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Sunday, November 2, 2008
Amaro to Be Named Tonight

The Phillies will name Ruben Amaro Jr. their general manager tonight, a source confirmed.

A news conference will be at 10 a.m. tomorrow.

The Inquirer wrote Monday that Amaro was expected to be named Pat Gillick's replacement 24 to 48 hours within the final out of the World Series or after Gillick's three-year contract with the Phillies expired on Friday. Amaro leaves for California tomorrow for the GM meetings in Dana Point, Calif. Assistant general manager Mike Arbuckle won't be back with the team.

Posted by Todd Zolecki @ 5:04 PM  Permalink | 96 comments
97
Comments   
Posted 05:46 PM, 11/02/2008
bobby
It's funny what winning a chapionship will do. I suspect that if the Phils had fallen short of the playoffs (which was a distinct possibility) and this announcement had been made, there would have been a lot of screaming about how the organization was not committed to winning, and not willing to go out and get the best. But how can anyone complain now? Best of Luck, Ruben!!!
Posted 08:00 PM, 11/02/2008
KMG
Back to the blog after a weekend of celebrating, I still get charged up when I see the last pitch from Lidge- what an amazing week, boys and girls! On the hire- I saw some people on another the blog ripping this hire; I think that's ridiculous. Pat Gillick has won three world title and put together a team, the 1999 Mriners, that won the most regular season games in the last 50 years. Don't you think the team asked him and he said Amaro is the guy? Arbuckle's done a good job, not a great job, with the farm system but he's been interviewed for 2-3 GM jobs before and never got one. The jury is out on this hire, for sure, but to pontificate on how bad it is seems quite silly. P.S.- Did I mention we're WORLD CHAMPIONS?!!
Posted 10:06 PM, 11/02/2008
Mark1npt
WFC's no less!.....but wouldn't it have been quite innovative of the Phils to name co-GM's? Amaro to do the waivers/contracts/negotiations while Arbuckle did scouting/drafting/minor leagues etc....hope he doesn't take our whole scouting dept with him.....
Posted 11:00 PM, 11/02/2008
Norma
Gee. What a surprise! Didn't see this coming. LOL! I really don't think Mike Arbuckle ever had a chance. For quite a while I had a little issue with the Gillick/Amaro team. Just seemed like Pat and Ruben were attached at the hip. I would call Ruben, Pat's *mini me*. LOL! But like bobby said, "really can't complain now!" Bring us another Championship, Ruben!
Posted 11:04 PM, 11/02/2008
Norma
From previous topic....Here's some possibilities(from Sunday's Inquirer) for left field, if Pat isn't re-signed.....Manny (Please! No!), Matt Holliday, Magglio Ordenez, Milton Bradley, Juan Rivera, Mike Cameron, and Rocco Baldelli. I'd love to see Holliday here. Not sure what his #'s were this year, but he's had a big bat in the past. And he kind of seems like a *fit*. Apparently, the Phillies have always liked Baldelli. And since he would require days off, because of a medical condition, they think he could platoon with Jenkins and Stairs. Wonder what kind of reception he'd get from the fans, though? Beeing a "Ray". LOL! And I'd really like to see what Stairs can do for us in the field. He sure helped off the bench last year!
Posted 11:27 PM, 11/02/2008
Deb in Dixie
In terms of his personality, I think Baldelli would be a good fit. He goes all out and comes from RI and has the name Rocco!! Real blue collar. I also like Holliday and Ordenez in terms of numbers.
Posted 12:06 AM, 11/03/2008
Norma
Deb....I was thinking the same thing about Baldelli. Sounds like he's from South Philly! LOL!
Posted 12:41 AM, 11/03/2008
Don w
Maglio Ordonez definitely. Has three years left on his contract. Holliday would be great too if not for the fact that he's a free agent next year with Boras as his agent. He also hit 280 away from Coors. Ordonez coud be the batter we need to hit between Chase and Ryan. The Tigers declined offerinf Renteria a contract and may be looking fora shortstop. How about Jenkins Donald valle and Eaton for Maglio?
Posted 01:54 AM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
Hey everyone, hope you enjoyed the party. I'm going to be different. The Phils don't need a left fielder even if Pat isn't back. Move Werth to LF, start JEnkins and/or Stairs in RF (I don't think Golson is ready yet) and get a very good, very young prospect to be the 5th outfielder. Werth's production as a full timer will be up and make up a good part of Pat's bat. Also, Feliz should hit better then this year, as will Ruiz. COste is gone (I'm very sorry to say) as Marson is the new Backup catcher. We need a reserve infielder and a pitcher to take over the job Madson did until he became the bridge to Lidge. Then again, if Rowland wants to come back, he's always welcome and then The outfield is Victorino in RF, Rowland in CF and Werth in LF
Comment removed.
Posted 07:44 AM, 11/03/2008
NJLouis66
Not a bad idea Jeff, but man, it's awfully comfortable with Werth out there in right. Somehow that image of him being in exactly the right place when Zobrist hit that screaming liner off of Lidge in the 9th is etched in my head. Here's a thought for Ruben to make a spalsh... Do like you're saying and work something out where Burrell is replaced from within (like Victorino replaced Rowand), forget the big money outfielders, then shock the world and go get CC Sabathia. Merry Christmas. Hamels-Sabathia-Myers-Blanton-Moyer. Plan next year's parade. A guy can dream...
