Pedro Martinez had shown flashes of brilliance, in his four starts as a Phillie. He had also displayed maddening inconsistency, as evidenced by his 5.14 ERA. His Friday night start against the Braves was a crucial one, as he continues to compete for a postseason roster spot. Martinez held the Braves scoreless through the first two innings, and the Phillies took a 1-0 lead, on a home run by Ryan Howard. On 70's night at Citizens Bank Park, Martinez was turning back the clock.
Then the predicted rains came. After a sixty-three minute rain delay, the game was, inexplicably, resumed, despite the fact that the rains continued to pour down. A second, forty-five minute rain delay, followed. Play continued, as the Phillies took the field, in the top of the third inning. Wait...is that Jamie Moyer's music?
The deposed fifth starter was making only his second relief appearance, and his first since August 18th. Moyer hasn't had many opportunities, since he was removed from the rotation after his August 9th start. He threw six scoreless innings in the first relief outing, and pitched almost as well on Friday night. With his slow-moving pitches keeping the Braves' off balance, and some assistance from a generous home plate umpire (who wanted to get home in plenty of time to watch Metalocalypse ), Moyer permitted only a single run, in four and one-third innings. Moyer allowed four hits, walked no one, and struck out five (!). Infrequent appearances, in rain-delayed ballgames, have been proven to be an excellent fit for the venerable hurler. Perhaps a return to the Rain City for 2010 would be another excellent fit for the veteran.
Thanks to Moyer's effort, and a two-run homer by Ryan Howard (not to be confused with his solo homer, two innings earlier), the Phillies had a 4-2 lead, entering the top of the ninth. It was Brad Lidge time! Fortunately, with the opportunity to procure his tenth blown save of the 2009 season, Lidge's outing was more reminiscent of the best moments of his perfect 2008 season. The Phillies' closer retired all three batters he faced, throwing eight of twelve pitches for strikes.
The Phils' victory was a crucial one, as it erased the possibility of a series sweep by the Braves. With an eight-game lead over Atlanta (and Florida), the Phillies are in excellent shape in the quest for their third consecutive division championship. The Saturday Night Special isn't the only thing we haven't seen in Philadelphia, since the 1970s.
Showing posts with label Pedro Martinez. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pedro Martinez. Show all posts
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
The Mets are No Match for Eric Bruntlett
Jayson Werth strode to the plate, with the opportunity to do some serious damage. In the first half-frame of Sunday's game against the Mets, the Phillies' first two batters had reached base. Jimmy Rollins had left off the game with a double, on the eighth pitch from Mets' starter Oliver Perez. Shane Victorino had followed with another eight pitch at bat, working the erratic Mets' hurler for a walk. In recent games, the Phillies had often struggled to convert these early opportunities into runs. Werth fouled off six consecutive Perez offerings, in another epic at bat. On the twelfth pitch to Werth, Perez tried a four-seam fastball. Werth drove the 90 MPH pitch into the stands in left, a tremendous blast that gave the Phils an early 3-0 advantage.
Carlos Ruiz was just hoping to turn the lineup over. Pedro Feliz had worked a two-out walk, and Eric Bruntlett, starting at second base to give Chase Utley the day off, followed with a seeing-eye single. Ruiz was the eighth Phillies' batter to face Oliver Perez in the first inning. Perez was laboring, and Ruiz would have been happy to take a walk. Perez' second pitch, an 89 MPH four-seam fastball, got a little too much of the plate. Ruiz deposited the pitch over the fence in left. The Phillies had two homers, in the span of six batters, at homer-unfriendly Citi Field. The embattled Perez threw three balls to the opposing pitcher, Pedro Martinez. The third ball, his forty-seventh pitch, was his last, as Mets' Manager Jerry Manuel had seen enough. Martinez went down on strikes, but the Phillies had taken a 6-0 lead, before the Mets could even bat.
Brad Lidge was in trouble. It certainly wasn't the first time he had encountered difficulties converting a save opportunity. However, this time, Lidge had been the unlucky victim of a series of unfortunate, defense-deficient, events. The Phillies' closer had entered the ninth inning with a 9-6 lead, and had induced routine ground balls to the first three batters. Ryan Howard turned the first grounder into a three-base error, and Eric Bruntlett had converted the second grounder into a run-scoring, one-base error. The third grounder seemed destined to be a 4-6 fielder's choice, but Bruntlett had muffed it into a single. With the lead down to 9-7, the tying run on first base, and still no outs, Lidge wondered what more he could have done. Phillies' fans hoped Eric Bruntlett would be replaced by Chase Utley's Golden Glove. With the runners off on the pitch, Lidge delivered a slider to the Mets' Jeff Francoeur. The Mets' outfielder hit a hard line drive up the middle...for a GAME-ENDING UNASSISTED TRIPLE PLAY BY ERIC BRUNTLETT!!
Bruntlett's game-ending play, only the fifteenth triplet killing in MLB history, and only the second to end a ballgame, might not have been the strangest of the game's unlikely events. It wasn't even the most unlikely event involving Eric Bruntlett. The weak-hitting (on his best days) utility player not only had THREE HITS IN THE SAME GAME, but he came within a reversed call of a four-hit game. The three hits elevated Bruntlett's season average to .154, and the unassisted triple play placed the scraggly infielder in the same exalted corner of Phillies' history as the inimitable Mickey Morandini.
Phils' starter Pedro Martinez, in his third start with the team, picked up the 216th regular season win of his memorable career. But the future HOFer didn't do anything to merit installment in an exalted corner of Phillies' history. He looked very good at times, but the overall stats were rather, well, Moyeresque. Six innings, seven hits, four runs- this is the type of unimpressive line that Moyer produced on a regular basis. The glimpses of the talented Martinez were overshadowed by the replacement level results. Martinez needs to do better. Fortunately, the offense provided enough for Martinez to win on Sunday.
The Phillies will send Cliff Lee to the mound on Monday afternoon, as they try to win three of four from the Mets. Given that Lee has been pitching like Pedro Martinez, circa 2005, and that Eric Bruntlett's hot bat and glove will be in the lineup again, another Phils' win seems likely.
Carlos Ruiz was just hoping to turn the lineup over. Pedro Feliz had worked a two-out walk, and Eric Bruntlett, starting at second base to give Chase Utley the day off, followed with a seeing-eye single. Ruiz was the eighth Phillies' batter to face Oliver Perez in the first inning. Perez was laboring, and Ruiz would have been happy to take a walk. Perez' second pitch, an 89 MPH four-seam fastball, got a little too much of the plate. Ruiz deposited the pitch over the fence in left. The Phillies had two homers, in the span of six batters, at homer-unfriendly Citi Field. The embattled Perez threw three balls to the opposing pitcher, Pedro Martinez. The third ball, his forty-seventh pitch, was his last, as Mets' Manager Jerry Manuel had seen enough. Martinez went down on strikes, but the Phillies had taken a 6-0 lead, before the Mets could even bat.
Brad Lidge was in trouble. It certainly wasn't the first time he had encountered difficulties converting a save opportunity. However, this time, Lidge had been the unlucky victim of a series of unfortunate, defense-deficient, events. The Phillies' closer had entered the ninth inning with a 9-6 lead, and had induced routine ground balls to the first three batters. Ryan Howard turned the first grounder into a three-base error, and Eric Bruntlett had converted the second grounder into a run-scoring, one-base error. The third grounder seemed destined to be a 4-6 fielder's choice, but Bruntlett had muffed it into a single. With the lead down to 9-7, the tying run on first base, and still no outs, Lidge wondered what more he could have done. Phillies' fans hoped Eric Bruntlett would be replaced by Chase Utley's Golden Glove. With the runners off on the pitch, Lidge delivered a slider to the Mets' Jeff Francoeur. The Mets' outfielder hit a hard line drive up the middle...for a GAME-ENDING UNASSISTED TRIPLE PLAY BY ERIC BRUNTLETT!!
Bruntlett's game-ending play, only the fifteenth triplet killing in MLB history, and only the second to end a ballgame, might not have been the strangest of the game's unlikely events. It wasn't even the most unlikely event involving Eric Bruntlett. The weak-hitting (on his best days) utility player not only had THREE HITS IN THE SAME GAME, but he came within a reversed call of a four-hit game. The three hits elevated Bruntlett's season average to .154, and the unassisted triple play placed the scraggly infielder in the same exalted corner of Phillies' history as the inimitable Mickey Morandini.
Phils' starter Pedro Martinez, in his third start with the team, picked up the 216th regular season win of his memorable career. But the future HOFer didn't do anything to merit installment in an exalted corner of Phillies' history. He looked very good at times, but the overall stats were rather, well, Moyeresque. Six innings, seven hits, four runs- this is the type of unimpressive line that Moyer produced on a regular basis. The glimpses of the talented Martinez were overshadowed by the replacement level results. Martinez needs to do better. Fortunately, the offense provided enough for Martinez to win on Sunday.
The Phillies will send Cliff Lee to the mound on Monday afternoon, as they try to win three of four from the Mets. Given that Lee has been pitching like Pedro Martinez, circa 2005, and that Eric Bruntlett's hot bat and glove will be in the lineup again, another Phils' win seems likely.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Phillies Respond to Manuel's Meeting, Sweep Cubs
Phillies' Manager Charlie Manuel picks his spots, in determining when to meet with his entire team. Last weekend should have been a memorable one, with a Harry Kalas plaque installed on the Wall of Fame, the greatest of each former Green(e) in attendance (Tyler, Tommy), and a chance to increase their divisional lead over the Marlins. It turned into a debacle, with Shane Victorino ejected from his outfield position, a pregame "Batting Challenge" that included one home run, and three pitchers batting (out of six participants), and Eric Bruntlett remaining on the active roster throughout all three games. Not to mention that the Phillies lost all three games. As there wasn't a UFC event scheduled for immediately after Sunday's loss, that was a very opportune time for a team meeting.
The meeting had a most efficacious effect, as the Phillies responded in impressive, WFC fashion. The Phillies used strong starting pitching, and a reawakened offense, in rolling to a three-game road sweep of the Cubs. Hopefully, the Phils can continue to ride their new momentum, this weekend in Atlanta.
Tuesday's opener at Wrigley Field would have been Phillies co-ace Cliff Lee's fifth day, but the Phillies opted to push Lee back two days, when inserting Pedro Martinez into the rotation. J.A. Happ made the start, with one extra day of rest, after being allowed to throw an obscene 127 pitches in his previous appearance. The draining complete game shutout would have been good reason to push Happ back a few days, and Lee's strong form good reason to keep him on his regular turn. Another good reason to start Lee on Tuesday: he could have returned, on regular rest, for the Sunday night finale against the divisional rival Braves.
Happ permitted seven hits and four walks, in his 100-pitch, six-inning effort. Usually, eleven baserunners in only six innings will result in considerable damage. However, Happ only allowed two of those runners to score. Happ left with the score tied, but after the Phillies took the lead, Brad Lidge contributed his seventh blown save of his imperfect season. The Phillies were not to be denied, however, as Ben Francisco broke the 3-3 tie, with a solo homer in the twelfth inning. Chad Durbin's first appearance, since his DL stint, was a successful one. Durbin closed out the 4-3 win, picking up his second save of the season, with a scoreless twelfth.
