http://www.yardbarker.com/rss/player/21449 Recent articles about Louis Marson en-us From my loft just north of Center City I can hear the crickets chirping at Citizen's Bank Park. The celebrations have ended, the confetti's been cleaned up, and now Phillies fans have to wait another 14 weeks until pitchers and catchers report to Clearwater. That's when the World Champion Philadelphia Phillies (doesn't that have a nice ring to it?), will begin their defense of their World Series title. If you're a baseball fan like I am, you understand that baseball really is a 12 month sport. Although players are only active from March-October, the offseason is a season of its own. Fans look for up to the minute news and rumors about who might be added to their favorite club in hopes to improve the team for the next season. Well it's going to be a long 14 weeks for Phillies fans, as not much is expected to happen. Sure the rumors will swirl about Pat Burrell possibly returning, as Jamie Moyer, but if you're looking for a big splash this offseason, say Manny Ramirez or CC Sabathia, don't hold your breath. It's simply not going to happen. You'll hear about Ryan Dempster re-signing with the Cubs. You'll hear how every closer on the market is Flushing bound. You'll hear how much the Braves love Jake Peavy. You'll also hear how Hank Steinbrenner is going to spend money and overpay for every free agent available, but you will not hear the Phillies mentioned in the same breath as any big name free agents. There are a couple of reasons for this. First you have to look at this Phillies team. Being lucky enough to having only six free agents (two of which, Tom Gordon and So Taguchi, will not return), the core of this team is intact. The entire infield will be back, as well as two of the three starting outfielders. Should they resign Burrell, the outfield is also in check. Where does that leave the Phillies offensively? Possibly an upgrade at catcher? With a thin free agent crop behind the plate, and Lou Marson waiting in the wings, Carlos Ruiz is a fine stopgap (he also showed what he's capable of offensively this October). As far as the pitching staff goes, three of the five starters in the rotation will be back. If Moyer re-signs, the first four spots in the rotation are set. That leaves the fifth spot open for a Spring Training battle between J.A. Happ, Kyle Kendrick, Carlos Carrasco, and dare I say it, Adam Eaton. With the rotation being set, what about the bullpen? Chad Durbin, Clay Condrey, J.C. Romero, Scott Eyre (who recently re-signed), Ryan Madson, and Brad Lidge will all be in red pinstripes next season. With Gordon and possibly Rudy Seanez departing you can see another right-handed arm out of the bullpen, but when you think offseason splash, you don't think of middle relief. The Phillies don't have the glaring holes like the Mets, Yankees, Braves, & Cardinals do. Therefore they don't need to sign a congregate of players. Another thing to look at would be money. Yeah, how could we forget money? Anytime the Phillies pass on a big name free agent, it's because of money (at least that's what some think). Well money is a big factor. Especially when the Phillies have many players up for arbitration, including Jayson Werth, Shane Victorino, Cole Hamels, and Ryan Howard. I don't know about you, but I'd rather see these guys happy and under contract then a former Dodger, who can be the best player in baseball when he wants to be, in left field (with the "when he wants to be" being the big concern). I always laugh when it comes to fans and the money issue. Look at the guys who were cogs in the 2008 Phillies - Shane Victorino, Greg Dobbs, and Jayson Werth. These guys all made minimal money, yet if not for them, there would have been no parade down Broad Street. The biggest names and contracts don't win World Championships. If that was the case, the Cubs wouldn't be going on 101 years without a championship, and the Mets and Yankees would be perennial foes in the Fall Classic. What will we see this winter? The primary focus is going to be on Moyer, and whether or not the Phillies and his agent can come to terms on a contract. Should they not be able to, look for the Phillies to look to add another starter. By another starter, I don't mean Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, Derek Lowe, or Ben Sheets. It'll be more like a Paul Byrd, Josh Fogg, or Braden Looper. Once the rotation is set that's when the attention will return to the outfield. Should Burrell not re-sign, the Phillies aren't going to get a full time left fielder. With Geoff Jenkins rotting on the bench, they'll probably end up searching for a platoon partner. The names here won't be too glamorous either. It'll be someone like Emil Brown, Rocco Baldelli, or Juan Rivera. Once the starters are complete, that's most likely when we'll see the bullpen addressed (Juan Cruz anyone?), and right-handed bat off the bench. I'm talking about someone comparable to Eric Bruntlett. If there's any surprises, it'll be more in the form of reclamation projects. A Brad Penny or Mark Mulder could be a diamond in the rough, at a minimal price. This someone like Kris Benson, with the intention that he actually might be able to contribute. So be patient Phillies fans. The rumors will be few and far between this