Posted 08:27 AM, 11/03/2008
Gary Varsho
Jeff - they may not have Marson as the backup catcher. When a player has starting catcher ability, they usually want them to catch on more of a full time basis and not once a week. If he is with the big club next year, I would expect that Ruiz isn't, and if Ruiz is, then Marson will be in AAA or gone. Just a guess based on how most teams handle catching prospects - especially ones that can hit like Marson.
Posted 09:14 AM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
in any other posistion you are correct Gary, but with catchers the important part is to get to learn the staff. spending a year catching once or twice a week, while working with the staff on a regular basis will be much more advantagious to him, and us. Besides as for his bat, he can always be a pinch hitter as well.
Posted 09:17 AM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
NJLouis66: The main question needs to be is there someone in teh minors who will be ready in another year to play in teh big leagues. If there is, then it's a waste of money to go sign someone for the one year. As for your idea of CC, forget it. The Yanks will offer him a billion a year if that is what it takes. Our starting pitching is fine. We have Hammels, Myers, Moyer, Branton and Happ/Kendrick,
Posted 09:52 AM, 11/03/2008
KarenA
Jeff G-I agree about getting another reliever. The Phils were REAL lucky that their pitching staff did not suffer any injuries. So whatever those guys did in the off season and during season, let's hope they repeat the same regime! Holliday would be a nice addition to the staff if Pat is not resigned.
Posted 09:53 AM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
First off, congrats to Ruben Amaro. Unlike previous years and executive decisions, I am going to give you a chance before I decide what I think of you as this team's GM. Winning it all this year has earned the organization the benefit of the doubt. And it is true that you have credentials that are hope-inspiring - extremely intelligent (Stanford grad), former player (former Phillie), baseball pedigree (Ruben, Sr.), and bilingual in an organization that has fallen out of touch with the Latin American market. 3 years of tutilage under a Hall of Famer can't hurt, either. Going to miss Mike Arbuckle. I thought he did a fine job overseeing the scouting and player development. Hopefully whoever fills that role can do as good of a job. One last thanks to Pat Gillick, the man who was as responsible as any for last week's euphoria! Enjoy your retirement, however you choose to spend it, and your HOF induction.
Posted 09:55 AM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
I think Ruben may have just accepted the toughest job in baseball. Taking over the World Champs from a future Hall-of-Famer, something like 7 guys arbitration eligible, with Burrell and Moyer free agents, and needing to decide if Chris Coste is finished in Philly, and having to sell it to the fans if he is. Ruben is going to be tested right out of the gates.
Posted 10:19 AM, 11/03/2008
phillyphan4ever08
Ruiz would and should be back next year. he has always had the talent of a back-up catcher even though he was the starter. if the oppertunity of a new starting catcher (Marson or whoever else) presents itself, then Ruiz would be the back-up. He remains one of the best defensive catchers in the league who really has a feel for all of the pitchers , espeacially lidge in his slider in the ground. I love Coste but still believe Ruiz would be the better back-up. That said with taguchi gone, the extra bench spot could possibly go to Coste because he could be a valuable back-up to Howard at first and maybe even give Howard a day off when facing tough lefties. the best part about that scenerio is that the phillies would then have 3 catchers with werth as a fourth in case of an emergency. this gives manuel plenty of options off the bench. I would love for it to go that way. yeah we'd lose an outfielder but we'd still have bruntlett and dobbs as well as jenkins and stairs.
Posted 10:22 AM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Priorities - 1. Resign Moyer, 2. Sign Cole Hamels, either to an acceptable 1-yr. deal that will avoid arbitration, or a longer term deal that buys out all of his arbitration years, 3. Resign Scott Eyre, 4. Replace Burrell (I would love to see them land Matt Holliday for one year, and look to groom Golson for the 2010 season, and supposedly they were very close in July to satisfying Colorado in trade, but I do not know how much of the farm it would cost to get him, and for a one-year rental, it may not be worth it), 5. Replace So Taguchi (I like Gabe Kapler for this role, RH outfielder off the bench, but limited speed which still leaves the Phillies with no legit pinch-runners; would be awesome if they could pry Ryan Freel away from the Reds for this, he is so good off the bench, with such great positional versatility), 6. Deal with other arbitration-eligible players: Werth, Victorino, Blanton, Madson (I think?), 7. Now try to come to terms with Ryan Howard; no sense getting too involved with this too early, since in all likelihood you are going to arbitration again anyway...address the other needs first. I know they are likely to go to Spring Training with Eaton, Kendrick and Happ competing for the 5th starter's spot, but how awesome would it be for them to try to sign Derek Lowe, a mid-tier, mid-priced, ground ball pitcher with a successful pedigree and a history of solid postseason performance. Hamels, Lowe, Myers, Moyer, Blanton. I would love that, especially since I think he is the starter the Mets will try hardest to land.
Posted 10:53 AM, 11/03/2008
James TL
My head is still up in the clouds over what happened last week. World Champions! Hard to believe! I didn't think the Phils had enough pitching. Considering their difficulties scoring runs (
Posted 10:54 AM, 11/03/2008
James TL
OOPS!
