ConcreteBoard

Quote from: mpmcgraw on September 30, 2006, 07:26:53 PM
Agreed on almost everything you said.  I'd put getting a #2 to #3 quality pitcher slightly higher than a right handed bat though.

Quote from: BigEd76 on September 30, 2006, 07:48:02 PM
How about no.

BTW, according to Ken Mandel, either Moyer or Wolf will be back, but not both...

Quote from: mpmcgraw on September 30, 2006, 07:54:12 PM
So, who is your fifth pitcher next year?  Wolf? Carrasco?  Happ?

Quote from: mpmcgraw on September 30, 2006, 08:59:18 PM
I dont think you can designate somebody for assignment in the offseason.

If they trade Burrell they need to upgrade his replacement.  Conine or rowand  in left for a full year?  Yuck.   

Quote from: Sgt PSN on October 01, 2006, 12:04:15 AM
Why am I not surprised by the fact that you aren't high on outfielders who can hit the ball? 

Quote from: BigEd76 on September 30, 2006, 07:48:02 PM
How about no.

BTW, according to Ken Mandel, either Moyer or Wolf will be back, but not both...

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 01, 2006, 10:05:49 AM
ryan howard wont hit 40 homers next year....book it


and he might have a 03 burrell type year

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 01, 2006, 01:16:03 AM
I think Vernon Wells, a guy who Gillick tried to trade for this year, is a FA. He'd be EXCELLENT in LF and hitting 5th.

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 01, 2006, 10:05:49 AM
ryan howard wont hit 40 homers next year....book it


and he might have a 03 burrell type year

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 01, 2006, 10:05:49 AM
ryan howard wont hit 40 homers next year....book it


and he might have a 03 burrell type year

Quote from: SD_Eagle on October 01, 2006, 10:53:12 AM

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 01, 2006, 10:05:49 AM
ryan howard wont hit 40 homers next year....book it


and he might have a 03 burrell type year

okay...I'm saving this post.

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 01, 2006, 01:29:14 PM
i dont think hell implode like burrell did (tho it wouldnt suprise me)

but i guarantee he doesnt hit 40

Quote from: MDS on October 01, 2006, 04:51:14 PM
2nd place in the NL East again. Hey we did better than Atlanta, finally.

QuoteGosh darn it, I know I can hit left-handed pitching,

QuoteA Philadelphia flier?

A few Phillies players and coaches wouldn't be surprised if the team made a run at Manny Ramírez.

The lure would include Ramírez's ties with Phillies manager Charlie Manuel, his former hitting coach in Cleveland, and the chance to hit in a lineup with Ryan Howard and Chase Utley at Citizens Bank Park, where the ball carries. But those who understand how general manager Pat Gillick works think any deal for Ramírez would be subject to Gillick's terms.

One of those terms might be the Red Sox taking left fielder Pat Burrell, who has two years remaining at $13 million and $14 million. The Phillies have been frustrated by Burrell's inconsistency, but here's what the Red Sox would like: Entering yesterday, he led the National League in pitches per plate appearance (4.33), he was tied for eighth in walks (92) and go-ahead RBIs (28); he had hit 27 homers and knocked in 91 runs; and over the last six years, he has led all left fielders in assists with 59.

There's no way the Red Sox could sell this one unless there was another pitcher or top prospect coming back, and they'd still have to acquire a bat to protect David Ortiz.

While Manuel would not indulge us with on-the-record comment concerning a Ramírez deal, he did say about his past relationship, ``I coached Manny when he was a young player and I got along fine with him. I have not been around him for many years now, so I don't know anything about how it would be to manage Manny as a veteran player."

One thing that could make any deal dicey is if Ramírez's agent, Greg Genske, tries to leverage for an extension. Back when Ramírez was talking last season, he told this reporter he wasn't interested in playing beyond his current contract. But Ramírez tends to change his mind. And as a 10-5 guy, he must approve any deal.

QuoteQ: Will Charlie be back next year?

A: Charlie is under contract through 2007.

Q: Does that mean he's guaranteed to come back?

A: He has a guaranteed contract through 2007. Right.

Quote from: Sgt PSN on October 01, 2006, 08:46:08 PM
Plus, there's no scoreboard in left field for him to take bathroom breaks in so that automatically limits some of the stupid shtein he can do. 

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 01, 2006, 08:14:53 PM
LA went 6-0 and SD went 5-2 this week.  So much for getting help from other teams...

Quote from: MDS on October 01, 2006, 11:17:53 PM
Quick facts:

1. Julio Santana is still on the 60 day DL.
2. The AAA team is called the Ottawa Lynx
3. Next year, they will reach the 10,000 loss mark.

Quote from: troyhstewart on October 02, 2006, 02:45:55 PM
I didn't see a FA list, but somebody mentioned to me that Jason Schmidt, Curt Schilling and Dontrelle Willis are all FAs. ?

I'd love a rotation of one of those 3, Myers, Hamels, Moyer, and Lieber as the 5th starter.

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 02, 2006, 03:48:27 PM
Schmidt and Zito are FAs.  Schilling has 1 yr left before retiring, and Willis is in arbitration with the Marlins for 2 more years...

Quote from: Seabiscuit36 on October 02, 2006, 06:58:40 PM
Gavin Floyd, come on down  :P

Quote from: FFatPatt on October 02, 2006, 03:06:53 PM

Quote from: troyhstewart on October 02, 2006, 02:45:55 PM
I didn't see a FA list, but somebody mentioned to me that Jason Schmidt, Curt Schilling and Dontrelle Willis are all FAs. ?

I'd love a rotation of one of those 3, Myers, Hamels, Moyer, and Lieber as the 5th starter.

HAHAHAHAHAHA

Yeah, that's just like the Phillies to go out and spend top dollar to sign the top 3 starters on the market.

Hoping for one of those three is pushing it.  Hoping for all three is downright ridonkulous.

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 02, 2006, 03:48:27 PM
Schmidt and Zito are FAs.  Schilling has 1 yr left before retiring, and Willis is in arbitration with the Marlins for 2 more years...

Quote from: troyhstewart on October 03, 2006, 11:27:41 AM
no shtein dickwad, that's why I said one of those 3.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on October 03, 2006, 05:03:05 PM
Varsho, Bombard and Dancy have been canned.

Manuel retained.

Quote from: MDS on October 03, 2006, 05:19:49 PM
I could do without Burrell.

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 03, 2006, 08:12:45 PM
Rumored potential replacements are Juan Samuel and Chuggie's favorite, Dick Pole....

Quote from: Geowhizzer on October 03, 2006, 08:40:10 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 03, 2006, 08:12:45 PM
Rumored potential replacements are Juan Samuel and Chuggie's favorite, Dick Pole....

Sammie's been coaching for several teams (I know the Tigers for awhile- I want to say also the Reds and Blue Jays).  I remember seeing the name Dick Pole, but I cannot remember where.

His parents, though, are guilty of child abuse to the nth degree.

Quote from: MDS on October 03, 2006, 09:42:32 PM

1986. Crazy computer graphics and music. And what appears to be a coked out Rich Ashburn (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISIBavsSYZg&mode=related&search=)

Quote from: MDS on October 03, 2006, 09:42:32 PM
Maybe the best youtube video ever. the old ch17 opening (its been a while) and a quick shot of wheels circa 1993 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohxw8mru5D0&mode=related&search=)

Quote from: MDS on October 03, 2006, 11:03:05 PM
Wheeler's toupee is something else in that. Harry isnt old and senial. I miss those days.

Celebrating NL East Title (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joXawx77iM4&mode=related&search=)

This one may be even better. Were talkin awkward interaction between Wheeler and Harry, Wheeler and Danny Jackson, Wheeler and everyone. Wheeler wearing a hat so nothing happens to his beloved hairpiece. An obviously smashed John Vukovich (light weight). Harry spazzing out in ceremounious call. And some more Wheeler. Oh, and the back of a young Neil Hartman.

This Scares Me (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwHV-SYPuKU)

Video from last opening day at the Vet, picking up a show your tits chant. I was literally right there. I was like 16 or something. Not in this video, but I distinctly remember this part of the game. And one of the guy's I was with brought a video camera. Very strange. The game blew, Paul Byrd got bombed and we booed Rheal Cormier.

QuoteBy Jim Salisbury
The Philadelphia Inquirer

NEW YORK — Billy Wagner wears many different hats these days.
Closer on the National League team considered the favorite to make the World Series.
Newspaper columnist.
Phillies admirer.
"They were impressive," the New York Mets' closer said of his former mates' bid for the playoffs. "I think Pat Gillick set everybody up saying they weren't going to contend. Those guys accepted the challenge and made a serious run.
"I'm glad they didn't win (the wild card) because I know playing them in the second round would have been no fun. They're going to be a good team."
The Phillies entered the final seven games with a half-game lead in the wild-card race, only to cough it up by losing three of their next four. While the Phils flopped, the Los Angeles Dodgers showed how to do it, winning their final seven to claim the wild card.
On Wednesday, the Dodgers will be at Shea Stadium to open a division series against Wagner and the Mets.
Wagner, who pitched for the Phils in 2004 and 2005 and was lured to New York last winter by a four-year, $43 million contract, knows all about the Phillies' fatal final days.
"If the umpire doesn't screw up that home-run call, it's whole different atmosphere," he said.
In the second inning of a game at Washington eight days ago, Chase Utley hit a line drive off the right-field foul pole. Umpire Rob Drake ruled the would-be three-run homer a foul ball, and instead of taking a 5-1 lead, the Phillies trudged to a 4-3 loss and surrendered their share of the wild-card lead for good.
"It was crappy to see that happen," Wagner said. "How is the umpire not able to see that?"
Wagner spoke in front of his locker before a workout Tuesday morning. At the time, it was unclear if Charlie Manuel would be back as Phillies manager. Later, it became clear that Manuel would return.
Wagner shook his head when he heard Manuel had been under review.
"They've been wanting to get rid of him for so long," he said.
They?
"The fans," Wagner said. "There's no winning there. They had a tough manager in (Larry) Bowa. A great players' manager in Charlie. (Terry) Francona. They've had some great managers. What does it take to have somebody they accept? But that's the fans in Philadelphia."
Wagner concluded his commentary on the topic by saying, "I'm always going to defend Charlie for what he did for me. I'm probably biased."
Here's our commentary on the subject: Wagner is seldom consistent in his opinions. In 2005, he made it no secret that he thought the Phils were better off without Bowa. Also, Bowa is widely revered by fans of Philadelphia. And lastly, the fans weren't reviewing Manuel; his bosses were. But that's why we love Billy. He never lets facts get in the way of a good rant.
Wagner chose the Mets over the Phillies for two reasons: Money (the Phils guaranteed less than $30 million) and a chance to win. He believed the Mets had a better chance of getting to the postseason, and he was right. They ran away with the NL East, and he was a big contributor, converting 40 of 45 save chances, including 22 of 23 in the second half.
The big question now is: How far will the Mets make it in the postseason? Sure, they won 97 games and tied for the best record in the majors. But they have glaring holes in their starting pitching rotation. As if having Pedro Martinez unavailable for the postseason because of muscle tears in his calf and shoulder wasn't cause for enough gloom, the Mets will likely have to scratch Wednesday's scheduled starter, Orlando (El Duque) Hernandez. He injured his right calf on Tuesday.
General manager Omar Minaya made his club better by adding Wagner and a bunch of other stars in the last two winters. But his ears will ring with New York criticism if the Mets fail this month because he didn't get enough starting pitching.
More World Series games have been played in New York than in any other city. In New York, division titles are nice, but not all that memorable. So, as a team, the Mets probably need a strong showing in the playoffs to validate their season. Wagner, who has 324 career saves, also has something to prove in the playoffs. In five career postseason games, he is 1-0 with a 7.71 ERA.
"We all have something to prove," he said. "But going out there and trying too hard can hurt you.
"It's a new season now. Those 162 games we just played don't count for squat. This series is just one stop toward our ultimate goal. The difficulty is that the Dodgers want to win the World Series, too. We've got to prove them wrong."
As Wagner finished up a round of pre-series interviews on Tuesday, a reporter from the New York Post waited to collect the pitcher's thoughts for a daily column Wagner is "writing" for the tabloid.
The irony of Wagner turning columnist is delicious. Former teammate Pat Burrell once called Wagner "a rat" because he believed Wagner was too cozy with writers.

Wonder what Burrell would think now?
"(Expletive) him," Billy Wagner said.

Quote from: QB Eagles on October 04, 2006, 12:23:40 AMThey've had the liberty bell logo for that long? Damn, now I feel old.

Quote from: rjs246 on October 04, 2006, 05:17:20 PM
Why in god's name is this thread 5 pages long already?

IT'S. FOOTBALL. SEASON.

