"I don't know... We'll see when we get there. We've got plenty of time. [Next] Saturday's a long way off. ****, I might be dead by then,"

Charlie Manuel regarding Adam Eaton's status as the team's fifth starter.

The Grapefruit League has come to an end.  Today the Phillies will board a flight to the City of Brotherly Love, and play two games against the Blue Jays, then one final tune up against the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs on Sunday.  On Monday they welcome the Nationals to Citizens Bank Park as the 2008 season kicks off.

Even though spring training has come to a close, this is still a big weekend for the Phillies when it pertains to their roster.  The Phillies have until Sunday at 3:00 to make final cuts, but as it stands now, the Phils have 10 pitchers and seven bench players.  Pat Gillick & Co. will be following the waiver wire closely looking to add an additional relief pitcher.

Then there's Wes Helms.  They've tried to deal him, and have been unsuccessful.  They couldn't even get a leftover like Steve Kline for him.  That's when you realize what little value Helms really has.

Let's not forget about Chris Snelling.  He hasn't shown much this spring, but he's been getting a lot of play recently.  Will he make the team, and the Phils start with an 11-man pitching staff, or will he join Helms on the scrap heap, so the Phils have an extra reliever if they need him?

The questions will be answered in the next 72-hours.  My call is Helms will be release on Sunday ifhe cannot be traded.  The Phillies will pick up a reliever off waivers (probably Rudy Seanez), and Snelling will stay with the team until Brad Lidge comes off the disabled list.

I'm rarely right with these things, but we shall see...

The Phillies have placed pitcher JD Durbin on waivers.  The self-proclaimed "Real Deal", has been nothing but a disappointment in his short time with the Phillies.  Okay, he did have two strong outings on the West Coast least year, but aside from that no lead was safe when Durbin took the mound.

This has been a long time coming, and frankly I'm a bit relieved.  Given the recent cuts (Travis Blackley, Vic Darrensbourg, Gary Knott), it appeared that Durbin actually might break camp with the Phillies.

Odds are Durbin will clear waivers and begin the season at Triple-A Lehigh Valley, but what does this pose for the bullpen?  With Durbin out and Lidge on the disabled list the Phillies have ten pitchers on their roster.  At minimum, the pitching staff will eleven to start the year, so expect an acquisition in the next day of two.

It pretty much went unnoticed, but Kris Benson's window to opt out of his contacts opened and closed this past Tuesday. The Phillies had until Tuesday to add him to the 40-man roster, otherwise he could opt-out of his deal, and join the free agent ranks. While Benson wasn't added to the roster, Benson had no intention of leaving the Phillies.

At least yet...

Yesterday, a new deal was struck for Benson, giving both Benson and the Phillies another time-line to make it back to the big leagues. His new out-clauses are as follows:

• If by May 15th Benson pitches at least 10 minor league innings and still isn't on the 40-man roster.
• If Benson hasn't been added to the roster by June 1st.

Benson has said himself he's 5-6 weeks away from being able to join the Phillies, so both out-clauses seem realistic. These new deadlines were added due to his "setback" from bicep tendonitis.

Regarding his "setback", while the news wasn't good, it might not be the worst thing in the world. Because the Phillies are so pitching starved, the media and fans watched every move Benson made. When you’re coming back from a major surgery, such as a rotator cuff, being under the microscope doesn't make the rehabilitation process any easier. Now that the season is about to start, Benson can get ready for the season without everyone paying attention to every outing.

I'm a big believer in depth, and one thing I really like about this Phillies team is the depth they have on the bench. While the pitching staff still leaves something to be desired, a healthy Benson will be able to give the Phillies rotation, and pitching staff another arm they can turn to during the long summer stretch.

Maybe I'm an optimist, apologist, or what have you, but I still expect Benson to join the Phillies sometime in mid-May.

MLBTradeRumors.com  is reporting that the Phillies are talking with the Giants about a possible swap of Wes Helms for Steve Kline.

This trade would make sense.  The Giants need a third baseman and the Phillies need a left-handed reliever.  While Kline isn't a great bullpen arm, he's a sinkerball pitcher, who could be effective at Citizens Bank Park.

Mike Stanton has also been rumored, but the Reds have Edwin Encarnicion at third base and Ryan Freel can back him up.  There's really no room for Wes in Cincinnati.

The Phillies pitching staff is far from set.  Look for more developments in the next couple days.

Okay, maybe I'm still struggling with the fact that JD Durbin is still on the Opening Day roster, but I simply can't believe that Pat Gillick doesn't have any moves in the works.  One guy who might be able to contribute to the bullpen is reliever Aaron Fultz.

Phillies fans should remember Fultz from his prior stint in Philadelphia.  In Fultz's two years with the Phillies he went 7-1 with a 3.36 ERA.  This was in 128 appearances.

While Fultz had a good year in Cleveland last year (4-3, 2.92), he struggled upon his return from a strained rib cage.  He faired no better this spring posting an ERA over 11.00, before the Indians released him.

While Fultz isn't an over-the-top reliever, he's serviceable and is better then The Real Deal, or Clay Condrey.  Gillick has said the Phillies aren't interested, but he also said they had no interest in Pedro Feliz, and Brett Myers would be the closer.  Unlike guys like Hank Steinbrenner, Gillick doesn't show his hand.

As the season draws near, the final cuts are beginning to come.  Left-handed pitcher, Travis Blackley was one who didn't make it.  This comes as a bit of a surprise.  Blackley was a Rule 5 pick, therefore he must be offered back to the Giants, and while he did have his struggles, he's a left-handed pitcher, who could be more useful then the likes of JD Durbin (it puzzles me how he's still on the roster), or Clay Condrey.

In all fairness, Blackley was given plenty of opportunity to claim a spot on the Phillies pitching staff (he even was considered to be the #5 starters), and he floundered.  He showed some glimpses of some dominating breaking pitches, but was unable to control them.  In his final appearance, one of his breaking pitches broke too much, and broke the hand of Tigers center fielder Curtis Granderson.