The Cubs would get no closer to a victory in the series. Pedro Martinez made his Phillies' debut on Wednesday, scattering seven hits and a walk, in five mediocre innings. Martinez tired in the fifth, when he allowed two, of the three, runs he surrendered. Fortunately, he was pitching with a 12-1 lead, after the Phillies had enjoyed a monstrous eight-run fourth inning. With an eleven-run lead, courtesy of three-run homers by Jimmy Rollins and Raul Ibanez, Martinez' adequate outing was sufficient.
The Phillies had saved Cliff Lee for Thursday, when he would have the opportunity to ensure the Phils' first sweep at Wrigley, since the Kevin Gross-era 1984 team. Lee would have to win under difficult circumstances. Relievers Chan Ho Park, Scott Eyre, and Tyler Walker were unavailable, as they were attempting to track down the bleacher bonehead who doused outfielder Shane Victorino with a beer, during Wednesday night's game. (The three crime-fighting hurlers brought the culprit to justice, capturing him behind a Sonic restaurant in Aurora, Illinois. They proceeded to celebrate with Fried Ice Cream Blasts, after turning the heinous criminal over to the authorities.)
Lee had little need for relief, surrendering only a single run in eight innings, in picking up his third consecutive win as a Phillie. Lee was allowed to throw 122 pitches, which would have been a somewhat questionable move, if the bullpen hadn't been so short-handed. Ryan Howard and Pedro Feliz hit homers, and the Phillies cruised to a 6-1 win. The Phillies lead the Marlins by 4.5 games, and the Braves by 5 games. If only every series could be this easy.
The meeting had a most efficacious effect, as the Phillies responded in impressive, WFC fashion. The Phillies used strong starting pitching, and a reawakened offense, in rolling to a three-game road sweep of the Cubs. Hopefully, the Phils can continue to ride their new momentum, this weekend in Atlanta.
Tuesday's opener at Wrigley Field would have been Phillies co-ace Cliff Lee's fifth day, but the Phillies opted to push Lee back two days, when inserting Pedro Martinez into the rotation. J.A. Happ made the start, with one extra day of rest, after being allowed to throw an obscene 127 pitches in his previous appearance. The draining complete game shutout would have been good reason to push Happ back a few days, and Lee's strong form good reason to keep him on his regular turn. Another good reason to start Lee on Tuesday: he could have returned, on regular rest, for the Sunday night finale against the divisional rival Braves.
Happ permitted seven hits and four walks, in his 100-pitch, six-inning effort. Usually, eleven baserunners in only six innings will result in considerable damage. However, Happ only allowed two of those runners to score. Happ left with the score tied, but after the Phillies took the lead, Brad Lidge contributed his seventh blown save of his imperfect season. The Phillies were not to be denied, however, as Ben Francisco broke the 3-3 tie, with a solo homer in the twelfth inning. Chad Durbin's first appearance, since his DL stint, was a successful one. Durbin closed out the 4-3 win, picking up his second save of the season, with a scoreless twelfth.
The Cubs would get no closer to a victory in the series. Pedro Martinez made his Phillies' debut on Wednesday, scattering seven hits and a walk, in five mediocre innings. Martinez tired in the fifth, when he allowed two, of the three, runs he surrendered. Fortunately, he was pitching with a 12-1 lead, after the Phillies had enjoyed a monstrous eight-run fourth inning. With an eleven-run lead, courtesy of three-run homers by Jimmy Rollins and Raul Ibanez, Martinez' adequate outing was sufficient.
The Phillies had saved Cliff Lee for Thursday, when he would have the opportunity to ensure the Phils' first sweep at Wrigley, since the Kevin Gross-era 1984 team. Lee would have to win under difficult circumstances. Relievers Chan Ho Park, Scott Eyre, and Tyler Walker were unavailable, as they were attempting to track down the bleacher bonehead who doused outfielder Shane Victorino with a beer, during Wednesday night's game. (The three crime-fighting hurlers brought the culprit to justice, capturing him behind a Sonic restaurant in Aurora, Illinois. They proceeded to celebrate with Fried Ice Cream Blasts, after turning the heinous criminal over to the authorities.)
Lee had little need for relief, surrendering only a single run in eight innings, in picking up his third consecutive win as a Phillie. Lee was allowed to throw 122 pitches, which would have been a somewhat questionable move, if the bullpen hadn't been so short-handed. Ryan Howard and Pedro Feliz hit homers, and the Phillies cruised to a 6-1 win. The Phillies lead the Marlins by 4.5 games, and the Braves by 5 games. If only every series could be this easy.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/11)
The Phillies removed Jamie Moyer from the fifth starter's role, and moved him to the bullpen. Pedro Martinez will join the rotation, starting Wednesday night, against the Cubs.
With future HOFer Pedro Martinez having, satisfactorily, completed his minor league rehab, the Phillies removed their rotation's weakest starter. Moyer pitched 123.1 innings, posting a 5.47 ERA/5.40 FIP. Moyer will, likely, be used as a long reliever/in low leverage situations. With two doubleheaders scheduled in September, Moyer could be considered (along with Drew Carpenter, Kyle Kendrick, and Rodrigo Lopez) for spot starting assignments, later in the season.
Kyle Kendrick was optioned to Lehigh Valley (AAA), t,o open a spot for Martinez on the active roster. Kendrick will, likely, return to the IronPigs rotation. Joe Savery, recently promoted from AA, would seem the most likely option to be demoted to Reading (AA). But, it is possible that Lehigh Valley could, instead, jettison Brian Mazone or Gustavo Chacin, both minor league journeyman who may be unlikely to return to the organization in 2010.
Chad Durbin was activated from the DL. Rodrigo Lopez was optioned to Lehigh Valley. Durbin has a month to make a case for a postseason roster spot. However, if the rest of the bullpen options are healthy for the playoffs, it may not matter how well Durbin pitches in August/September.
Lopez was able to be optioned to AAA, despite having more than five years of MLB experience, because it was written into his contract when he agreed to terms with the Phillies.
J.C. Romero had another rehab setback, and is scheduled for an MRI. It is starting to look like a lost season for Romero.
Brett Myers pitched in his second simulated game, and may make an appearance in an un-simulated game shortly. Expect him to be ready for a relief role with the Phillies, in September.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost to the Louisville Bats on Tuesday, 2-1. Michael Taylor had two outfield assists, at second base, and at home plate. Alex Concepcion pitched two scoreless innings of relief.
The Reading Phillies (AA) came from behind to defeat the Trenton Thunder, 6-5.
The R-Phils trailed 3-1, after six innings, but pulled ahead 6-3, in the top of the ninth. Despite some shaky fielding (the R-Phils made four errors), leading to two unearned runs in the bottom of the ninth, the R-Phils held on for the win. Reading starter Mike Stutes pitched well, allowing three runs (only one earned), in six innings (seven hits, two walks/six strikeouts). B.J. Rosenberg got the final out, for his first AA save. Behind the plate for the final out was Tim Gradoville. A week ago, who would have predicted a low-A reliever, and a low-A coach, would be the battery in a AA game?
The Philadelphia Inquirer continues to spell DomOnic Brown's name incorrectly. Very disappointing.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were bombed by the Lakeland Flying Tigers on Tuesday, 9-3. It was a very successing mission for the Flying Tigers. The Threshers took a 3-0 lead, in the top of the first inning, but never scored again. Threshers starter Darren Byrd pitched four and two-thirds innings, allowing five runs (only two earned), on eleven hits (zero walks/seven whiffs). The box score seems to indicate that Byrd had some BABIP issues...
With future HOFer Pedro Martinez having, satisfactorily, completed his minor league rehab, the Phillies removed their rotation's weakest starter. Moyer pitched 123.1 innings, posting a 5.47 ERA/5.40 FIP. Moyer will, likely, be used as a long reliever/in low leverage situations. With two doubleheaders scheduled in September, Moyer could be considered (along with Drew Carpenter, Kyle Kendrick, and Rodrigo Lopez) for spot starting assignments, later in the season.
Kyle Kendrick was optioned to Lehigh Valley (AAA), t,o open a spot for Martinez on the active roster. Kendrick will, likely, return to the IronPigs rotation. Joe Savery, recently promoted from AA, would seem the most likely option to be demoted to Reading (AA). But, it is possible that Lehigh Valley could, instead, jettison Brian Mazone or Gustavo Chacin, both minor league journeyman who may be unlikely to return to the organization in 2010.
Chad Durbin was activated from the DL. Rodrigo Lopez was optioned to Lehigh Valley. Durbin has a month to make a case for a postseason roster spot. However, if the rest of the bullpen options are healthy for the playoffs, it may not matter how well Durbin pitches in August/September.
Lopez was able to be optioned to AAA, despite having more than five years of MLB experience, because it was written into his contract when he agreed to terms with the Phillies.
J.C. Romero had another rehab setback, and is scheduled for an MRI. It is starting to look like a lost season for Romero.
Brett Myers pitched in his second simulated game, and may make an appearance in an un-simulated game shortly. Expect him to be ready for a relief role with the Phillies, in September.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost to the Louisville Bats on Tuesday, 2-1. Michael Taylor had two outfield assists, at second base, and at home plate. Alex Concepcion pitched two scoreless innings of relief.
The Reading Phillies (AA) came from behind to defeat the Trenton Thunder, 6-5.
The R-Phils trailed 3-1, after six innings, but pulled ahead 6-3, in the top of the ninth. Despite some shaky fielding (the R-Phils made four errors), leading to two unearned runs in the bottom of the ninth, the R-Phils held on for the win. Reading starter Mike Stutes pitched well, allowing three runs (only one earned), in six innings (seven hits, two walks/six strikeouts). B.J. Rosenberg got the final out, for his first AA save. Behind the plate for the final out was Tim Gradoville. A week ago, who would have predicted a low-A reliever, and a low-A coach, would be the battery in a AA game?
The Philadelphia Inquirer continues to spell DomOnic Brown's name incorrectly. Very disappointing.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were bombed by the Lakeland Flying Tigers on Tuesday, 9-3. It was a very successing mission for the Flying Tigers. The Threshers took a 3-0 lead, in the top of the first inning, but never scored again. Threshers starter Darren Byrd pitched four and two-thirds innings, allowing five runs (only two earned), on eleven hits (zero walks/seven whiffs). The box score seems to indicate that Byrd had some BABIP issues...
Sunday, August 9, 2009
They Said Pete Had to Stay in Rehab (Roster Moves Pending...)
Future HOF'er Pedro Martinez has made three rehab starts for the Phillies, but still has no timetable for a return to MLB. Martinez looks ready, or at least ready enough to be better than Jamie Moyer, or Rodrigo Lopez. The Phillies have been waiting as long as possible, just in case some factor outside their control (injury? retirement?) affected their personnel moves.