Posted 10:57 AM, 11/03/2008
James TL
Didn't finish...considering their problems scoring runs (at times) this season and what looked like weak pitching it's amazing that they won it all. But they did!!! I, too would love to see groundball pitcher Dereek Lowe in a Phillies uniform. That should be their top priority (besides signing Moyer and satifying Hamels and Howard.
Posted 11:31 AM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Were you guys ok with Chase's performance during the celebration? I really think it was the most pathetic display in recent memory. is thee a posibility he was on cocaine? It was kind of reminiscent of Michael Irvins cocaine fueled celebration speech's back in the mid 90's....
Posted 11:33 AM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Wow. I never knew using an obscene word in a moment of unbridled joy was an immediate indication of cocaine usage. I must be the biggest coke fiend alive.
Posted 11:36 AM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Secondly, did anyone hear Eskin on sports final last night? He reported that the Phillies were ready to trade Howard @ the trade deadline for James Looney and bunch of other L.A. Dodger scrubs. Personally, I think it was Esking attempting to rain on the Phillies parade. If true that could have gone down in history as Philadelphia's worse trade ever....
Posted 11:37 AM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
I had no problem with what Chase said. I am tired of the whole world being so oversensitive; sick of hearing "the children, the children!" Wake up, people. Your children are aware that word exists; they have heard it before, likely from your own mouth once or twice, AND (I hate to break it to you, but) they USE THAT WORD themselves when you are not around. So get off your high horse and be a parent for five minutes; tell your kids that what Chase Utley said was bad, that he let his emotions get the better of him, and that they better NEVER repeat it. At least, that is how "naughty" words were treated by most parents when I was a kid...people then had no delusions about what their kids saw and heard when the parents weren't around.
Posted 11:40 AM, 11/03/2008
RobS
Amaro will need to do some fine tuning. The rotation will look similar (Hamels, Myers, Blanton, Happ/Kendrick) with a decision to be made with Moyer. Burrell won't be back and they will need to sign a number of their arbitration eligible players. They need a reliever to take Madson's spot as he will now pitch the 8th. They need a starting LF (whether that is a platoon or not) and a right handed bat off the bench. Look for smaller signings (Baldelli?) and possibly a trade (i.e. Lidge) to round out the roster.
Posted 11:45 AM, 11/03/2008
pat h
Hey Truth, I saw you at the parade. You were that Black man with a Ryan Howard jersey. Your the reason we all can't get along. You only see black and white. We live in a world of grey.. Both Howard and Rollins are very well spoken, nice young men. I wish I could say the same about his Black fan Truth...
Posted 11:45 AM, 11/03/2008
pat h
Hey Truth, I saw you at the parade. You were that Black man with a Ryan Howard jersey. Your the reason we all can't get along. You only see black and white. We live in a world of grey.. Both Howard and Rollins are very well spoken, nice young men. I wish I could say the same about his Black fan Truth...
Posted 11:47 AM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Thirdly, whats up with this need fro Baldelli? The guy could be hospitalized for his degenerative condition at any time! That would be the absoulute worse risk a new GM could take. I still think Pat will be back, lets see what the market dictates. I bet they find a middle at 3/27 million.
Posted 11:47 AM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Thirdly, whats up with this need fro Baldelli? The guy could be hospitalized for his degenerative condition at any time! That would be the absoulute worse risk a new GM could take. I still think Pat will be back, lets see what the market dictates. I bet they find a middle at 3/27 million.
Posted 11:51 AM, 11/03/2008
Gary Varsho
I think I've uttered the phrase World ******* Champions at least 10 times since the last out on Wednesday night. And I've never done cocaine in my life. Truth- now you are the totally classless idiot. Accusing somebody of drug use, because he said the F word is not only ridiculous, but shows that you really just want to be a classless idiot to get people to argue with you.
Posted 12:14 PM, 11/03/2008
James TL
Probably should let truth answer for himself but what proof do you have that he is black? I know he defends Ryan Howard a lot but that doesn't prove anything. I have a Howard shirt myself and I'm not black. Doesn't matter what color people are anyway......
Posted 12:14 PM, 11/03/2008
James TL
Probably should let truth answer for himself but what proof do you have that he is black? I know he defends Ryan Howard a lot but that doesn't prove anything. I have a Howard shirt myself and I'm not black. Doesn't matter what color people are anyway......
Posted 12:35 PM, 11/03/2008
Truth
pat h- you not me are the one with the racial issue. I have never called any individual out b/c of their race. I commented on Chase's stmt not in a racial way but in an observational way. I'm not alone in noting his comments are not that of a role model. Anyhow pat h, you can deride me as 'black truth' or whatever you want. It is ppl like you that are not the problem not me. I really don't think Rollins or Howard care that you think they are "well spoken". Are you taking classes from the Joe Biden school of compliments? Thats probably well over your head 'pat h' just disregard the last portion.
Posted 12:39 PM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Gary, generally I fing your comments to be of value. In this case get real, if you uttering World ***** Champions hanging out with your friends is alot different than a role model saying it in front of 70-80k ppl with millions more watching or listening. It doesn't represent himself or the city well. Be Honest with yourself.