There's still a chance Blackley will stick with the Phillies.  In Randy Miller's blog, he breaks down the process:

If the player clears outright waivers, he then is given a contemplated outright to both the Lehigh Valley and Fresno Triple A clubs. This form gives the player two choices:

1) Accept the assignoment
2) Reject the assignment and become a free agent.

The player must choose for both organizations what he wants to do. (If he chooses to become a free agent then he relinquishes any salary he might have had if he were assigned to the minors).

Once the player has chosen, then he is offered back to the original club. That club has 24 hours to decide whether or not to take the player back. (The risk for that club is that the player (without their knowledge) may have chosen free agency and thus that club would have to pay $25,000 back to the drafting club and could still lose the player to free agency).

Once the club decides whether or not to accept him back, then everyone will know where the player will end up.

While complicated, Blackley may very well start the season as Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

As the roster stands, there's only one left-handed pitcher in the bullpen (JC Romero), and The Real Deal, could very well go to Philadphia (given the fact Brad Lidgeis on the disabled list).  This tells me that Pat Gillick has something in the works.  Whether it be via trade (Steve Kline, Royce Ring), or recent cut (Aaron Fultz), I have to believe Gillick has something up his sleeve.

If I told you I was ever a fan of JD Durbin, I'd be lying.  The self-proclaimed "Real Deal", had three or so good starts for the Phillies last season, but if not for the injuries had no business being on the major league roster.

Any major league roster...

Well Durbin is proving to the world this spring that he's better suited for an automotive career rather then a professional pitcher, and after his latest mess on the mound might have finally pitched his way out of the red pinstripes.

Durbin entered last night's game against the Yankees in the fifth inning.  The game was tied 3-3.  When the Phillies went to bat in the top of the sixth, the game was 9-3.  In his one inning, Durbin allowed six runs on six hits an a walk.  He struggled with location, and pitches that were over the plate, were right over the plate.  Ask Robinson Cano and Melky Cabrera, who both took Durbin deep.

Durbin has said publicly he doesn't possess the mental tool that a guy like Brett Myers has, but can focus enough to be a contributing pitcher.

I beg to differ...

Here's Durbin's spring line (in six appearances):

0-4, 12.33ERA, , 8 HR's allowing (in 15.1 IP), 2.09 WHIP

After looking at that, Adam Eaton doesn't sound all that bad.

It looks like it's the end of the road for Durbin, and today might be his day of reckoning.  Kris Benson can opt out of his contract if he's not placed on the 40-man roster by days end, and there's no room for him right now.  There will be if Durbin is designated for assignment.

Nice knowing you JD...

Brad Lidge hoped to be ready for Opening Day, but that's not going to happen.  The Phillies placed Lidge on the 15-day disabled list.  Given the Phillies are allowed to retro-act Lidge's placement on the disabled list, the first day he will be available to the Phillies will be on April 5th in Cincinnati.

Although it's a bummer that Lidge will not be available for Opening Day, starting the season on the disabled list isn't a bad thing.  Lidge isn't going on the DL due to knee pain.  His knee is pain free, so the surgery was successful.  Lidge just needs a little more time to build arm strength and to sharpen his slider.  Him joining the team in Cincinnati is a realistic option.

It also gives Charlie Manuel and Rich Dubee a little more time to sort out the final spots for the bullpen.  Given what is available, the Phillies will now probably go with the 11-man pitching staff, meaning Chris Snelling will make the team as a 25th man.  Clay Condrey and Travis Blackley should start the season in Philadelphia, barring a player isn't brought in from another organization.

Tom Gordon will begin the season as the closer with Ryan Madson and JC Romero setting him up.

Although Grapefruit and Cactus League play continue, the season officially begins tomorrow when the Red Sox take on the Athletics in Tokyo.  That being said, I might as well get my 2008 predictions before the first official pitch is thrown.  Here ya go (*- denotes Wild Card):

AL East

1. New York Yankees
2. Boston Red Sox*
3. Toronto Blue Jays
4. Tampa Bay Rays
5. Baltimore Orioles

The Red Sox are the obvious favorites, but Josh Beckett's back is balky, and losing Curt Schilling will hurt.  Given the fact it's the Yankees last season at Yankee Stadium, I predict some magic.

AL Central

1. Detroit Tigers
2. Cleveland Indians
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Minnesota Twins

Despite their bullpen woes, Detroit's lineup is too good to keep them from winning the central.

AL West

1. Seattle Mariners
2. Los Angeles Angels
3. Texas Rangers
4. Oakland Athletics

I might be one of the 5 people in the country who's not picking the Angels, but I like the Mariners team.  Richie Sexson should rebound for his terrible season last year, and Erik Bedard might be the best pitcher in the American League.

AL Champion:  Detroit Tigers

NL East

1. Philadelphia Phillies
2. New York Mets*
3. Atlanta Braves
4. Washington Nationals
5. Florida Marlins

Call me a homer for picking the Phillies, but that's not why I picked them.  The Phillies have less questions then the Mets.  Aging players, and the Pedro factor hurt their chances.

NL Central

1. Chicago Cubs
2. Cincinnati Reds
3. Milwaukee Brewers
4. Houston Astros
5. Pittsburgh Pirates
6. St. Louis Cardinals

The Cubs are the obvious favorite, and the only surprise here should be the Reds. I think they have a good young team, that Dusty Baker will get to perform.  The Brewers are slightly overrated in my opinion.  They still live and die by Ben Sheet who hasn't had a healthy season ever...

NL West

1. Arizona Diamondbacks
2. Los Angeles Dodgers
3. Colorado Rockies
4. San Diego Padres
5. San Francisco Giants

Every team outside the Giants has a shot to win this division.  All teams have strong pitching, but talent-wise I give the edge to Arizona.  The Wild Card should come out of the west given all the talent, but they also will be playing each other all season, which will balance out their records.

