Rollins will not discuss contract at charity event

The often-candid Jimmy Rollins had no interest in discussing his contract status on Monday night, but that didn't stop others from sharing their thoughts.

The Phillies shortstop said his "Havana Nights" charity gala at the National Constitution Center wasn't "the place to talk about that."

His three-year contract expired at the end of last season, and the 32-year old said in October that he is seeking a five-year deal.

The benefactor of the event was Prevent Child Abuse Pennsylvania, a statewide approach founded in 2009 to spread awareness about child abuse.

Rollins said the cause is timely, with the recent child sexual-abuse allegations at Penn State.

"Our event comes at the right time," Rollins said. "Awareness has been raised; it's been getting a lot of coverage."

Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said he has emphasized his preference to keep Rollins aboard and is hopeful his opinion is heard.

"I've been his manager for a long time, and I've been very fortunate," Manuel said. ". . . I think Jimmy has earned the right to at least look around and see what's out there."

Phillies president David Montgomery said Rollins is important to the team not only for his play, but his charity work as well.

The shortstop told Montgomery that Monday's event was solely the work of Rollins' wife, Johari.

"He's very special," Montgomery said. ". . . We've been lucky to have him and we hope we continue to have him."

Using crutches and wearing a large, supportive walking boot on his left leg, first baseman Ryan Howard made his way up the winding staircase to the gala. He ditched the crutches and hobbled onto the red carpet to pose with Rollins for photographs.

Howard said his rehabilitation from postseason surgery is coming along, but he isn't ready to put a timetable on his return.

The 31-year-old Howard has spent his entire eight-year career playing alongside Rollins and remains hopeful that the shortstop will sign an extension.

"It would be strange to see him in an opposing uniform," Howard said.

"I could go and slap him upside the back of the head and say, 'Jimmy, stay. Go sign your contract.' But that's with Jimmy; he has to do what's best for him."

Along with Rollins' current status with the team, the Phillies may address Cole Hamels' contract.

If the sides are unable to reach an extension, the lefthander will enter arbitration during spring training and become a free agent after 2012.

"All I'm worried about is getting back and starting the season," Hamels said. ". . . My focus is only to get healthy."

Is arbitration something the 27-year would try to avoid?

"I didn't have to go through it last time," Hamels said. "It's one of those things that takes care of itself. I know I'm going to be with the team, that's why you have an agent."