With Moyer scheduled to start on Sunday, it wouldn't be surprising to see a decision (and corresponding roster move) made early this week. This could be Moyer's last appearance as a starter for awhile.
Martinez could be inserted into the rotation on Wednesday, with Cliff Lee pitching on Tuesday, his regular day. Martinez, J.A. Happ, Joe Blanton, and Cole Hamels would start Wednesday through Saturday in this scenario. (Blanton, and Hamels would each be pitching with two extra days of rest, while Happ would have three extra days.)
Remember when Jack Taschner pitched so infrequently, that it was almost possible to forget that the Phils were still wasting a roster spot on him? That could be Moyer's next role.
Kyle Kendrick will, probably, be optioned back to the Lehigh Valley (AAA) rotation, when Martinez is placed on the active roster.
Chad Durbin will make a rehab appearance in AAA on Sunday, and then may be ready to return to the Phillies. The slow-moving rehabs of his pen-mates (J.C. Romero, Clay Condrey) should give Durbin, a pending free agent, another opportunity with the parent club. Wouldn't expect to see him on the postseason roster, though...
(Would expect Tyler Walker to be DFA'd on Tuesday, opening a spot on the active roster for Durbin. Walker will, probably, pass through waivers, and return to Lehigh Valley.)
J.C. Romero experienced a "setback" in his first rehab appearance, Clearwater (A). Clay Condrey continues to take things slowly, as he recovers from his oblique issues. There's no reason to rush either reliever, with roster spots at a premium, and the starting rotation leaving fewer relief innings available. Might not see either back before Sept. 1st, which should keep Rodrigo Lopez in the Phillies bullpen/organization.
Romero, Condrey, Lopez, Durbin, Scott Eyre, Brett Myers, Scott Mathieson. Assuming Brad Lidge, Ryan Madson, Chan Ho Park, and the fifth starter (Pedro Martinez? J.A. Happ?) in the bullpen, that leaves, likely, three spots left. Who gets them?
Brett Myers' rehab is going well. He, allegedly, dominated un-named, simulated batters on Thursday. Future minor league appearances will dictate whether he can return to the parent club, as a reliever, for September and beyond. If he is healthy, he can be a definite asset/upgrade to the bullpen. If Brad Lidge continues to struggle, Myers could be in the late-inning/closing mix, with Ryan Madson. Expect to see Myers in Philly, when rosters expand.
Scott Mathieson has been dominating in A/AA, as his return from three surgeries continues. His refusal to allow runs, coupled with his mid-90s, whiff-inducing, velocity, has him on the fast track back to MLB. Expect to see him in September, competing for a postseason roster spot.
Barring setbacks, Myers and Mathieson would be huge upgrades, over the more fungible commodities, Durbin and Condrey. The third spot would go to J.C. Romero, or Scott Eyre, if Romero is not healthy.
Myers, Mathieson, Martinez or Happ, a LOOGYfied Romero or Eyre, Madson, and Lidge could be an incredible postseason bullpen.
The Phils wouldn't need an eighth reliever for the postseason, opening a roster spot for...Michael Taylor??
With Moyer scheduled to start on Sunday, it wouldn't be surprising to see a decision (and corresponding roster move) made early this week. This could be Moyer's last appearance as a starter for awhile.
Martinez could be inserted into the rotation on Wednesday, with Cliff Lee pitching on Tuesday, his regular day. Martinez, J.A. Happ, Joe Blanton, and Cole Hamels would start Wednesday through Saturday in this scenario. (Blanton, and Hamels would each be pitching with two extra days of rest, while Happ would have three extra days.)
Remember when Jack Taschner pitched so infrequently, that it was almost possible to forget that the Phils were still wasting a roster spot on him? That could be Moyer's next role.
Kyle Kendrick will, probably, be optioned back to the Lehigh Valley (AAA) rotation, when Martinez is placed on the active roster.
Chad Durbin will make a rehab appearance in AAA on Sunday, and then may be ready to return to the Phillies. The slow-moving rehabs of his pen-mates (J.C. Romero, Clay Condrey) should give Durbin, a pending free agent, another opportunity with the parent club. Wouldn't expect to see him on the postseason roster, though...
(Would expect Tyler Walker to be DFA'd on Tuesday, opening a spot on the active roster for Durbin. Walker will, probably, pass through waivers, and return to Lehigh Valley.)
J.C. Romero experienced a "setback" in his first rehab appearance, Clearwater (A). Clay Condrey continues to take things slowly, as he recovers from his oblique issues. There's no reason to rush either reliever, with roster spots at a premium, and the starting rotation leaving fewer relief innings available. Might not see either back before Sept. 1st, which should keep Rodrigo Lopez in the Phillies bullpen/organization.
Romero, Condrey, Lopez, Durbin, Scott Eyre, Brett Myers, Scott Mathieson. Assuming Brad Lidge, Ryan Madson, Chan Ho Park, and the fifth starter (Pedro Martinez? J.A. Happ?) in the bullpen, that leaves, likely, three spots left. Who gets them?
Brett Myers' rehab is going well. He, allegedly, dominated un-named, simulated batters on Thursday. Future minor league appearances will dictate whether he can return to the parent club, as a reliever, for September and beyond. If he is healthy, he can be a definite asset/upgrade to the bullpen. If Brad Lidge continues to struggle, Myers could be in the late-inning/closing mix, with Ryan Madson. Expect to see Myers in Philly, when rosters expand.
Scott Mathieson has been dominating in A/AA, as his return from three surgeries continues. His refusal to allow runs, coupled with his mid-90s, whiff-inducing, velocity, has him on the fast track back to MLB. Expect to see him in September, competing for a postseason roster spot.
Barring setbacks, Myers and Mathieson would be huge upgrades, over the more fungible commodities, Durbin and Condrey. The third spot would go to J.C. Romero, or Scott Eyre, if Romero is not healthy.
Myers, Mathieson, Martinez or Happ, a LOOGYfied Romero or Eyre, Madson, and Lidge could be an incredible postseason bullpen.
The Phils wouldn't need an eighth reliever for the postseason, opening a roster spot for...Michael Taylor??
Friday, August 7, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/5)
On Wednesday night, the Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Trenton Thunder, 8-4. The R-Phils paid Tribute to Sliced Bread, drawing a franchise-record crowd of 9,953, as a result.
Future Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez was also present for the festivities, making his third rehab start for the parent Phillies. Martinez surrendered a solo homer to the third batter he faced, and was touched up for three runs in the sixth inning. However, the sixth inning was marred by fielding inadequacy, and Martinez was brilliant throughout the game. He threw eighty-two pitches, sixty for strikes. He struck out ten of the first seventeen batters he faced. He finished with eleven strikeouts and ZERO walks. It looks like he is ready for a spot in the parent Phillies' rotation. (Namely, Jamie Moyer's spot.)
Scott Mathieson followed with two scoreless innings, and Sergio Escalona pitched a scoreless ninth.
DomOnic Brown overshadowed Martinez, however. But not with his 2 for 4 night, which included a mammoth 426 ft. homer. After the game, Brown announced that the spelling of his first name is "Domonic", rather than "Dominic." Baseball writers everywhere are filling their memory holes with the inconvenient evidence, and a conspiracy of silence is now in progress.
Phillies' GM Ruben Amaro may have missed an opportunity to deal DomInic Brown, while receiving the trade value earned by DomOnic Brown.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) beat the Dunedin Blue Jays on Wednesday, 5-1.
Starter Darren Byrd continued to pitch well, allowing one run, in six innings (three hits, three walks/three whiffs). Byrd has a 2.84 ERA in his last ten starts (38 IP).
Phillies' reliever Chad Durbin made his first rehab appearance, throwing a scoreless inning (one hit, one walk/two strikouts). Joe Bisenius, in his second rehab appearance in A ball, also pitched a scoreless inning (one walk/one whiff).
Steve Susdorf was 0 for 3, dropping his average to a discouraging .377.
Future Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez was also present for the festivities, making his third rehab start for the parent Phillies. Martinez surrendered a solo homer to the third batter he faced, and was touched up for three runs in the sixth inning. However, the sixth inning was marred by fielding inadequacy, and Martinez was brilliant throughout the game. He threw eighty-two pitches, sixty for strikes. He struck out ten of the first seventeen batters he faced. He finished with eleven strikeouts and ZERO walks. It looks like he is ready for a spot in the parent Phillies' rotation. (Namely, Jamie Moyer's spot.)
Scott Mathieson followed with two scoreless innings, and Sergio Escalona pitched a scoreless ninth.
DomOnic Brown overshadowed Martinez, however. But not with his 2 for 4 night, which included a mammoth 426 ft. homer. After the game, Brown announced that the spelling of his first name is "Domonic", rather than "Dominic." Baseball writers everywhere are filling their memory holes with the inconvenient evidence, and a conspiracy of silence is now in progress.
Phillies' GM Ruben Amaro may have missed an opportunity to deal DomInic Brown, while receiving the trade value earned by DomOnic Brown.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) beat the Dunedin Blue Jays on Wednesday, 5-1.
Starter Darren Byrd continued to pitch well, allowing one run, in six innings (three hits, three walks/three whiffs). Byrd has a 2.84 ERA in his last ten starts (38 IP).
Phillies' reliever Chad Durbin made his first rehab appearance, throwing a scoreless inning (one hit, one walk/two strikouts). Joe Bisenius, in his second rehab appearance in A ball, also pitched a scoreless inning (one walk/one whiff).
Steve Susdorf was 0 for 3, dropping his average to a discouraging .377.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Bunts and Balks (8/2)
Pedro Martinez will make his third minor league rehab start, on Wednesday for the Reading Phillies (AA).
Martinez struggled in his second rehab start, last Friday (5 IP, 3 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 K). This will also keep Phillies' starter J.A. Happ in the parent club's rotation, at least for another turn.
Relievers J.C. Romero, Clay Condrey, and Chad Durbin are all progressing in their rehabs. First one available to return gets Kyle Kendrick's roster spot. The second one ready gets Tyler Walker's spot. Third place gets DFA'd. (Or takes Durbin's roster spot, so he can be DFA'd.) In summation, Walker and Durbin are the only ones getting DFA'd here. (At least untli Martinez is ready for promotion...)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) had a 3-2 lead on Sunday, after seven innings. The bullpen failed, and the FeHogs lost to the Rochester Red Wings, 4-3.
Gustavo Chacin pitched well, permitting two runs, over seven innings (eight hits, two walks, two whiffs, one home run allowed). Gary Majewski allowed the Red Wings to tie the score in the eighth. Jack Taschner entered the tied game in the bottom of the ninth. One out, and three hits later, Rochester had a walkoff win. The highlight of the game was an outstanding defensive play: a fan caught a foul ball in his beer cup!
Recently-promoted backup catcher Kevin Nelson made his first AAA start, going 2 for 4, with a pair of doubles.
