By Mike Gill
We may have gotten a glimpse into the Phillies future tonight by virtue of what, I can only assume, must have been a slip on Davey Lopes’ part. While sitting here watching the Phillies game tonight, Tom McCarthy was conducting an interview with first base coach Davey Lopes. During the interview, Lopes may have let the cat out of the bag regarding the Phillies plans concerning Pat Burrell’s future with the franchise.
While discussing Shane Victorino, Lopes said they were a little disappointed with his center field defense and that they might move him back to right field and play Jason Werth in left field next season. Then the broadcasters got a little quiet and seemed a bit uncomfortable.
Does this mean Pat Burrell will not be here next season?
Funny as I write this, Burrell just smacked a double, but it’s his inconsistent average and his streaky production that has the Phillies thinking about letting him walk after the season. Sure Burrell carried this team early in the season, but can he really be counted on when the money is on the line.
Either way, the picture may have become a little clearer regarding his future, thanks to Lopes.
Seemed like Lopes realized what he had said in mid-sentence, then he slowed his speech a bit. The announcers quickly changed the conversation.
Lopes actually mentioned acquiring a center-fielder and then shifiting Victorino to right and Werth to left, which I feel would be their best option. Interesting though that they are even having these conversations without a GM in place (at least publicly) for the offseason.
Burrell has truly been a roller coaster all season. Hot one week cold the next. Does anyone want him back? Tough to tell…..appreciate Lopes’ honesty, though!
I dont think he meant to say it, kinda seemed akward. I think Lopes said something he wasnt supposed to, thats how I read it.
Wonder who the CF options are that the Phils may consider….????
Also, did he divulge any info on the new GM? =)
John, I’m putting together an article regarding cf options. Should be up within the hour.