Posted 01:26 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
How did this become a racial issue? I agree that Truth was, as usual, way out of line by accusing Utley of drug use simply because he uttered a naughty word in public (god forbid)... but where was the racial connotation? I think what should be questioned more is why Truth seems to have it in for Chase Utley. My best guess is simply that he is the most popular player on the team, and since Truth likes to try to get a rise out of people, who better to pick on repeatedly?
Comment removed.
Posted 01:34 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Interesting... the general consensus seems to be that the poor economy will impact free agent contracts this winter in that, while premium talent like CC and Manny will still $$$PAID$$$, mid-tier talent will have to take a hit to compensate. To me, that means guys like Adam Dunn, and, yes, Pat Burrell. If the market for mid-tier, mid-money players is hurting, is it possible he does come back to the Phillies if they stay in that $11M/year range, if perhaps he can talk them up to 3 guaranteed years? My guess is, when the chips are down, they would go as far as 3 years. I doubt that 2 years is a hard and fast line in the sand, because it would simply be a bad negotiating ploy to open with an offer that provides no wiggle room. If they offered 2, my guess is they would be willing to go 3 for the right price. The question then becomes, will Burrell get the offers everyone was expecting him to get, those Aaron Rowand-like, 5 years, $60M offers? According to some writers, that may not be there for players of Burrell's ilk this year.
Posted 01:35 PM, 11/03/2008
Gary Varsho
Truth - debating whether or not he used poor judgement is one thing, but to accuse him of doing coke is where you go way overboard. My guess is that he didn't do it out of nowhere, and that he was put up to it by others on the team. None of them seemed surprised that he said it, and they all thought it was funny.
Posted 01:36 PM, 11/03/2008
Norma
Jeff.....I'm up for Werth moving to left, and platooning Jenkins and Stairs. In fact, I mentioned that a couple of topics ago. Hope Golson gets a decent amount of playing time in Clearwater. Then, if we are able to keep Pat, Golson could pinch run instead of Bruntlett. Use any money we save to get another leftie in the 'pen.
Posted 02:00 PM, 11/03/2008
RAS
Just heard Amaro on WIP. He was saying that his top priority is to get all the arbitration eligible guys done. When they asked him about a long term deal for Hamels, he said "We'll try..." Not overly optimistic. Amaro, like Gillick, will go as far as the balance in the checkbook handed to him by ownership, although he did say that next year's payroll will exceed this year's. It doesn't bode well for guys like Howard and Hamels that the Phils won it all on the relative cheap.... no hundred million dollar contracts. So I think the only way we see a dynasty here is if the current owners sell (on the proverbial high note) to someone/thing with deep pockets like maybe Comcast.
Posted 02:00 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
crazy idea: Sign Griffy to a one year contract (he's a FA. he has teh power that Pat had, and the same limitations (can't run). Hopefully by 2010 Golson is ready. Not too big a payout, as his production has declined, but we have the backups to enable him his rest (Stairs, Dobbs, Jenkins) Comments??
Posted 02:10 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
jeff: hate it. First, the last thing they need is another left-handed bat. Second, the guy is all but done. For the production he put up this year, you might as well play Golson everyday and at least have the benefit of his speed and a young player getting experience in the bigs. I hate to say it, but at this point, Griffey is all but useless except as a PR ploy.
Posted 02:12 PM, 11/03/2008
Gary Varsho
jeff, we don't need another left handed bat, especially an aged Griffey.. Forget Golson - he is Michael Bourn part 2. His speed is useless if he can't get on base. If Pat is not back, we need a veteran right handed bat for the outfield.
Posted 02:15 PM, 11/03/2008
RobS
Jeff.....The problem with Griffey is that he hits left handed. You can't throw another lefty into that lineup with Utley and Howard. It just won't work. They need a right handed bat. Also, someone mentioned earlier the possibility of platooning Stairs/Jenkins. That doesn't work either as they both bat lefthanded. They need a right handed hitting corner outfielder to start and a right handed hitting bench player.
Posted 02:27 PM, 11/03/2008
RAS
The last thing this team needs is another old outfielder. Wheeze Kids II.
Posted 02:37 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
okay, I accept all teh critism. So who do you sign? Please no stupid trades that a) the other team won't do or b) are not realistic. Who do we play in LF next year? Please remember, that the phils have a budget and I don't expect them to go over teh 8-10 million a year for a LF
Posted 02:42 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
jeff: They need a RH hitter in LF, and one who can bat in the middle of the order and replace Burrell's production. The most feasible option, to me, is still Pat Burrell himself. As I alluded to earlier, I don't think the market for Burrell will be anywhere near what everyone thinks. It is likely that the poor economy will hurt players like Burrell the most. I think if the Phillies stay within the $10-12M per year range, and allow themselves to go to 3 guaranteed years, I still think Burrell will be in LF for the Phillies. He is the best available option for them other than Manny, who would simply be an unwise investment considering the jump their payroll is going to take just from all those arbitration-eligible players.
Posted 02:47 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
If they are willing to go three years, and pay 10 million he'll be back. I am not certain that teh phils are willing to do this. First of all, in three years, pat is 35, and won't be able to walk in LF, no less run. Second, they have a young outfielder named Golson who is supposed to be ready in the next year or two to play everyday. For argument's sake, let's assume Pat isn't back. Who do you bring in?