Quote from: MDS on October 04, 2006, 05:20:35 PM
pHILLEIS WILL SING BARRY BONDS and curt schulling rofl its 1999 srteroids haha

QuoteEx-Phils news:

Padilla won't be re-signed by Texas

Quote from: MDS on October 04, 2006, 07:28:33 PM
Who was the worst team in baseball with runners in scoring position and 2 outs and also with the bases loaded? I'll give you a hint, they wear red and often choke.

Quote from: rjs246 on October 04, 2006, 06:13:03 PM
In other news the president met with the prime minister and my tiny little nipples went to france.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on October 07, 2006, 09:34:19 PM
Met Ryan Madson and his wife/ladyfriend and kid today.

He's tall. lol

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 10, 2006, 10:40:57 PM
It'd be nice.

But Olney says that he's looking to get and will likely get $80M+.

Thats crazy- no way the Phils pay that.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 10, 2006, 10:40:57 PM
It'd be nice.

But Olney says that he's looking to get and will likely get $80M+.

Thats crazy- no way the Phils pay that.

Quote from: SunMo on October 10, 2006, 10:47:45 PM

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 10, 2006, 10:40:57 PM
It'd be nice.

But Olney says that he's looking to get and will likely get $80M+.

Thats crazy- no way the Phils pay that.

it's already a done deal, Eckel said so.

Apparantly, he IS at the Carpenter Complex right now.

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 11, 2006, 09:14:24 AM
croce is on wip saying he wishes the current owners would sell because if they did hed jump all over it

Quote from: MDS on October 07, 2006, 05:55:09 PM
Lidle is trash. I don't miss him at all.

Quote from: rjs246 on October 11, 2006, 05:56:38 PM
It gets me all choked up when fat rich hicks die in a plane crash. OH CRUEL CRUEL WORLD!

Quote from: PhillyGirl on October 11, 2006, 05:59:11 PM
It gets me choked up seeing he left behind a little boy.

Quote from: rjs246 on October 11, 2006, 06:10:17 PM
Dear god.

QuoteJoe Torre murdered Corey Lidle

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 12, 2006, 08:06:15 AM
agreed, but no one can ever replace your father...no money in the world.

Its just sad.


but TO has a kid too ya know

Quote from: MDS on October 16, 2006, 06:16:28 PM
All those guys sucked in the NL as managers. I'm quite optimistic.

QuotePhillies eyeing Sheffield, Soriano

By RANDY MILLER
phillyBurbs.com

With Pat Burrell in the doghouse and on the trading block, the Phillies are preparing to make a run at adding better protection for cleanup hitter Ryan Howard, who led the majors with 58 home runs in 2006.

Topping their wish list are two big names likely headed for free agency: New York Yankees right fielder/first baseman Gary Sheffield and Washington Nationals left fielder Alfonso Soriano.

"Pat has had a difficult time protecting Howard, so we're going to have to continue to make an adjustment in that area," Phillies general manager Pat Gillick said Monday.

Soriano, 30, probably will be too pricey for the Phillies, but signing Sheffield cheap for one or two years seems a viable option.

Sheffield, 37, has a $13 million club option for 2007, but the Yankees aren't expected to pick it up. A nine-time All-Star with 455 career homers, Sheffield missed most of this season with a broken wrist. In 39 games, he hit .298 with 6 homers and 25 RBIs.

If the Yanks decline Sheffield's option, the Phils' biggest competition likely will be Atlanta. Sheffield enjoyed his time in Atlanta in 2002-03 and has a great relationship with Braves manager Bobby Cox.

The Phils also are very high on Soriano, who hit .277 with 46 homers, 95 RBIs and 41 steals in 2006, but they're not prepared to offer anything close to the $15 million per that the Dominican could get on the open market.

Regardless of whether the Phillies land Sheffield, Soriano or someone else, they're looking to peddle Burrell, who batted .258 with 29 homers and 95 RBIs in a disappointing '06 season. Finding a taker won't be easy, though, as Burrell has two years, $27 million and a no-trade clause in his contract. As of now, no decision has been made on how much of his contract the Phils are willing to eat.

If Burrell stays, the Phils likely will look to move center fielder Aaron Rowand, who is a year away from free agency.

Meantime, the Phillies also will be looking to upgrade their starting pitching and bullpen in an offseason in which the free agent list won't be impressive.

They wouldn't mind going into 2007 with the same starting rotation they had at the end of this season, but retaining lefties Jamie Moyer and Randy Wolf are iffy.

Moyer has a $4.75 million player option for 2007, but is expected to decline it and ask for more money to leave his family in Seattle. The Phils may not go higher because Moyer will turn 44 in November. This year, he earned $5.5 million while going 11-14 with a 4.30 ERA, including 5-2 with a 4.03 ERA in eight starts for the Phils.

If the price is right, the Phillies also will attempt to bring back Wolf, who can become a free agent only months after his return from July 30 return from Tommy John surgery.

As for the bullpen, the top priority here is finding a veteran setup man for All-Star closer Tom Gordon.

"It all goes back to pitching," Gillick said. "Look at Detroit and how they've won. It's two difficult areas, but two areas we'll have to address."

Phillers

Assistant GM Ruben Amaro Jr. will represent the Phillies today at Cory Lidle's memorial service in Covina, Calif. Second baseman Chase Utley and outfielder Shane Victorino also plan to attend. ... Former Phils first base coach Marc Bombard is a candidate to be hired by Tampa Bay as manager at Triple-A Durham. ... Bill Dancy, not returning as third base coach, is expected to accept a minor league position with the Phils.

Randy Miller can be reached at randarino@aol.com

Quote"Pat has had a difficult time protecting Howard, so we're going to have to continue to make an adjustment in that area," Phillies general manager Pat Gillick said Monday.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on October 17, 2006, 06:19:10 PM

Quote"Pat has had a difficult time protecting Howard, so we're going to have to continue to make an adjustment in that area," Phillies general manager Pat Gillick said Monday.

Umm, what?

Quote from: mpmcgraw on October 17, 2006, 06:47:54 PM
Burrell sucks much less than Conine.       

Quote from: MDS on October 17, 2006, 06:50:45 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on October 17, 2006, 06:47:54 PM
Burrell sucks much less than Conine.       

Way to spin, O'Reilly. He sucks, period. They're trading him and getting someone better. Done.

Quote from: MDS on October 17, 2006, 07:04:34 PM
He's better than Conine.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on October 17, 2006, 07:06:22 PM
I was hoping you would say how many tackles he has made this year.  You know how those pesky stats can be misleading though!

Unless they support your argument obviously.   

Burrell does not suck.  He is just about league average for a left fielder all around.  Many other teams have players like Burrell in left.  You just dont get to see them everyday which is why you think they are better options.  Yes, Burrell hurts this team with his contract, but as a player alone he does not necessarily suck. 

Quote from: PhillyGirl on October 17, 2006, 07:54:46 PM
How can ANYONE seriously defend Pat Burrell and say he doesn't suck?

Quote from: SunMo on October 17, 2006, 08:51:25 PM
please don't get my hopes up for Soriano...i won't be able to take the hurt of not getting him

QuoteMLB | Iwamura to become available for pickup
Mon, 23 Oct 2006 00:24:58 -0700

The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports the Yakult Swallows, who have a working agreement with the Indians, have said they will make 3B Akinori Iwamura available to play in the big leagues in 2007 through the posting system. The Indians, San Diego Padres, Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies are said to be interested.

Quote from: SunMo on October 23, 2006, 10:02:45 AM
gEt yo suShi ready211

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 23, 2006, 12:04:15 PM
Wolf's as good as gone

wolf hamels zito and moyer would have been to many lefties in the rotation anyway

Quote from: FFatPatt on October 23, 2006, 12:55:32 PM

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 23, 2006, 12:04:15 PM
Wolf's as good as gone

wolf hamels zito and moyer would have been to many lefties in the rotation anyway

Zito?  Ha!

Quote from: MDS on October 23, 2006, 04:12:59 PM
I can't make enemies in the industry until I get settled. Perhaps by pretending to be educated, talented and informed, I can make myself a valuable connection. Of course, if I ever get settled, it will take less than 1 milisecond for me to point out the very douchey in the philly sports media scene.

Quote from: PhillyGirl on October 23, 2006, 06:19:59 PM
I called out Eckel to his face. It was fun.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 24, 2006, 01:31:50 AM
Eckel has a beard?

13 years ago today (23 Oct) Joe Carter ripped out hearts out.

Thanks, Mitch!

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 24, 2006, 01:31:50 AM
Eckel has a beard?

13 years ago today (23 Oct) Joe Carter ripped out hearts out.

Thanks, Mitch!

Quote from: Wingspan on October 24, 2006, 07:51:27 AM

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 24, 2006, 01:31:50 AM
Eckel has a beard?

13 years ago today (23 Oct) Joe Carter ripped out hearts out.

Thanks, Mitch!

everyone in philly knew he was gassed except the manager.

Quote from: Sgt PSN on October 24, 2006, 08:34:21 AM
I've always wondered if I'm the only person who wasn't mad at Williams?  Well, beside Joe Carter.

Don't get me wrong, I was pissed, and probably a little pissed with hm but I never got 'death threat pissed' at him.  Mostly I was just pissed because the Phils lost the series.  But I've managed to let it go now and there's still people out there who have homocidal tendencies at the very mention of his name. 

Quote from: Sgt PSN on October 24, 2006, 08:34:21 AM
I've always wondered if I'm the only person who wasn't mad at Williams?  Well, beside Joe Carter.

Don't get me wrong, I was pissed, and probably a little pissed with hm but I never got 'death threat pissed' at him.  Mostly I was just pissed because the Phils lost the series.  But I've managed to let it go now and there's still people out there who have homocidal tendencies at the very mention of his name. 

Quote from: Sgt PSN on October 24, 2006, 09:18:00 AM
I don't remember what speed he was throwing at.  I never even saw the final pitch until a few days later on ESPN.  I was reduced to listening to games 4, 5 and 6 on the radio in my room because I was grounded.  :-\

Quote from: MDS on October 24, 2006, 12:54:13 PM
I was 5. I only remember Kim Batiste's walk off hit in game of the nlcs.

Quote from: Geowhizzer on October 24, 2006, 03:05:47 PM

Quote from: MDS on October 24, 2006, 12:54:13 PM
I was 5. I only remember Kim Batiste's walk off hit in game of the nlcs.

Punk kid.

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 24, 2006, 05:19:07 PM
Do you remember PRISM at all?

Quote from: Seabiscuit36 on October 24, 2006, 05:23:34 PM
Youtube has the old intro

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 24, 2006, 05:19:07 PM
Do you remember PRISM at all?

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 24, 2006, 05:19:07 PM
Do you remember PRISM at all?

Quote from: NGM on October 24, 2006, 06:01:37 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 24, 2006, 05:19:07 PM
Do you remember PRISM at all?

I remember they used to have fullout, hardcore porn on PRISM.  Seventies style.

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 24, 2006, 09:14:00 PM
Actual PRISM farewell (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwovfEPzXkU)

WHEELS

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 24, 2006, 11:18:55 PM
Howard wins the NL Hank Aaron Award (http://www.philly.com/mld/philly/sports/15839907.htm)  :yay

Quote
Phillies' Autograph 16 Years in the Making
WPVI

October 12, 2006 - There was a special delivery in Bensalem, Bucks County this week. A lifelong baseball fan opened his mail and couldn't believe what he received.
"It's a 1990 topps card of Don Carman," said Doug Ferraro. "Now it's autographed."

An autograph that took 16 years to get. Doug Ferarro was a wide-eyed 7-year-old with a few missing teeth when he wrote a letter to Phillies' pitcher Don Carman in 1989.

"It just says 'Dear Don' -- dear spelled deer - 'My favorite position is pitcher and if you'd sign my car I'd be a fan of you.'"

The card is still in mint condition.The letter is now faded, but it will take you to years past. The letter head reads Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

Carman pitched for the Phillies from 1983 to 1990. He had modest career. He once led the league in losses. Ferraro doesn't even remember him.

"Now that I remember back, it was a project I wrote in 7th grade at elementary school," said Ferraro.

So what happened? Why did it take 16 years?

"He wrote back, 'Sorry about the delay. I lost a box of mail. Just found it. Don.'"

Carman was not a big baseball star, but such a gesture, long after his career had ended, makes him a hero to Ferraro. His message to Carman:

"Thanks. No hard feelings about the delay. It's very nice to see you care about your fans 16 years down he road.

Carman now lives in Naples, Florida. He told us that he cleaned out his garage and found a box with 200 letters in it. Carman says he replied to all of them

QuotePhils eye Soriano, Sheffield during off-season shuffle
By Todd Zolecki
Inquirer Staff Writer

The moment the World Series ends is the moment baseball's hot stove starts to heat up.