NL Champion:  Philadelphia Phillies

Okay, maybe now I'm being a homer, but the pitching is improved over last season, and while Aaron Rowand will be missed, Geoff Jenkins and Pedro Feliz will make out of his production.

2008 World Series Champion:  Detroit Tigers

See I'm not a complete homer.

Yesterday the Phillies placed Scott Mathieson, Mike Zagurski, and Francisco Rosario all on the 15-day disabled list.  Mathierson is recovering from ulner nerve transreposition surgery and Zagurski is recovering from hamstring surgery.  Both players have seen no action this spring, and were expected to begin the season in the DL.  Rosario was a different story. Diagnosed with a right shoulder strain, there were no prior reports about an injury.  This does explain why he hasn’t pitched since March 14th.

Despite his 5.91 ERA this spring, Rosario was one of the favorites to land to the final (or two) spots in the bullpen.  He allowed 7 earned runs in 4 appearances, but 6 were in a start on March 14th, the last time he took the mound.

Rosario’s trip to the DL opens the door for Clay Condrey.  Condrey is a pitcher who’s never impressed me, but hasn’t had a terrible spring.

Assuming the Phillies carry twelve pitchers, Condrey’s competition is limited.  Travis Blackley, JD Durbin, and Vic Darrenbourg would be his primary competition.  Given that Blackley and Darrensbourg are both left-handed pitchers, that would only factor in if the Phillies take the eleven man staff.  If you had to choose between Condrey and Durbin, it’s a no brainer, Condrey gets the nod.  I’m suprised Durbin is still on the roster.

The left-handed side is tricky.  I figured it was Blackley’s.  He’s a Rule 5 pick, so if he doesn’t make the team they lose him (unless the Giants don’t want him back).  Blackley has shown some great breaking pitches, but also shown that he’s unable to control them.  In yesterday’s rain shorted action, Blackley faced two hitters.  He hit one (Curtis Granderson, who was sent for x-rays), and walked the other.

At 37 Darrensbourg has plenty of experience.  A long shot to make the team (he hasn’t pitched in the major leagues since 2005), he’s had a strong spring posting a 2.57 ERA in seven innings.  But given his career numbers (8-17 4.96), what he’s doing in spring probably won’t be what we see this season.

It’s a tough call and this week is when the decisions will be made.  Once the Chris Snelling/Wes Helms situation is figured out, we’ll know more about the bullpen.  Since none of the lefties are really stepping up,  I’d think Condrey has the advantage to make the team regardless if the staff is 11 or 12 pitchers.

“Wow! All the way to Fort Myers.  Jesus Christ almighty. I’m not worried. God ****, I’m going to Fort Myers, too.”

Charlie Manuel - When asked about sending Adam Eaton to Fort Myers to start against the Twins.

I love Charlie Manuel...

Brad Lidge was originally scheduled to play in a minor league game yesterday.  The weather didn’t cooperate, and the game was rained out.  It didn’t stop Lidge from getting some work. 

Lidge pitched a “four out” inning in an interquad game against minor leaguers yesterday afternoon.  In his first game situation this spring, Lidge retired four of the five batters he faced, striking out three.  The only base runner he allowed, Jayson Werth, advanced to first on a six-pitch walk.

Lidge felt no pain, and was happy with the outing:

"There's nothing better than facing hitters," said Lidge, who threw 12 of his 19 pitches for strikes. "That was a lot of fun. I was glad to get out there and feel good. I felt a lot better [command-wise], and I think that was because of having actual hitters and being able to lock in with an actual game surrounding."

Lidge will pitch in a minor league again on Sunday, and see some Grapefruit League action next week.  Barring no setback, Lidge will be ready for Opening Day.

CORRECTION:  Yesterday I posted about Adam Eaton, and his hopes to follow the strong outings likes of Brett Myers, Cole Hamels, and Jamie Moyer.   Well it never happened.  Due to Kyle Kendrick's minor league rainout, Eaton was bumped so Kendrick could get the start against Pittsburgh.  Kenrick also impressed, pitching five shutout innings.  Eaton will take the mound today against the Twins.

For three of the pat four days now the Phillies have had strong outings by their starting pitching.  Brett Myers, Cole Hamels, and Jamie Moyer have gone into at least the 6th inning, and have given up a combine four earned runs (the other outing was from Chad Durbin, who allowed three runs in five innings), well today they hope to continue the magic as Adam Eaton takes the mound against the Pirates.

Adam Eaton...  Probably the least favorite Phillie for fans (outside those related to him), but their #5 starter going into the season (barring no health issues).  No one really wants to see him fail, it'll only hurt the team. 

Eaton is 0-2 this spring with an ERA of 9.00, but is coming off a scoreless outing, last Saturday against the Twins.  Hopefully his back is feeling okay, and he's gaining confidence.

The game can be watched on MLB.com, via MLB.TV.

As part of his continuing rehabilition from knee surgery, Closer Brad Lidge will take part in pitchers fielding practice this morning.  This is the biggest step for Lidge in his recovey because it puts the most strain on his surgically repaired knee.

Should today go well, Lidge will pitch in a minor league game tomorrow.  Barring any setbacks, Lidge will see his first Grapefruit League action Sunday against the Blue Jays.

All signs are pointing to Lidge being ready for Opening Day, but today's practice will be very telling where Lidge stands.

Chad Durbin got the start yesterday against the Indians, and while he wasn't exactly what you'd call lights out, he definitely showed some improvement.  Durbin pitched five innings, allowing four hits, and three runs, as the Phillies beat the Indians 6-4. 

Durbin is in the running for the 5th spot in the rotation, but I think he's better suited as a long reliever.  How I see it, the 5th spot is Adam Eaton's (barring injury),  at least until Kris Benson is healthy enough to join the Phillies.