Posted 03:09 PM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Jeff Gross-Here is the name. RAUL IBANEZ, exactly what the Phils need. He is 5/40mil player
Posted 03:16 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
I have no idea, that is part of the problem. There just aren't many options. I suppose worst case scenario is a platoon of Jenkins and Golson in LF, but that is a worst case scenario for a reason. I hate it. I just don't see them trading the farm to get Matt Holliday, and then watching him walk next year, and I don't see them meeting Boras's demands for a player like Holliday. I cannot imagine them taking a chance on the volatile and oft-injured Milton Bradley. Adam Dunn is a poor man's Ryan Howard, and would be a horrible idea in the same lineup as Howard. What else is out there, really? I think, when push comes to shove, they'll have no choice but to go for broke with Manny, or ante up to keep Burrell, and given that choice, my guess is they would go with Burrell. The only creative option I can come up with is making a trade for Eric Byrnes, whom the D'Backs are supposedly shopping. But he is injury prone, and his production took a serious hit this year when he did play. Unless the Astros decide to trim payroll and make Carlos Lee available, who would be a nice option for the Phils, but I think his contract is bigger than what it would take to get Burrell back, though he is a superior hitter, and far more consistent.
Posted 03:20 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Ibanez is LH. The last thing they need is ANOTHER left-handed bat stacked in the middle of that order. Besides, Ibanez wants to go back to Seattle. Another option, I suppose, is Magglio Ordonez, whom the Tigers may have to move... if the Tigers eat some of his salary, the Phillies have no chance, as other teams will offer better young talent, but if the Tigers want to do a complete salary dump, and cannot ask for as much back in terms of prospects (ala the Phils trading Abreu to the Yanks), the Phils would stand a fighting chance there. But I really don't see them pulling off something so dramatic.
Posted 03:20 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
Truth, If he batted right you may have a point, but he;s a lefty and as pointed out already, we already have two of tehm in teh lineup (howard and utley). Good thought though. his 23 HR and 110 RBI would make up for Burrell's numbers
Posted 03:22 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
assuming that Moyers is back for another year, the phillies can afford to trade some young pitching. With a rotaton of Hammels, Myers, Moyer, and Branton we have Happ, Kendrick, Carlos whatever his name is (I forgot sorry) carpenter and perhaps one other in teh pipeline. We could trade two of them and still have a good rotation and emergency backup if needed
Posted 03:23 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
The more I think about this, the more obvious it seems to me that keeping Burrell is the most sensible, cost-effective option, unless they can pull off a surprising trade. If they let Burrell walk, they better have something shocking up their sleeve.
Posted 03:29 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
RWR: he's making 16 million a year!! That is double what we'd be paying Burrell not to mention that it wold totally upset the salary structure of teh team If he's making 16, what would Howrad be worth? What about someone young and not even an allstar like Werth? I think your idea is a non starter. FInd someone in teh 8-12 million range
Posted 03:29 PM, 11/03/2008
bobby
Jeff, how are you feeling about Truth's contribution to the blog now? What you've seen here today is just another example of why I reacted to your earlier statement that he has made this board so much more "interesting and entertaining." Back to baseball, it's funny to see you require that others' trade suggestions be "realistic". Hello? You just suggested that the Phils get Ken Griffey, Jr. How realistic is that? I mean from a baseball perspective. As others have accurately pointed out, that doesn't make a whole lot of sense. And your earlier idea of platooning Stairs and Jenkins in RF? Hey, Matt Stairs will always have a place in our hearts for his clutch homer in LA. But I have a better chance of platooning in RF than he does. He's a pure pinch-hitter who may find himself in the field for an inning here and there, but no way should anyone be thinking of him as a part-time player. He's here for his bat, and that's it. What they need in LF is Burrell or a close facsimile thereof. Who that is, only time will tell.
Posted 03:30 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
if the price to keep Pat, who I love and want to keep, is 3 years at 12 million a year, is he worth keeping? Remember, the phils seem willing to go two years at a reasonable salary, but Pat wants that third year.
Posted 03:30 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
jeff: How about something like this: Trade Carlos Carrasco and Jason Donald to Houston for Carlos Lee; sign Derek Lowe (perhaps, 3 years, $42M?) to avoid having to rely on Kendrick or Eaton in the rotation; use Happ as the long man in the bullpen, waiting to spot start in a doubleheader or fill in for an injury (someone in the rotation will get hurt next year...they were far too injury-free this year; odds are it catches up to them...better be prepared). Myers is a FA after 2009, so plan on grooming Happ to take his spot in the rotation then.
Posted 03:34 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
I like the trade, but Happ is a much better starter teh releiver as we saw lst season (Yipes, it's last season already we were World Champions, time flys I guess). I don't see the need to get a new starter in, considering our rotation as is, plus the young arms coming up. Even if you trade Carlos, you have Happ and Kendrick. You also have carpenter in waiting (he's the guy who mowed down teh Yankees in spring training last year)
Posted 03:36 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
jeff: Ordonez was completely hypothetical. I am simply trying to illustrate that there really isn't a feasible alternative to Burrell, which is why I think if they can get him to take 3 years, in the end they'll be flexible enough to increase the offer to include a 3rd guaranteed year. There really isn't another option that makes anywhere near as much sense for them as Burrell does.