LHP Joe Savery will make his first AAA start on Monday night. (The parent club has an off day, so all fans should be tuning in to the IronPigs' internet broadcast!)
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost to the Erie Seawolves, 3-1.
Michael Galen Cisco made his first start, since his promotion from Clearwater (A), throwing six innings, but was mortally wounded by a fifth-inning two-run blast by Cale Iorg. (To recap, the grandson of Galen Cisco permitted a homer to Garth Iorg's son.) Cisco allowed three runs, on six hits, and two walks (five strikeouts). Chance Chapman (one whiff) and Scott Mathieson (two whiffs) each followed Cisco with a scoreless frame. Recently-promoted Dominic Brown, 0 for 3 in his AA debut on Saturday, was 2 for 4, with a pair of singles.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) fell to the Fort Myers Miracle, 5-2.
Starter Edgar Garcia surrendered two runs, on four hits and two walks (three whiffs), in four innings. Joe Bisenius followed with a scoreless inning (one hit, one walk/one strikeout). Steve Susdorf (.393) was 2 for 4, as was recently-demoted Gus Milner.
The top four Phillies' teams all lost. Not a good day.
Martinez struggled in his second rehab start, last Friday (5 IP, 3 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 K). This will also keep Phillies' starter J.A. Happ in the parent club's rotation, at least for another turn.
Relievers J.C. Romero, Clay Condrey, and Chad Durbin are all progressing in their rehabs. First one available to return gets Kyle Kendrick's roster spot. The second one ready gets Tyler Walker's spot. Third place gets DFA'd. (Or takes Durbin's roster spot, so he can be DFA'd.) In summation, Walker and Durbin are the only ones getting DFA'd here. (At least untli Martinez is ready for promotion...)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) had a 3-2 lead on Sunday, after seven innings. The bullpen failed, and the FeHogs lost to the Rochester Red Wings, 4-3.
Gustavo Chacin pitched well, permitting two runs, over seven innings (eight hits, two walks, two whiffs, one home run allowed). Gary Majewski allowed the Red Wings to tie the score in the eighth. Jack Taschner entered the tied game in the bottom of the ninth. One out, and three hits later, Rochester had a walkoff win. The highlight of the game was an outstanding defensive play: a fan caught a foul ball in his beer cup!
Recently-promoted backup catcher Kevin Nelson made his first AAA start, going 2 for 4, with a pair of doubles.
LHP Joe Savery will make his first AAA start on Monday night. (The parent club has an off day, so all fans should be tuning in to the IronPigs' internet broadcast!)
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost to the Erie Seawolves, 3-1.
Michael Galen Cisco made his first start, since his promotion from Clearwater (A), throwing six innings, but was mortally wounded by a fifth-inning two-run blast by Cale Iorg. (To recap, the grandson of Galen Cisco permitted a homer to Garth Iorg's son.) Cisco allowed three runs, on six hits, and two walks (five strikeouts). Chance Chapman (one whiff) and Scott Mathieson (two whiffs) each followed Cisco with a scoreless frame. Recently-promoted Dominic Brown, 0 for 3 in his AA debut on Saturday, was 2 for 4, with a pair of singles.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) fell to the Fort Myers Miracle, 5-2.
Starter Edgar Garcia surrendered two runs, on four hits and two walks (three whiffs), in four innings. Joe Bisenius followed with a scoreless inning (one hit, one walk/one strikeout). Steve Susdorf (.393) was 2 for 4, as was recently-demoted Gus Milner.
The top four Phillies' teams all lost. Not a good day.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/31)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) couldn't complete a comeback on Friday night, falling to the Columbus Clippers, 9-6. The FeHogs trailed 5-2, closed to 5-4, trailed 7-4, closed to 7-5, but the bullpen couldn't stop the Clips' offense. LV starter Pedro Martinez pitched like he is interested in competing with Chad Durbin, for a spot in the Phillies' bullpen. Martinez gave up a home run to the first batter he faced, followed with four scoreless innings, and then fell apart in the fifth. Martinez survived five innings, permitting three hits, five runs (four earned), and three walks/four whiffs. Martinez threw eighty-four pitches. The veteran northpaw has, probably, qualified for two additional starts in AAA.
Steven Register allowed two runs, on three hits, in the eighth inning. Pat Overholt surrendered two runs, on two hits and two walks, in the ninth inning.
IronPigs LF Michael Taylor was 2 for 4, with a homer, and three RBIs.
The Reading Phillies (AA) scored an incredible come-from-behind victory, defeating the Erie SeaWolves, 6-4, in ten innings. The R-Phils trailed 4-0, after five innings, but pulled to within 4-3, in the sixth inning. Quintin Berry hit a game-tying home run in the top of the ninth, and Brian Stavisky hit a tenth-inning homer.
Yohan Flande's start for the R-Phils did not go well, as he allowed four runs (three earned), in six and two-thirds innings (six hits, three walks/six whiffs). Chance Chapman relieved Flande in the sixth, stranding the bases loaded. Chapman pitched two and one-third scoreless innings (one walk/three whiffs), for his sixth victory, in seven decisions. Tyson Brummett pitched a scoreless bottom of the tenth, picking up the save, in his return to AA.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) fell to the Fort Myers Miracle, 6-1.
Threshers' starter Jon Velazquez struggled, surrendering three runs, on five hits and four walks (three strikeouts), in five and two-thirds innings. He left two runners on base in the sixth, but they were stranded by reliever Santo Hernandez. Unfortunately, Hernandez and Christopher Kissock would combine to permit three more runs.
The Threshers were held to six hits, going 1 for 11 w/RISP, and leaving nine on base. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 4; his batting average is down to .394.
Steven Register allowed two runs, on three hits, in the eighth inning. Pat Overholt surrendered two runs, on two hits and two walks, in the ninth inning.
IronPigs LF Michael Taylor was 2 for 4, with a homer, and three RBIs.
The Reading Phillies (AA) scored an incredible come-from-behind victory, defeating the Erie SeaWolves, 6-4, in ten innings. The R-Phils trailed 4-0, after five innings, but pulled to within 4-3, in the sixth inning. Quintin Berry hit a game-tying home run in the top of the ninth, and Brian Stavisky hit a tenth-inning homer.
Yohan Flande's start for the R-Phils did not go well, as he allowed four runs (three earned), in six and two-thirds innings (six hits, three walks/six whiffs). Chance Chapman relieved Flande in the sixth, stranding the bases loaded. Chapman pitched two and one-third scoreless innings (one walk/three whiffs), for his sixth victory, in seven decisions. Tyson Brummett pitched a scoreless bottom of the tenth, picking up the save, in his return to AA.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) fell to the Fort Myers Miracle, 6-1.
Threshers' starter Jon Velazquez struggled, surrendering three runs, on five hits and four walks (three strikeouts), in five and two-thirds innings. He left two runners on base in the sixth, but they were stranded by reliever Santo Hernandez. Unfortunately, Hernandez and Christopher Kissock would combine to permit three more runs.
The Threshers were held to six hits, going 1 for 11 w/RISP, and leaving nine on base. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 4; his batting average is down to .394.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/30)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) lost in ten innings on Thursday, 5-4, to the Columbus Clippers. It must have been disconcerting to see two of Wednesday morning's FeHogs, Jason Donald and Lou Marson, in the starting lineup for the Clippers. In a sign of extreme disrespect, Marson and Donald occupied the last two spots in the Columbus batting order.
Drew Carpenter returned to the LV rotation, making his first start since July 19th. He pitched five strong innings, allowing only one run (five hits, two walks/five whiffs). He left with a 3-1 lead, but Francisco Butto, back in AAA (for a limited time only!), followed with one and two-thirds ineffective innings, before departing with LV trailing, 4-3. Jack Taschner got the loss, but should be held blameless, as he retired two of three batters. The one batter he didn't retire reached on an error, and was permitted to score by Gary Majewski.
Pedro Martinez will make a rehab start for LV on Friday night, facing former FeHog Carlos Carrasco. With the parent club playing on the West Coast, this is a good opportunity to tune in to the IronPigs' broadcast.
OF John Mayberry and RHP Steven Register were optioned to Lehigh Valley from the Phillies. Reinforcements! Mayberry should play regularly in the outfield for the IronPigs, with Register adding another arm to the faltering IronPigs bullpen.
RHP Tyson Brummett and RHP Francisco Butto were demoted from Lehigh Valley to Reading (AA). Butto spent one unsuccessful day in AAA. Brummett had been recalled for five days, in an attempt to replenish the pitching staff. Brummett had been demoted to the bullpen in AA, but was recalled to make a start in AAA. He was ineffective, and only ate four innings.
C Kevin Nelson was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. With starting catcher Lou Marson joining the Clippers, the IronPigs needed another backstop. Reading's starting catcher, Tuffy Gosewisch, is on the DL. That left Nelson, and Tim Kennelly (batting .171, in 12 games at AA) as the options. Given that Kennelly appears overmatched at AA, it was an easy decision. Paul Hoover should be expected to make the vast majority of the starts behind the plate for the IronPigs.
RHP Joe Savery was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. The IronPigs rotation has been gutted in recent weeks, but now seems to be almost replenished, with Carpenter/Brian Mazone/Gustavo Chacin/Martinez taking four, of the five, spots. Kyle Kendrick could be returning soon, but it appears the FeHogs wanted another starting option, in the interim.
Joe Savery was very impressive before the All-Star break (12-1, 3.48 ERA), but has struggled in his last five starts (27.2 IP, 41 H, 26 ER, 14 BB/19 K). He may be up in AAA just for a start, or two.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday, 2-0.
Vance Worley was coming off four atrocious starts in a row (18.1 IP, 38 H, 30 ER, 6 BB/12 K), but threw six scoreless innings (3 H, 2 BB/3 K), for his seventh win. Scott Mathieson (2 IP, 0 H, 1 K) and Sergio Escalona (1 IP, 2 K, 11th save) completed the shutout.
LHP Jason Mackintosh was placed on the DL, with a left elbow strain. RHP Scott Mathieson was promoted from Clearwater (A). Mathieson continues to roll through the minors. Could see him in AAA (and MLB?), before the end of Mathieson's season. He could be in the mix for the 2010 Phillies' bullpen.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) shut out the Fort Myers Miracle, 2-0. RHP Darren Byrd pitched eight scoreless innings for the win, allowing only four hits (two walks/six whiffs). Byrd has not allowed a run, in his last three starts (nineteen innings). Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, and his batting average fell to .398.
Drew Carpenter returned to the LV rotation, making his first start since July 19th. He pitched five strong innings, allowing only one run (five hits, two walks/five whiffs). He left with a 3-1 lead, but Francisco Butto, back in AAA (for a limited time only!), followed with one and two-thirds ineffective innings, before departing with LV trailing, 4-3. Jack Taschner got the loss, but should be held blameless, as he retired two of three batters. The one batter he didn't retire reached on an error, and was permitted to score by Gary Majewski.
