphia for a very long time.He took a step in that direction when he signed a three-year, $20.5 million contract extension with the Phillies. The contract bought out Hamels' first three years of salary arbitration, which gave the lefthander financial security and the Phillies cost certainty through 2011.
Phillies have advice for Eagles: The Eagles are two wins away from following the Phillies down Broad Street with a championship trophy in their hands.
Hamels, Phils agree to 3-year, $20.5M deal: The last time Cole Hamels stood at a microphone at Citizens Bank Park was two days after the Phillies won the World Series.
Phils sign Hamels to 3-yr., $20.5M deal (AP):
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels laughs during a news conference in Philadelphia, Sunday Jan. 18, 2009. Hamels and the Phillies have reached an agreement on a three-year, $20.5 million contract extension. " align="left" border="0">
Cole Hamels has about everything an ace pitcher could want after only three years in the major leagues. The Phillies left-hander was the MVP of the World Series, he's earned a reputation as a big-game pitcher, he's been an All-Star and he's married to a former Playboy playmate. Now, Hamels has a hefty three-year, $20.5 million contract to go with the championship he's still savoring.
Phils give Hamels three-year deal: The Phillies inked left-hander Cole Hamels to a three-year contract worth $20.5 million on Saturday, according to The New York Post.
Madson turns down Phillies' offer: Arbitration-eligible Phillies reliever Ryan Madson reportedly turned down a three-year, $12 million offer from Philadelphia.
Phils, Dobbs avoid arbitration: On Friday, the Phillies avoided arbitration with Greg Dobbs -- one of eight Phillies players who filed -- by settling on a two-year, $2.5 million contract, assistant general manager Scott Proefrock announced via press release.
Oliver avoids arbitration with Angels; Phillies sign Dobbs: Darren Oliver and the Los Angeles Angels avoided arbitration, agreeing Friday to a one-year contract worth $3,665,000, while Greg Dobbs and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed Friday to a $2.5 million, two-year contract that avoided arbitration for the pinch-hitting specialist.
Phils, Dobbs, agree to two-year, $2.5 million pact: Good pinch-hitters are of great value to National League teams.Knowing they have one of the best, the Phillies yesterday signed Greg Dobbs to a two-year deal worth $2.5 million.
Phillies reach $2.5 million deal with Dobbs, avoid arbitration: The Phillies' first official announcement of the arbitration season was perhaps their most appropriate.Greg Dobbs finished the 2008 season with just 226 at-bats, less than half of what a full-time major league player usually accumlates over the course of a 162-game season. Yet Dobbs' .301 batting average, nine home runs, and 40 RBI played a pivotal role in
Phils invite 4 more players to spring training: The Phillies have signed infielders Anthony Hewitt, Pablo Ozuna and Jorge Velandia and lefthanded pitcher Jacob Woods to minor-league contracts and invited them to spring training.
Phillies, Hamels agree to 3-year, $20.5M deal: The Phillies have avoided arbitration with World Series MVP Cole Hamels, signing the left-hander to a three-year, $20.5 million contract, ESPN.com has learned.
PH Dobbs gets $2.5M, 2-year deal with Phillies: Greg Dobbs and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed Friday to a $2.5 million, two-year contract that avoided arbitration for the pinch-hitting specialist.
Phils, Dobbs agree on 2-year, $2.5M deal (AP): Greg Dobbs and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed Friday to a $2.5 million, two-year contract that avoided arbitration for the pinch-hitting specialist. Dobbs hit .301 with nine home runs and 40 RBIs in 128 games for the World Series champions. He batted .355 with two home runs and 16 RBIs as a pinch hitter, leading major leaguers in pinch hits (22) and second in pinch-RBIs.
Phillies Notes: Phils invite 4 more players to spring training: The Phillies have signed infielders Anthony Hewitt, Pablo Ozuna and Jorge Velandia and lefthanded pitcher Jacob Woods to minor-league contracts and invited them to spring training.