winter. That's not a bad thing. It means the needs for this club aren't as serious as a lot of other clubs out there. Just sit back, monitor the rumors and speculation, and enjoy that fact that your Philadelphia Phillies are World Champions. Wed, 19 Nov 2008 11:34:49 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/382585 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/382585 With the World Series only five days away, ideas are beginning to be tossed around about who will be the team's designated hitter in Game 1, be it in Tampa or Boston. The obvious choices would be Greg Dobbs, Geoff Jenkins, or Matt Stairs. Currently all valuable assets off the bench for pinch hitting duties, they could each step into the lineup and find success as a designated hitter. Unfortunately all of these hitters are left handed and struggle against left-handed pitching. So when the Rays Scott Kazmir or Red Sox Jon Lester takes the mound, manager Charlie Manuel might find himself in a bit of a jam as he turns to a right handed hitter. If there's one weakness on the Phillies, it's a right handed bat off the bench, which consists of Chris Coste, Eric Bruntlett, and So Taguchi. While Coste is the better of the three, he's also the backup catcher. Should an injury occur to Carlos Ruiz and Coste is the DH, it would force Jayson Werth to get behind the plate (Werth, who has never caught a game in his six major league seasons was originally a catcher when drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in 1997). It wouldn't be the ideal situation for Werth or the Phillies. With that potential scenerio, it wouldn't be a bad idea for the Phillies to add Lou Marson to the World Series roster. Marson, a Phillies top prospect, has been with the team the entire postseason, as a bullpen catcher. Marson spent the entire season (minus two weeks in Beijing as a member of the US Olympic Team), with the Reading Phillies where he hit .314 with 5 home runs and 46 RBI's. A September call up, has exactly one major league game under his belt, when he went 2 for 4 in the regular season finally. One of his two hits was a two-run home run against Nationals pitcher, Marco Estrada. Marson wouldn't be counted on the Fall Classic unless Ruiz or Coste fall victim to injury. He's tabbed as the Phillies catcher of the future as soon as 2009, so it would also give the 22-year old some added experience and the Phillies some needed flexibility. If Marson were to be added, he'd replace the seldom used Taguchi. Taguchi is 0 for 4 this post season, with all for at-bats coming in the NLCS against the Dodgers. Sat, 18 Oct 2008 09:16:45 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/352655 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/352655 Pitcher J.A. Happ, and catcher Lou Marson have been named the 2008 recipients of the Paul Owens Award. The award, named after the great Phillies general manager who was the architect behind the dominant Phillies teams in the 1970's as well as the 1980 World Champions, is an honor given to the Phillies top minor league pitcher and position player in the organization. Happ went 8-7 for the Triple A, Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs. He struck out 151 (in 135 innings), while walking 48, with a 3.60 ERA. He also spent some time with the Phillies this season when Brett Myers was sent to the minors. He went 0-0 with a 5.14 ERA, but will be remembered for matching Johan Santana though five innings on July 4th, where he allowed two runs on three hits, as the Phillies beat the Mets 3-2. Management was trying to find room for Happ in the rotation after Myers returned. Should Kyle Kendrick continue to struggle, Happ could find himself in the Phillies rotation next season. No Phillies prospect rose more this season than Marson. The team's seventh ranked prospect entering the season, Marson raked in Double A hitting .314 with 5 home runs and 46 RBI's, on his way to an accolade-filled year. Marson represented the Phillies in the XM All-Star Futures Games (one of five Phillies), and represented the United States as the starting catcher for Team USA at this year's Summer Olympics. Marson is currently the fourth best catching prospect in baseball, and is penciled is as the Phillies full time catcher as early as 2009. Prior Owens Award winners include Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Cole Hamels, Jimmy Rollins, and Pat Burrell. Tue, 09 Sep 2008 05:23:11 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/330235 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/330235 In case you missed it, the Phillies placed right fielder Geoff Jenkins on the 15-day disabled list with a right hip flexor strain. Jenkins hurt his hip running to first base on Friday night after singling up the middle. There is no timetable for Jenkins return, and the Phillies have recalled IF/OF Andy Tracy to take Jenkins spot on the roster. Tracy, primarily a first baseman, has had a strong season for the Iron Pigs, batting .288 with 21 home runs and 84 RBI's. On paper he looks like a strong replacement. Unfortunately Tracy has made a career out of being a strong AAA player, but has never been able to produce at the big league level. I don't foresee that changing with this opportunity. While Jenkins has been a complete disappointment this season, batting .243 with nine home runs and 29 RBI's, he will be missed in the Phillies lineup. Jayson Werth will get all the playing time in right field, and while he has had a good season (.268/17/47), he struggles against right handed pitching, and at times has looked silly at the plate. Werth is a good outfielder, but best used in a lefty/righty platoon situation. As the roster stands, the Phillies don't have a player who suits that platoon role. I know some will say Greg Dobbs is the perfect candidate, but Dobbs has only played five career games in right field and he doesn't possess the arm needed for that position. Besides, I think he's best suited coming off the bench is a pinch hitter late in games, or giving Pedro Feliz a day off at third base. It's time for the Phillies to look at the waiver wire, and make a move. A move that will have an impact for the remainder of the season, not like a last minute pickup like Pete LaForrest in 2007 or Jose Hernandez in 2006. I'm talking about a player who can actually make an impact on this club. Enough of these "bargain bin pickups" who do nothing for the team, but occupy a roster spot for a few games. I don't know about you, but I'm a little sick of these low-cost options. While league rivals are acquiring Adam Dunn, CC Sabathia, Manny Ramirez, and Rich Harden, we get Joe Blanton and Scott Eyre. It's a mentality this franchise has carried for too long, and a reason why most think that ownership really doesn't want to win a World Series. I don't want to hear the excuse the Phillies don't have the prospects to make a deal either. That's crap. Lou Marson is one of the game's top catching prospects (who had an impressive Olympics), and Carlos Carrasco has been heavily scouted all season. If the Phillies really wanted to bring in a big time player, the means are there, it's the motivation that isn't. If ownership really wants to bring a World Series championship to Philadelphia, they need to get motivated, especially with Jenkins on the shelf. Since players need to clear waivers before being traded, the pickings are now slim, but it doesn't mean there's nothing available. One player who would help the Phillies in the final month and a half of the regular season is the Orioles Aubrey Huff. Huff, who has already cleared waivers, is having a fine season in Baltimore, batting .301 with 27 home runs and 89 RBI's. He would be Werth's ideal platoon partner in right field, and when Jenkins does return, Geoff could fill the role of a pinch hitter down the stretch. Given his offensive ability, Huff could also find a way in the lineup against left-handed pitchers. He holds a career .278 average against lefties and plays multiple positions. Aside from corner outfield, Huff can play both corner infield positions with admirable defense. Huff isn't the sexiest name, but he's the best available, which is what the Phillies should be looking for. While he can't be had for a bag of peanuts and a media guide, he could be had without giving up any of the Phillies higher end prospects. The likes of Fabio Castro & Gus Milner could get the deal done. For a team struggling at the plate, bringing in a guy who's on pace to hit 35 home runs and knock in 110, it should be a no-brainer. Unfortunately knowing the Phillies front office a move like this is too great for them. The big move of the summer was to acquire Blanton. So instead of upgrading the outfield, look for the Phillies to solve this hole internally. Meaning So Taguchi will get an expanded role. Sun, 24 Aug 2008 09:37:14 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/311820 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/311820 Ryan Howard strikes out and can't field, Adam Eaton can't pitch, the bottom of the lineup in a black hole, Jimmy Rollins has forgotten how to be productive...the list goes on and on. But as negative as I can be sometimes, I need to remind myself and everyone else, the Philadelphia Phillies are still in 1st place. I recommend clicking on the URL to read the full article about how despite all the negatives the Phils still manage to stay afloat the top of the NL East, and there's also an Olympic update on Phils minor leaguers participating in the 2008 Summer Games. Also, an injury update of Pedro Feliz and Tom Gordon, along with the new guy Scott Eyre. Fri, 08 Aug 2008 06:01:53 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/302920 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/302920 Back from it's summer vacation, On the Farm has returned with a weekly look at some of the Phillies top prospects, and their maturation as the work their way to the big leagues. Triple A: Top prospect Carlos Carrasco was promoted to Triple A on Saturday, and made his debut yesterday against the Rochester Red Wings. Facing another top prospect Kevin Mulvey (a key piece in the Johan Santana trade). Carrasco out-dueled the Twins prospect, going six-and-two-thirds innings, allowing six hits, and two runs (neither of them were earned). This is the biggest test to date for Carrasco. While I still think he has a minimal chance of getting a September call-up, the front office will be paying close attention to Carrasco, looking ahead to next season and see if he's ready for a shot in the rotation. Double A: Top prospects Jason Donald and Lou Marson remained