Halladay, Kratz and Brown

Some pregame tidbits before Game 109:

NO REST FOR HALLADAY. Charlie Manuel had floated the idea of shutting down Roy Halladay almost two weeks ago. Halladay bristled at the notion after seven shutout innings Saturday.

The manager delievered an unequivocal statement Monday in support of Halladay.

"I can answer that right now: We're not thinking about doing that," Manuel said. "I don't have to answer that anymore. He's not going to get shut down unless things vastly change. He has no desire to be shut down. I believe if we are to get his arm stronger, pitching him is fine."

Manuel can and probably will limit Halladay's pitch count at times.

"More than likely he's not going to see 125," Manuel said. "But if he has a no-hitter going, I'm going to let him throw the no-hitter."

IN SUPPORT OF KRATZ. Chris Coste played in 12 minor-league seasons before playing in the majors. It took Erik Kratz 11 minor-league seasons to earn significant playing time in the majors, and he could follow the footsteps of Coste, the former Phillies backup catcher who authored a book about his journey.

Does Manuel think Kratz can endear himself during the last two months for a possible job later?

"Without a doubt," Manuel said. "Matter of fact, I think Kratz right now can be a good backup catcher."

So why has it taken this long for someone to notice Kratz?

"Just how it is sometimes in baseball," Manuel said. "Being in the right place at the right time. Some guys get tested on how much they want it and how willing they are to work. Kratz might be one of those guys. There are a lot of people like that."

BROWN MOVES UP. The latest lineup has Domonic Brown batting second. Manuel sees a young hitter with solid plate discipline so far.

"I think he's been pretty patient at the plate from what I've seen," Manuel said. "His best hitting right now is in the middle of the field from right-center to left field. Getting experience, that will come later, pulling the ball. That's how most young hitters go."

The full lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins 6
2. Domonic Brown 7
3. Chase Utley 4
4. Ryan Howard 3
5. John Mayberry Jr. 8
6. Nate Schierholtz 9
7. Kevin Frandsen 5
8. Brian Schneider 2
9. Vance Worley 1

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