Spring Training creeping up on Phils: The Phillies are still in need of a right-handed hitter off the bench, they have eight arbitration-eligible guys they need to get signed and, because of J.C. Romero's 50-game suspension after testing positive under Major League Baseball's Drug Policy, have a hole in their stellar bullpen.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies' Utley making progress after hip surgery: The news, or lack thereof, continues to be positive for Phillies second baseman Chase Utley, who is rehabbing from his late-November hip surgery.
The Lowe-down: Excerpt from a post by David Murphy on the Daily News Phillies blog, High Cheese, at go.philly.com/highcheese:THE PHILLIES got a taste of Derek Lowe in the playoffs last season. Now, they will get to see plenty more of him this season as the Atlanta Braves finalized a 4-year, $60 million agreement with the veteran righthander.
MLB: Romero's tests not false positive: A top Major League Baseball official told MLB.com on Tuesday that the supplement taken by Phillies left-hander J.C. Romero that led to a 50-game suspension at the start of the 2009 season did not cause a false positive.
Rollins, Peavy top list of U.S. players interested in WBC: World Series champion shortstop Jimmy Rollins of the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego ace Jake Peavy, the 2007 NL Cy Young Award winner, are among the U.S. players eager to take part in the second World Baseball Classic this spring.
Park skipping World Baseball Classic to focus on starting for Phillies: Phillies righthander Chan Ho Park will miss the World Baseball Classic after quitting South Korea's national team. Park, who finalized a $2.5 million, 1-year contract with the Phillies last week, said he needed to focus on trying to become a starter for the World Series champions.
Driven to be in Phils' rotation, Park to skip WBC: Phillies pitcher Chan Ho Park will miss the World Baseball Classic after quitting South Korea's national team.
Romero supplement's maker cites false positives: The company that makes the dietary supplement that Phillies pitcher J.C. Romero said he took before testing positive for a banned substance said yesterday that its product was untainted and may have caused a false positive.
Henderson, Rice hall votes excite Rollins: The elections of Rickey Henderson and Jim Rice to the Baseball Hall of Fame yesterday resonated deeply with Phillies star Jimmy Rollins.
Inqlings: Hamelses moving on up: Phillies star pitcher Cole Hamels is on top of the world. Soon, he'll be sleeping there, too. Hamels and his wife, Heidi Strobel, are about to settle on a three-bedroom, 31/2-bathroom condo, a 2,700-square-footer way up in Two Liberty Place.
Phils show interest in Nomar, Kapler: The Phillies have reportedly expressed interest in infielder Nomar Garciaparra and outfielder Gabe Kapler.
US WBC interest list released: World Series champion shortstop Jimmy Rollins of the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego ace Jake Peavy, the 2007 NL Cy Young Award winner, are among the U.S. players eager to take part in the second World Baseball Classic this spring....
US WBC interest list released: World Series champion shortstop Jimmy Rollins of the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego ace Jake Peavy, the 2007 NL Cy Young Award winner, are among the U.S. players eager to take part in the second World Baseball Classic this spring.
Garciaparra on deck for Phillies?: If infielder Nomar Garciaparra is interested in continuing his career, the Phillies may sign him to be a righthanded bat off their bench.
World Series Trophy Tour: Here is a list of free events featuring the Phillies' 2008 World Series trophy:Monday: The Heritage Hills Golf Resort&Conference Center in York, Pa. Noon to 1:30 p.m.
Phillies sending World Series on a road trip around Delaware Valley: It's time for Phillies fans to get up close and personal with the World Series trophy.Just as the Stanley Cup is known for making the rounds with the winning team, the Phillies will take their World Series trophy to area schools, recreation centers, malls and special events, where fans can see firsthand what was earned in the 4-1 Series victory over Tampa Bay.
Rollins, Peavy among players on U.S. WBC list: World Series champion shortstop Jimmy Rollins of the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego ace Jake Peavy, the 2007 NL Cy Young Award winner, are among the U.S. players eager to take part in the second World Baseball Classic this spring.
Rollins, Peavy want to play in WBC (AP): World Series champion shortstop Jimmy Rollins of the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego ace Jake Peavy, the 2007 NL Cy Young Award winner, are among the U.S. players eager to take part in the second World Baseball Classic this spring. USA Baseball released a list of 22 potential players Friday who have expressed interest and are being considered for the American roster to be managed by Davey...