Speaking of Benson, his scheduled start today was scratched after arm soreness.  What Benson considered bicep tendinitis, is only a minor setback for the thirty-three year old starter.  His May return should be on target.  He'll sit for a few days, and should be back on the mound within a week.  The only thing Benson will miss, is a Grapefruit League start, something he hoped he would get sometime next week.

On Sunday, the Boston Globe reported the Phillies have some interest in Colorado releiver Brian Fuentes.  While an acquisition of Fuentes would solidify the bullpen, and I think it's a reach. 

Who are the Phillies going to offer, Wes Helms? 

Besides, IF the Rockies were to deal Fuentes (which probably isn't in their bst interest), they'd most likely deal him to the American League.

He can't say he wasn't given the opportunity.  He also can't say it will come as a surprise.  JD Durbin's days are numbered as a member of the Phillies. 

Durbin made his fourth, and quite possibly final appearance for the Phillies yesterday.  Entering the game with a 1-0 lead in the 4th, Durbin came in and even though he expected different results, they stayed the same.  After a strong 4th inning, Durbin was lit up for three runs in the 5th, and another two in the six.  His final line:

3IP, 5H, 5ER, 2BB, 1K, 2HR

Factoring in those stats, Durbin's spring numbers are a team worst:

4G, 12.1IP, 22H, 15ER, 7BB, 5K, 6HR

Not exactly the numbers the Phillies are looking for out of their 5th starter.  Given the fact there's really only one, maybe two bullpen spots open with Brad Lidge, Tom Gordon, JC Romero, Ryan Madson, and Chad Durbin already securing spots, there's no room for Durbin on the roster.  Look for the Phillies to release Durbin in the next day or three, allowing a spot on the 40-man rotation for Kris Benson.

Durbin had high hopes for this season.  He was one of the first players to arrive to camp.  He knew the 5th spot in the rotation was up for grabs, and he had as much chance to grab it as anyone.  Unfortunately nothing really changed for Durbin.  He'll either get picked up by another club, or possibly clear waivers, and start the year at Triple-A Lehigh Valley. 

With the Grapefruit League half over, the Phillies find themselves at 5-11, tied for last place with the Pirates and Blue Jays.  Although Grapefruit League records don't count, and a lot of players spend time working on pitches, or making hitting adjustments, manager Charlie Manuel is getting frustrated with the Phillies lackadaisical play and attitude. 

“It’s time for us to talk,” the manager said. "It's good to be relaxed, good to be loose, but it's about time for us to talk," Manuel said from a chair outside the clubhouse. "We've got some guys that are too cool. There's a fine line in having a good time and being relaxed, and taking it for granted and being complacent. We've got something happening, but it's nothing that we can't take care of."

This is a different attitude we've seen out of Manuel.  Usually he's jolly, and finds ways to motivate his players, by always emphisizing the positive.

Not this spring. 

"Some guys like their position and how [the roster] is going to go because somebody can't beat them out, and that's not the right attitude to take," Manuel said, not referring to specific players. "I don't know when, but it might be time for us to have a little chat."

I can't say Manuel is wrong here.  The Phillies are notorious slow starters (remember last year's 12-14 start?), and another slow start could be disasterous.   The Mets are obviously stronger with the addition of Johan Santana, and you cannot overlook the Braves.  If the Phillies lose ground early this season, it's not going to be as easy to make it up.

An arguement could be made that it's hard to get up for a game when nothing is on the line, and once the games count they'll be a different mindset.  That's true to a point, but I've noticed a definate attitude change out of the Phillies this spring.  They still appear to still be living off of winning the NL East last season.  That was last season, and there's not mention of getting swept to the Rockies in the NLDS.

Expectations need to be set higher and an example should be made for younger players.

I'm not too worried about the Phillies.  The talent is there and once the regular season begins, I know they'll play the baseball they're capable of.  I just think they need to get into the season mindset before the season starts.

During Spring Training, I'm not one who focuses on stats, especially when it comes to the the Phillies regulars.  Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley, Geoff Jenkins, and Jayson Werth have ll struggled in the first half of Grapefruit League play, but I don't doubt their ablilty and know once the games start to count, they'll produce the numbers they're capable of.

What I tend to focus on are the fringe players.  Players who might not make the club, or players who are fighting for a position.  Those are the guys who a strong spring counts.  Since we're half way through Grapefruit League play, and the Phils are a sporting a Grapefruit League worst 4-10 record, I thought I'd take a look at where some of these guys are.

Wes Helms:  Helms is a guy without a home.  After the signing of Pedro Feliz, Helms lost his platoon spot, and there's really no place on the roster for him.  I was hoping for some good numbers out of Helms, and maybe he could make the roster as Ryan Howard's backup, and a pinch-hitter in the clutch.  So far it's not paying off, Helms is hitting a meager .213 with only one extra base hit.

Where's Helms going to go?  My call is Helms will be traded before the season starts and the Dodgers are an ideal trade partner.  With Andy LaRoche out for two months, Nomar Garciaiparra will need a backup.  If we can get a baseball signed by Vin Scully and Tommy Lassorda for Helms, we got the better end of the bargin.

Chris Snelling:  Snelling is a guy who GM Pat Gillick likes, because he has a strong upside.  The problem with Snelling is he has never been able to stay healthy enough to show any talent.  When Snelling was first claimed I figured him to be a 4th outfielder.  Then the Phillies signed So Taguchi and Feliz, causing a roster log jam.  Snelling hasn't done much this spring to warrant a bench spot, but he is a guy Gillick likes. 

Where's Snelling going to go?  If Helms doesn't make the roster, Snelling will probably be the 25th man.  He has decent speed and his defense is adequate.