Alfonso Soriano. Gary Sheffield. Pat Burrell.

Phillies fans will read and hear plenty about those players in the coming months because the Phillies will be trying hard to trade Burrell while making a run at Soriano and Sheffield.

"It's already under way," Phillies president David Montgomery said of the off-season shuffling yesterday afternoon. He was at the Embassy Suites Hotel near the Philadelphia airport, where the Phillies hosted their annual Halloween party for young cancer patients at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. "If you're following Pat [Gillick] around, it really started a month ago. Believe me. He's been in Arizona for the Arizona Fall League, taking the kids out to dinner. He visited Jamie [Moyer] a couple times [in Seattle]."

This could be one of the team's more interesting off-seasons in recent years.

First, this is Gillick's first full off-season as Phillies general manager. His moves last off-season seemed tied to a roster with a handful of no-trade clauses and expensive contracts, but he has more flexibility this time. The Phillies had five players with the right to veto any trade after the 2005 season: Burrell, Jim Thome, Bobby Abreu, Mike Lieberthal and Rheal Cormier.

Only Burrell remains.

"I think he's a very creative person," Montgomery said of Gillick. "I think that creativity manifested itself a few times in the last year, clearly in the Thome deal. He recruited Jamie Moyer to come to Philadelphia. He made some moves at the deadline that gave some younger players the opportunity to play."

Second, despite the St. Louis Cardinals' winning the World Series, the National League is not strong. A few smart moves could catapult a perennial also-ran such as the Phillies, looking to make the postseason for the first time since 1993, into the playoffs.

"I'm excited because the fans are excited," Montgomery said. "I've had more people this off-season come to me and say, 'I really enjoyed watching the club. I love the way they played. I like the energy they have. I can't wait until next year.'

"Really, the people that they're talking about are back with us. We don't have, necessarily, holes to fill. We want to improve the club, but there aren't holes because people are departing. It gives us an opportunity to hopefully build on last year and make '07 special."

So what will Gillick do?

He has offered a few hints about his off-season plans. He said earlier this month that "we know at this point, Pat has had a difficult time protecting [Ryan] Howard. We're going to have to continue to... make an adjustment in that area."

Last week, Gillick said it's "too early to say" whether he sees Burrell in left field for the Phillies next season. "It's certainly a possibility," he said. "It's a strong possibility." But there's no question that the Phillies will try hard to trade him. Gillick pronounced Burrell's right foot, believed to be a season-long hindrance, healthy and not an issue.

The Phillies are expected to pursue Soriano, the Washington Nationals slugger who is a free agent, and Sheffield, whom the New York Yankees are expected to trade. Of course, the common thought is that the Phillies will land Soriano or Sheffield only if they trade Burrell and rid themselves of at least a portion of the $27 million he is owed over the next two seasons.

"I don't think it's a contract as much as it's a position," Montgomery said. "The part of the puzzle is placing people where they can contribute. We have four or five outfielders right now. You're talking about a couple guys who play outfield."

The Phillies signed Moyer, a lefthanded veteran, to a two-year contract extension last week. They also will try to re-sign lefthander Randy Wolf. If that happens, the Phils will open 2007 with a rotation of Brett Myers, Cole Hamels, Jon Lieber, Moyer and Wolf. But Gillick also wants to fortify the bullpen.

The GM said late in the season that perhaps his biggest regret was that the bullpen did not have someone to fill in for closer Tom Gordon. He reiterated that sentiment last week.

It sounds as if he would like to add a closer or former closer to be Gordon's setup man. That way, if Gordon is injured again, the Phillies will be in a better position to handle the blow. Florida righthander Joe Borowski fits that mold. He is a free agent, who went 3-3 with a 3.75 ERA and 36 saves as Florida's closer this season.

Soriano won't come cheap. Sheffield is making $13 million next season. The Phillies expect their payroll to remain in the $93 million range. But could it go higher?

"Yeah, but there's a limit," Montgomery said. "People think there's a number. There isn't."

QuoteSoriano targeted; Pat's pact edible?
By MARCUS HAYES
hayesm@phillynews.com

LIKE EVERYONE else in the Phillies family, president David Montgomery gnashes his teeth when he thinks of the St. Louis Cardinals hoisting the Commissioner's Trophy.

Maybe signing Alfonso Soriano, who filed for free agency yesterday, re-signing Randy Wolf, who filed for free agency Saturday, and snagging a couple of relievers will put them over the top.

"Obviously, this was a year of opportunity," said Montgomery yesterday, 2 days after the 83-win Cards became the worst team to win a World Series. The Phillies won 85 games and swept the Cardinals in August. "It's tough to think, 'Geez, but for a couple of games, we could have at least been one of the eight involved.' All teams this year had their flaws; whether they got hurt or not."

The Phillies' flaws - 4 months' worth of poor starting pitching, generally shoddy middle relief and little protection for Ryan Howard - nearly made them a non-factor in September, but a surge helped them finish two games behind the Dodgers in the National League wild-card race.

Leftfielder Pat Burrell was the season's offensive goat. His 29 homers and 95 RBI might be tough to replace, but at $13 million next season and $14 million in 2008 the Phillies might find themselves willing to scuttle their plans for the first overall pick in 1998.

That might mean eating some of Burrell's salary, which they have done just once - a year ago, when they traded Jim Thome to make room for Howard at first base. Will they eat salary again?

"I'll say yes, with this application: The reason we hadn't done it is because we hadn't been in that situation," Montgomery said. "The object is building the best baseball team. If part of the cost of that opportunity is absorbing some salary, sure."

That does not necessarily mean that they need to trade Burrell to afford Soriano, in whom the Phillies are known to be interested. Remember, the Phillies cleared $15.5 million in salary next season when they traded Bobby Abreu to the Yankees on July 30, so they had planned on featuring an expensive outfield, anyway.

Montgomery said the team's salary budget would remain in the $88 million to $95 million range it has been in since 2004.

If the Phillies can't trade Burrell, they would gladly assign Soriano to rightfield with Aaron Rowand in centerfield. Soriano, a righthanded hitter who hit 46 homers for the Washington Nationals, could hit fourth in the lineup. That would move Howard to third, where Barry Bonds, Albert Pujols and David Ortiz hit. It would move Chase Utley to fifth.

Rowand, whose $5 million team option the Phillies are expected to pick up before the middle of the month, could hit second and Burrell sixth. The Phillies also still have a question whether smallish Shane Victorino can start every day.

If the courtship of Soriano proves too challenging for the Phils, they could hope that Aramis Ramirez does not re-sign with the Cubs and pursue Ramirez as an upgrade over Abraham Nunez at third base.

A real upgrade needs to come in the bullpen, where Ryan Franklin and Arthur Rhodes cost the Phillies dearly in 2006.

League sources indicated that the Phillies are intrigued by Miguel Batista, the 35-year-old righthander who went 11-8 in 33 starts with the Arizona Diamondbacks last season after pitching exclusively in relief for the Toronto Blue Jays in 2005. They could pursue him the way they pursued Franklin last season, with incentives for relieving and starting.

Other relievers they could seek include the Jays' Justin Speier, the Mets' Guillermo Mota, the Yankees' Octavio Dotel, the Florida Marlins' Joe Borowski and the Atlanta Braves' Danys Baez, though Borowski and Baez both could seek closer spots and Dotel is coming off right elbow surgery.

Therein lies the intrigue with Wolf's situation. He proved himself healthy in 12 starts to end the season, though he dealt with expected issues with his control. The Phillies are believed to consider him worth between $6 million and $10 million for 2 years with vesting options. Wolf filing for free agency was a foregone conclusion even as the sides began to talk before the season ended.

"We'd like to have Randy back. We've given what we think is food for thought, but it's too early to tell where that road will lead," Montgomery said. "He said, 'Hey, this is an opportunity I've not had. Let me see what else could be out there.'

"Oftentimes it's very difficult for the club who has had the player to deliver the message that may be a different evaluation than another team's. In Randy's case, it's the last 2 years he just hasn't been healthy."

Manager Charlie Manuel called Wolf last week to reiterate that he remains very important to the Phillies. Montgomery sent the same message to Utley and Howard, team MVP candidates who made a combined $855,000 this season for their 90 homers and 251 RBI. Neither can be a free agent any time soon.

"What we have to do is make sure we understand how strongly we feel about them. We want to let them know how important they are," Montgomery said. "I don't know how that will manifest itself. It may be done to some degree through contracts. It may be done in other ways."

That likely means a deal for the pair that more generously compensates them for their contributions. It could keep Utley from arbitration, for which he is eligible the next three seasons, beginning this season.

It won't necessarily mean keeping Howard from arbitration, which he won't qualify for until after next season. Instead, Howard could see something like the contract Rowand got from the White Sox after his strong 2004 season. Rowand was locked up for two seasons of arbitration with a player option and a team option for the third season.

Montgomery knows that, while they are not the sole featured players, Utley and Howard are the face of the club, and his paying customers like them.

"Our fans are excited. This year, more than any, people on the street are saying, 'Let's get going!' " Montgomery said. They came close: "That has people realizing there aren't many subtractions from that team."

The additions could make all the difference in a postseason of regret.

Phillers

Lefthanders Randy Wolf, Arthur Rhodes and Aaron Fultz, righthander Rick Whiteand catcher Mike Lieberthal filed for free agency Saturday, the first day they could file... Outfielder David Dellucci, first baseman Randall Simon and infielder Jose Hernandez have until Nov. 11 to file.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on October 30, 2006, 02:59:58 AM

Quote
Carman now lives in Naples, Florida. He told us that he cleaned out his garage and found a box with 200 letters in it. Carman says he replied to all of them

(http://a.abclocal.go.com/images/wpvi/cms_exf_2005/news/1012doncarmen200.jpg)

I wrote to Pat Combs when I was 11 and he signed my card...

Quote from: FFatPatt on October 30, 2006, 04:51:58 AM
It's a great time for some hope, then the team won't make many of these moves at all, but the homers will still cling to some sort of ridiculous idea of what this team is capable of.

85-75 at best.  I'm calling it right now.

QuotePhillies, Indians Interested In Akinori Iwamura

27 year-old Japanese third baseman Akinori Iwamura is being pursued by both the Phillies and the Indians.

Pat Gillick mentioned today that he has a lot of interest in Iwamura to play third for the Phils.  You may recall that Gillick imported Ichiro back when he was GM of the Mariners.  Another convenient factor is that manager Charlie Manuel has played in Japan before.

The Tribe is showing interest as well, but are committed to Andy Marte at third base.  They would ask Iwamura to convert to second base.

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on October 30, 2006, 10:12:58 AM

Quote from: FFatPatt on October 30, 2006, 04:51:58 AM
It's a great time for some hope, then the team won't make many of these moves at all, but the homers will still cling to some sort of ridiculous idea of what this team is capable of.

85-75 at best.  I'm calling it right now.

There's 162 games in a baseball season, Shaggy.

Quote from: FFatPatt on October 30, 2006, 11:50:08 AM
85-77 then.

Quote from: MDS on October 30, 2006, 04:11:59 PM
Some crazy rumor going around is that a low-level Phillies employee talked to one of Ramirez's boys about a contract, and tampering chargers are being filed or something....

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on October 30, 2006, 03:40:10 PM

Quote from: FFatPatt on October 30, 2006, 11:50:08 AM
85-77 then.

95-67 is entirely possible if they address all their needs and get Soriano.

Quote from: MDS on October 30, 2006, 05:26:52 PM
Soriano here=I jizz my pants.

Quote from: FFatPatt on October 30, 2006, 07:25:24 PM

Quote from: MDS on October 30, 2006, 05:26:52 PM
Soriano here=I jizz my pants.

Don't you do that every time you see a pretty girl?

Quote from: Eagles_Legendz on October 30, 2006, 08:42:18 PM
The Phillies already have Hamels/Myers/Moyer/Lieber locked in next year.  They don't have much options for addressing starting pitching, sans one spot in the rotation, but I think they are happy with Myers and Hamels at the top of the rotation.  Not saying it's good, but I expect a 5th starter added or Wolf to re-sign, nothing else.

Quote"No, they're interested. Seriously, seriously interested. They absolutely will pursue him. Will they get him? It depends. The Yankees don't have the room for him. There's a report in New York that the Mets won't pursue him ither. The Phillies have money to spend and are willing to offer Soriano a nice package. But it's no PR move. If it were a PR move, they'd be talking about him publicly. They aren't.

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 31, 2006, 09:25:40 AM
the phillies scored the 4th most runs in the majors and hit the 4th most homers

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 31, 2006, 11:49:33 AM
It's amazing how little of that was in clutch situations

very true....which is why they dont need another basher in the lineup...a guy whos gonna k a lot and hit 40-50 homers...they need a guy who can hit in situations...doesnt k a lot as the lineup has way to many strikeouts as it is...

