You Talkin' to Me?
No demand for a Schilling encore
From: Gonzalez, John
To: Ford, Bob; Sheridan, Phil
Subject: Schill
To: Ford, Bob; Sheridan, Phil
Subject: Schill
Ford's boy Curt Schilling was on the radio talking about how he'd like to pitch another season. Go ahead and take a guess about which team is right at the top of the free agent's list.
JERRY LODRIGUSS / Staff Photographer
Curt Schilling in 2000, when his act was already old to some.
Considering everything you know about Schilling, would you bring him back to Philly if the price was reasonable?
From: Sheridan, Phil
To: Ford, Bob; Gonzalez, John
Subject: Schill
Hmmm. Intriguing issue.
I don't share Ford's Schill aversion. I really don't. I'm always fascinated by athletes who are also genuine characters, and he's certainly one of them. And he has delivered the goods in the biggest possible moments, something a lot of more easily liked players haven't done.
Last time around, when Schill was hinting about the Phillies, I'd have done it. They needed someone who knew how to get where they wanted to go. Now? They're there. I think it's vital that the Phillies think aggressively in this off-season. Complacency is the surest ticket to one-and-done. But another question mark in the starting rotation isn't an upgrade, and that's what Schilling is right now. That, and a guy who could upset the chemistry at a time you don't want that.
From: Ford, Bob
To: Gonzalez, John; Sheridan, Phil
Subject: Schill
Rather lose without him than win with him. My highest compliment.
From: Gonzalez, John
To: Ford, Bob; Sheridan, Phil
Subject: Schill
As usual, I'm with Sheridan. I never understood why so many people hate the guy. I interviewed him a few times in Boston, and he was quick with a quote, which was good enough for me.
The tougher question is how he might fit in with the Phils. Unless something unforeseen happens, it looks like the top four guys in the rotation will be back. It never hurts to have more pitching, but do you want to pay Schilling to come in and be your fourth or fifth starter? Not to mention that he's coming off a serious injury, and he's not the healthiest guy to begin with.
Actually, that gives me an idea: If they do sign him, he and Blanton should have a footrace to determine their respective places in the rotation. I would pay to see that.
From: Sheridan, Phil
To: Ford, Bob; Gonzalez, John
Subject: Schill
Not gonna happen. Joltin' Joe Blanton doesn't have to run. He trots.
The main point holds for me, though. If I'm Ruben Amaro Jr., I don't rule Schilling out because of his personality or ancient history with the Phillies. I take a pass because, right now, he doesn't make the team better.
That's kind of a role reversal for the Phils.
From: Gonzalez, John
To: Ford, Bob; Sheridan, Phil
Subject: Schill
I just want to see Blanton waddle around the bases again. Easily the best home run trot on that team.
OK, Ford, give us one little story about Schilling. Small one - PG version.
From: Ford, Bob
To: Gonzalez, John; Sheridan, Phil
Subject: Schill
I'd just be repeating all the others. He does unite a clubhouse, though. They all hate him.
From: Gonzalez, John
To: Ford, Bob; Sheridan, Phil
Subject: Schill
I kind of hope this happens now, just so I can see the two of you crazy kids reunited.