JD Durbin:  Durbin came into spring with a legitimate shot at the 5th spot in the rotation. The "Real Deal" reported to camp early, and to be honest, I was excited.  I was waiting to see what Dubrin can do.  Then I woke up an realized we're talking about JD Durbin.  In three spring outings Durbin is 0-2 with a 9.61 ERA.  That's the JD Durbin I remember.

Where's Durbin going to go?  Before March 25th Durbin will be designated for assignment.  The 25th is when the Phillies have to put Kris Benson on the 40-man roster (which I fully expect them to do), and Durbin's the guy who'll lose his roster spot.

Travis Blackley:  I had high hopes for the Rule 5 pick, and going into camp figured him as the dark horse for the 5th spot in the rotation.  Blackley started the spring well.  In his first outing he picked three scoreless innings, and pitched another three scoreless in a "B Game".  Then Blackley was given a chance to start and imploded, allowing five runs in less then two innings.  He also pitched last night and allowed two more runs in three frames (although he struck out five). While he's shown he has a good breaking ball, his six walks shown that he struggles with it's command. Officially (not counting the "B Game"), Blackley is 0-1 with a 8.22 ERA and leads the team with 10 strikeouts.

Where's Blackley going to go?  Being a Rule 5 pick, if Blackley doesn't stay on the 25-man roster, he's offered back to the Giants.  I think he's pretty much blew his chance of sticking with the Phillies as their fifth starter.  Given that he's a left-handed pitcher, and he has potential, I can see him making the team as a reliever.  A couple more bad outings, and that will change.

Francisco Rosario:  Rosario came into camp after a stong performance in the Caribbean World Series.  He's a player I didn't think would do much, and being that he's out of options, I figured this would be his last spring in Clearwater.  Then he pitched, and my view changed.  Rosario has been the Phillies best pitcher this spring, posting a 1.04 ERA.  In his eight and two-thirds innings he's struck out eight, and walked three.  Rosario's control has been an issue for him in the past, but judging be what we've seen this spring, he's working past that.

Where's Rosario going to go?  Rosario is doing what fringe players need to do, Turn heads and earn a spot.  It's very possible that Rosario will be the fifth starter until Benson is ready, but at worst he's earned himself a spot in the bullpen.

Remember folks, this is only after the first half.  We'll re-evaluate closer to the end of camp...

Injured pitchers Brad Lidge, Adam Eaton, and Kris Benson all had bullpen sessions yesterday, and the results were positive.

Lidge threw from the mound for the first time since having knee surgery two weeks ago, and his repaired knee gave him no trouble.

"I don't feel it at all," said Lidge, "Not that I'm trying to feel it, but I didn't have to think about it when I was throwing. That's very encouraging. I'm happy with the results."

Lidge appears to be on track to be ready by Opening Day.  Lidge's next step is another bullpen today, followed by a simulated game or batting practive on Friday.

Eaton, who has a herniated disk, threw 41 pitches, also pain free.

"I was able to get extension down and away," Eaton said. "The [slight disk herniation] is going to be there, but I was able to get loose and stay loose."

Eaton will also have another bullpen session today, and barring no setbacks will pitch Saturday against the Twins.

Benson, who appears to be leading the 5th starter race by default might have made the biggest impression.

"He threw very well," pitching coach Rich Dubee said. "Coming off his first game competition, I thought his arm looked great. He had command of all his stuff. It was a very good workout for Kris. He's pretty much where we thought and hoped he would be. The arm strength continues to build. Things are coming together for him."

Benson will make his second appearance of the season on Thursday in another minor league game.

The Phillies have until March 25th to add Benson to the 40-man roster, or he can opt out of his contract and become a free agent.  Given the state of the back end of the rotation, and Benson's progress since signing with the Phillies, I expect Benson to be in a Phillies uniform this season.

"I don't think I'm going to have to exercise the out clause," Benson said. "Personally, I think the team is satisfied with what they see. It would be smart for them to go lock it up and forget about it instead of dragging it out until the deadline. If they like what they see I don't think things are going to change. Of course, they might want to wait and see if something goes wrong. The way that I feel I don't think anything will go wrong."

I cannot wait until a team finally signs Kyle Lohse.  Maybe then Phillies fans will get the idea out of their head that signing him would be a good idea.  I’ve heard fans say the front office is too cheap to being Lohse in, and that they lack the commitment to field a winning team.

What kind of bull is that…?

Sure the Phillies have budget restraints, but that’s not the reason why they aren’t re-signing Kyle Lohse.  They’re not re-signing him because he’s not very good. 

Lohse is a career 63-74 pitcher, who’s ERA hasn’t been south of 4.50 since 2005 and only twice in his seven year career (the other time being 2002).  He also hasn’t had a winning season since 2003, which was also the last time his win total finished in the double digits.

I understand the Phillies have serious questions at the back of the rotation.  Adam Eaton is ineffective an injured.  JD Durbin can’t pitch an inning without allowing a run.  Chad Durbin has struggled.  Aside from making the fans “feel better”, that the front office is taking action to add a player who might contribute, why would adding Lohse, a pitcher with equal or less of the ability then the others competing for the fifth spot in the rotation, make things better?

When you have junk, adding more junk, doesn’t change the fact you have junk.

My feeling with the 5^th spot in the rotation is it’s going to be Kris Benson’s as soon as he’s healthy enough to take it (which doesn’t appear too far away).  In the meantime, Travis Blackley will still continue to get some looks as well as Francisco Rosario.

Rumors are the Orioles are negotiating with Scott Boras and are the favorites to sign Lohse.  This can’t happen soon enough.  That way Phillies fans can get it out of their heads that Lohse returning to Philly is a good idea.

The news is good when it comes to Brad Lidge's recovery from knee surgery.  Lidge will throw off the mound today in a twenty-five pitch bullpen session.  It's been two weeks to the day since Lidge had surgery to remove eighteen percent his meniscus, so everything is healing ahead of schedule.  Today is the earliest doctors would be allowed to throw off a pitching mound.

