PhillyTalk: Ask the Writers and Experts

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Ask Andy Martino

Inquirer Sports Writer

Email Andy at amartino@phillynews.com

Most Recent Questions & Answers

Questions: 31 - 10 of 500

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Eaton Out?

QHey Z, I remember hearing about two months back Adam Eaton was brought in for some tests on his shoulder. Do you know what his status is? Is he going to be 100% for Spring Training? Keep on keepin' on!

RodeoJones, I live in the moment, NJ 02/07/08

AThe Phillies have said he is healthy. But like one Phillies person told me a couple months ago, "That doesn't mean anything. Let's see him pitch in spring training. I need to see it to believe it." I agree.

Andy Martino

Tom Gordon

QDo the Phillies plan to Gordon after this year?

Anonymous, Havertown, PA 02/07/08

AIs "Gordon" a verb? Dude, I totally got Gordoned last night!

Andy Martino

Kris Benson

QWhat's up with Kris Benson? I think he would fit in well with this rotation. He has potential and not much of a downside. He will take a incentive laden deal (or so I hear) and less garunteed money. I sure wish Adam Eaton took that, he would be owing the Phillies money after last year. Anyway what are the chances they go after Benson?

By the way your new pic does look like Jim Carey. That's not ment as an insult either.

Pocono Gene, Albrightsville, PA 02/07/08

AThe Phillies are close to a deal with Benson. Stay tuned.

Andy Martino

Chris Wheeler

Q
Is Chris Wheeler still a member of the broadcasting staff ?

Mike, Middletown, PA 02/06/08

AYes, he is still a broadcaster.

Andy Martino

Gillick's replacement

QTodd,

Do you think Pat's refusal to sign Howard long term is to not handcuff the next GM with a lot of long term delas like he inherited when Wade left? Who will replace Pat as GM, I don't think Cashman ever wanted to come here, he just used us as a bargaining chip.

Nino Espinoza, Omaha, NE 02/05/08

AI think the early favorite is Ruben Amaro Jr. He's basically become the spokesperson for the team because Gillick prefers it that way. Amaro was the runner-up for the GM job in Houston, and previously interviewed for GM jobs in Los Angeles, Baltimore and Philadelphia. I get the feeling those inside the organization like the job he is doing and that Gillick has mentored him well. But again ... it's way too early to know for sure who it's going to be. Mike Arbuckle is respected as well.

Andy Martino

2008 Draft

QThe Phillies have some good draft picks in this upcoming draft, with the 24th, 34th, and 48th overall picks. Given the organization's recent strategy of picking up pitchers in the early rounds (Zack Segovia, Andrew Carpenter, Kyle Drabek, Cole Hamels, Joe Savery), the strengths of the system is in the pitchers. Do you expect the Phils to shore up their lack of depth in position players? Have you heard any indication of who they are looking to draft? Thanks.

Dan, Hatboro, PA 02/05/08

AThey definitely could stand to find more talented position players because right now there aren't many in the higher levels. But in baseball I'm not sure how much you want to reach for a particular position. I think you take the best player available.

Andy Martino

Spring Training Preview

QLooking for Spring Training issues to watch for: who do you think we'll be the favorites for the last 2-3 roster spots, which appear to be all bullpen jobs (or could Snelling convince Charlie to keep only 6 relievers?). Also, which of the candidates must make the club or risk waivers and/or being offered back to their previous teams?

Rock, Allentown, PA 02/04/08

AI think there's a chance the Phillies could carry six bench players, which would mean a spot on the roster for Snelling or Helms. (I still think Helms doens't break camp with the team.) If it's only five bench players, I think guys like Condrey and J.D. Durbin will be competing for the final two bullpen jobs. As far as favorites, I think Condrey would be a favorite.

Andy Martino

2008 entry draft

QAre the Phils required to forfeit their 1st round pick in this seasons draft because of the Feliz signing from the Giants? Also, are their any prospects that may have a bright future in the majors???

Frank, Philadelphia , PA 02/02/08

AThey will not lose a pick for signing Feliz. As far as prospects, the Phillies' system is ranked 22nd by Baseball America. They have some talented arms, but they're lacking in position players.

Andy Martino

phillies road games are not in HD

QTodd,

Can you please tell me why the phillies road games are not being broadcasted in HD. while all of the home games are in HD. only road games against the mets and nationals were in HD... can you please find out for me. Greatly appreciated.

thanks,

dean , philly(somerton area), PA 02/02/08

AI do not have the answer for you, but I will see what I can find out.

Andy Martino

Sweet New Picture

QTodd,

there is no way you can convince me that you are not related to Jim Carrey. Great work with the blog, can't wait for the season to start and read your insider's scoop in the Phils.

DV, Philadelphia, PA 02/02/08

Did I just get insulted? :)

Andy Martino

Questions: 31 - 10 of 500

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