Posted 03:37 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
If myers has a 2009 resembling what he did in teh second half of this year, we'll sign him long term. If he reverts back to first half status, no one will want him and we'll still have him. The problem in 2010 is Moyers, and possibly Hammels. I don't remember when he is done with arbitration
Posted 03:37 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
They need SP depth. If Happ begins the season as one of their 5 starters, and their only depth is Kyle Kendrick, they are in trouble. There is no way the rotation stays as healthy as it did this year.
Posted 03:40 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
This is Hamels's first go-round in the arbitration process, which means they have him through the 2012 season at the absolute least. Personally, now that he has finally gotten through a whole season healthy, and pitched over 250 innings without missing a single start (which is impressive for a 24 year old even if they aren't injury prone), my guess is they will start talking turkey with him and try to at least buy out his arbitration years.
Posted 03:41 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
I have always maintained that Truth was a welcome addition to the blog, if anoying most times. I just wish he would keep his racism to himself and off teh blog. As for Griffy, he is a FA so there is no trade involved and the idea acomplished it's goal. We're discussing realistic options is Burell isn't back. As for the stairs/jenkins platoon, I was thinking Jenkins as everyday player with Stairs to spell him if he is in slump or needs day off, I wasn't meaning a r/l platoon
Posted 03:44 PM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Hamels is locked in for 4/5 more yrs he's a baby. The Phils should not insult the WS MVP. He should be paid 5 million next season. I personally think the LH thing is over blown. Put the Ibanez in the 6 hole and a full time Werth in the 5 hole. Victorino back to 2. Ruiz is coming into his own and Feliz gets you timely hits. Its a formula to repeat.
Posted 03:48 PM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Stairs/Jenkins is not a championship platoon with all due respect. The only way that works is if they get a solid 2/3 starter. I'd be willing to take a chance on Sheets and not really open him up until after the break. He goes 5/5.1 per start and whoever is well rested in the 'pen takes the next two. Ingenious.
Posted 03:49 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
Truth, as a Howard fanatic you should understand teh difference between left handed and right handed hitters. If you have three lefties in a row, or even 3,4,and 6 as in your senerio, then Howard faces left handed pitchers more often. He batter .224 with 14 Hr and 49 RBI against lefties last year. Now do you understand teh reason for a right handed hitter in the lineup??
Posted 03:51 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
everyone agrees that we need an answer for LF. That is today's question, we're still waiting for a reasonable possible answer. So far we have resigning pat, if both sides can agree. that is the ideal, without a doubt, but if that doesn't work, then what??
Posted 04:12 PM, 11/03/2008
bobby
Here's an idea: Let me know when Ruben Amaro, Jr. chimes in. His is the opinion that counts. Until then we're going to go round and round about "Pat/no Pat" or "who else can we get"? Oh yippee.
Posted 04:16 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
Bobby, you take all th fun out of being monday morning quaterbacks. What else can we do but fantasize about what great moves we'd make if we were teh GM or the owners
Posted 04:17 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
That's the thing, jeff. There just do not seem to be many options. You've got Manny (FA) - unrealistic. Burrell himself (FA) - challenging at best. Matt Holliday (trade) - too pricey for a one-year rental. Milton Bradley (FA) - injury-prone lunatic; felony assault waiting to happen. Ibanez (FA) - left-handed is a BIG problem, and he doesn't want to leave Seattle. Eric Byrnes (trade) - injury-prone, coming off a seriously down year that makes him look like he is overpaid based on a big contract year. Carlos Lee (trade) - I don't even know if he is realistically available; I just threw him out there as a "what if". The Royals are supposedly looking to move Jose Guillen (trade), who is just as big a character concern as Milton Bradley, with a higher price tag. You want Rocco Baldelli (FA), who can only play 6 or 7 defensive innings, and could wind up in the hospital for a month at any time? How about Emil Brown (FA)? 42 yr. old Moises Alou (FA)? Jay Payton (FA)? Juan Rivera (FA)? Gabe Kapler (FA)? Kevin Mench (FA)? None of those guys are legit everyday players, and certainly not anyone who can hit directly behind Ryan Howard. If they don't keep Burrell, it is likely they bring in one of those other guys and platoon them in left with Geoff Jenkins, which, to me, is a less-than ideal situation. If they are going to try to get by with that, they better improve the rotation and not count on Kendrick/Happ.
Posted 04:21 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
RWR: Given Werth's unexpected power this year, we can, as Truth pointed out, bat him 5th behind Howard. We can look for a LF to either hit leadoff, and drop Rollins to number 2 where his tendency to jump on first pitches isn't as big a problem, or look for a number 2 or 6 hitter (depending where you want Victorino to bat)
Posted 04:27 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
How about this nugget from yesterday's Rocky Mountain News: "The Yankees, Boston, Tampa Bay, Los Angeles Angels, New York Mets and Philadelphia have shown interest in Holliday and Atkins. The White Sox and Minnesota also have inquired about Atkins, and Washington and Tampa have shown interest in Holliday. Each of those teams has pitching depth that interests the Rockies." Oh, fantasy can be so much fun...the notion that the Phillies might trying to obtain Matt Holliday and Garret Atkins all at once...
Posted 04:31 PM, 11/03/2008
Truth
Holliday and Atkins-Now I'm actually with bobby. THIS IS GETTING RIDICULOUS.