Although it's only twenty-five pitches, it's encouraging news.  Barring any setbacks, Lidge will be ready for Opening Day.

Joining Lidge in the bullpen today with be some other rehabbing Phillies; starters Adam Eaton and Kris Benson.

This afternoon Joe Bisenius, Scott Mathieson, J.A. Happ, Brad Harman, Ron Chiavacci, Zack Segovia, Brian Mazone, Joe Savery, Tuffy Gosewisch, Lou Marson, Jason Donald, Mike Cervenak, Andy Tracy, and Valentino Pascucci have all been assigned to minor league camp. 

No real surprises here.  These players didn't have a shot of making the team out of spring.

The one interesting assignment was Bisenius.  He made the team last year in camp, but after two appearences visited the disabled list and never returned to Philadelphia.  He didn't see much action this spring (2IP, 0ER), but I figured he might get more of a look, especially given the state of the pitching staff.

Mathieson is still recovering from elbow surgery, and has seen no action this spring, but I'd exepct him to be with the Phillies once recovered.

Travis Blackley's start did not go as well as I had hoped.  Blackley lasted an inning and two-thirds, allowed five runs, four hits and four walks.  His pitching line appears worse then it actually was. 

In the first inning Blackley looked good.  His breaking pitches were strong, and after retiring the first two batters he faced, we walked Kelly Shoppach.  Shoppach scored on a Ryan Garko wind-induced double.  What would have been a fly out to Shane Victorino became a double on the warning track when the wind blew the ball into right-center field.

In the second inning Blackley really struggled with his control.  After walking Andy Marte, Jason Tyner singled.  Andy Gonzalez took Blackley's next pitch over the right field wall (along with Greg Dobbs glove), again with some help from the wind.

I'm not trying to make excuses for Blackley giving up five runs, but the wind did hurt him.  Not as much as his inability to find the strike zone.  Blackley has some good breaking pitches, but good breaking pitches mean squat if you can put them over the plate.

In a minor league game that morning, the news about Kris Benson was encouraging.  Benson pitched three innings where he allowed three hits, one walk, and no run.  More importantly, Benson was pain free, and was throwing in the proper arm slot.

Benson's fastball, which was only in the 70's back in December was in the upper 80's and topped out at 88 MPH.  The timetable on Benson is encouraging, especially given how poorly the candidates for the final spot in the rotation have performed this spring.

Benson feels he's only a week behind the rest of the team.  The Phillies however are a little more cautious and expect him to be ready by mid-April.

Travis Blackley makes his first spring start today.  A strong outing against the Indians and he'll be one step closer to the the 5th spot in the rotation.

Kris Benson faces Jamie Moyer today in a minor league game.  This is Benson's biggest test in his rehab from shoulder surgery.  The Phillies hope to have Benson by May.  Today's outing will definately gauge where Benson is in his recovery and give a more accurate timetable.

I've always been a fan of John Kruk. Not because he was the leader on the Phillies in the early 90's. Well maybe, but I mean John Kruk the announcer. The reasoning? He says whatever is in his head. Yesterday, Kruk and Karl Ravich were the commentators for ESPN's Grapefruit League coverage of the Mets and the Indians, when Kruk announced his NL East predictions:

1. Phillies
2. Braves
3. Mets
4. Marlins
5. Nationals

Well that struck up a debate between he and Ravich that's already hit YouTube. Ravish challenged Kruk, insinuating he has a homer, and how could he blatantly overlook the Mets, but without any Phillies bias, Kruk defended his picks:

Kruk: Karl, again, it’s their pitching, you know what you’ll get from 
(Johan) Santana, but you don’t know what you’ll get from Pedro (Martinez) yet, can he give you 27-32 starts.

Ravich: He’s a 20 game winner this year, he said he’s back and he felt great today.

Kruk: Okay, well that was after two innings in the minor leagues. I hope he is, he’s a fun guy to watch pitch, but that remains to be seen. El Duque, getting older, if that’s possible. You saw Oliver Perez today, with the inconsistency that he brings in your rotation. Great stuff, but he hasn’t yet in my mind put it together where you can say this guy is a solid number two or number three starter.

Ravich: Well they look, on paper (whistle). On paper their team is great.

Kruk: They are…

Ravish: Their line up great… Their names are great.

Kruk: They are, but again injuries have played a big part. Moises Alou last year was injured, he’s a year older. Carlos Delgado was injured last year with the thumb injury, now he has the hip problem, so once you get a little older, these are problems that will get better, but they don’t ever go away. We’re going to see how that affects them through the season. The Phillies are younger. They’re basically a team that stays injury free as far as their everyday players.

Is there a little homer in Kruk? If it was Jayson Stark making these predictions I'd say yes, but Kruk isn't one to side with the Phillies.  Kruk pointed out some things Mets fans forgot about with the acquisition of Johan Santana.  They still have a lot of question marks with their pitching staff and injuries are always worrisome with a veteran squad.

Do the Phillies and Braves have similar concerns?  Yes.  There's no team in the NL East that is the total package.  From a fans perspective, if you're a fan of the Phillies, Mets, or Braves, there's going to be a ton of great baseball to watch this season.

With all that being said, with Jimmy Rollins spring prediction, followed by the Mets collapse, there's been a new found rivalry between the Mets and the Phillies.  It's not as deep as the Yankees and Red Sox, but it's definitely there.  I like it.  It's good for the fans and it's good for baseball.

Adam Eaton continued to look in mid-season form yesterday as the Rays lineup pounded him for four runs in two innings.  Easton allowed five hits, four of which were for extra bases, but at least he didn't walk anyone.

After the game Eaton attributed his poor start to his aching back.  If that's the case, put him on the disabled list.  He'll do less damage there. 