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 31, 2006, 11:49:33 AMdid you think hed get less than that easy?

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 31, 2006, 11:29:15 AM
DOA

Soriano wants the 7/$119M given to Beltran  :-D

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 31, 2006, 01:46:53 PM
burrell makes 13 mil

Quote from: BigEd76 on October 31, 2006, 01:04:56 PM
He also mentions a possible Burrell-for-Estrada swap...

Quote from: MDS on October 31, 2006, 12:55:00 AM
Soriano hit under .150 batting 3rd. Not sure what the correlation is from 3rd to 5th, but he might just be better off batting 1st. Which means Jimmy Rollins might be batting 5th. Yikes.

Quote from: ice grillin you on October 31, 2006, 08:53:05 AM
you guys are setting yourself up for disappointment...not if they dont get him but if they do

did yous not watch the playoffs this year...pitching defense and playing the game the right way wins

more runs will not make the phillies a better team...and thats all soriano provides...he doesnt know how to play the game...doesnt always play hard and is an atrocious fielder...theres a reason why hes going on his fourth team

Quote from: mpmcgraw on October 31, 2006, 06:44:19 PM

Quote from: MDS on October 31, 2006, 12:55:00 AM
Soriano hit under .150 batting 3rd. Not sure what the correlation is from 3rd to 5th, but he might just be better off batting 1st. Which means Jimmy Rollins might be batting 5th. Yikes.

This logic is retarded.

But whatever you probably knew that already. 

QuoteBy Todd Zolecki
The Philadelphia Inquirer

PHILADELPHIA — The Phillies can't make an official offer to free-agent outfielder Alfonso Soriano until Nov. 12, but when they do they know it needs to be a legitimate proposal.
How much will it take?

The Washington Post reported on Tuesday that Soriano is seeking a similar contract to the one Carlos Beltran signed with the New York Mets before the 2005 season, which was for seven years and $119 million. The Phillies could open with a five-year offer for $80 million.

The Phillies will pursue Soriano before they try to trade leftfielder Pat Burrell. A source said there is a chance the Phillies could open the season with both players in the outfield. But the Phils would prefer to move Burrell, who will make $27 million for the next two seasons.

Soriano hit .277 with 46 home runs, 95 RBIs and 41 stolen bases last season for the Washington Nationals. He batted leadoff 541 times, but he likely would hit fourth between Ryan Howard and Chase Utley if he signed with the Phillies.
The Phillies still hope to re-sign lefthander Randy Wolf, who would round out their starting rotation.

But the club expects Wolf to test the free-agent market for the first time in his career before he signs anywhere.

Wolf is expected to draw considerable interest.

The Phillies also have to make a call on centerfielder Aaron Rowand. He has a $3.25 million player option and has until Wednesday to pick it up or decline. He is expected to decline it, but the Phils have a $5 million club option. If they don't pick up that option, the Phillies still control Rowand's rights. They could renegotiate a contract in between $3.25 million and $5 million or take him to salary arbitration.

QuoteBy Pete Caldera
The Record (Hackensack N.J.)

There are teams involved in the Alfonso Soriano sweepstakes that are considering Gary Sheffield as their "Plan B."
The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to chase hard after Soriano, the top slugging free agent, but they also would consider sending a package including starter Gavin Floyd to the Bronx in exchange for Sheffield, whose $13 million option should be triggered by Sunday night's deadline.
The Phillies could be willing to extend Sheffield's contract by one year, though Sheffield wants a guarantee through 2009.

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 01, 2006, 10:36:56 AM
no interest in Burrell because he only has "40 good swings a year"...

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 01, 2006, 10:36:56 AM
According to Randy Miller, Soriano's agent plans to get the Mets and Phillies bidding against each other to drive up the price, then the agent, not Soriano, has the final say on the deal accepted.  ummm  :-\

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 01, 2006, 05:19:49 PM
I assumed you were mainly talking about my defense of Burrell because I agree with you more than not about the Eagles, whatever that may say about me.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 01, 2006, 04:59:43 PMDoesnt Soriano have the same agent as Thome?

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 01, 2006, 06:57:16 PM
Romey,

In looking at Meche's 3yr splits it shows that he actually has given up more HRs at home (32) to what he gave up on the road (31). I believe Moyer's H/A splits weren't too good either. But if Meche is brought in he'd be the 4th/5th guy and those numbers aren't too shabby for what he'd be for the Phils, IMO.

I'm curious to see what happens with Rowand. They could offer arbitration and he can decline it and go the FA route and then the Phils get a draft pick. I hope he comes back.

Get Soriano and Iwamura!!

QuoteRowand, Phils disagree on pay, but not his play
By Todd Zolecki
Inquirer Staff Writer

Centerfielder Aaron Rowand likely will be running into walls and sacrificing his body with the Phillies next season, even though he and the club declined their options for 2007 yesterday.

All that means is that Rowand is eligible for salary arbitration.

Rowand, who remains under the Phillies' control, declined a $3.25 million player option, feeling secure that he is worth more. The Phillies declined their $5 million club option, figuring he is worth less.

It's a risk for both sides, but a much smaller one for Rowand.

There's a good chance the Phillies and Rowand will try to negotiate a salary between the two options. If that doesn't work, they will go to arbitration.

"It is what it is," Rowand said last night at a Police Athletic League charity event in the city.

The 29-year-old Rowand hit .262 with 12 home runs and 47 RBIs in 405 at-bats last season. He also had two stints on the disabled list, but the Phillies love his energy and defensive capabilities, and they think he can be much better at the plate than he showed last season. Just about the only way Rowand won't return to the Phillies is if they trade him. The Phils are looking to sign free-agent outfielder Alfonso Soriano and eventually trade leftfielder Pat Burrell.

There is no truth to the rumor circulating yesterday that the Phillies and New York Yankees had worked out a deal for Gary Sheffield, who will make $13 million next season. The Phils will pursue Soriano first. They also have seen Japanese third baseman Akinori Iwamura, although it's unclear how much interest they have. To gain negotiating rights with Iwamura, the Phillies would have to win a bid with his team, the Yakult Swallows. According to JapanBall.com, Iwamura hit .311 with 32 home runs and 77 RBIs last season.

QuotePhils contact 'dozen or so' free agents
By MARCUS HAYES
hayesm@phillynews.com

The shopping season has opened. General manager Pat Gillick yesterday said the Phillies have contacted "a dozen or so" players who have filed for free agency since the filing period began Saturday. Teams cannot discuss terms until Nov. 12.

That doesn't mean the Phillies can't talk among themselves. From Tuesday through noon Friday, the Phillies will convene to nail down their opinions of which free agents are worth what. Manager Charlie Manuel, his recast coaching staff and the team's scouts will meet with Gillick and assistants Mike Arbuckle and Ruben Amaro Jr. to gear up for the general managers' meetings Nov. 13-17 in Naples, Fla.

Though Gillick would not confirm it, team and league sources have indicated that their No.1 target will be outfielder Alfonso Soriano. They want his power bat to protect young lefty slugger Ryan Howard. Sources said the Phillies could offer as much as $15 million a season over 5 years, though published reports say Soriano will want $17 million per over 7 years, a deal like Carlos Beltran got from the Mets 2 years ago.

Expect the Phillies to let the market set itself before plunging into a bidding war for Soriano. Published reports have the well-heeled Mets both interested and uninterested in Soriano.

The Phillies also have considerable interest in Japanese third baseman Akinori Iwamura. Iwamura, 27, a lefthanded hitter, batted at least .300 with 30 homers the last three seasons for the Yakult Swallows. He is also drawing interest from the Indians, Red Sox and Padres. All are expected to bid for Iwamura.

In the posting system, teams submit silent bids to the major league commissioners' office. The highest bidder has 30 days to negotiate a contract with the player.

Gillick and Manuel are fans of Japanese players. In 2000, while he was running the Mariners, Gillick signed superstar outfielder Ichiro Suzuki. Manuel is a legend from his playing days in Japan from 1976-81, four of which were spent with Yakult.

If they fail to land Soriano, the Phillies' main backup plan is to try to trade for Yankees rightfielder Gary Sheffield. The Yankees are expected to pick up his $13 million option by the deadline Saturday, $4.5 million of which is deferred.

Sheffield, who will be 38 this month, has said he wants a contract extension through 2009. If they trade for him, the Phillies are considering a 1-year extension with an option for 2009.

The Yanks want pitching.

The Phillies likely would be willing to part with disappointing 2002 first-round pick Gavin Floyd. Floyd, 23, bombed out of the majors the last two seasons and struggled at Triple A both years. He has pitched well in three of four starts in the Arizona Fall League.

Sources say the Phillies also could consider moving 36-year-old starter Jon Lieber, who is due to earn $7.5 million. He was a disappointing 9-11 with a 4.93 earned-run average this season, arguably his worst full season in the majors. The Phillies shopped Lieber last season. The Yankees expressed regret at letting him get away after the 2004 season.

With intriguing, slimmer veterans such as Jeff Suppan and Miguel Batista on the free-agent market, Lieber could be replaced for similar, if not less, money.

If Beltran's deal is the template for Soriano, significantly, it also includes a full no-trade clause. If Soriano wants a full no-trade clause, the Phillies will balk. Gillick had a hard time trading Bobby Abreu to the Yankees because of such a clause, and he hasn't been able to move Pat Burrell in part because of Burrell's no-trade. He inherited both of those contracts when he took over last year.

If Soriano will bend, the Phillies will be interested.

"What I don't like is a complete no-trade to [all] 29 other teams," Gillick said. "If it was a no-trade to six or eight teams, we would consider that."

If they land Soriano the Phillies could find themselves saddled with an oversized payroll for 2007, especially if they cannot move Burrell.

"Those are challenges we'd have to work through," Gillick admitted. "There are different ways to do that."

Ways such as backloading a big deal to Soriano? Deferring money in that contract?

"Perhaps," Gillick said. "Also, possibly, moving other players."

Which, of course, optimally means Burrell. He plays leftfield, the position to which Soriano, formerly a second baseman, was switched this season. If both are Phillies, Soriano would play rightfield.

Failure to sign Soriano or land Sheffield could move the Phillies to pursue Cubs free-agent third baseman Aramis Ramirez.

Right back at ya

As expected, aggressive centerfielder Aaron "Crash" Rowand declined the player option that would have given him a small raise. It was less expected that the Phillies declined their option that would have given him a big raise.

Rowand, who made $3.25 million last season, had his agent, Craig Landis, e-mail the Phillies yesterday to inform them that he was declining the $3.5 million option he held. They shot one back, telling Landis they weren't picking up the $5 million option they held.

Rowand is under the Phillies' control, since he has 1 year remaining of arbitration; those hearings start Feb. 1. It sounds as if the Phillies don't plan to trade Rowand and start Shane Victorino in centerfield, even they land an outfielder and cannot trade Burrell.

"He's going to be here," Gillick said. "It's just that there's a difference of opinion of what his compensation should be."

QuoteWho's at the hot corner?

By RANDY MILLER
phillyBurbs.com

During their organizational meetings last month, the Phillies' brass discussed their biggest needs, then drew up a wish list. After deciding they most needed lineup protection for young slugger Ryan Howard, general manager Pat Gillick and his confidants examined the top power hitters headed for free agency.

They like third baseman Aramis Ramirez's power, but not enough to pay anything close to $15 million per season.

They like outfielder Carlos Lee's bat, but determined he's more suited to being a designated hitter in the American League due to his poor defense.

When the conversation turned to left fielder Alfonso Soriano, everyone was unified. The Phils love his bat, love his speed and love what he brings to the clubhouse.

When the Washington Nationals passed on dealing Soriano at the trade deadline this summer, his teammates celebrated by popping champagne corks.

So Soriano is the Phils' first offseason priority, Ramirez is a long shot unless his expected price tag drops (highly unlikely), and Lee definitely will play elsewhere.

The Phillies will be looking for third base help this winter. However, they're after someone with a little power to share the position with slick-fielding switch-hitter Abraham Nunez, not a big-money player.

Look for the Phils to make a run one of two unheralded veterans who shed reputations as being nothing more than utility players in 2006, Wes Helms and Mark DeRosa.

Helms hit .329 with 10 homers and 47 RBIs in 240 at-bats for Florida, while DeRosa batted .296 with 13 homers, 74 RBIs and 40 doubles in 520 at-bats for Texas.

The Phillies are expected to make a serious bid for Helms, who is their first option. He'll likely be less expensive and they believe he has more power than DeRosa, whom they also like a lot. It's worth noting that DeRosa was a two-sport star at Penn, so perhaps Phils president/Penn grad David Montgomery will do some urging. (Remember Doug Glanville?)