Phillies after Thursday's trading deadline and are both in Beijing representing the United States in the Olympics. Marson, the fourth-best catching prospect in all of baseball had little chance of being dealt by Thursday's deadline, but Donald was another story. Jayson Stark had the slick-fielding shortstop going to Kansas City to pitcher Ron Mahay. Single A: Reliever Matt Smith is on the mend after Tommy John Surgery, and had started to throw for the Clearwater Threshers. Smith, the key in the Bobby Abreu deal, has made eight appearances in the Florida State League. He's 0-1 with one save and 2.08 ERA. Smith has full velocity back, and with the Phillies desperate for a second lefty reliever he could be recalled by Phillies prior to August 31st, making him available for the playoffs. Former 2006 first round pick Kyle Drabek is also on the mend. Drabek, who also had Tommy John Surgery made his first start in over a year for the Gulf Coast Phillies. Drabek, whose fastball topped out at 94 MPH, went three innings and allowed only one hit. He still has a long road ahead of him, but a pain-free outing is a big step of one of the Phillies better prospects. Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:24:22 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/300887 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/300887 The Philadelphia Phillies picked up a catcher before the non-waiver trade deadline yesterday. Didn't hear about it? It was under the radar, so low in fact that the trade was for a player already on the Phils roster. The Phils swapped the old Carlos Ruiz in exchange for Chooch Ruiz. Yep, Chooch is back (9 for his last 29, .310). Ruiz was horrible offensively for most of the season, reaching a low point of .202 on July 13th against Arizona. Fans all over the blogsphere (including WSBGM's) were clamoring for his demotion and the promotion of either Jason Jaramillo or Lou Marson. Marson is with Team USA for the Olympics now, and Jaramillo is still trying to figure out how to hit in Triple A. Ruiz on the other hand has bounced back nicely over the past 3 weeks and put up decent numbers. Even when Chooch was struggling at the plate, he remained quality behind the plate. I'm not saying 3 good weeks erases 3 bad months, but it is nice to see him hitting again. For the full article including a recap of last night victory over the Nationals, a look at the upcoming Cardinals series, and a funny Mitch Williams commercial click on the URL. Fri, 01 Aug 2008 04:32:08 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/299143 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/299143 ESPN.com's Buster Olney and Jayson Stark are reporting that the Florida Marlins are close to a deal with the Boston Red Sox to acquire Manny Ramirez. The deal reportedly involves Jeremy Hermida (or Josh Willingham), pitcher Ryan Tucker, and big time outfield prospect Mike Stanton. The Red Sox would also most likely continue paying part of Ramirez's remaining salary for this year. I have previously stated that I do not think the Phillies should acquire Ramirez. That being said, I do think they should acquire him so the Marlins don't. Or at the very least, give up on the overrated prospects they are currently holding onto and get Matt Holliday or Jason Bay. The Phillies cannot let the Marlins, who are just a game and a half back, m ake such a significant upgrade without doing anything, particularly on a player that the Phillies are supposedly the front runner in acquiring. Is it just me, or does it seem like the Phillies' front office isn't all that concerned with winning this year. The Milwaukee Brewers go out and get CC Sabathia, a player the Phillies pursued (To be fair, it has been reported that the Phillies didn't have enough prospects to even offer Cleveland), the Chicago Cubs acquired Rich Harden, and the Phillies go out and get Joe Blanton. I like Blanton, I think he is a decent young pitcher that will ultimately be a very good number three starter. That being said, he is not Sabathia or Harden, and I would argue that the Phillies gave up just as much for Blanton as the Cubs gave up for Harden, Blanton's teammate in Oakland. In return for Harden and Chad Gaudin, Oakland received promising right-hander Sean Gallagher, outfielders Matt Murton and Eric Patterson, and minor-leaguer Josh Donaldson. The Phillies, on the other hand, gave up highly touted second baseman Adrian Cardenas, left hander Josh Outman, and outfielder Matt Spencer. Gallagher, Murton and Patterson are highly touted prospects, as are Cardenas and Outman. The cubs gave up three prospects, but also received two players, one of them is arguably the best pitcher in the majors. The Phillies gave up two top prospects and only received Blanton. Why couldn't the Phillies trade Cardenas, Outman and Jason Donald for Harden? This team just does not appear to be all that concerned with pulling the trigger on the difference maker trades. General Manager Pat Gillick has been sitting on a deal for Holliday and left-handed specialist Brian Fuentes from the Colorado Rockies for Shane Victorino and a couple minor league prospects, including J.A. Happ. Jason Bay has been on the trading block for over a month. They are too concerned with keeping a hold of prospects that will either probably not play for