Since Eaton has joined the Phillies his poor performances have been folled by excuses.  His back, his shoulder, his mental ability...  If that's the case, maybe he should be out of action until he can get it together.  Otherwise he's wasting a roster spot for a player who deserves it.

With Eaton pitching a big ball of ****, and the Durbin's doing their best not to want to claim the 5th spot in the rotation, keep an eye on Travis Blackley.  I've mentioned him in prior blogs as the dark horse for the 5th spot, but he might end up becoming the front-runner.  Blackley is scheduled to start tomorrow in Winter Haven against the Indians.  A start that was given to him yesterday.  Joe Savery was the original scheduled starter.

Cole Hamels starts today against the Rays as he looks to rebound from a poor debut last Sunday against the Yankees.

Kris Benson will finally be seeing some live action.  Saturday, Benson is scheduled to start in a minor league game.  Both teams will be a mixture of Phillies minor leaguers, except his pitching counterpart.  Jamie Moyer will pitch for the other team.

Benson is scheduled to go three innings and throw 45 pitches.  This is his first real test on his recovery from rotator cuff surgery.  It'll give Benson a chance to pitch in a game situation, and the Phillies management and opportunity to see how far away Benson is from contributing to the big club.

"I'm looking forward to it," said Benson, who underwent rotator cuff surgery on March 20, 2007. "Everything's going upward as far as my progression goes. It'll be nice to face batters who don't know what's coming and get some reaction. [Wednesday] was the first day I threw some curveballs and it'll be good to throw some on Saturday. I've definitely needed to work on more curveballs, so I'm just looking for results now."

Benson hasn't thrown a curveball since he was with the Mets in 2005.

Benson's time table for him to join the Phillies is still up in the air, though a return by May could give the team a big lift.  Benson feels that a return before May isn't out of the question, but Saturday will really gauge where he is, well where his shoulder is.

"As far as the extra crank on my shoulder, everything has been a little more in each session," Benson said. "If anything [on Saturday], I'd like to work on getting full range. It's still a little bit sore, and [the limited arm motion] affects breaking pitches."

I'll be paying close attention to Benson on Saturday, and be interested to see how he does in his first action in over a year.

Speaking of Phillies pitching, Brett Myers made his debut yesterday in a slit-squad game against the Blue Jays.  Myers looked strong.  He threw 4 shutout innings where he allowed three hits, no walks, and one strikeout.  Given how the pitching has looked lately, it's nice to see a good outing in the boxscore.

Not all was well. 

In the other game against the Tigers, JD Durbin made a case why the Phillies should put him on waivers.  Durbin pitched four innings against a Tigers team that only had five starters in the lineup.  He allowed four hits, which three were solo home runs (Magglio Ordonez and two by Carlos Guillen), four runs, two walks, and struck out three.  The "Real Deal" continues to be a bust and I look forward to the day I won't have to worry about him coming into a game and blowing a lead.

Adam Eaton takes the mound today as the Phillies take on the Rays.  I'm always hopeful when Eaton pitches, but never really surprised when he struggles.  Maybe today' s the day he pitches to his potential.  Gametime is 1:05, and you can listen to the game on Gameday Audio, via mlb.com.

When players and coaches arrive in Clearwater each season, they all start the spring with a physical.  While is makes sense for players to get a physical, some question why coaches and management need a physical.  They're not the ones putting their body on the line every day.  Well it's a good thing they do, especially in the case of first base coach Davey Lopes.  In his physical, doctors discovered prostate cancer.

"Early detection is huge," lefthander Jamie Moyer said. "And it sounds like this is the case. But it's huge. It's huge. You tip your hat to the medical staff and the organization to have the physicals."

Lopes is going to have surgery to remove the cancer, reports are it was detected early enough, where he'll make a full recovery.

The surgery is scheduled for later this month and Lopes will miss six weeks for recovery.  Outfield coordinator, Jerry Martin will fill in until Lopes returns.

Good luck Davey!  You'll be in my thoughts and prayers.

Kris Benson made some more progress in his recovery from rotator cuff surgery.  On Thursday, Benson pitched his first simulated game, and had no discomfort.  Yesterday he threw batting practice.  Benson threw two sessions of 20 pitches. It's baby steps, but it's progress.  It was said when he finished there was no stiffness of discomfort.  Benson still has virtually no shot of making the Phillies out of camp, but if he continues to progress without any setbacks, it's not unthinkable for him to be on the mound sometime in May.

While the prospects took the "A Game" against the Pirates (with strong outings by Joe Savery and Josh Outman), where they beat the Pirates 3-1, Jamie Moyer and Travis Blackley took the mound in a morning "B Game", and both continued to impress.

Moyer threw four innings of shutout baseball, where he struck out three, while he allowed four hits.  Moyer still hasn't thrown his cutter this spring.  That will come in the next few appearances.  With it being Spring Training, there's no reason to do the hula hoop over Moyer's seven scoreless innings this spring, but it's definitely encouraging.

Blackley followed Moyer, and threw three shutout innings of his own.  He allowed two hits, and walked two, but he did strike out three.  With the mess at the back end of the rotation, Blackley is the guy who could sneak in and take the spot.  In his two appearances, Blackley has six scoreless innings with five strikeouts and two walks. 

Kyle Kendrick takes the mound today in Orlando against the Braves.

No, it wasn't on the field, where Cole Hamels allowed four runs in two innings against the Yankees.  Sure it wasn't a spectacular performance, but it was his first spring outing, and he was working on his pitches.  There's no reason for an alarm to sound.  It's his comments after the game.

Yesterday was the Phillies self-imposed deadline to give Hamels a new contract.  Since he isn't arbitration eligible yet, the Phillies can pay him similar to what he made last season, a mere $475,000.  Since the Phillies did not reach an agreement with Hamels agent, John Boggs, they automatically renewed his contract.  Hamels will make somewhere in the realm of $500,000.  Not a lot of money for one of the league's top pitcher's, but it's the way baseball economics work. 