Pedro Martinez will make a rehab start for LV on Friday night, facing former FeHog Carlos Carrasco. With the parent club playing on the West Coast, this is a good opportunity to tune in to the IronPigs' broadcast.
OF John Mayberry and RHP Steven Register were optioned to Lehigh Valley from the Phillies. Reinforcements! Mayberry should play regularly in the outfield for the IronPigs, with Register adding another arm to the faltering IronPigs bullpen.
RHP Tyson Brummett and RHP Francisco Butto were demoted from Lehigh Valley to Reading (AA). Butto spent one unsuccessful day in AAA. Brummett had been recalled for five days, in an attempt to replenish the pitching staff. Brummett had been demoted to the bullpen in AA, but was recalled to make a start in AAA. He was ineffective, and only ate four innings.
C Kevin Nelson was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. With starting catcher Lou Marson joining the Clippers, the IronPigs needed another backstop. Reading's starting catcher, Tuffy Gosewisch, is on the DL. That left Nelson, and Tim Kennelly (batting .171, in 12 games at AA) as the options. Given that Kennelly appears overmatched at AA, it was an easy decision. Paul Hoover should be expected to make the vast majority of the starts behind the plate for the IronPigs.
RHP Joe Savery was promoted to Lehigh Valley, from Reading. The IronPigs rotation has been gutted in recent weeks, but now seems to be almost replenished, with Carpenter/Brian Mazone/Gustavo Chacin/Martinez taking four, of the five, spots. Kyle Kendrick could be returning soon, but it appears the FeHogs wanted another starting option, in the interim.
Joe Savery was very impressive before the All-Star break (12-1, 3.48 ERA), but has struggled in his last five starts (27.2 IP, 41 H, 26 ER, 14 BB/19 K). He may be up in AAA just for a start, or two.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Portland Sea Dogs on Thursday, 2-0.
Vance Worley was coming off four atrocious starts in a row (18.1 IP, 38 H, 30 ER, 6 BB/12 K), but threw six scoreless innings (3 H, 2 BB/3 K), for his seventh win. Scott Mathieson (2 IP, 0 H, 1 K) and Sergio Escalona (1 IP, 2 K, 11th save) completed the shutout.
LHP Jason Mackintosh was placed on the DL, with a left elbow strain. RHP Scott Mathieson was promoted from Clearwater (A). Mathieson continues to roll through the minors. Could see him in AAA (and MLB?), before the end of Mathieson's season. He could be in the mix for the 2010 Phillies' bullpen.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) shut out the Fort Myers Miracle, 2-0. RHP Darren Byrd pitched eight scoreless innings for the win, allowing only four hits (two walks/six whiffs). Byrd has not allowed a run, in his last three starts (nineteen innings). Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, and his batting average fell to .398.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/26)
Pedro Martinez made his first non-simulated rehab start on Sunday, for the Clearwater Threshers (A). On Wet N' Wacky Sunday, wet weather shortened Martinez' outing to only one and one-third innings. Martinez threw his fastball in the 87-92 MPH range, with his signature changeup in good form. He had one strikeout, and got his other three outs via fly balls. He threw in the bullpen after play was suspended, to continue to get his pitch count up.
Martinez is expected to make his next start for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) on Friday.
RHP Tyson Brummett was promoted from Reading (AA) to Lehigh Valley. Brummett posted a 5.09 ERA in 15 starts. He was bumped to the R-Phils' bullpen, when LHP Yohan Flande was promoted from Clearwater. Brummett, in his last 10 appearances, has pitched 18 innings. He has allowed 15 runs (7.50 ERA), 26 hits, and 9 walks (6 whiffs).
So, why did Brummett get the promotion to the IronPigs? The LV rotation has been gutted by the parent club's recent roster moves. The current rotation consists of Carlos Carrasco, Gustavo Chacin, Brian Mazone, ?, and ??. Andrew Carpenter will take one of those slots, but he pitched for Philadelphia on Thursday and Friday, and is not immediately available to make a start. Reliever Jake Woods was forced into a spot start on Saturday, throwing 50 pitches, in three innings.
The Reading starting rotation currently has no viable promotion options. Vance Worley and Joe Savery have struggled as of late, and may be battling arm fatigue. Yohan Flande and Kyle Drabek both need more time at the AA level. Mike Stutes has pitched brilliantly recently, but, like the other four starters, his development is best-served by remaining at Reading.
Brummett's arm is still sufficiently stretched out to eat some innings, and he isn't really viewed as a prospect, at this point. Brummett will start for the IronPigs on Monday, facing Gwinnett's Tim Hudson, the rehabbing MLBer, who is expected to pitch four innings.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs lost to the Gwinnett Braves on Sunday, 5-1. LV starter Brian Mazone had only allowed one run, through four innings, when the Braves got to him for four more in the fifth inning. Mazone fell to 0-3, with a 5.03 ERA. The FeHogs offense was punchless, with only six hits, all singles.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Bowie Baysox, 2-0. Yohan Flande had his best start for the R-Phils, throwing six and one-third scoreless innings (four hits, one walk/seven whiffs). Reliever Sergio Escalona stranded the two runners he inherited from Flande, and reliever Mike Zagurski followed by stranding the three runners he inherited from Escalona. The R-Phils had only five hits, but doubles by Quintin Berry and Neil Sellers lead to runs.
Kyle Drabek will start for the R-Phils on Monday, against the Portland Sea Dogs, in what could be his last start as a member of the Phillies' organization. As the parent club has a late start time, in Arizona, this is a good opportunity to tune in to the R-Phils' internet broadcast.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) will play a doubleheader against the St. Lucie Mets on Monday, as they complete Sunday's suspended game. Travis Cloyd and Michael Galen Cisco are expected to start for the Threshers.
Martinez is expected to make his next start for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) on Friday.
RHP Tyson Brummett was promoted from Reading (AA) to Lehigh Valley. Brummett posted a 5.09 ERA in 15 starts. He was bumped to the R-Phils' bullpen, when LHP Yohan Flande was promoted from Clearwater. Brummett, in his last 10 appearances, has pitched 18 innings. He has allowed 15 runs (7.50 ERA), 26 hits, and 9 walks (6 whiffs).
So, why did Brummett get the promotion to the IronPigs? The LV rotation has been gutted by the parent club's recent roster moves. The current rotation consists of Carlos Carrasco, Gustavo Chacin, Brian Mazone, ?, and ??. Andrew Carpenter will take one of those slots, but he pitched for Philadelphia on Thursday and Friday, and is not immediately available to make a start. Reliever Jake Woods was forced into a spot start on Saturday, throwing 50 pitches, in three innings.
The Reading starting rotation currently has no viable promotion options. Vance Worley and Joe Savery have struggled as of late, and may be battling arm fatigue. Yohan Flande and Kyle Drabek both need more time at the AA level. Mike Stutes has pitched brilliantly recently, but, like the other four starters, his development is best-served by remaining at Reading.
Brummett's arm is still sufficiently stretched out to eat some innings, and he isn't really viewed as a prospect, at this point. Brummett will start for the IronPigs on Monday, facing Gwinnett's Tim Hudson, the rehabbing MLBer, who is expected to pitch four innings.
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs lost to the Gwinnett Braves on Sunday, 5-1. LV starter Brian Mazone had only allowed one run, through four innings, when the Braves got to him for four more in the fifth inning. Mazone fell to 0-3, with a 5.03 ERA. The FeHogs offense was punchless, with only six hits, all singles.
The Reading Phillies (AA) defeated the Bowie Baysox, 2-0. Yohan Flande had his best start for the R-Phils, throwing six and one-third scoreless innings (four hits, one walk/seven whiffs). Reliever Sergio Escalona stranded the two runners he inherited from Flande, and reliever Mike Zagurski followed by stranding the three runners he inherited from Escalona. The R-Phils had only five hits, but doubles by Quintin Berry and Neil Sellers lead to runs.
Kyle Drabek will start for the R-Phils on Monday, against the Portland Sea Dogs, in what could be his last start as a member of the Phillies' organization. As the parent club has a late start time, in Arizona, this is a good opportunity to tune in to the R-Phils' internet broadcast.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) will play a doubleheader against the St. Lucie Mets on Monday, as they complete Sunday's suspended game. Travis Cloyd and Michael Galen Cisco are expected to start for the Threshers.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Transaction Action (7/25)
The Roy Halladay Watch continues, as the Phillies (reportedly) turned down the Blue Jays' offer of Halladay for Kyle Drabek, J.A. Happ, and Dominic Brown. The Phillies, reportedly, countered by offering a combination of players, including Carlos Carrasco, Jason Donald, and Lou Marson. The Phillies seem to be averse to dealing Drabek and Brown, as they should be.
RHP Clay Condrey was placed on the 15-Day DL, as his left oblique issues have returned. RHP Steven Register was recalled from Lehigh Valley (AAA).
Condrey would likely be available only every third game, if he stayed on the roster, and pitched through the pain. Is it better to have Condrey available every third game, or Register available every other game? Probably the former, but the Phils have to get Condrey in Every-Day Clay condition for the playoff/postseason run.
Register has a 2.88 ERA, in 25 AAA innings. In his last ten appearances for the FeHogs, he has only allowed one run (charged to his own record), in thirteen innings. But he's been supported by a .288 BABIP, and a LOB% of 83.3. His FIP is an unsightly 4.16. Register is a minor league journeyman, and is not a viable long-term option. (Not exactly a viable short-term option, either.
RHP Andrew Carpenter was optioned to Lehigh Valley. RHP Kyle Kendrick was recalled from Lehigh Valley. Carpenter has been a starter all season, and threw a combined thirty-seven pitches, in appearing in consecutive games. He would, likely, have been unavailable to pitch on Saturday and Sunday. The Phillies needed an available arm, with Rodrigo Lopez and Jamie Moyer getting the weekend starts, so Kendrick replaced Carpenter.
The Phillies should try to use this "opportunity" to see if Kendrick (and his change-up) are MLB-ready. He might not be a fit for the Phils' rotation, but he could gain some trade value, if he can start to get some MLB hitters out.
Will Gary Majewski ever be recalled from AAA?
When he starts outpitching mediocre journeymen, like Stephen Register. In his last ten AAA appearances, Majewski has pitched twelve and one-third innings. He has surrendered fifteen hits, seven walks (nine strikeouts), and six earned runs. Not impressive.
Why wasn't Cedrick Bowers recalled from AAA, rather than Register? Bowers would have been my choice, over Register. He hasn't pitched since July 22, so he would have been available on Saturday and Sunday. He has struggled a bit in his last three appearances, allowing five hits, four runs, and three walks (two strikeouts) in three and two-thirds innings. Bowers also has a 1.99 ERA/3.55 FIP, though he has been helped by a low .260 BABIP/82.8 LOB%.
The current combination of Phillies' bullpenners is not very impressive. Chan Ho Park and Ryan Madson might be the only trusted members of the current bullpen crew. Scott Eyre is best-suited for a LOOGY role, and closer Brad Lidge has struggled for much of the season. Tyler Walker, Steven Register, and Kyle Kendrick? Yikes. At least there are plenty of options for low leverage situations, though Manager Charlie Manuel uses Madson in that role a bit too frequently.