Besides Ramirez, the Phils aren't hot for two free agent third basemen who could command plenty of interest this winter, Akinori Iwamura and Pedro Feliz. Iwamura is expected to arrive from Japan this winter, and rumors of the Phils being interested are off base. They are looking for more power at third, and Iwamura figures to be a slap hitter in bigger major league parks. Also, the Phillies aren't real high on Feliz, who could get big bucks after belting 24 homers and driving in 98 runs for San Francisco in 2006.

Meantime, center fielder Aaron Rowand declined a $3 million player option yesterday, then the Phils countered by passing on a $5 million club option. With Rowand still a year away from free agency, he'll now become an arbitration-eligible player. The Phillies still are uncertain if Rowand is in their long-term plans.

If they land Soriano, the Phils will go all-out to find a taker for left fielder Pat Burrell, who has a no-trade clause, and perhaps also send Rowand packing for bullpen help.

The Phillies aren't opposed to heading into 2007 with Soriano in left, Shane Victorino in center and Jeff Conine getting most of the time in right in a platoon with Michael Bourn.

As for Burrell, the Phils have received no trade interest thus far, but possibly that's because everyone is more focused on free agency right now.

The Phillies appear willing to pick up half of the remaining $27 million Burrell is owed over the next two seasons and expect to receive serious interest from possible suitors by the start of the Dec. 4 Winter Meetings.

E-Mail: RANDY MILLER

QuoteBurrell would waive no-trade in deal to Frisco
By MARCUS HAYES
hayesm@phillynews.com

Things might be getting easier for Pat Gillick.

Since Gillick was hired a year ago, the Phillies' general manager has been trying to trade leftfielder Pat Burrell. The main obstacle: Burrell's full no-trade clause.

To this point, Burrell has indicated that he would waive the clause only in deals that would send him to New York or Boston.

The Phillies can add San Francisco to that list.

Burrell's representatives indicated yesterday that he would accept a trade to the Giants. That team could ask Burrell to switch back to first base, the position he played in 2000.

Phillies manager Charlie Manuel last night reiterated his opinion that Burrell, drafted as a third baseman, could switch to first despite having made himself into a good leftfielder. A switch might be necessary, since Burrell's outfield range has been limited the past two seasons by a foot injury.

"Pat definitely has the work ethic," Manuel said. "He has more athleticism than a lot of first basemen I've seen."

In trade, the Giants might want the Phillies, who are looking for bullpen help, to take closer Armando Benitez, who comes with plenty of baggage: a $7.6 million salary for this season, the last on his contract; his bad knees, which limited him to 41 games this season; and a poor reputation as a teammate.

Burrell, 30, is owed $13 million this season and $14 million next season. He hit .258 with 29 homers and 95 RBI this season but he struggled in the clutch.

Benitez, 34 today, had 17 saves in 25 chances and was 4-2 with a 3.52 ERA. A cortisone injection into his bursitis-stricken left knee delayed his season and he was shut down and placed on the 60-day disabled list Sept. 13 to begin a rehabilitation program on his arthritic right knee, which apparently is progressing nicely.

"It's an arthritic knee so anything can change, but we are pleased with his progress," Giants athletic trainer Dave Groeschner told the San Jose Mercury News.

QuoteCatching may be in the hands of Ruiz, Coste

By RANDY MILLER
phillyBurbs.com

There's been talk that Johnny Estrada will be returning to his big league roots, and on the surface, the Phillies swinging a deal with Arizona seems sensible. Letting free agent Mike Piazza end his Hall of Fame career near his childhood home of Phoenixville might not be a terrible idea to some, either.

The Phillies will be going in a different direction at catcher in 2007 because they're parting ways with long-time starter Mike Lieberthal, but don't look for a big-name replacement.

Although there's been some internal discussion on whether they should make a play for Estrada, who is very available, the Phillies seem likely to head into 2007 with Carlos Ruiz starting and Chris Coste as an often-used backup.

The Phils don't appear worried that Ruiz and Coste were both rookies in 2006 or that neither has spent a full season in the big leagues. In their judgment, Ruiz, who will turn 28 in January, and Coste, who will be 34 in February, have earned the opportunity.

"Carlos has a chance to be our No. 1 guy," manager Charlie Manuel said Thursday. "He got his feet wet a little bit this year and convinced us that he can play in the big leagues. We're going to turn him loose and see what he can do.

"And with Coste, I don't see us having to get another backup catcher. In the second half, we won mostly with Coste playing. I think Carlos can catch about 100 games for us next year, and Coste definitely can catch 60-to-70."

This season, Ruiz was a star in Triple-A and consistently improved during his three stints with the Phillies. Meantime, Coste reached the majors after 111/2 seasons in the minors and become a feel-good story by hitting .328 in 65 games, 46 as a starter.

A pudgy 5-10, 200-pounder, Ruiz is solid behind the dish, has a very strong arm and is a threat at the plate. For Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, the Panamanian hit .307 with 16 homers and 69 RBIs in 100 games. In 27 games with the Phils, he hit .261 with 3 homers.

When Ruiz made his first trip to the majors in May, he hit just .143 in 14 games. But he returned in July and hit .444 in a two-week stint, then was promoted a third time on Aug. 31 and batted .350 over the final month of the season.

As for Estrada, he's on the trading block because Diamondbacks coaching staff didn't like the way he implemented the game-plan when calling games. Estrada told Arizona reporters recently that he'd like to return to Philadelphia, his first organization, but team insiders predicted he'd end up succeeding Piazza in San Diego.

The Phils like Estrada's grit, but some in the organization believe the 30-year-old's skills already are declining. Estrada likely will get about $3.5 million in salary arbitration for 2007, and the Phils aren't sure he's worth it.

Piazza is biggest name in a weak crop of free agent catchers, but the Phils don't have much interest in the 12-time All-Star, who turned 38 in September.

"If we're not going to get a front-line guy, then I see no reason why we can't go with what we have," Manuel said. "I think Ruiz and Coste can do a good job for us."

Randy Miller can be reached at randarino@aol.com

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 03, 2006, 09:32:05 AM
get bonds

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 03, 2006, 09:38:36 PM
Jimmy got robbed again for a gold glove. :boo

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 05, 2006, 01:47:57 PM
-- they might trade Rowand for bullpen help

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 07, 2006, 07:12:04 AM
So long Art, we hardly knew ya.

Phils will not bid on the Japanese 3B Iwamura. They'll go after DeRosa or Helms to platoon with Babe Nunez.

Quote from: SD_Eagle on November 07, 2006, 01:11:40 PM

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 07, 2006, 07:12:04 AM
So long Art, we hardly knew ya.

Phils will not bid on the Japanese 3B Iwamura. They'll go after DeRosa or Helms to platoon with Babe Nunez.

If Soriano is signed, and I know thats a big if, I'd have no problem with Coste/Ruiz and or Nunez/Helms/DeRosa at the bottom of the lineup.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 07, 2006, 01:26:04 PM
And IGY is right about the defense. Hopefully Utley is less of a butcher and Howard doesn't look like Robert Esche in goal next year when playing 1st.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 07, 2006, 04:20:33 PM
You have to figure that Howard is going to regress at least a little.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 07, 2006, 05:10:50 PM
Depending on what we give Soriano and how much of Burrell's contract we ate I would agree with that. 

If we ate a crazy amount of Burrell's contract and gave Soriano 6/100 I'd rather have just kept Burrell though. 

Quote from: MDS on November 07, 2006, 05:18:07 PM
I'm not sure you remember the complete lack of production from the person batting behind Howard

Conine- .250, 2 homers, 28 rbi
Dellucci- .229, 3 homers, 10 rbi
Burrell- .257, 9 homers, 29 rbi

Burrell wins. Anyway, I can't specifcy how each one hit with risp and behind Howard, but the pretty much sets the picture. They all sucked. Getting a quality bat like Soriano would make this offense pretty damn good.

QuoteIt's shocking that you'd feel that way.  Really shocking.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 07, 2006, 05:24:28 PM
Are you mocking me for pointing out the obvious or for being me. 

I need to know to adequately make a pathetic retort.

Quote from: MDS on November 07, 2006, 07:39:31 PM
Money, shcmoney. Gillick isn't Wade. Pitching is the most important thing and he knows it

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 07, 2006, 10:36:41 PM
Rowand is also a walking clusterfarg.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 07, 2006, 10:40:43 PM
Burrell can hardly walk.

Quote from: MDS on November 07, 2006, 07:39:31 PM
Stop being a panzy sabermatrician.

QuoteJim Salisbury | Lopes wants to stress Phils' need for speed
By Jim Salisbury
Inquirer Columnist

Seldom does the first-base coach get this much attention, but, hey, Davey Lopes is here to do more than pick up the helmets, and everyone knows it.

Part of the Phillies' beefed-up coaching staff, Lopes drew a crowd of reporters during a media gathering at Citizens Bank Park yesterday.

Lopes, who stole 557 bases during a stellar 16-year big-league career, comes to the Phils with the important assignment of improving the team's running game.

In Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino, Lopes already has two potential pupils scoped out. And if things go the Phillies' way, he could have one more.

"I'll try to push a few guys to be a little more aggressive on the base paths," said Lopes, who at 61 looks as if he could still swipe 30 bags, maybe more if Bruce Froemming were the umpire. "And if we get the other guy, I might have to contain him a little because sometimes he gets too aggressive."

The "other guy" is Alfonso Soriano, the power-speed combo outfielder who stands atop the Phillies' free-agent wish list.

Soriano belted 46 homers and swiped 41 bases for the Washington Nationals in 2006, and Lopes witnessed every one of them as the Nats' first-base coach.

"He has so many pluses, it's ridiculous," Lopes said of Soriano. "He'll strike out a lot, but on the right team, he'll put up a lot of numbers."

The Phillies would be the right team for Soriano. He drove in 95 runs hitting predominantly leadoff for Washington this season. With the Phils, he'd hit behind talents like Rollins, Chase Utley and Ryan Howard. He'd drive in a ton of runs hitting behind those guys, and he'd also make teams think twice about pitching around Howard.

Soriano, who'll turn 31 in January, comes with a steep price tag. Figure $15 million per year for at least six seasons to start. The Phils know the parameters and are planning a full-court press similar to the one they laid on Jim Thome in 2002.

The big difference between the courting of Thome and the pursuit of Soriano is the market. In 2002, the Phils competed with only one other team, the Indians, for Thome. This year, there is a huge demand for sluggers, and Soriano is coveted by several deep-pocketed teams, including the Angels, Dodgers, Astros and possibly the Cubs, depending on what happens with Aramis Ramirez.

As things look right now, the Mets aren't players for Soriano. That could bode well for the Phils because, according to Lopes and others who know Soriano, the slugger prefers the East Coast.

"He doesn't want to leave the East Coast, so this is the right location," Lopes said.

But Lopes cautioned, "He's going to go where he gets the best deal. Green talks. It's about how much money is thrown his way."

So, for the Phillies, it will come down to how badly they want Soriano, and how willing they are to sign the check.

Lopes thinks Soriano would be a great investment.

"This is a good team, good city, good park for him," Lopes said. "He's just an outstanding guy. Pound-for-pound, I've never seen anyone hit the ball farther. And he brings energy to the park. Every day, he comes in with a smile and is ready to play. He has the ability to elevate and pick up people."

Phillies management is hoping that Lopes elevates a few people on the base paths, namely Victorino and Rollins.

Lopes knows Victorino from their time together in the Padres' system. Victorino, a high-school sprint champ in Hawaii, attempted just seven stolen bases in 153 games in 2006.

"Victorino will run more," Lopes said. "If he doesn't, I'll be fired. He'll be more aggressive. He's got it in him."

Rollins was successful on 36 of 40 stolen-base attempts.

"To me, that's not a lot of attempts," said Lopes, who stole 47 bases at age 40 for the 1985 Cubs. (Most 40-year-olds would need a gun to pull off a heist like that.)

"I need to talk to Jimmy and see what his philosophy is, why he doesn't run more," Lopes added. "But from the outside looking in, you'd like to see him be more aggressive. I think it would make him a more exciting player, a superstar talent. If he utilizes his speed more, he could win games with his feet, not just his bat and glove. He has greatness written all over him."

While this is Lopes' first time wearing red pinstripes, he knows the organization well, having played, coached and managed against the Phillies since 1973. He, of course, was the Dodgers' second baseman when that team beat the Phils in the National League Championship Series in 1977 and 1978. In 1977, he scored the decisive run in the infamous Black Friday game after being ruled safe by Froemming on a disputed infield hit.

"I was safe," Lopes said, a little smile crossing his face yesterday.

The smile will be a lot bigger if Soriano becomes a Phillie.

QuoteA Time to Build
By Todd Zolecki
Inquirer Staff Writer

The fun starts Sunday.