Hamels felt differently, and told the press he felt it was a "low blow", and he feels like he's not being paid what he's worth for the job he's doing.

It's a bummer Hamels feels that way, but I guess he forgot about the $2.1 million signing bonus the gave him when the Phillies drafted him in the First Round of the 2003 draft.  This is the nature of baseball economics, and it won't be long until Cole is seeking Johan Santana-type money, he'll just have to wait a few more years.

Do you think the Phillies are bring cheap?  If so, factor in this.  He's making more money then both Scott Kazmir ($424,300), and Chien-Ming Wang ($489,500), made last season, in their first year before arbitration.  The Phillies are being very fair with Hamels.

Hamels will be okay, and his contract shouldn't effect his play on the field this year.  It's an arbitration year for him, and you know Ryan Howard's record $10 million is in the back of his mind.

Adam Eaton finished the 2007 season on a low note.  Coming off his worst season as a professional, he was left off the Phillies post-season roster.  After going 10-10 with an 6.29 ERA, Eaton was on a mission to get back into the pitching fold in Philadelphia.  It was rumored he did off-season physical therapy.  He went to see a sports psychologist (at Jamie Moyer's recommendation).  All the off-season news was positive for Eaton; I was excited to see his spring debut, to see how things worked out.

Well Eaton made his spring debut yesterday.  The more things change, the more they stay the same.

Eaton was torched for three runs and five hits in only two innings pitched.  A majority of the damage came in the first inning.  He gave up a lead off single to Brett Gardiner, but then got Derek Jeter to hit into a double-play.  With two outs he gave up back-to-back singles to Bobby Abreu and Alex Rodriguez, before Shelly Duncan crushed a hanging slider over the left-field wall.

Now I know some may think I'm over-reacting.  It's only spring training, and it was his first outing.  In most cases I would agree, but if you watched him pitch he was terrible.  His arm slot was low.  He couldn't keep his fastball down, and his breaking pitches weren't breaking.

Eaton is in competition with Kris Benson, Travis Blackley, and Chad Durbin for the fifth spot in the rotation, so he doesn't have the luxury to take time and work on pitches in a game situation. He needs to be on point, and not go out there and throw batting practice; like he did yesterday.

Maybe I am over-reacting a bit.  Before I call for his head, let's see what he can do his next time out, although, I'm not very encouraged.

Enough of Eaton, how'd other Phillies fair?  Honestly, not very good.

Durbin (of the Chad variety) made his spring debut and gave up two runs in two innings.  Duncan also got the best of Durbin driving in two with a double in the third inning.  Durbin came back out in the fourth inning, and settled in, retiring the Yankees in order.

Clay Condrey had an inning of work, and was less then spectacular.  He walked one, allowed one hit and gave up one run.  His lone hit allowed was a home run to Rodriguez.

Ryan Madson also pitched an inning and although he allowed two hits, he got out of his self-made jam, and didn't allow any runs.

The ageless Vic Darrensbourg, who could be a dark horse lefty in the bullpen, allowed a run in his one inning. Jesus Montero took him deep over the right field wall.

Then there was Tom Gordon, who made his spring debut.  Reports about Gordon have been good this spring, but his appearance showed differently, and he walked one, allowed two hits and two runs (on a Wilson Betemit moonshot), in only two-thirds of an inning.  John Ennis relieved Gordon and retired the only batter he faced.

Outside of Ryan Howard going 2 for 2, and prospect Greg Golson hitting a home run, there wasn't much good about yesterday's game, except it's only the spring.  Most players are still getting into game shape.  If the pitching looks like this in three weeks, that's when I'll start to worry.

The Phillies will travel to Tampa today for a rematch with the Yankees.  Cole Hamels will make his spring debut, while Andy Pettitte makes his debut for the Yankees.

Opening Day starter, Brett Myers made his spring debut yesterday, but not against the Pirates yesterday afternoon.  Myers started a morning "B Game" against a Pirates lineup that didn't feature any starters.  Myers wasn't lights out over his three innings of work.  He allowed five hits and one run while striking out three.  Considering it's been a year since Myers has been a starter, yesterday's action was to get him back to a starters mentality, and work on pitches he stopped using when he became a closer.

JD Durbin started the "A Game", and continued to make me wonder why this guy is wasting a roster spot.  Durbin started the spring how he finished last season, pretty bad.  In two inning, Durbin allowed five hits, two runs and a walk.  It would have been worse if the Pirates hitters were a little more patient at the plate, and didn't chase some of the junk Durbin was serving.

Durbin looked lights out compared to Shane Youman.  Youman, a former Pirate, pitched one inning, and only allowed one hit.  That wouldn't be so bad if he didn't walk four batters.  Youman allowed two runs in his one inning of work, both coming on back-to-back walks with the bases loaded.

But again, all wasn't bad, as the Phillies did win 5-4, behind the bat of Casey Smith.  Smith, a non-roster invitee, spent his entire career in the Angels organization.  Smith went 3 for 4 with the game winning home run in the top of the ninth inning.  Barring a catastrophic injury, Smith has no shot making the ball club out of the spring, but if he continues to play how he did yesterday, he'll be an everyday player at Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Shane Victorino went 2 for 3 with a triple.

JA Happ made his pitching debut and looked strong.  The one time top prospect threw two innings of no-hit ball, while striking out and walking one.

Joe Bisenius also threw two innings of perfect ball.  Bisenius made the team last season, but after two games fell prey to the injury bug, and spent the rest of the year at Triple-A.

The Phillies take on the Yankees today in Clearwater.  2007 disappointment Adam Eaton is scheduled to start for the Phillies, and Chad Durbin is also expected to see some action.  Chien-Ming Wang gets the start for the Yankees.  The game will be shown in Philadelphia on Channel 57.  If you don't live in Philly (like myself), you can watch it on MLBTV, via MLB.com.