Phils invite nine to Spring Training: The Phillies extended a Spring Training invitation to nine additional players on Wednesday, assistant general manager of player development and scouting Chuck LaMar announced.
Free Agent Frustration: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero was suspended for the first 50 games of next season yesterday after testing positive for a banned substance contained in a supplement developed by convicted BALCO chemist Patrick Arnold.
Phils' spring tickets on sale: Individual tickets for Phillies spring-training games go on sale today at 9 a.m.The Phillies will play 18 games at Bright House Field in Clearwater, Fla. The first game is Feb. 26 against Toronto. The Phillies will host two World Baseball Classic exhibition games, on March 4 vs. Canada and March 5 vs. Team USA.
Donald, Giles among Phillies' invitees to spring training: Infield prospect Jason Donald and veteran second baseman Marcus Giles are among nine players the Phillies invited to spring training yesterday.
Phillies invite nine non-roster players to camp: The Phillies invited nine non-roster players to major-league spring-training camp yesterday, including infielder Marcus Giles and reliever Gary Majewski, both of whom have significant big-league experience.
World Series boosted city tax revenues: Be thankful for the Phillies.In an otherwise dismal report on city tax collections, the 2008 World Series champs brought the only bit of good news:
Dan Gross: Rollins shows a fun side: JIMMY ROLLINS is a stand-up guy. He proved it again Tuesday afternoon, when a ballsy high-school student knocked on the door of his South Jersey mansion to ask the Phillies shortstop if he would place a call to Wired 96.5.
Phillies to address Romero void: Following J.C. Romero's 50-game suspension, the Phillies now have to address the loss of one of the biggest pieces to their bullpen quickly, with pitchers and catchers set to report to Clearwater, Fla., on Feb. 14.
Phillies ink Giles to Minor League deal: The Phillies added some much-needed depth on Tuesday, when they signed second baseman Marcus Giles to a Minor League contract, team sources confirmed. According to the Denver Post, the deal is worth $600,000.
Phils make it official with Park signing: The Phillies made it official with Chan Ho Park on Tuesday, signing the veteran right-hander to a one-year deal -- originally reported at $2.5 million -- general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. announced in a press release.
Phillies' Romero says he's not guilty in doping suspension: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero and Yankees minor league pitcher Sergio Mitre were suspended for the first 50 games of next season ...
Romero, Mitre suspended 50 games each by MLB: NEW YORK (AP) -- Phillies reliever J.C. Romero was suspended for the first 50 games of next season on Tuesday after testing positive for a banned substance contained in a supplement developed by convicted BALCO chemist Patrick Arnold....
MLB suspends 2 for using banned substance: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero one of the players.
Phillies' Romero suspended 50 games by league: Philadelphia Phillies reliever J.C. Romero will be suspended for the first 50 games of next season after testing positive for a banned supplement, ESPN.com reported Monday night. Romero thought the supplement he took was legal because he bought it over the counter at a nutrition store in the United States, the report said.
W.S. Game 5 winner one of two docked 50 games: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero and Yankees minor league pitcher Sergio Mitre have been suspended for the first 50 games of next season after testing positive for a banned substance.
MLB Roundup: League suspends two pitchers: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero was suspended for the first 50 games of next season yesterday after testing positive for a banned substance contained in a supplement developed by convicted BALCO chemist Patrick Arnold.
Romero, Mitre suspended 50 games each by MLB: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero was suspended for the first 50 games of next season on Tuesday after testing positive for a banned substance contained in a supplement developed by convicted BALCO chemist Patrick Arnold.
Phils' Romero a casualty in baseball's drug war: It matters not to Major League Baseball whether J.C. Romero was a victim of bad advice. The league yesterday hit the Phillies pitcher with a 50-game suspension for violating its policy against the use of performance-enhancing substances. Romero won't be eligible to pitch for the Phillies until June 1.