That's the first time the Phillies can make offers to free agents like outfielder Alfonso Soriano. The Phillies could open with an offer of $80 million over five years, and are prepared to go higher to sign whomever they consider the top free agent on the market.

"We could use a little more depth in the middle of our lineup," Phillies general manager Pat Gillick said at a media luncheon yesterday at Citizens Bank Park.

Gillick never mentioned Soriano by name yesterday, but he sounded like a man who has the resources to make a legitimate pursuit.

"The market is what the market is," he said. "If the market was X last year and it's XX this year, then if you want to play you're going to have to pay XX. You can't ever be sure. But when you make these decisions, are you going to be in love with this guy a year from now as much as you're in love with him right now? That's a decision you're going to have to make. I don't know a lot of people that I want to be in love with for five years."

Gillick likely would have to remain in love with Soriano for at least five years to land him. And that's a lot of money.

Soriano, a five-time all-star, batted .277 with 46 homers, 95 RBIs and 41 steals last season with the Washington Nationals.

The Phillies have had a payroll in the $93 million range in recent seasons, but Phillies president David Montgomery said recently they could go a little higher if needed.

Gillick, who said a complete no-trade clause in any contract is a deal breaker for him (although he would go with a partial), echoed that sentiment.

"I think our ownership and CEO are pretty practical," Gillick said. "Anything we bring to them that makes sense, not only for the short term, but the long term, I don't think they'll be reluctant to make the move. But it has to make sense. If you have to make a commitment you have to figure that player is going to figure for you for whatever time you're obligated. If you have to give somebody four years and you only get three [years of production], that's one thing. But if you give somebody four years and you only get one, that's a different story."

The Phillies already have about $46 million committed to seven players next season: Pat Burrell, Jeff Conine, Tom Gordon, Jon Lieber, Jamie Moyer, Abraham Nuñez, Jimmy Rollins. They also owe Jim Thome $5.5 million. And then they have five players eligible for salary arbitration: Geoff Geary, Ryan Madson, Brett Myers, Aaron Rowand and Chase Utley.

But Gillick thinks the Phillies not only can land that big fish in left field, but re-sign Randy Wolf, complete the rotation, and rebuild the bullpen. The Phillies won't be going after any Japanese pitchers, third basemen or otherwise. But they will look at righthanders Joe Borowski, David Weathers and others to fortify the bullpen. Mark DeRosa or Wes Helms could spell trouble for Nuñez at third base.

"We've only got four-fifths of our rotation right now," Gillick said. "We've got to get another starter, and I don't see that starter coming out of our organization. It'll have to come from outside. We've got some things to attend to from the starting standpoint and from the bullpen standpoint."

Howe goes quickly. Art Howe lasted less than a month as the Phillies' third-base coach. He accepted a position yesterday as the Texas Rangers' bench coach. Howe will assist Rangers manager Ron Washington, who worked with Howe for seven years in Oakland.

The Phillies have Howe's replacement in mind, and could hire him shortly.

"He definitely was going to help our club," Manuel said of Howe.

Manuel on Burrell. It's no secret the Phillies would like to trade Burrell, but he's making $27 million over the next two seasons and has a complete no-trade clause.

"I haven't ruled out the fact that he's still on our club," Manuel said. "I've always stood with Pat."

Extra bases. Wolf is expected to test the free-agent market before he signs anywhere, but the Phillies remain optimistic he will return... . There is little chance free-agent outfielder David Dellucci will return. He is looking for more playing time... . The Phillies hired Charley Kerfeld as special assistant to the GM. He replaces Don Welke, who went to Texas.

QuotePhillies hamstrung by Burrell's no-trade clause

By Jerry Crasnick
ESPN.com


PHILADELPHIA -- Phillies general manager Pat Gillick is quite nimble for a 69-year-old. Just think of all the hoops he jumped through before dealing Jim Thome and Bobby Abreu, high-profile players with big salaries and complete no-trade clauses.

This winter, Philadelphia fans will see whether Gillick can complete the hat trick with Pat Burrell, whose .222 average with runners in scoring position eclipsed his 29 homers and 95 RBI. It said a lot when manager Charlie Manuel batted 40-year-old Jeff Conine in the No. 5 spot in September to protect cleanup hitter Ryan Howard when the games mattered most.

Still, no matter how tiresome it gets watching Burrell wave at sliders, he might not be going anywhere. The Phillies say they expect Burrell to be more productive after a winter to rest his injured foot. He also has two years and $27 million left on his contract, and any trade partner probably would be asked to assume about half of it.

Finally, Burrell has a complete no-trade clause, and he has told the Phillies he has no interest in waiving it.

Did someone say "immovable object"?

"Pat wants to stay in Philly. He wants to play here. He's made that clear to us," Gillick said. "Our thought right now is that he'll be here. But if we get something on the table for any of our players that could improve the club, we'd have to take a look at it."

Gillick, who previously built winners in Toronto, Baltimore and Seattle, is no fan of blanket no-trade clauses. He's willing to bend in negotiations and let a player pick 6-8 clubs where he won't accept a trade without permission. Anything more liberal than that and Gillick feels hamstrung.

Some of his peers -- such as Boston's Theo Epstein and the Yankees' Brian Cashman -- sure know that feeling.

Manny Ramirez and Alex Rodriguez, perennial All-Stars mentioned in recent trade speculation, are in a similar situation to Burrell's. Their contracts are big enough to exclude most clubs from the process, yet they have a right to dictate exactly where they want to go.

Gillick is so averse to giving out complete no-trade provisions that he says it could be a "deal breaker" when the Phillies negotiate with big free agents this winter. (Yes, that means you, Alfonso Soriano).

"Situations change," Gillick said. "Your club might be constituted differently from one year to the next, and anything that restricts your flexibility is a problem. If you have a player under contract and you're paying the sums we're paying now, I think clubs ought to have the freedom to trade that player."

Cherished right

Even before the advent of free agency, players understood the value of calling the shots. Baseball's 1973 labor agreement was the first to include the 10-and-5 rule, which gives players with 10 years of big-league service time and five with the same club the right to veto any trade.

In his book "Lords of the Realm," John Helyar writes that the pursuit of a no-trade clause was the driving force behind Andy Messersmith's decision to test the reserve clause by playing the entire 1975 season without a contract. Along with Dave McNally, Messersmith paved the way for free agency.

Agent Scott Boras estimates that 12-13 of his current clients have full no-trade clauses. That includes Carlos Beltran, who signed with the Mets, in part, because they agreed to such a provision when Houston would not.

"One of the real valued rights of free agency and being a star player is the club saying, 'We want you in our city, we want you on our team, and we're going to assure you that by giving you a no-trade clause,'" Boras said.

Given the history, it's only natural players want such an assurance in writing.

"Babe Ruth is a great example," Boras said. "He was pretty darned good, but he still got traded."

Through the years, players with limited no-trade clauses have learned to use them strategically to protect their interests. Pitchers traditionally crossed Colorado off their list, at least before the humidor. And a player who values winning is likely to steer clear of, say, Pittsburgh and Kansas City.

Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins submits a list each November of eight teams he won't accept a trade to without giving permission. A baseball source said it includes some teams with elite shortstops -- a way for Rollins to protect himself in case some contender wants to trade for him and shift him to second base.

Boras said star players often seek no-trade clauses because they don't want to deal with the trauma of uprooting their families every two or three years.

"This clause is the beacon for 'I love my family,'" Boras said. "The first question that wives ask me is, 'Can we get a no-trade clause?' They want certainty."

Team officials, naturally, see a different motivation.

"When you try to trade the guy someplace he says, 'Yeah, I'll waive my [no-trade clause], but I want X number of dollars,' " Gillick said. "It's a money grab."

Washington Nationals president Stan Kasten, who once ran three professional franchises in Atlanta, has steadfastly refused to give out no-trades. Six years ago, when the Braves lost out to Texas in their quest to sign Alex Rodriguez, Atlanta's unwillingness to include a no-trade provision was cited as a factor.

Kasten chuckles at that characterization. "We did wind up $126 million short of the total number," he said. "That might have been a factor as well."

But as Kasten points out, the Braves signed Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, Chipper Jones and Andruw Jones to long-term deals and lured Greg Maddux from Chicago without a no-trade clause. He has held the line with star players in basketball (Dominique Wilkins and Moses Malone) and hockey (Dany Heatley and Ilya Kovalchuk), too.

"I've seen too many cases where no-trade clauses resulted in real turmoil for a franchise," Kasten said. "I can negotiate away money, but I never felt comfortable negotiating away my ability to improve the team. That's something we need to hold on to as tenaciously as we can."

Gillick's challenge

In Philadelphia, former GM Ed Wade agreed to the contract restrictions that are now making Gillick's life so challenging. The Phillies had just traded third baseman Scott Rolen to St. Louis because they couldn't sign him to a long-term deal, and they needed to generate some good will with the fan base.

Abreu and Burrell weren't terrible investments, just not the players the Phillies decided they wanted to build around. When Gillick began shipping out veterans to turn over the team leadership to Chase Utley and Howard, he found the no-trade clauses hampered his mobility.

Thome told the Phillies he would be willing to waive his no-trade clause to go to two clubs -- the Indians or the White Sox -- before Gillick sent him to Chicago for Aaron Rowand last November. The Phillies focused on four clubs before trading Abreu to the Yankees, then had to kick in $1.5 million to get him to agree to the deal.

Although Gillick has been criticized for getting little in return for Abreu, he had almost no leverage.

"If the other club is aware a player will only go to certain places, it hurts you on what you can get back in return," Gillick said. "With contracts of that size, you can't talk to 29 other clubs. But you might be able to talk to, say, 10 clubs. That's a hell of a lot better than three or four. "

The Phillies were caught off guard last week by reports that Burrell might consider waiving his no-trade provision to go to San Francisco. Don't count on him winding up there. If the Giants re-sign Barry Bonds, Burrell would be out of luck in left field. And although there were rumblings that San Francisco might play Burrell at first base, the Phillies tried him there earlier in his career and he didn't exactly warm to the position.

Finally, the Phillies have received no indication that the Giants are interested. One club official said the clubs have had "zero" discussions about Burrell.

Burrell's agent, Greg Genske, didn't return calls seeking comment. But it's not difficult to envision places for which Burrell might be willing to waive his no-trade clause. Arizona, the California teams, Boston and the two New York clubs are about it. That's a finite universe of suitors.

Oddly enough, the worse things get in Philadelphia, the more receptive Burrell could become to a deal. If Phillies fans continue to boo him in the spring or his playing time diminishes, he might be more willing to consider other destinations.

Now for the bad news: That's the point at which Burrell's value would be lowest and the Phillies could get the least in return.

"The danger when you enter into a contract of that magnitude is that you're probably signing a guy at his peak time," an American League executive said. "Your emotions are high and he's coming off a great year, and you say, 'We're not going to move him anyway. Let's give him a no-trade.' Three years later, you have Pat Burrell."

At the moment, the Phillies still have Pat Burrell. How long they keep him could hinge on how open-minded he is and how inventive Gillick is. It's not as if the Phillies haven't been down this road before.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 08, 2006, 05:56:16 AM

Quote from: MDS on November 07, 2006, 07:39:31 PM
Stop being a panzy sabermatrician.

:-D

mp,

What are you, a frenchman? I wonder if you really believe half the shtein you write or if you're trying to be a contrarian.

You want Rowand gone and I just don't know why you hate the guy. Bell is not even comparable to him. So just stop. But to suggest putting Soriano in RF while keeping Burrell in LF is crazy shtein. Victorino would run himself silly covering all of that ground.

Who cares if Gillick gives Soriano the money? LIke MDS said - he knows that pitching reigns supreme. But he also knows that the hole behind Howard MUST be filled. And putting pedestrian players behind him ain't gonna do it. And he did sign slop last year but he really didn't have a choice because he was in his first year and wanted to see what he had within the organization and there also wasn't much out there to sign.

Soriano - Rowand - Victorino/Conine is the way to go in the OF.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 08, 2006, 04:24:10 PM
Why I hate Burrell:

He only see's (sic) 3rd strikes.

He is average but paid like a star.

He is whiter than white.

He never walks, except to the dugout.

There was a better all around player at his position stuck on the bench because of his contract.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 08, 2006, 07:59:26 PM
If you like Rowand you would love my retarded cousin Lilly. She sometimes gets distracted and walks into walls.

Quote from: Sgt PSN on November 08, 2006, 08:38:01 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 08, 2006, 07:59:26 PM
If you like Rowand you would love my retarded cousin Lilly. She sometimes gets distracted and walks into walls.

Has she ever been teathered to a tree? 

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 08, 2006, 07:59:26 PM
If you like Rowand you would love my retarded cousin Lilly.

QuoteHow about Abreu for Soriano. We move Utley to 3B and start Victorino in RF.