the Phillies or have been way over hyped. The most highly touted prospect in the Phillies organization is right-hander Carlos Carrasco. Carrasco is the prospect most discussed in trade rumors, and most lamented over by those who argue the Phillies should hold on to their prospects. The way he has been discussed over the past month, you would think that Carrasco is the next Cole Hamels, while he is in fact at best a number two starter in the majors, and most likely a number three or four. Shortstop Jason Donald is not going to play for the Phillies, at least not for five or six years. By all indications, Donald is not going to move over and play third base and with Jimmy Rollins winning MVPs at shortstop right now, there is little chance of Donald playing at Citizen's Bank Park too soon. Happ is a prospect I like more than Carrasco. The expectations are lower for Happ, and therefore so is the stress. Happ is projected to be a decent middle of the rotation guy and has struggled on his way up to the big leagues. Happ is going to be a decent major league pitcher, but is not going to blow the doors off anywhere. The prospect that I do think the Phillies need to guard and trade away only if the deal is especially sweet is catcher Lou Marson. With the current crop of Phillies' catchers struggling this season, Marson is perhaps the most important prospect in the organization. This team is simply to evenly matched with the Mets and the Marlins to be able to pull away with this division. The Phillies do have prospects that other teams want, and chances are they are not going to be the next Hamels or Sabathia. The Phillies need to pull the trigger on a deal, whatever it is, to put this team over the top so that they can win now. It's just not going to happen. Wed, 30 Jul 2008 20:50:03 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/298375 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/298375 With just under three days until baseball's trading deadline, all appears quiet on the Phillies front. Aside from some little rumbles here and there, there's real no big news when it comes to the Phillies It's quite possible the acquisition of Joe Blanton will probably be the only trade the Phillies will have made when the deadline passes. It doesn't have to be, and it shouldn't. While I don't advocate making a deal just to give your fanbase the impression you're doing all you can to improve your club, I believe if a reasonable deal can be made, management needs to explore it. If you look at the Phillies, most think they need to go out and get an outfield bat. Geoff Jenkins has struggled in right field and Jayson Werth is much more valuable playing against left-handed pitching. The only real available options are Seattle's Raul Ibanez, and the Pirates Jason Bay. Ibanez isn't a good fit for the Phillies. He bats left-handed, and the Phils have plenty of bats form the left side of the plate if they added and outfielder, they would have to bat right-handed. Bay bats right-handed, but the Pirates are said to be holding him for a king's ransom. The Phils weren't willing to include Carlos Carrasco or Lou Marson in a deal for CC Sabathia. Why would they suddenly want to give up top prospects for Jason Bay? I'm satisfied with the outfield as it is now. Jenkins has heated up some since the All-Star break (.308), and in a platoon with Werth, I think it will work out over the long haul. Besides, I see more pressing needs on this ballclub. Mainly in the bullpen and behind the plate. As good as the Phillies bullpen has been this season, it's starting to show signs of wear; especially J.C. Romero. Not that he's getting shelled (only two ER in his last 10 appearances), but he's throwing a lot more pitches to retire batters. This will only get worse as the season progresses, unless he gets a break. You cannot stress enough how important it is to have a good catcher. They're call the pitches and are involved in some of the biggest plays in the game. The problem with the catching position is there aren't too many strong catchers in the National League; especially in Philadelphia. The catching situation has been a complete mess. Carlos Ruiz has barely been able to hit his weight (.211), and Chris Coste has struggled since getting more playing time. With Ruiz batting ahead of the pitcher, it's giving the opponents two automatic outs (three if there's a runner on base, Carlos likes the double play ball). Before an outfielder is brought in, it would be wise for the Phillies to address the bullpen and catching positiion. This can happen. Just call the Giants. It's no secret the Giants have packed in their 2008 season, and are looking for young talent to rebuild with. Should the Phillies put together the right offer, they can get two players they could sorely use. Pitcher Jack Taschner and catcher Bengie Molina. Taschner has queitly put together a strong season in San Francisco. In 49 games he's 2-1 with a 2.95 ERA. More importantly, he's tough on left-handed batters (0.94 WHIP, .179 BAA). While his numbers against right-handed hitters aren't as impressive, Taschner is an ideal lefty-specialist, which is what the Phillies bullpen is missing. Sure, Romero is lights out against left-handers, but since he's the only lefty in the bullpen he's not used in that role. While Taschner