Posted 04:32 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Um...how about, no? Jimmy Rollins cannot bat anywhere other than leadoff. 8 years of experimenting is more than enough for me. He simply doesn't hit anywhere else in the lineup. Never has, never will. If I were Charlie Manuel, I would be done moving Jimmy around. You want this offense to score, then Jimmy has to leadoff. Second, you want to bat Werth and his 150+ strikeouts right behind Howard and his 190+??? I say no thanks. If they are interested in making a real attempt at repeating, they need a legit RH hitter who plays LF, can bat 5th, and can drive in runs, to replace Burrell.
Posted 04:36 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Truth - hence the word "fantasy". Need I define it for you, or are you simply not able to read? I think I have been very clear that my opinion is, despite all that has been reported, in the end, the Phillies will satisfy Burrell enough to bring hime back, because they don't have any other FEASIBLE options (in other words, Matt Holliday is NOT feasible, and Matt Holliday AND Garrett Atkins is, as previously stated, strictly FANTASY).
Posted 04:36 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
Atkins is 36 and makes 12.6 million. What, you want to rent him for a year or are you serriouly thinking of playing him every day in the OF>? as for Holliday, I wonder what the price would be. Think he goes for the same Carlos Carrasco and Jason Donald deal you proposed for Carlos Lee?
Posted 04:41 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
Werth had 119 Ks this year, not 150+. This compares to Burrell's 136. Explain to me teh difference?
Posted 04:42 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Ok, I am not Garret Atkins's biographer, but considering he went to college with Chase Utley, I find it hard to believe he could possibly be 36 years old. Also, it is doubtful he makes $12+ million, since he has yet to reach his first free agent year. Are you thinking of someone else? Not that it matters... I just thought the article was worth noting, and again, thought it was a nice fantasy. I do not believe the Phillies have enough to land both of them, plus it would mean releasing Pedro Feliz and having to pay off the remaining $4M of his salary for nothing. Even to get Holliday alone would cost all of their best prospects, and unless they are going to sign him long-term (unlikely, considering his demands), wouldn't be worth it for a one-year rental. It was simply a fun thought...take the World Champs, subtract Pat Burrell, add two of the most complete RH bats in the NL the last 3 years. Fun thought, right? Way beyond the realm of possibility, but still, fun thought...
Posted 04:48 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Burrell - 638 Plate appearances, including being removed the last 2-3 innings of a ton of games. Werth - 475 Plate appearances. That's a rate of 1 K every 4 PA's. If he is going to be a full time, everyday player, he'll get roughly 700 PA, which actually translates to 175 K's. Scary. Burrell's strikeouts were also an issue, but to be fair, that was his worst total in three years, and he does not K with the same frequency as Werth, who is much closer to Howard in K/rate. It is an issue they've had for years, it is a problem, and moving Werth into that spot makes it a BIGGER problem.
Posted 04:50 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
RWR: Sorry for that. I put atkins into the search and got Anderson instead. Atkins would be nice (4.6 million) but as you say, what to do about Feliz? Given the chemestry this team seems to have, I don't want to fine tune too much. I think all 8 starters are back if Pat agrees to terms, other wise, LF is the only posistion we need to fill. We also need a RP (to replace Madson's job before he was bridge to Lidge) and a 5th OF to replace So-what. (though that may be stairs). We could use a new INF instead of Brunlett. Prefably one who can hit when we need a PH and how isn't used in teh OF all the time.
Posted 04:53 PM, 11/03/2008
jeff gross
I think it depends on what teh team expects from Werth. In the beginning of teh year, when he was platooning with Jenkins, he was looked at to generate HR and power and was over trying. If you noticed towards teh end, he stuck out much less and was more productive. I think Charlie can work with him during ST to cut down on teh Ks. Remember, he led the majors in HR off left handed pitching this year
Posted 05:04 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Personally, I think, if they were to get a full-time LF, they need to cut ties with Geoff Jenkins. I do not see the point of having both him and Matt Stairs on the bench. Both LH hitters that can only hit RH pitching; both all-or-nothing HR type hitters. If Jenkins is not going to start with regularity, his roster spot is kind of wasted. As for Bruntlett, what about Jerry Hairston, Jr.? He is a FA, has the same kind of positional versatility as Bruntlett does, and can actually hit pretty well. As for Werth, I would love to see him cut down on the K's. I just know he has always struck out at a prodigious rate, and to put that right behind Howard is scary. It doesn't bother me much when he and Howard are not hitting back-to-back, but if they were...yikes. As for Atkins-Anderson, I figured something like that. The Atkins comments didn't make much sense; you had to be talking about someone else. As far as chemistry goes, I hear you, but the reason it does not concern me is that he is a former college teammate of Utley's, his roommate, in fact, and, by Utley's own admission, Atkins is his best friend. I think that makes it a lot easier to incorporate a new player into the clubhouse chemistry-wise.
Posted 05:21 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Ok, just for the purposes of completely undermining what's left of my own credible-sanity, I just found another reference to the Phillies attempting to land BOTH Matt Holliday and Garret Atkins (this one on sportsline.com). As impossible as the task obviously is, are they seriously trying to pull this off???
Posted 05:27 PM, 11/03/2008
Truth
RWR-it appears as if though the shine of the championship has worn off of you, bobby, and pat h. Take a deep breath, relax and remember the Phils are World Champions, World ******* Champions!!!