Phillies Notebook: Phillies considering options to replace Romero: THANKS TO THE confidentiality afforded all parties in Major League Baseball's drug policy, Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. didn't know one of his top relievers was appealing a drug suspension before an arbitrator during the first 2 days of the World Series.
Phillies Notes: Marcus Giles joins Phils: Chan Ho Park officially joined the Phillies yesterday, but additions to the organization did not stop there.Looking for infield depth as Chase Utley and Pedro Feliz recover from off-season surgeries, the Phils signed veteran infielder Marcus Giles to a minor-league contract.
Marcus Giles joins Phils: Chan Ho Park officially joined the Phillies yesterday, but additions to the organization did not stop there.
Phils' Romero won't appeal 50-game suspension: Phillies reliever J.C. Romero was officially suspendedTuesday for the first 50 games of next season after testing positive for a banned substance.
Park signs one-year, $2.5M deal with Phillies: Chan Ho Park and the Philadelphia Phillies finalized their $2.5 million, one-year contract on Tuesday.
Marcus Giles, Phils agree on minor league deal: Marcus Giles and the Phillies have agree to a minor league deal.
MLB suspends Phillies P Romero 50 games (AP):
Sergio Mitre in a Florida marlins uniform. Mitre, now a minor league pitcher for the Yankees, and Phildelphia Phillies reliever J.R. Romero were suspended for the first 50 games of next season after testing positive for a banned substance. The suspensions were announced Tuesday Jan. 6, 2009 by Major League Baseball. " align="left" border="0">
Phillies reliever J.C. Romero was suspended for the first 50 games of next season on Tuesday after testing positive for a banned substance contained in a supplement developed by convicted BALCO chemist Patrick Arnold. Yankees minor league pitcher Sergio Mitre also was suspended for the first 50 games of next season after testing positive for a banned substance in an over-the-counter supplement.
Romero to be suspended for 50 games: Phillies pitcher J.C. Romero tested positive for use of an over-the-counter supplement and will be suspended for the first 50 games of the 2009 season, ESPN.com reported on Monday night.
Rays add Burrell: ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) -- The Tampa Bay Rays added a big bat for the middle of their batting order, agreeing Monday to a $16 million, two-year contract with Pat Burrell.... The 32-year-old spent the past nine seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies, who defeated the Rays in the World Series a little over two months ago.... He hit .250 with 33 homers, 33 doubles and 86 RBIs last season and has averaged 31 homers, 99 RBIs and 103 walks over the past four seasons....
Bradley joins Cubs; Rangers turn to Cruz:
News that Milton Bradley has agreed to terms with the Chicago Cubs didn’t send shockwaves through the Texas Rangers’ offices on a chilly Monday.
Bradley, who became an All-Star for the first time last year with the Rangers, was seeking a multiyear contract in free agency. The Rangers, weary of Bradley’s injury history, were willing to guarantee only this season.So, the outfielder bolted to the National League Central on Monday for a contract reportedly worth $30 million over three years. But the Rangers had prepared for life without Bradley, and Nelson Cruz will be a major player in filling the void."Cruz will get the opportunity to show he’s capable of helping the club win,"GM Jon Daniels said.That’s quite a leap for a player who didn’t make the Opening Day roster in 2008 but became a big contributor over the final five weeks of a 79-83 season.Cruz was the MVP of the Pacific Coast League, and the Rangers are hoping that the 28-year-old is a late bloomer who can provide 25 homers and be a constant presence in the lineup.Bradley, who hit .321 with 22 homers and led the American League with a .436 on-base percentage in his only season with the Rangers, played in 126 games and had 414 at-bats despite having surgery to repair an ACL in September 2007.He missed multiple games in June, August and September with quadriceps and wrist injuries.Cruz didn’t miss a start in right field after being recalled from Triple A Oklahoma City on Aug. 25. He hit .330 in 31 games with seven homers and an impressive .421 OBP.Add in a healthy Hank Blalock, who was the club’s top player in September (.337, 8 HR, 23 RBI), and the Rangers have the ingredients to replace Bradley’s production.— Jeff WilsonTwins owner diesCarl Pohlad, a billionaire banker whose Minnesota Twins won two