and the Phillies have been linked in some rumors, Molina hasn't. Molina is the oldest of the three Molina brothers currently in Major League Baseball, but he's the only one who can hit. He's currently hitting .282 with six home runs and 61 RBI's. His power numbers are lower this season, but he's still on pace to knock in over 80 runs. He's also one of the leagues best defensive catcher's. Both of these players have good contracts. Taschner will be a "Super Two" player in 2009, and is under team control until 2012. Molina is signed through 2009, and is only due to make $6 million, which is a bargin for one of the leagues better catchers. Also an ideal contract for the catcher who will hand over the job to Marson in 2010 (that's projected of course). While prying Molina from the Giants wouldn't be easy (they're not going to give him away), it's definitely possible, and can could be done without giving up Carrasco or Marson. A package of Jason Donald, J.A. Happ and another low-level prospect shoulg get the deal done. Should Pat Gillick sweeten the pot with another player, the Giants might throw in Rich Aurilia, who would be used as a right-handed bat off the bench. These aren't the sexiest names available, but the most logical. A deal with the Giants is the "blockbuster" the Phillies need to put them over the top in the National League. Tue, 29 Jul 2008 06:04:26 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/297338 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/297338 Some rumors actually pan out. Multiple media outlets are reporting the Phillies have acquired pitcher Joe Blanton from the Oakland Athletics for Adrian Cardenas, Josh Outman, and Matt Spencer. Blanton has struggled this season going 5-12 with a 4.96 ERA, and his ERA away from McAffee Stadium is less than desirable 5.73, so the Phillies definitely rolled the dice with this move. Cardenas is considered the second best prospect by the Phillies. A supplemental first-round pick in the 2006 draft, Cardenas is .309 with 4 home runs and 23 RBI's for Class A Clearwater. He's a prospect with a bright future ahead of him, but he's blocked by Chase Utley, who's signed with the Phillies until at least 2011. Outman was once projected as a mid-rotation starter, but initially struggled after being converted to the bullpen. Spencer appears to be a throw-in. The outfielder possess some power, but has struggled this season at Clearwater batting a meager .249. I like this trade. While the Phillies gave up one of their better prospects in Cardenas, they land a mid-rotation starter whpo consistantly get deep into games. While Blanton has had struggles this season, he's only twenty-seven, and has a bright future ahead of him. He also is a groundball pitcher, possessing a 1.30 GO/FO ratio, and doesn't give up home runs (his career average is 19). He is also under arbitration control until 2010, so they just didn't add a starter for two months, but two-plus seasons. By making this deal, the Phillies also keep their "Big 3? prospects, Carlos Carrasco,Greg Golson, and Lou Marson, so if the Phillies want to make another deal before the deadline they have the chips. It also spells the end of Adam Eaton. I know some fans will not like this deal, base on Blanton's current struggles, but remember this. If this deal was made prior to the season, Phillies fans would have loved it. Blanton was scheduled to start Sunday for Oakland, so his probably debut will be Tuesday in New York against the Mets. Thu, 17 Jul 2008 19:20:10 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/291928 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/291928 The day after the Midsummer Classic is always the slowest day in sports. With only the AAA & AA All-Star games going on, it's one of the few days of the year where there's not one major sporting event. It doesn't stop the trade rumors from flying around. The Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting the Phillies have begun to look at the Athletics Joe Blanton. Blanton has had disastrous 2008 campaign going 5-12 with a 4.96 ERA. I've always felt Blanton was a pitcher who had more hype surrounding him then actual ability. Entering 2008, Blanton was 42-34 with a 4.09 ERA. Although those numbers aren't terrible, they hardly support the hype that surrounds him. Given his current rough first half, Blanton would come at a cheaper asking price then what he was shopped for last off-season, but I honestly don't see him being traded by the deadline. Athletics GM, Billy Beane, only trades players when he knows he'll get the most value out of them. Since Blanton is under organizational control until 2010, there's really no reason for the A's to trade him, unless they get blown away by an offer. Given how he's performed this season, I cannot see a big offer coming their way. Randy Miller of Philyburbs is reporting the Phillies are also exploring the availability of Giants pitcher Matt Cain. At twenty-three, Cain has had some struggles after his 13-12 rookie season in 2006, going 12-23 since (including 5-7, 4.06 ERA in '08). While his record isn't pretty, he's only twenty-three, and is still prone to mistakes. These should correct themselves with experience. Since young pitchers with the type of talent Cain has don't come along every day, and given the fact he's