On the plus side, it's only late July, and all of the top relievers are expected to return in a few weeks. Injured starter Brett Myers could also return as a reliever, late in the regular season. The Phils need their starters to eat some serious innings, over the next couple of weeks.
Is the MLB Network's "The Pen" to blame for the vast number of injuries to Phillies' relievers this season? Probably not. But it might be prudent to allow the Mets to star in MLBN's 2010 production of "The Infield."
RHP Alex Concepcion was promoted to Lehigh Valley, to fill one of the recently-created bullpen openings. Concepcion had a 3.16 ERA, and a .96 WHIP, in 62.2 AA innings for Reading. He also had a .239 BABIP, and a 4.43 FIP. He's been more lucky, than good.
Chance Chapman has had a 3.29 ERA, and a 3.31 FIP, in 27.1 AA innings. He would also have been a good choice for the promotion to AAA.
RHP Tristan Crawford was promoted to Reading (AA), to replace Concepcion. Crawford joined the Phillies organization on July 22nd, the northpaw's 27th birthday, and only spen two days with Clearwater (A). He is a bit old for the A/AA level. Crawford was sold to the Phillies by the Grand Prairie AirHogs (Independent Leagues). In 2008, he pitched at AA for Washington, posting a 5.40 ERA, in 35 innings. However, he was plagued by a .392 BABIP, and posted a 3.40 FIP. Definitely worth giving a chance in the minors.
Pedro Martinez will start for the Clearwater Threshers (A), in his first rehab start as a member of the Phillies. Martinez faces the St. Lucie Mets, in a 4:05pm start. Tune in!
RHP Clay Condrey was placed on the 15-Day DL, as his left oblique issues have returned. RHP Steven Register was recalled from Lehigh Valley (AAA).
Condrey would likely be available only every third game, if he stayed on the roster, and pitched through the pain. Is it better to have Condrey available every third game, or Register available every other game? Probably the former, but the Phils have to get Condrey in Every-Day Clay condition for the playoff/postseason run.
Register has a 2.88 ERA, in 25 AAA innings. In his last ten appearances for the FeHogs, he has only allowed one run (charged to his own record), in thirteen innings. But he's been supported by a .288 BABIP, and a LOB% of 83.3. His FIP is an unsightly 4.16. Register is a minor league journeyman, and is not a viable long-term option. (Not exactly a viable short-term option, either.
RHP Andrew Carpenter was optioned to Lehigh Valley. RHP Kyle Kendrick was recalled from Lehigh Valley. Carpenter has been a starter all season, and threw a combined thirty-seven pitches, in appearing in consecutive games. He would, likely, have been unavailable to pitch on Saturday and Sunday. The Phillies needed an available arm, with Rodrigo Lopez and Jamie Moyer getting the weekend starts, so Kendrick replaced Carpenter.
The Phillies should try to use this "opportunity" to see if Kendrick (and his change-up) are MLB-ready. He might not be a fit for the Phils' rotation, but he could gain some trade value, if he can start to get some MLB hitters out.
Will Gary Majewski ever be recalled from AAA?
When he starts outpitching mediocre journeymen, like Stephen Register. In his last ten AAA appearances, Majewski has pitched twelve and one-third innings. He has surrendered fifteen hits, seven walks (nine strikeouts), and six earned runs. Not impressive.
Why wasn't Cedrick Bowers recalled from AAA, rather than Register? Bowers would have been my choice, over Register. He hasn't pitched since July 22, so he would have been available on Saturday and Sunday. He has struggled a bit in his last three appearances, allowing five hits, four runs, and three walks (two strikeouts) in three and two-thirds innings. Bowers also has a 1.99 ERA/3.55 FIP, though he has been helped by a low .260 BABIP/82.8 LOB%.
The current combination of Phillies' bullpenners is not very impressive. Chan Ho Park and Ryan Madson might be the only trusted members of the current bullpen crew. Scott Eyre is best-suited for a LOOGY role, and closer Brad Lidge has struggled for much of the season. Tyler Walker, Steven Register, and Kyle Kendrick? Yikes. At least there are plenty of options for low leverage situations, though Manager Charlie Manuel uses Madson in that role a bit too frequently.
On the plus side, it's only late July, and all of the top relievers are expected to return in a few weeks. Injured starter Brett Myers could also return as a reliever, late in the regular season. The Phils need their starters to eat some serious innings, over the next couple of weeks.
Is the MLB Network's "The Pen" to blame for the vast number of injuries to Phillies' relievers this season? Probably not. But it might be prudent to allow the Mets to star in MLBN's 2010 production of "The Infield."
RHP Alex Concepcion was promoted to Lehigh Valley, to fill one of the recently-created bullpen openings. Concepcion had a 3.16 ERA, and a .96 WHIP, in 62.2 AA innings for Reading. He also had a .239 BABIP, and a 4.43 FIP. He's been more lucky, than good.
Chance Chapman has had a 3.29 ERA, and a 3.31 FIP, in 27.1 AA innings. He would also have been a good choice for the promotion to AAA.
RHP Tristan Crawford was promoted to Reading (AA), to replace Concepcion. Crawford joined the Phillies organization on July 22nd, the northpaw's 27th birthday, and only spen two days with Clearwater (A). He is a bit old for the A/AA level. Crawford was sold to the Phillies by the Grand Prairie AirHogs (Independent Leagues). In 2008, he pitched at AA for Washington, posting a 5.40 ERA, in 35 innings. However, he was plagued by a .392 BABIP, and posted a 3.40 FIP. Definitely worth giving a chance in the minors.
Pedro Martinez will start for the Clearwater Threshers (A), in his first rehab start as a member of the Phillies. Martinez faces the St. Lucie Mets, in a 4:05pm start. Tune in!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/16)
Pedro Martinez will begin his minor league rehab on Monday, when he reports to the Clearwater Threshers (A). There isn't a set plan for his rehab journey, but he should be with the Phillies by August, barring setbacks.
Rodrigo Lopez is expected to make his next start, on Monday. Lopez is a few starts away from being replaced by Martinez. If Lopez pitches well, he could stay in the rotation (at Jamie Moyer's expense?), or be moved to the Phils' bullpen (much more likely).
Clay Condrey is ready to return to the Phillies. Condrey will, probably, be activated by the end of the week. The Phillies could option John Mayberry back to AAA, to free up a spot for Condrey, and return to an eight-man bullpen. Or they could designate reliever Tyler Walker for assignment. Given the Phils' wish to rest Raul Ibanez more frequently, and their need for as right-handed bench bat, Walker's DFAing seems more likely. Walker has a 1.64 ERA with the Phils, but his 4.79 FIP is more indicative of his performance.
On 80's Night in Lehigh Valley, the IronPigs (AAA) defeated the Rochester Red Wings, 5-4. Kyle Kendrick pitched eight strong innings, allowing two runs on five hits (zero walks/four whiffs). Kendrick remained undefeated, when wearing a tuxedo jersey, and improved his overall record to 6-5 (3.42 ERA). LF Michael Taylor, in his AAA debut, batted third, and went 0 for 3 (walk, run scored).
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost to the New Britain Rock Cats, 5-2. The Rock Cats, not to be confused with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, had 14 hits. The R-Phils were fortunate that the Felines of Stone had 15 LOB. R-Phils' starter Yohan Flande continued to struggle at the AA level, losing for the second time, in two decisions. Flande surrendered five runs, in five innings (nine hits, zero walks/three strikeouts), and raised his ERA to 7.58. DH Jeremy Slayden went 2 for 4, with a solo homer, improving his average to .368.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were defeated by the Brevard County Manatees, 4-3.
Without Dominic Brown, the Threshers don't match up well with the Sea Cows. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, dropping his average to .410. Threshers' starter Tyler Cloyd, who took Yohan Flande's spot in the Clearwater rotation, fell to 0-3, with a 5.48 ERA. Cloyd permitted three earned runs (one unearned), in six and two-thirds innings (seven hits, three walks/two whiffs).
Rodrigo Lopez is expected to make his next start, on Monday. Lopez is a few starts away from being replaced by Martinez. If Lopez pitches well, he could stay in the rotation (at Jamie Moyer's expense?), or be moved to the Phils' bullpen (much more likely).
Clay Condrey is ready to return to the Phillies. Condrey will, probably, be activated by the end of the week. The Phillies could option John Mayberry back to AAA, to free up a spot for Condrey, and return to an eight-man bullpen. Or they could designate reliever Tyler Walker for assignment. Given the Phils' wish to rest Raul Ibanez more frequently, and their need for as right-handed bench bat, Walker's DFAing seems more likely. Walker has a 1.64 ERA with the Phils, but his 4.79 FIP is more indicative of his performance.
On 80's Night in Lehigh Valley, the IronPigs (AAA) defeated the Rochester Red Wings, 5-4. Kyle Kendrick pitched eight strong innings, allowing two runs on five hits (zero walks/four whiffs). Kendrick remained undefeated, when wearing a tuxedo jersey, and improved his overall record to 6-5 (3.42 ERA). LF Michael Taylor, in his AAA debut, batted third, and went 0 for 3 (walk, run scored).
The Reading Phillies (AA) lost to the New Britain Rock Cats, 5-2. The Rock Cats, not to be confused with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, had 14 hits. The R-Phils were fortunate that the Felines of Stone had 15 LOB. R-Phils' starter Yohan Flande continued to struggle at the AA level, losing for the second time, in two decisions. Flande surrendered five runs, in five innings (nine hits, zero walks/three strikeouts), and raised his ERA to 7.58. DH Jeremy Slayden went 2 for 4, with a solo homer, improving his average to .368.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) were defeated by the Brevard County Manatees, 4-3.
Without Dominic Brown, the Threshers don't match up well with the Sea Cows. Steve Susdorf went 1 for 3, dropping his average to .410. Threshers' starter Tyler Cloyd, who took Yohan Flande's spot in the Clearwater rotation, fell to 0-3, with a 5.48 ERA. Cloyd permitted three earned runs (one unearned), in six and two-thirds innings (seven hits, three walks/two whiffs).
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Pedro Officially (Unofficially) a Phillie, All-Star Action
Multiple sources are reporting that free agent pitcher Pedro Martinez has agreed to terms with the Phillies, on a contract for the remainder of the 2009 season (including the playoffs, World Series, and post-Series parade).
Martinez will, reportedly, earn $1 million, plus a possible $1.5 million in incentives. A press conference will be held Wednesday. Martinez will report to the minors, for an immediate rehab assignment, likely lasting until the end of July (three starts?)
It's not clear where he will start his minor league assignment, at this point.