Rollins
Victorino
Soriano
Burrell
Howard
Rowand
Utley
Fasano

7 would be a real strong RBI slot with Howard and Rowand in front of Chase.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 10, 2006, 07:26:08 PM
Latest Burrell rumor (probably doesnt hold much weight but who careS):

Burrell to SF
SF sends two prospects to Boston
Boston sends Lowell to us

This is if we get Soriano apparently and we would not have to eat any of Burrell's contract.

I dont believe it. 

QuotePat Burrell Is Not A Bad Player

After reading Jerry Crasnick's article, I felt the need to point that out.

In the NL, the average left fielder hit .277/.359/.478 in 2006.  In the AL it was .280/.347/.449.

Pat Burrell hit .258/.388/.502 this season and .281/.389/.504 in 2005.  The guy posts an .890 OPS.  That's very good.  It's comfortably above average for a left fielder.  His OPS was 21st in the NL this year.  That's better than Scott Rolen, Todd Helton, or Nomar Garciaparra.  Not far behind Alfonso Soriano or Carlos Delgado.

"But Tim!" you'll say.  "He can't hit in the clutch!"  Yes, I acknowledge that Burrell hit just .222/.376/.346 with runners in scoring position.  That's a 153 AB sample.  It means nothing.  Just one year earlier Burrell hit .313./.429/.598 with runners in scoring position. 

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 11, 2006, 12:38:37 AM
Ha. I just found posted this on MLB Trade rumors.com

Quote from: Sgt PSN on November 11, 2006, 05:15:19 AM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 11, 2006, 12:38:37 AM
Ha. I just found posted this on MLB Trade rumors.com

Quote from: MDS on November 11, 2006, 01:53:28 PM
(http://profile.ak.facebook.com/profile2/15/118/n8214917_21442.jpg)

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 15, 2006, 09:14:34 AM
Also, the Phils are not bringing back Scott "put one in the win column" Graham.

Quote from: Wingspan on November 15, 2006, 09:43:15 AM
and i could care less about soriano. i'd rather the money be spent on pitching

Quote from: SunMo on November 15, 2006, 09:48:49 AM

Quote from: Wingspan on November 15, 2006, 09:43:15 AM
and i could care less about soriano. i'd rather the money be spent on pitching

you're not the first, and certainly not the last to say this, but who?  Zito?  Schmidt?  those guys are going to get monster contracts and I think Soriano does more to deserve an overpaying contract than those two pitchers do.

Quote from: SunMo on November 15, 2006, 10:04:28 AM
but there is a reason why supposed #1 pitchers reach free agency, AJ Burnett is a perfect example.  you don't get a #1 pitcher through free agency, you get them from within your system.

Quote from: MDS on November 15, 2006, 09:27:43 AM
Really? Graham might have wanted out. He does a lot of college ball in addition to the Phils. Either way, good. He sucks. And I'm glad Wheels is back. His baseball insight is amazing.

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 15, 2006, 03:40:00 PM
Soriano will make the lineup amazing.

so it will be the 2nd best offense in the league instead of the 3rd best...it will also lead the history of the world in strikeouts...really how many runs do you actually want...what they need is more 3-2 and 4-3 wins and less 14-4 11-5 ones

Quote from: MDS on November 15, 2006, 04:10:05 PM

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 15, 2006, 03:40:00 PM
Soriano will make the lineup amazing.

so it will be the 2nd best offense in the league instead of the 3rd best...it will also lead the history of the world in strikeouts...really how many runs do you actually want...what they need is more 3-2 and 4-3 wins and less 14-4 11-5 ones

what can do they do to the pitching. 4/5ths of the rotation is set. who do you want. do you want them to just not spend the money? the team is predicated on hamels and myers ability to be aces. if they do it, things will be good. if not, then its another 86 win season.

Quote from: Wingspan on November 15, 2006, 04:12:31 PM

Quote from: MDS on November 15, 2006, 04:10:05 PM

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 15, 2006, 03:40:00 PM
Soriano will make the lineup amazing.

so it will be the 2nd best offense in the league instead of the 3rd best...it will also lead the history of the world in strikeouts...really how many runs do you actually want...what they need is more 3-2 and 4-3 wins and less 14-4 11-5 ones

what can do they do to the pitching. 4/5ths of the rotation is set. who do you want. do you want them to just not spend the money? the team is predicated on hamels and myers ability to be aces. if they do it, things will be good. if not, then its another 86 win season.

so get the 1/5 missing and make it count. and not fill in with some shtein head like gavin floyd.

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 15, 2006, 06:11:33 PM
Yeah, Soriano's ability to hit 40 homers, 40 doubles, and get 40 steals is going to be just like Burrell's skill-set.


F'ing idiot.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 06:38:24 PMHe has hit 40 homers once in his career.

Quote from: Geowhizzer on November 15, 2006, 09:16:41 PM
I actally agree with IGY.  Soriano is percisely the type of hitter the Phils lineup DOESN'T need more of:  all or nothing.  Scoring 12 runs one night, 2 the next, shutout the next, 1 the next, 14 the next.

If the Phils could rid themselves of Brurell, Soriano would be an upgrade offensively.

Defensively, he would just add to the stone hands already manning the field.

And calling a rotation of Myers-Hamels-Lieber-Moyer-some schmuck "set" speaks volumes about the team's not being ready to compete for a pennant.  Mediocre at it's finest.

Between the bad defense (other than Rollins at short and possibly Victorino).


The ONLY way the Phils should sign Soriano is if they know they can rid themselves of Burrell.  By trade or by DFA.

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 15, 2006, 09:22:18 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 06:38:24 PMHe has hit 40 homers once in his career.

OK, half-empty.  He's also hit at least 36 HRs in four of the last five years.......something Burrell has done ONCE in seven.  He also has over 40 times more stolen bases in his career...

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 15, 2006, 09:22:18 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 06:38:24 PMHe has hit 40 homers once in his career.

OK, half-empty.  He's also hit at least 36 HRs in four of the last five years.......something Burrell has done ONCE in seven.  He also has over 40 times more stolen bases in his career...

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 09:31:36 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 15, 2006, 09:22:18 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 06:38:24 PMHe has hit 40 homers once in his career.

OK, half-empty.  He's also hit at least 36 HRs in four of the last five years.......something Burrell has done ONCE in seven.  He also has over 40 times more stolen bases in his career...

I am not arguing that he is not better than Burrell. 

I am arguing that Soriano is not worth the contract and that there is a high chance that he will be very bad in the latter years of his contract.   

I am not even sure that Gillick wants him anymore though. 

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 09:24:22 PM

Quote from: Geowhizzer on November 15, 2006, 09:16:41 PM
I actally agree with IGY.  Soriano is percisely the type of hitter the Phils lineup DOESN'T need more of:  all or nothing.  Scoring 12 runs one night, 2 the next, shutout the next, 1 the next, 14 the next.

If the Phils could rid themselves of Brurell, Soriano would be an upgrade offensively.

Defensively, he would just add to the stone hands already manning the field.

And calling a rotation of Myers-Hamels-Lieber-Moyer-some schmuck "set" speaks volumes about the team's not being ready to compete for a pennant.  Mediocre at it's finest.

Between the bad defense (other than Rollins at short and possibly Victorino).


The ONLY way the Phils should sign Soriano is if they know they can rid themselves of Burrell.  By trade or by DFA.

That's the best rotation in the NL East unless D-Willis suddenly stops being mediocre.

If Myers or Hamels becomes the ace they were claimed to be and Lieber can stay healthy this has a chance to be a very very good rotation.  Of course there is probably a better chance that it is mediocre, but I am optimistic so yea.

If Gillick didnt settle for Floyd and Madson in the first half the Phillies are in the playoffs easily, remember.

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 15, 2006, 09:54:49 PM
seriously

unless the phils add a bonafied #3 or higher starter the rotation is at best equal to last years and possibly much worse with leiber and moyer going downhill and downhill fast

hamels should get better
myers is what he is...a very good #3 with #2 potential
leiber absolutely blows
a full year in the bank is going to expose moyer (he gave up eight or more runs in all but one of his home starts)

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 09:41:27 PM
I didnt say I was sure that Gillick doesnt want him.  I said I wasnt sure that Gillick still wants him.

Some of the quotes in articles lately have suggested that he doesnt want to go after Soriano.  He is probably just bluffing, but its wierd.   

MDS needs to talk to his boy Hayes about this.

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 15, 2006, 09:54:49 PM
a full year in the bank is going to expose moyer (he gave up eight or more runs in all but one of his home starts)

Quote from: MDS on November 15, 2006, 10:03:08 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 09:41:27 PM
I didnt say I was sure that Gillick doesnt want him.  I said I wasnt sure that Gillick still wants him.

Some of the quotes in articles lately have suggested that he doesnt want to go after Soriano.  He is probably just bluffing, but its wierd.   

MDS needs to talk to his boy Hayes about this.

shoot him an email, he'll give you a straight response. but from what i remember, they were interested. i remember gillick shot out carlos lee's name with soriano. i wanted lee instead. thatd be good.

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 15, 2006, 10:06:01 PM

Quote from: MDS on November 15, 2006, 10:03:08 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 09:41:27 PM
I didnt say I was sure that Gillick doesnt want him.  I said I wasnt sure that Gillick still wants him.

Some of the quotes in articles lately have suggested that he doesnt want to go after Soriano.  He is probably just bluffing, but its wierd.   

MDS needs to talk to his boy Hayes about this.

shoot him an email, he'll give you a straight response. but from what i remember, they were interested. i remember gillick shot out carlos lee's name with soriano. i wanted lee instead. thatd be good.

Soriano >>>>> Lee

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 09:31:36 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 15, 2006, 09:22:18 PM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 06:38:24 PMHe has hit 40 homers once in his career.

OK, half-empty.  He's also hit at least 36 HRs in four of the last five years.......something Burrell has done ONCE in seven.  He also has over 40 times more stolen bases in his career...

I am not arguing that he is not better than Burrell. 

I am arguing that Soriano is not worth the contract and that there is a high chance that he will be very bad in the latter years of his contract.    

I am not even sure that Gillick wants him anymore though. 

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 06:38:24 PM

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 15, 2006, 06:11:33 PM
Yeah, Soriano's ability to hit 40 homers, 40 doubles, and get 40 steals is going to be just like Burrell's skill-set.


F'ing idiot.

He has hit 40 homers once in his career.  I think he is going to do it again for a few more years, but there is a very good chance the guy is going to blow (possibly worse than Burrell, probably not) in the last years of his contract.                         

Your inability to recognize this is amusing though. 

If you want to make any kind of bet about this with serious cash involved I am all for it. 

QuoteHowever, he continued to apply the brakes to any speculation that the Phillies would chase Soriano at any cost.

"I can't even say we're interested," he insisted. "Our plans might not necessarily include him. We like him. We're studying the situation. All I've ever said is that we intended to improve our club and everybody drew their own conclusions from that. They looked at our lineup and decided we need to protect Ryan Howard and concluded that we should go after Soriano or Manny Ramirez or Carlos Lee or somebody like that."

The Phillies also continue to look for relief pitching - they made an offer to a free agent yesterday - and a catcher.

"That [catcher] is an area we have to address," Gillick said.

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 16, 2006, 10:35:00 AM

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 15, 2006, 06:38:24 PM

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 15, 2006, 06:11:33 PM
Yeah, Soriano's ability to hit 40 homers, 40 doubles, and get 40 steals is going to be just like Burrell's skill-set.


F'ing idiot.

He has hit 40 homers once in his career.  I think he is going to do it again for a few more years, but there is a very good chance the guy is going to blow (possibly worse than Burrell, probably not) in the last years of his contract.                         

Your inability to recognize this is amusing though. 

If you want to make any kind of bet about this with serious cash involved I am all for it. 

Your inability to kill yourself is disappointing.  Try harder, troll. 

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 16, 2006, 03:32:03 PM
I have repeatedly stated that Soriano is better than Burrell.

Quotebut there is a very good chance the guy is going to blow (possibly worse than Burrell, probably not) in the last years of his contract.

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 16, 2006, 03:32:03 PM
I have repeatedly stated that Soriano is better than Burrell.

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 16, 2006, 04:15:39 PM
You're a complete farging idiot.

Please shut the farg up.

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 16, 2006, 04:20:12 PM
Well it's not a good chance that Soriano will be worse than Burrell is now

im still trying to figure out why that matters...what does soriano in 2012 have to do with burrell in 2007

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 16, 2006, 04:20:12 PM
btw why is it a certainty that soriano at 38 not even that old in baseball to have good years left will be worse than burrell now who is about as bad as one can get

Quote from: mpmcgraw on November 16, 2006, 04:17:44 PM

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 16, 2006, 04:15:39 PM
You're a complete farging idiot.