under organizational control until 2011, I cannot see the Giants making a move here. Should they be willing to part with Cain, Pat Gillick needs to see what the Giants want, and meet their demands. Cain is a stud, and is only going to get better. My take on all the daily trade rumors might be different then most. Although I do think the Phillies will make a move, by the July 31st deadline, they're in no hurry. Most of these offers they've reportedly made to clubs appear extremely insincere, considering their unwillingness to part with Carlos Carrasco, Lou Marson, or Greg Golson. If the Phillies do want to add a pitcher of any caliber, they're going to have to sacrifice some of their top talent. Part of the reason they are keeping their top three prospects "off limits", is because of Brett Myers. Myers will get two starts before July 31st. Should he be impressive in both starts, don't expect the Phils to make a push for a bigger named pitcher (out of the group that is available). Phillies fans might not want to hear it, but if Myers can find some dominance, he'll be the number two pitcher the remainder of the season. Should he struggle, look for the Phillies to push the panic button. To me that's not the mentality an organization looking to win the World Series should have. Even if Myers returns and is dominant, adding a pitcher of substance should still be a priority to strengthen the rotation down the stretch. The other reason the Phillies will hold off for now is they want to see the health of Erik Bedard. He's been the dark horse through the weeks of trade rumors, and is the guy the Phillies would like to land if healthy. Bedard is scheduled to start next week (although his initial July 21st start was pushed back), and he would be the pitcher Gillick & Co. would part with a Carrasco. Honestly he's the only true impact pitcher (attitude perception aside), that had the ability to make a true difference on the mound. Thu, 17 Jul 2008 06:05:10 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/291514 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/291514 According to the New York Post the Phillies are not willing to part with their three top prospects Lou Marson, Carlos Carrasco, and Greg Golson. Here is the direct quote from the obvious authority for Philadelphia sports, the Post... Mon, 14 Jul 2008 23:54:23 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/290501 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/290501 The trade rumors continue. SI.com writer Jon Heyman has reported the Phillies are in trade talks with the Toronto Blue Jays for starter A.J. Burnett. While it's unknown how far talks have gone, Blue Jays executive Tony LaCava was in Reading this week, scouting the likes of Greg Golson, Lou Marson, and Jason Donald. Burnett, 9-8, 5.33 ERA has was linked to past trade rumors with the Cubs prior to their acquisition of Rich Harden and reports are the Dodgers are also looking at the right-hander. Hopefully the Dodgers make a push. Trading for Burnett is a bad idea. Burnett's contract is terrible. He has an opt-out clause after the 2008 season, so if he puts up a strong second half he could walk. Should he go down with an injury or struggle in the second half, the Phillies could have him under contract for the next two seasons for a mere $24 million. Speaking of injuries, AJ is no stranger to the disabled list. Burnett has made six trips to the disabled list for elbow and shoulder problems. He's averaged only 22 starts per year since coming to the bigs leagues full-time in 2000. Considering he has already 20 starts at the All-Star break, durability has to come into question. Unfortunately Burnett is the typical player the Phillies acquire down the stretch. The guy we over-pay for and see minimal results. I'm not saying he's not talented, but he's not the impact pitcher the Phillies really need. With Harden and CC Sabathia off the market, the Phillies do need to look elsewhere for pitching, but there are better options. Should a trade go through and it involves Marson, Golson, or Carlos Carrasco, the Phillies paid too much. Fri, 11 Jul 2008 08:33:46 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/289047 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/289047 It's the last day of June and the rosters have been announced for this year's XM All-Star Futures Game. The Futures Game, which will take place on July 13th at Yankee Stadium is a seven inning game featuring top prospects both representing the United States and the World. Currently there are 122 players in the Major Leagues who played in the Futures Game, including current Phillies Chase Utley, Pat Burrell, and Brett Myers. This year is no different, with the Phillies boasting a league-high five prospects. Lou Marson, Greg Golson, and Jason Donald will represent the USA, Carlos Carrasco, and Antonio Bastardo will represent the World. All travel to Yankee Stadium later this month and showcase their talent. Marson is quickly climbing up the prospect list. Entering the season he was the eighth ranked organization, Marson is taking the league by storm, to the point where some are calling for his call-up to replace the struggling Carlos Ruiz. He is batting .324 (5th in the Eastern League), with two home runs and 39 RBI's. Golson is a star in the making. The