(Let me take this opportunity to recommend that he start in Reading (AA). I'd give him the ball this Sunday, at home against the Rock Cats, with R-Phils starter Mike Stutes taking over once Martinez hits his pitch limit. The Martinez/Stutes combo would follow Yohan Flande, Kyle Drabek, and Joe Savery, and precede Vance Worley in the rotation. After one or two starts with Reading, he could make one or two starts in Lehigh Valley (AAA), sharing Brian Mazone's spot in the rotation. Mazone, who has spent most of the season as a reliever, could replace Martinez in the fifth/sixth inning. This would, hopefully, minimize disruption to the starting pitchers currently at each level.)
The Phillies missed an opportunity by waiting until Wednesday for the official Martinez announcement. I'm guessing that Bud Selig and the MLB Overlords would have been all for this plan:
*********************************************************************************
(All-Star Game, St. Louis, Bottom of the 1st Inning)
(Cardinals' All-Star Albert Pujols strides to the plate, amidst raucous cheers.)
PA Announcer: May I have your attention, please. Philadelphia Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro has a brief announcement.
(Crowd is startled, but there are few boos. Because: St. Louis.)
(Amaro exits the National League dugout, and walks, purposefully, to the mound. He is wearing a suit, carrying a Phillies cap in his left hand, and a microphone in his right. American League starting pitcher Roy Halladay steps off the rubber, from where Amaro addresses the crowd.)
Amaro: Thank you. The Philadelphia Phillies would like to announce that Pedro Martinez has agreed to terms with the organization. Martinez will join the team for the remainder of the season, and he will share a float with Jimmy Rollins, in the World Championship parade.
(There are scattered cheers from the crowd, with the only boos coming from non-St. Louis fans. Albert Pujols, now in the on-deck circle, applauds.)
Amaro: Just one more quick thing. The Phillies are also pleased to announce the acquisition of starting pitcher Roy Halladay.
(Roy Halladay removes his Blue Jays uniform top, revealing a Phillies uniform underneath. Amaro hands him the Phillies hat. Amaro and Halladay leave the mound, and head to the NL dugout, where Halladay is greeted by some of his new Phillies teammates.)
Amaro (to Jayson Werth): Jayson, we should talk...
Shane Victorino (to Halladay): (shows Halladay his WS ring) We're going to get another one of these. No questions asked.
**********************************************************************************
The AAA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 10pm Eastern time.
The game will be aired, live, on ESPN2. Andrew Carpenter, Mike Cervenak, and Andy Tracy will represent the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Joe Morgan will not represent ESPN2 on this broadcast, which is more than reason enough to tune in.
The AA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 7pm Eastern time.
This is the All-Star Game I want to see. Naturally, it does not appear to be televised. (Hopefully, there will be a broadcast somewhere on the internets.) The Reading Phillies will be represented by Vance Worley, Joe Savery, Neil Sellers, Michael Taylor, and Quintin Berry. (Kyle Drabek has only pitched 46.2 innings at AA (61.2 in A) this season, or else he would probably be on the team.)
The Clearwater Threshers (A) play their next game Wednesday night, against the Brevard County Manatees. The First Place/Juggernaut Sea Cows?! Again?! Who makes this schedule?
Martinez will, reportedly, earn $1 million, plus a possible $1.5 million in incentives. A press conference will be held Wednesday. Martinez will report to the minors, for an immediate rehab assignment, likely lasting until the end of July (three starts?)
It's not clear where he will start his minor league assignment, at this point.
(Let me take this opportunity to recommend that he start in Reading (AA). I'd give him the ball this Sunday, at home against the Rock Cats, with R-Phils starter Mike Stutes taking over once Martinez hits his pitch limit. The Martinez/Stutes combo would follow Yohan Flande, Kyle Drabek, and Joe Savery, and precede Vance Worley in the rotation. After one or two starts with Reading, he could make one or two starts in Lehigh Valley (AAA), sharing Brian Mazone's spot in the rotation. Mazone, who has spent most of the season as a reliever, could replace Martinez in the fifth/sixth inning. This would, hopefully, minimize disruption to the starting pitchers currently at each level.)
The Phillies missed an opportunity by waiting until Wednesday for the official Martinez announcement. I'm guessing that Bud Selig and the MLB Overlords would have been all for this plan:
*********************************************************************************
(All-Star Game, St. Louis, Bottom of the 1st Inning)
(Cardinals' All-Star Albert Pujols strides to the plate, amidst raucous cheers.)
PA Announcer: May I have your attention, please. Philadelphia Phillies General Manager Ruben Amaro has a brief announcement.
(Crowd is startled, but there are few boos. Because: St. Louis.)
(Amaro exits the National League dugout, and walks, purposefully, to the mound. He is wearing a suit, carrying a Phillies cap in his left hand, and a microphone in his right. American League starting pitcher Roy Halladay steps off the rubber, from where Amaro addresses the crowd.)
Amaro: Thank you. The Philadelphia Phillies would like to announce that Pedro Martinez has agreed to terms with the organization. Martinez will join the team for the remainder of the season, and he will share a float with Jimmy Rollins, in the World Championship parade.
(There are scattered cheers from the crowd, with the only boos coming from non-St. Louis fans. Albert Pujols, now in the on-deck circle, applauds.)
Amaro: Just one more quick thing. The Phillies are also pleased to announce the acquisition of starting pitcher Roy Halladay.
(Roy Halladay removes his Blue Jays uniform top, revealing a Phillies uniform underneath. Amaro hands him the Phillies hat. Amaro and Halladay leave the mound, and head to the NL dugout, where Halladay is greeted by some of his new Phillies teammates.)
Amaro (to Jayson Werth): Jayson, we should talk...
Shane Victorino (to Halladay): (shows Halladay his WS ring) We're going to get another one of these. No questions asked.
**********************************************************************************
The AAA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 10pm Eastern time.
The game will be aired, live, on ESPN2. Andrew Carpenter, Mike Cervenak, and Andy Tracy will represent the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Joe Morgan will not represent ESPN2 on this broadcast, which is more than reason enough to tune in.
The AA All-Star Game will take place Wednesday night, at 7pm Eastern time.
This is the All-Star Game I want to see. Naturally, it does not appear to be televised. (Hopefully, there will be a broadcast somewhere on the internets.) The Reading Phillies will be represented by Vance Worley, Joe Savery, Neil Sellers, Michael Taylor, and Quintin Berry. (Kyle Drabek has only pitched 46.2 innings at AA (61.2 in A) this season, or else he would probably be on the team.)
The Clearwater Threshers (A) play their next game Wednesday night, against the Brevard County Manatees. The First Place/Juggernaut Sea Cows?! Again?! Who makes this schedule?
Monday, July 13, 2009
Pedro, Halladay, and All-Star Updates
Pedro Martinez is, reportedly, headed to Philadelphia, for a physical on Tuesday. It looks like this is getting very close.
The keys to this acquisition:
-the only costs associated with this deal are salary costs, no players will be lost as a result
-the salary costs are low enough that the Phillies will still be fiscally-able to make additional salary-increasing personnel moves (reports indicate that Martinez is concerned more about playing for a contender, than salary, and that he will only be paid between $1 and $2 million)
-the expectations for Martinez are: to be a back-of-the-rotation arm, an upgrade over Rodrigo Lopez, and a stopgap to buy additional minor league development time for prospects
-the Phillies need to treat Martinez as a sunk cost: if he doesn't perform on the field and/or has an adverse effect on the clubhouse, Martinez should be invited to hit the bricks, in a timely manner
As long as the Phillies don't keep giving starts to an ineffective Martinez, as they did to Chan Ho Park, this could be a very good move.
Martinez, likely, wouldn't pitch for the Phils before August, as he would need a few minor league starts to build up arm strength.
Roy Halladay estimates that there is a 50% chance that he is traded. Not so sure about the accuracy of that probability, but the Phillies would certainly be among the frontrunners for the ace's services. The Phils have the prospects to trade, the money to pay Halladay (at least for the remainder of his current contract, through 2010), are a playoff contender, and are not in the American League. If Halladay gets dealt this season, it wouldn't be surprising to see him go to Philly.
The possibility of including J.A. Happ in a prospective Halladay deal is a polarizing issue throughout the Phillies' blogosphere.
Happ has been outstanding in 2009, with a 6-0 record, and a 2.90 ERA. The Phillies would not be in 1st place right now, if it wasn't for his efforts. If Happ had started the season in the rotation, as many believed he should have, the Phillies' division lead would likely be larger than four games. Happ is young (26.75), left-handed, and cost-controlled for the immediate future.
Happ has a .242 BABIP, a 85.9% LOB%, and a 4.51 FIP in 2009. These numbers all point very strongly towards possible regression in the (very?) immediate future. He projects as a back-of-the-rotation starter, despite his front-of-the-rotation results in 2009.
Happ seems bound to regress, doesn't quite have the upside of some of the other Phillies' arms (Kyle Drabek, Carlos Carrasco, Jason Knapp), and might be at the height of his trade value right now. If the Phillies can get a Halladay, they should definitely consider trading Happ, especially if his inclusion in a deal allows them to hold on to one of their higher-upside arms.
Charlie Manuel has announced his starting lineup for the All-Star game. It includes 2B Chase Utley batting second, LF Raul Ibanez batting fifth, and CF Shane Victorino in the seventh spot.
Considering that the AL has a northpaw on the mound (Roy Halladay, future Phillie?), it's surprising that Manuel doesn't have left-handed batters Greg Dobbs and Paul Bako in the starting lineup.
I'll be rooting for an NL victory, so that the Phillies have four home games in the World Series (against Detroit). But I won't mind too much if the Phillies' representatives play sparingly, especially the recently-disabled Ibanez, as we don't need any of them sustaining injuries in an exhibition game.
Ryan Howard will be participating in the Home Run Derby.
In one of the infinite parallel universes, the Home Run Derby includes the Phillies' Russell Branyan (the starting DH for the NL) and Matt Stairs (one of the "Wild Card" participants).
But watching Ryan Howard hit bombs is always fun. (Though I'll have that broadcast on mute, in order to listen to the Clearwater Threshers-Daytona Cubs game.)
The keys to this acquisition:
-the only costs associated with this deal are salary costs, no players will be lost as a result
-the salary costs are low enough that the Phillies will still be fiscally-able to make additional salary-increasing personnel moves (reports indicate that Martinez is concerned more about playing for a contender, than salary, and that he will only be paid between $1 and $2 million)
-the expectations for Martinez are: to be a back-of-the-rotation arm, an upgrade over Rodrigo Lopez, and a stopgap to buy additional minor league development time for prospects
-the Phillies need to treat Martinez as a sunk cost: if he doesn't perform on the field and/or has an adverse effect on the clubhouse, Martinez should be invited to hit the bricks, in a timely manner
As long as the Phillies don't keep giving starts to an ineffective Martinez, as they did to Chan Ho Park, this could be a very good move.
Martinez, likely, wouldn't pitch for the Phils before August, as he would need a few minor league starts to build up arm strength.
Roy Halladay estimates that there is a 50% chance that he is traded. Not so sure about the accuracy of that probability, but the Phillies would certainly be among the frontrunners for the ace's services. The Phils have the prospects to trade, the money to pay Halladay (at least for the remainder of his current contract, through 2010), are a playoff contender, and are not in the American League. If Halladay gets dealt this season, it wouldn't be surprising to see him go to Philly.