Posted 05:47 PM, 11/03/2008
Norma
Why did Garrett Atkins name even come up? He's a 3rd baseman. We don't need a 3rd baseman. Do the Rockies want to trade Holliday and Atkins as a *package* deal?
Posted 07:46 PM, 11/03/2008
RollinsWasRight
Norma - that was how it was reported, both in the Rocky Mountain News, and Sportsline.com, that the Phillies were inquiring about BOTH Matt Holliday amd Garrett Atkins. And be honest, I know Feliz knocked in the winning run in the WS clincher, but if you had the chance to get Atkins, and to sign him long-term, or keep Feliz for his one remaining year, wouldn't you try to get Atkins, too?
Posted 08:21 PM, 11/03/2008
bski
Getting back to thhe topic of Amaro being named GM....Scott Lauber of delawareonline.com gave a brief recap of Amaro's press conference. One very intersesting thing to note is that PAT GILLICK IS GOING TO STAY ON WITH THE PHILS AS A PAID CONSULTANT. It puts my mind at ease a bit knowing that Gillick will still be involved to some degree, even if it is just as a sounding board.
Posted 09:16 PM, 11/03/2008
Norma
RWR....I'd love to have Atkins! I remember, at the end of the '07 season, there was some talk of the the Phils wanting him. But the Rockies weren't willing to let him go, then.
Posted 09:40 PM, 11/03/2008
Clinton, NJ
I agree bski, it is nice to know that Gillick will be hanging aroung to further mentor Amaro. I dont agree though about his supposed 1st priority. I know you should take care of your own arbitration guys, but they arent going anywhere unless traded. They need to sign any potential free agents and or fill any holes they will have. Im sure most of the arbitration guys will turn down any offer and go all the way til march to settle anyway. WORLD CHAMPS!!!!!!
Posted 09:41 PM, 11/03/2008
KarenA
One thing about Feliz though is he's a GREAT defensive 3rd baseman. He's like a vacuum out there and made many a terrific play. That has be considered.
Posted 10:29 PM, 11/03/2008
bski
Clinton, I'm with you on the priorities. I would love to see them go after some free agents and fill some holes first, but I think we both know why they won't. They need to see what each guy will agree to sign for or will be awarded in arbitration first so they know the money they have committed. Then they will know what they have left to sign free agents. If they do it the way we want them to they run the risk of going way over their payroll ceiling. While we're on the subject of money, I hate to sound like a cynic but does anyone think it's a coincidence that, between their two in-house candidates, the Phils chose the financial guy over the player evaluation guy? Is this an indication of priorities? Also, what is it about Amaro specifically that made the Phils stick with him and groom him for so long? It has pretty much been an open secret that Amaro would eventually become the GM. Why is that exactly? To the Phils credit, they did not promote Amaro after Wade was fired. That tells me that they realized he was not ready. I guess after three years under Gillick he is? Amaro has interviewed for GM jobs with a few other clubs in recent years and has not been offered the position, so I don't think he was going anywhere if we didn't promote him now. I'm thinking that it would have been ok to hire at outsider and let Amaro's grooming process continue a little bit longer. All that said, I have nothing against him and I'll certainly give him and the Phils the benefit of the doubt.
Posted 02:15 AM, 11/04/2008
pat h
Truth, I got all over Utley when he slumped at the end of the year. I have no agenda. Do you ? I'm not permitted to make a statement that they were well spoken. I'll say what I beleive. If you or any African American take that as an insult, thats your problem. I'm not running for office.. I do owe you an apology for insinuating your racial issues. Only you can answer that question.
Posted 10:05 AM, 11/04/2008
RollinsWasRight
bski: I think your first point about the free agents and all the arbitration eligible players is the precise answer to your later question about them selecting the finance guy over the scouting guy. The immediate priority for the Phillies is who they can sign, for how much, and how long, moreso than drafting grooming young talent for 5-7 years from now. I just hope they can replace Arbuckle, and whoever they lose from the scouting department adequately, because they cannot completely ignore the farm. And just to point out, Mike Arbuckle has also been interviewed by other teams for vacant GM positions numerous times, and not been offered any of those jobs either. I really think it was a toss-up between the two, and they went with the one who is better suited to address their immediate needs - the contracts. It is a shame for Mike Arbuckle, who was very deserving, and honestly, was who I wanted to see get the job, but hopefully their faith in Ruben is not misplaced. Only time will tell.
Posted 11:13 AM, 11/04/2008
James TL
Love to see Holliday and Atkins in Phillies uniforms. Trade Feliz and some minor leaguers for them. I know that may bankrupt the farm but this team has a rather short period of years if they want to repeat as champions. I know we may only get Holliday for one year (which does make this a lot harder) but you have to do the best you can do while Howard, Rollins, Utley, Myers, Lidge and Hamels are in their primes. I don't really expect this to happen but there's nothing wrong with speculation. It's becoming apparent that keeping Burrell (and Feliz)is the option that makes the most sense.
About Andy Martino
Andy Martino is in his first season on the Phillies beat. A former New York City public school teacher and graduate of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, he previously wrote for the New York Daily News, where he covered baseball and worked with the award-winning investigative sports "I-team."
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