Phillies first-round draft pick in 2004, the Phillies have taken their time with him, working to polish his raw talent. A five-tool player, Golson is finally coming around, batting .299, with seven home runs and 36 RBI's. He's figuring out how to take advantage of his speed. His 17 stolen bases rank him 4th in the Eastern League. Donald was left off Baseball America's Top 10 list, but turned some heads this spring when he batted .429 with two home runs and six RBI's in only five games. Donald has followed up his impressive, but brief spring with a strong first half to the Eastern League. He's currently hitting .298 with nine home runs (second ong the R-Phils), and 36 RBI's. Carrasco is a player all Phillies fans know, but is beginning to create a buzz among all baseball fans. The Phillies top prospect entering the season, Carrasco has flashed some signs of brilliance at Reading, although his stats don't reflect that. Carrasco is 5-7 with a 4.18 ERA. Carrasco is no stranger to the Futures Game. This will be his third consecutive appearance. Bastardo was a Phillie phenom this season. After starting the season at Clearwater where he went 2-0 with a 1.17 ERA and an astounding 47 strikeouts in just over 30 innings, he was promoted to Reading. He's continued to impress at Reading going 2-3 with a 3.13 ERA. Eastern League batters are only hitting a meager .202 off him. Although Bastardo will represent the World team at the Futures Game, he will not play as he's recovering form an injury. The game will be broadcasted on ESPN2 after the All-Star Celebrity Softball Game, another all-star tradition. Mon, 30 Jun 2008 18:45:31 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/284382 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/284382 Walk-off game winning homeruns kick ass! Especially when they're by the Phillies longest tenured athlete (Pat Burrell) and it's in the bottom of the 10th inning with the Phils other begotten son Chase Utley on base. Chase Utley and Pat Burrell are the show, they are the offense, they are what is driving this team to victory. Where would the Phillies be without these two? Certainly not in 1st place in the NL East with a 17-13 record, that's for damn sure. The dynamic duo now has 47 runs scored, 76 hits, 19 doubles, 21 homerun, and 53 rbi collectively. Ryan Howard better buy these guys a Rolex or at least a steak dinner, because if they weren't producing at this level much more disgust would be heaped upon Mr. Ten Million Dollar Man due to his alarmingly lackluster start to the season (.176 average and 42 k's in 108 ab's). Game Notes and Other Thoughts: *Readers of this blog know I am not a fan of Ryan Madson, however I'm not sure if I've ever been perfectly clear with my thoughts on him. Ryan Madson is like a dog fart, in that it's completely worthless and causes the gag reflex. His penchant for allowing hit after hit makes me sick. If you only look at his stats over his career you may not think he's all that bad, but if you've watched him over the seasons you know exactly what I'm talking about...the man stinks just like a dog fart. *That Pedro Feliz homerun made me angry. Why? He is on pace to jack 22 homers and retarded fans will think that's good just because homeruns are good and if a player hits homeruns than he's good. That logic makes about as much sense as ordering a Triple Heart Attack and a Diet Coke. Don't get me wrong, I root for DP Feliz because he's in the lineup, but I won't be fooled into thinking he's good by the occasional homerun when a large portion of the time he's making outs, and of the double play variety (8 GIDP through only 30 games). *Eric Bruntlett now has a 10 game hitting streak. He didn't make a good first impression when J-Roll went down with his ankle injury and the first game he started he made 2 errors, in the same inning no less. However, over the past week or so he's become the reliable utility infielder we hoped we got in the trade with Houston. *Speaking of Jimmy Rollins and his ankle, the most recent report has him returning Thursday. If indeed he's healthy and can knock the dust off of his spikes quickly, this team might actually be able to get on a roll. ________________________________________ Zach Segovia- A Fallen Man: Last night I attended the Reading Phillies game against the hometown Harrisburg Senators at City Island. I was disappointed. It was my son's first baseball game and the Lil' Phillies were horrible. The only amusing part of the game was watching Reading manager PJ Forbes argue with the homeplate umpire about a close call where Jeremy Slayden was gunned down. Zach Segovia was the starting pitcher last night and he was difficult to stomach; he went 2.2 innings allowing 5 runs on 4 walks and 3 hits upping his era to 14.40. Just last year Segovia actually made a start in a real Phillies uniform, but since then he's been banished to the minors and continues to work his way down the organizational ladder. Relieving him was prospect Josh Outman, but he was equally horrendous. All in all, the entire team played poorly with the exception of catcher Lou Marson who had some decent at bats and threw out an attempting base stealer. Sat, 03 May 2008 07:26:26 -0500 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/263052 http://www.yardbarker.com/author/article/263052