The possibility of including J.A. Happ in a prospective Halladay deal is a polarizing issue throughout the Phillies' blogosphere.
Happ has been outstanding in 2009, with a 6-0 record, and a 2.90 ERA. The Phillies would not be in 1st place right now, if it wasn't for his efforts. If Happ had started the season in the rotation, as many believed he should have, the Phillies' division lead would likely be larger than four games. Happ is young (26.75), left-handed, and cost-controlled for the immediate future.
Happ has a .242 BABIP, a 85.9% LOB%, and a 4.51 FIP in 2009. These numbers all point very strongly towards possible regression in the (very?) immediate future. He projects as a back-of-the-rotation starter, despite his front-of-the-rotation results in 2009.
Happ seems bound to regress, doesn't quite have the upside of some of the other Phillies' arms (Kyle Drabek, Carlos Carrasco, Jason Knapp), and might be at the height of his trade value right now. If the Phillies can get a Halladay, they should definitely consider trading Happ, especially if his inclusion in a deal allows them to hold on to one of their higher-upside arms.
Charlie Manuel has announced his starting lineup for the All-Star game. It includes 2B Chase Utley batting second, LF Raul Ibanez batting fifth, and CF Shane Victorino in the seventh spot.
Considering that the AL has a northpaw on the mound (Roy Halladay, future Phillie?), it's surprising that Manuel doesn't have left-handed batters Greg Dobbs and Paul Bako in the starting lineup.
I'll be rooting for an NL victory, so that the Phillies have four home games in the World Series (against Detroit). But I won't mind too much if the Phillies' representatives play sparingly, especially the recently-disabled Ibanez, as we don't need any of them sustaining injuries in an exhibition game.
Ryan Howard will be participating in the Home Run Derby.
In one of the infinite parallel universes, the Home Run Derby includes the Phillies' Russell Branyan (the starting DH for the NL) and Matt Stairs (one of the "Wild Card" participants).
But watching Ryan Howard hit bombs is always fun. (Though I'll have that broadcast on mute, in order to listen to the Clearwater Threshers-Daytona Cubs game.)
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Bunts and Balks (7/11)
Pedro Martinez didn't sign with the Phillies today. Just a matter of time...
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) beat the Rochester Red Wings, 7-5, on Saturday. It wasn't just the parent club that scored a come-from-behind victory on Saturday night. The FeHogs trailed 4-0, after five innings, but exploded for six runs in the sixth. J.J. Furmaniak keyed the rally with a grand slam. (The Red Wings really should have LOOGYfied Furmaniak.)
Brian Mazone, the IronPigs' journeyman southpaw, continued to reacquaint himself with mediocre starting pitching, after focusing on woeful relieving during his time in Albuquerque (earlier this season). Mazone got his pitch count up to fifty-six on Saturday, and permitted four earned runs, over four innings (six hits, zero walks/three strikeouts, two HR allowed).
Steven Register finished up with two scoreless innings, recording his third save.
The FeHogs' bats were 6 for 10, with RISP.
The Reading Phillies (AA) trailed the Harrisburg Senators, 5-1, after an inning. They closed to within 5-4, before falling by that score. Tyson Brummett, bumped from the rotation when the Yohan Flande Era began, has been ineffective in relief. Brummett got another chance to start on Saturday, and was ineffective as a starter. He was responsible for the five Senators' runs in the bottom of the first, and only survived two innings (five hits, zero walks/one strikeout). Brian Stavisky was 2 for 4, with a two-run homer. Quintin Berry had three singles.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) capitalized on strong pitching, and three Daytona Cubs' errors, in a 5-3 Threshers win. Michael Galen Cisco pitched superbly, allowing only two runs (one earned), in six innings (six hits, one walk/two strikeouts). Cisco is now 6-1, with a 2.48 ERA (1.96 ERA as a starter). The twenty-two year old northpaw appears to want Tyson Brummett's roster spot. (Beware: Cisco has a 3.36 K/BB ratio, but he has been a little lucky also (.267 BABIP/80.3% LOB.)
The Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA) beat the Rochester Red Wings, 7-5, on Saturday. It wasn't just the parent club that scored a come-from-behind victory on Saturday night. The FeHogs trailed 4-0, after five innings, but exploded for six runs in the sixth. J.J. Furmaniak keyed the rally with a grand slam. (The Red Wings really should have LOOGYfied Furmaniak.)
Brian Mazone, the IronPigs' journeyman southpaw, continued to reacquaint himself with mediocre starting pitching, after focusing on woeful relieving during his time in Albuquerque (earlier this season). Mazone got his pitch count up to fifty-six on Saturday, and permitted four earned runs, over four innings (six hits, zero walks/three strikeouts, two HR allowed).
Steven Register finished up with two scoreless innings, recording his third save.
The FeHogs' bats were 6 for 10, with RISP.
The Reading Phillies (AA) trailed the Harrisburg Senators, 5-1, after an inning. They closed to within 5-4, before falling by that score. Tyson Brummett, bumped from the rotation when the Yohan Flande Era began, has been ineffective in relief. Brummett got another chance to start on Saturday, and was ineffective as a starter. He was responsible for the five Senators' runs in the bottom of the first, and only survived two innings (five hits, zero walks/one strikeout). Brian Stavisky was 2 for 4, with a two-run homer. Quintin Berry had three singles.
The Clearwater Threshers (A) capitalized on strong pitching, and three Daytona Cubs' errors, in a 5-3 Threshers win. Michael Galen Cisco pitched superbly, allowing only two runs (one earned), in six innings (six hits, one walk/two strikeouts). Cisco is now 6-1, with a 2.48 ERA (1.96 ERA as a starter). The twenty-two year old northpaw appears to want Tyson Brummett's roster spot. (Beware: Cisco has a 3.36 K/BB ratio, but he has been a little lucky also (.267 BABIP/80.3% LOB.)
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Shane Headed to St. Louis, Pedro to Philly?
The Phillies just cannot be confined to the usual edition of Bunts and Balks today.
Shane Victorino wins the Final Vote, and will be going to the All-Star Game.
Bran-Torino was a success, and Victorino and Detroit's Brandon Inge will both be in St. Louis. Phillies' fans everywhere really stepped up in the voting, and Victorino was a Hawaiian Highlight Machine this week. Now we just need Jayson Werth to replace an injured Carlos Beltran, and we can have an all-Phillies outfield...
Pedro Martinez is, reportedly, on his way to Philadelphia for a physical, the final step before a contract agreement is announced. Martinez would, likely, be paid a pro-rated $4-5 million ($2-$2.5 million for the second half). Martinez was throwing low 90's heat, and had good command of all his pitches, in a simulated game earlier this week. The signing will cost the Phillies some salary, but no prospects, and is a reasonable gamble for a back-of-the-rotation starter. At worst, Martinez will buy some development time for Andrew Carpenter and Carlos Carrasco. At best, he could be the #2 starter the Phillies need.
Martinez would, probably, make two or three starts for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA), before his return to MLB.
The Phillies appear to be one of the frontrunners in the race to acquire Roy Halladay. Signing Pedro Martinez might give the Phils the flexibility to trade J.A. Happ, as part of the Halladay package. Happ is young, MLB-ready, and cost-controlled, which would be a good fit for the Jays. Happ, and some high profile prospects (Carrasco and Marson?), plus the salary relief a Halladay trade would provide the Jays, may be enough to get this deal done. A Halladay-Hamels-Blanton-Martinez-Moyer rotation could enable the Phils to run away from the rest of the division. Halladay is signed through the 2010 season, and has a no-trade clause which he would, hopefully, waive to join the WFCs.
Rodrigo Lopez has "right shoulder inflammation", but isn't expecting to miss a start. When the Phillies moved J.A. Happ up a day in the rotation two weeks ago, they ensured that Lopez' spot in the rotation would come up only twice before the All-Star break. Lopez' next turn won't come until July 20th. If Martinez is signed, Lopez might not have two many more starts after that one, at least for the Phillies...
Raul Ibanez is rehabbing for Lehigh Valley on Thursday, and could be activated this weekend. With the Pittsburgh Pirates scheduled to start northpaws on Saturday and Sunday, it seems activating Ibanez in time for Saturday's game could be the plan. Who's spot would he take? Expect to see John Mayberry optioned back to Lehigh Valley, to play every day. (But the removal of a catcher from the roster is an unlikely possibility.) Of course, an injury could cloud this decision before Saturday.
Shane Victorino wins the Final Vote, and will be going to the All-Star Game.
Bran-Torino was a success, and Victorino and Detroit's Brandon Inge will both be in St. Louis. Phillies' fans everywhere really stepped up in the voting, and Victorino was a Hawaiian Highlight Machine this week. Now we just need Jayson Werth to replace an injured Carlos Beltran, and we can have an all-Phillies outfield...
Pedro Martinez is, reportedly, on his way to Philadelphia for a physical, the final step before a contract agreement is announced. Martinez would, likely, be paid a pro-rated $4-5 million ($2-$2.5 million for the second half). Martinez was throwing low 90's heat, and had good command of all his pitches, in a simulated game earlier this week. The signing will cost the Phillies some salary, but no prospects, and is a reasonable gamble for a back-of-the-rotation starter. At worst, Martinez will buy some development time for Andrew Carpenter and Carlos Carrasco. At best, he could be the #2 starter the Phillies need.
Martinez would, probably, make two or three starts for the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (AAA), before his return to MLB.
The Phillies appear to be one of the frontrunners in the race to acquire Roy Halladay. Signing Pedro Martinez might give the Phils the flexibility to trade J.A. Happ, as part of the Halladay package. Happ is young, MLB-ready, and cost-controlled, which would be a good fit for the Jays. Happ, and some high profile prospects (Carrasco and Marson?), plus the salary relief a Halladay trade would provide the Jays, may be enough to get this deal done. A Halladay-Hamels-Blanton-Martinez-Moyer rotation could enable the Phils to run away from the rest of the division. Halladay is signed through the 2010 season, and has a no-trade clause which he would, hopefully, waive to join the WFCs.
Rodrigo Lopez has "right shoulder inflammation", but isn't expecting to miss a start. When the Phillies moved J.A. Happ up a day in the rotation two weeks ago, they ensured that Lopez' spot in the rotation would come up only twice before the All-Star break. Lopez' next turn won't come until July 20th. If Martinez is signed, Lopez might not have two many more starts after that one, at least for the Phillies...
Raul Ibanez is rehabbing for Lehigh Valley on Thursday, and could be activated this weekend. With the Pittsburgh Pirates scheduled to start northpaws on Saturday and Sunday, it seems activating Ibanez in time for Saturday's game could be the plan. Who's spot would he take? Expect to see John Mayberry optioned back to Lehigh Valley, to play every day. (But the removal of a catcher from the roster is an unlikely possibility.) Of course, an injury could cloud this decision before Saturday.
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