Please shut the farg up.

Why?  Because I am being Dr. Killjoy?

It's not my fault that Soriano has put up a .900 OPS exactly as many times as Rowand and Burrell have.

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 16, 2006, 04:51:01 PM
3. burrell sucks soriano doesnt

QuoteESKIN says that an offer to Soriano has been made 6 yrs/98 mil

Quote from: MDS on November 16, 2006, 07:13:24 PM

QuoteESKIN says that an offer to Soriano has been made 6 yrs/98 mil

[/size]

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 08:02:18 PM
Sure, why not.

Quote from: FFatPatt on November 16, 2006, 08:19:56 PM

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 08:02:18 PM
Sure, why not.

Beane would have never signed Burrell to the deal that Wade did.

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 08:23:36 PM

Quote from: FFatPatt on November 16, 2006, 08:19:56 PM

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 08:02:18 PM
Sure, why not.

Beane would have never signed Burrell to the deal that Wade did.

No kidding. Do you think I liked that deal?

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 08:23:36 PM

Quote from: FFatPatt on November 16, 2006, 08:19:56 PM

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 08:02:18 PM
Sure, why not.

Beane would have never signed Burrell to the deal that Wade did.

No kidding.  Do you think I liked that deal?

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 09:31:41 PM
I am a homosexual.                               

that is incredibly accurate.

QuoteGillick said the meeting lasted about 20 minutes, long enough for him to deliver "a strong indication of interest" to Soriano and come away feeling "comfortable" about the team's chances of landing the player.
.
.
"They gave us some parameters," Gillick said. "Right now, we feel comfortable with the parameters."
.
.
Many baseball people believe the Angels are willing to outbid other clubs for Soriano, but the Phillies boast several pluses that should make them one of the front-runners.

"I think he'd prefer the National League and somewhere on the East Coast," Gillick said. "He knows Philly and he "loves the ballpark. All hitters love our park. He knows Jimmy Rollins from playing against him and he likes our lineup."

At least one baseball person thinks the Phillies are the clear-cut leaders to get Soriano, who spent last season with the Washington Nationals. Thursday morning, Nationals GM Jim Bowden walked by Amaro during idle time and said, "We're ready for our draft pick." The Phillies would surrender their first-round pick in the 2007 draft to the Nationals if they sign Soriano.

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 16, 2006, 09:56:51 PM
(http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a103/Woody977/Gillick.jpg)

ha. 

QuotePlayer News from ROTOWIRE
Nov. 13
News: The Rockies are still concerned about Torrealba's shoulder recovery, and are considering signing Rod Barajas to be their starting catcher, the Denver Post reports.

Quote from: Seabiscuit36 on November 17, 2006, 09:12:47 AM
Rumor is a deal in place with the Rockies

Rowand to be traded to Colorado

Phils get Torrealba and Arron Cook

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 17, 2006, 09:19:34 AM
He looks like that dude from Ghost who lived in the subway.

you mean sal fasano?

QuoteSource: Former MLB Scout monitering the GM meetings in Naples Florida

There have been reports that the Phillies as of last night had a trade in place that would send Aaron Rowand to the Colorado Rockies for pitcher Aaron Cook and catcher Yorvit Torrealba.
This trade may or may not have been scratched because reports today had it that the Phillies made an offer to a free agent catcher. The catcher who was given the offer was not revealed.

QuoteInsider Info? off espn MB

I am just posting this to create talk. Who knows if this is true. But it sure sounds like it is.

Fellas, as some of you know my brother in law works for the Phillies He gives me some information whenever I see him (which is not alot lately). Anyhow take all this for what its worth RUMORS.

1. The Phillies have not made a formal offer to Soriano, they have talked peramerters of a contract. Right now the Phillies would go to 6yrs 101 mill to sign him.Soriano only has a few offers on the table and the best one the scouts can find out is Houston at 6yrs 80 mill. Soriano's agents are going to meet with the rest of the teams interested and then start round two of the negotiations which will ultimately lead to his signing. My BIL thinks sometime next week he will sign and he thinks its going to be with the Phillies

2. The Phillies have made free agent offers to the following players

Bengie Molina - 2yrs 6 mill

Adam Eaton - 3yrs 24 mill

Danys Baez - 2yrs 5 mill

Joe Borowski - 3yrs 11.5 mill

3. They have a deal in place for Aaron Rowand and Ryan Madson to the Colorado Rockies for RSP Aaron Cook , outfielder Jeff Salazar and Catcher Yorvit Torrealba. This deal is dependant on the free agents above. If they sign Eaton they won't make this deal. If they can't get Baez or Borowski they won't make this deal

4. Before Signing Wes Helms the Phillies had a deal fall through with Arizona that lead the deal above. They were going to deal Aaron Rowand, Ryan Madson and JA Happ to Colorado for Aaron Cook and Garrett Atkins, Corolado got cold feet on that one and it now turned into the one above

5. Backup option to Soriano is Moises Alou for a year or two

6. There are six teams who are sniffing around Pat Burrell right now. Most are trying to see if the Phillies would pay any of his contract. Gillick is planning on holding onto Burrell for now and wait out the big sluggers in the market. Gillick thinks he can get something close to what Detriot gave up for Gary Sheffield

QuoteHey Pat, I was looking for the backwards K on my keyboard. Did you take it? Didn't you have enough of them last season?

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 17, 2006, 08:18:14 PM
Beane would have gotten that shtein done.

1B:  Howard
2B:  Utley
3B:  Atkins
SS:  J-Roll

That's easily the best infield in the majors.  Boo.

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 17, 2006, 08:32:17 PM

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 17, 2006, 08:18:14 PM
Beane would have gotten that shtein done.

1B:  Howard
2B:  Utley
3B:  Atkins
SS:  J-Roll

That's easily the best infield in the majors.  Boo.

Right.  Much better than an infield that includes Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez & Jason Giambi.  And much, much better than an infield that includes Albert Pujols, Scott Rolen & David Eckstein.

:-D

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 17, 2006, 08:40:37 PM

Utley is better than Cano.  Not by a lot, but a decent amount.

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 17, 2006, 09:07:43 PM
I also forgot to mention that Robinson Cano hit .342 for the Yankees at their everyday 2B last season.

Yep - clearly he sucks too.

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 17, 2006, 09:06:53 PM
You are an idiot.

I really dont know how much more simply I can put it.  You probably dont even realize how good Atkins is and that Eckstein is one of the most overrated players in the game. 

I love how you say World Series MVP like it means anything. 

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 17, 2006, 09:10:05 PM

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 17, 2006, 09:06:53 PM
You are an idiot.

I really dont know how much more simply I can put it.  You probably dont even realize how good Atkins is and that Eckstein is one of the most overrated players in the game. 

I love how you say World Series MVP like it means anything. 

It means he was the most valuable player in the World Series.  He also won a World Series in Anaheim as the starting SS.

How many playoff games has Rollins been in?  I'll wait while the 2 cylinder engine you call a brain comes up with the answer to that one.

QuotePat Burrell
He just turned 30, and he's averaged 28 homers and 99 RBI the last three years. If the Phillies really want Alfonso Soriano, they will eat some of Burrell's contract, which adds up to $27.5M the next two years. His problems with right-handed pitchers-- .244, .837 OPS this last year, .256, .837 the three previous seasons -- scares teams, and there is debate about where he plays. "He's nowhere near as bad as he's made out to be," says an AL GM. He'll help someone, with the Giants being the early rumor. TRADED

Quote from: Seabiscuit36 on November 18, 2006, 06:59:46 AM
MP are you Jemagee on another Board?

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 17, 2006, 09:11:16 PM
And clearly Rollins constant late season heroics and far above average hitting for a SS are the reasons that the Phillies have missed the playoffs.

Quote from: phattymatty on November 20, 2006, 02:13:55 PM

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 17, 2006, 09:11:16 PM
And clearly Rollins constant late season heroics and far above average hitting for a SS are the reasons that the Phillies have missed the playoffs.

QuoteGarrett Atkins (10),

Quote from: SunMo on November 20, 2006, 07:27:06 PM
isn't carlos lee basically pat burrell?

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 20, 2006, 09:42:19 PM
He's Burrell with half the strikeouts, an ability to steal bases, an ability to hit over .275 and an ability to hit with RISP

QuotePhillies GM Pat Gillick said he has talked with Carlos Lee's representatives.
Lee obviously wasn't the Phillies' top choice, but the club is getting a little desperate now. "He's a nice looking player, someone who would definitely draw some interest," Gillick said. If the Phillies signed Lee, they'd then trade Pat Burrell, something that isn't much more than sideways move. Lee is probably the slightly better bet going forward, but the Phillies would have to pay Lee at least $15 million and likely eat a portion of Burrell's contract to get him moved. They'd also lose their first-round pick in the process.

Quote from: Billy Beane on November 20, 2006, 10:30:14 PM

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 20, 2006, 09:42:19 PM
He's Burrell with half the strikeouts, an ability to steal bases, an ability to hit over .275 and an ability to hit with RISP

Right, because it's not like Burrell has shown the ability to hit with RISP.  It's not like he has shown he can as recently as 2005.  AVG w/ RISP is not luck at all!   

Let's see how many bags Lee is stealing when he is over 300 pounds in the next year or two.


Looks like I write for rotoworld too.

QuotePhillies GM Pat Gillick said he has talked with Carlos Lee's representatives.
Lee obviously wasn't the Phillies' top choice, but the club is getting a little desperate now. "He's a nice looking player, someone who would definitely draw some interest," Gillick said. If the Phillies signed Lee, they'd then trade Pat Burrell, something that isn't much more than sideways move. Lee is probably the slightly better bet going forward, but the Phillies would have to pay Lee at least $15 million and likely eat a portion of Burrell's contract to get him moved. They'd also lose their first-round pick in the process.

Quote from: BigEd76 on November 21, 2006, 12:35:34 AM
J, where did the 5/$62M rumor come from?

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 21, 2006, 06:30:09 AM
id much rather have gary matthews jr than lee

they need someone in the OF who can play defense

Quote from: PhillyPhreak54 on November 21, 2006, 11:28:43 AM
Sarge Jr is 32 and finally had a solid season. I wonder how much has to do with it being a contract year for him. I'd say buyer beware on him.

QuoteGillick did seem to shoot down the notion that the Phillies would be interested in Manny Ramirez, the Red Sox' talented but enigmatic slugger.

"I don't know if he's a headache we want to deal with," he said.

QuoteCarlos Lee-OF- Rangers    Nov. 21 - 6:55 pm et
      
      
The Orioles apparently believe it will come down to them, the Astros and the Phillies for Carlos Lee, the Baltimore Sun's Roch Kubatko reports.
Baltimore apparently hasn't made a firm offer to Lee, probably because the team knows Lee's agents would use the bid in negotiations with other teams. Lee could pick him team as soon as the weekend.

QuoteGregg Zaun said he isn't close to re-signing with the Jays after only being offered "a hair above Blanco money."
Henry Blanco got a two-year, $5.25 million contract from the Cubs. "We're too far apart and it's way too early in the process for me to accept slightly better than back-up money for playing every day," said Zaun, who is acting as his own agent. The Blue Jays might decide to move on to Rod Barajas. If that happens, Zaun could look to Philadelphia or consider a backup job. The Orioles, Red Sox and Yankees are among the teams that might want him as a part-time player.

QuoteThe Chron has a source saying that an AL team (gotta be the Orioles) has floated a $70M/5 deal. It sounds like the Phillies haven't made an offer; maybe Pat Gillick will realize that signing Lee just to replace Pat Burrell would be a bizarre waste of time. As it is, it seems like the Astros are banking on getting some kind of hometown discount, while the Orioles are hoping that Carlos wants to play for a mediocre team for the remainder of his productive career.

Quote from: FFatPatt on November 22, 2006, 08:12:35 AM
The Eagles have a rag-arm at QB, though.

Quote from: Jerome99RIP on November 22, 2006, 08:02:12 AMZito's lost a foot or two off his fastball.

Quote from: MDS on November 24, 2006, 07:52:05 PM
platoon of Nixon and Conine in left

Quote from: ice grillin you on November 24, 2006, 07:10:43 PM
PS: Would you give $50M each to Utley & Howard now instead of $100M to Carlos Lee?

loaded and disingenuous question...its not an either or scenario and you know this...with all the money coming off the roster on this team they could easily pay lee now and then utley and howard next year and/or the year after

do you not realize theres going to be carlos lees sorianos matthews and pierres every offseason for the rest of time....if they cant get as you say bums like lee signed how are they gonna get the good free agents signed

free agents are gonna get caked off its just the way it is...the phillies can choose to participate or not...but dont for a minute think these are crazy salaries for these guys because its gonna happen all over again next year with a different group of players