Beerleaguer

• Game chat: Phils back at it in Colorado; Ruiz to DL

  Brett Myers makes his second start of the young season tonight when the Phillies and Rockies play the second of three at Coors Field. Meanwhile, the disabled list claims its first victim of the season. Catcher Carlos Ruiz was not cleared to play after suffering an oblique strain in yesterday's' [...]
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  Posted: April 11, 2009, 7:44pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies are 1-3. What are you jimmies starin' at?

  If the Phillies appear to be gliding, do yourself a favor: look the other way. Opening day Sunday. Rings on Wednesday. White House this Tuesday. New status. New security. Parades, press tours, all enhanced by a town that went without a winner for 25 years. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity not [...]
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  Posted: April 11, 2009, 5:44pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Injury: Ruiz considered day-to-day with oblique strain

  According to a report on Phillies.com, catcher Lou Marson was scratched from tonight's Triple-A game, suggesting Carlos Ruiz's injury may be significant enough to warrant time on the disabled list. According to the report, Chooch suffered the injury catching a foul in the third inning. [...]
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  Posted: April 10, 2009, 8:52pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Postgame: Hamels, Phillies rocked in Colorado 10-3

  The pitching woes continued this afternoon at Coors Field, where Cole Hamels was hammered for seven runs on 11 hits in another miserable debut by a Phillies starter. Beerleaguer: If you're looking for a reason why Hamels was torched today, your best answer depends on which color analyst you trust' [...]
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  Posted: April 10, 2009, 7:15pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Hamels makes delayed debut today

  Phillies ace Cole Hamels makes his first start of the season when the 1-2 Phils start a weekend set in Colorado. First pitch is 4:10 EST. Preview: What does a guy need to do to earn some respect? In the words of the city’s most outspoken morning radio host, earning [...]
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  Posted: April 10, 2009, 3:22pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Friday: Rough start for minor league relievers

  In Reading, Sergio Escalona's blown save in the ninth opened the door for Harrisburg to steal it 6-5 in the 10th. In Allentown, the IronPigs set a franchise record with 10 walks in an 11-3 loss, including seven by the 'pen. Perfect timing for a minor league bullpen preview, courtesy' [...]
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  Posted: April 10, 2009, 8:35am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies sign RHP Walker to minor league deal

  Tyler Walker, 32, spent most of the last five seasons with the Giants and was dropped by the Mariners at the end of spring training. He pitched in 65 games last season, all in relief, and went 5-8 with a 4.56 ERA. In six seasons, the right-hander is 20-17 with [...]
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  Posted: April 09, 2009, 4:15pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Notes: Phils overcome miniscule odds in comeback

  The graph below, compiled courtesy of Fangraphs.com, says everything you need to know about the improbable nature and drastic swing of the seventh inning. While the Phillies take to the road, let’s extend the discussion of yesterday’s miraculous win with stuff that might have fallen through the cracks. Despite playing [...]
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  Posted: April 09, 2009, 11:02am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phils use eight-run inning to steal win from Braves

  The Phillies brought 13 men to the plate in the seventh and benefited from a complete bullpen implosion, using four hits and five walks to rally from a 10-3 deficit and avoid the sweep with a 12-11 win at Citizens Bank Park. The Braves' bullpen unraveled for six walks and' [...]
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  Posted: April 08, 2009, 6:41pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Phillies receive rings, seek first win

  [Jump to the newest comments] [...]
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  Posted: April 08, 2009, 1:45pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Records count, but temper April expectations

  Sloppy play, tight scores and sluggish bats are the symptoms, and they aren’t unique to Philadelphia. In a way, April shares similarities to September as they both test the mettle of a club, but the comparison ends there. Physically, most players aren’t in sync and the adjustment to the climate [...]
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  Posted: April 08, 2009, 11:22am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Beerleaguer for breakfast: Readers sour over shutout

  When readers lead off the header, it's a good indication that I missed the game, or in this case, didn't bother to watch the recording. Here are some extracted comments following last night's goose egg. "One of these years, I'd really like to see the Phillies acknowledge the obvious: that," [...]
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  Posted: April 08, 2009, 7:30am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Phillies go in search of first win

  [Jump to the newest comments] [...]
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  Posted: April 07, 2009, 6:04pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Pregame: Left-left-left is gone-gone-gone

  That news is courtesy of Todd Zolecki’s death-of-the-printed-word Twitter page, which makes me slightly more nauseous with every visit. Cholly’s lineup reads like this: Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Jayson Werth, Raul Ibanez, Pedro Feliz, Carlos Ruiz, Jamie Moyer. [...]
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  Posted: April 07, 2009, 4:16pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Outsider Ibanez faces challenge to win acceptance

  Philadelphia craves a villain. Who better than the new guy when the other choices delivered a parade? This topic spins off a piece on Pat Burrell and tomorrow’s ring ceremony, which you can read exclusively in tomorrow’s Metro. Raul Ibanez comes from Seattle with high marks for character, leadership and [...]
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  Posted: April 07, 2009, 12:37pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Beer nuts: Lowe could be missing ingredient

  There isn’t much left, but there’s always room for more. 1. The addition of tough, durable righthander Derek Lowe gives the Braves the imposing mound presence they were missing last season, when the team basically became a bunch of pushovers by the end and contributed heavily to the easing of [...]
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  Posted: April 06, 2009, 4:49pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Monday: Positive spin from last night's loss

  Two days after the World Series, I wrote how it was my hope to use the experience as a springboard to become a better, more well-rounded fan. Part of that would mean taking losses like these in stride and extracting positives that merited consideration. Here's one: the Phillies didn't allow' [...]
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  Posted: April 06, 2009, 10:48am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Postgame: Lowe dominates Phillies in 4-1 loss

  The Atlanta Braves showcased new horse Derek Lowe in grand fashion. The tough righty held the Phillies to two hits over eight shutout frames. Meanwhile, Brett Myers was torched by the long ball. The Phillies couldn't make solid contact all night, as Lowe, the Braves' $60 million upgrade, pounded the [...]
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  Posted: April 05, 2009, 11:07pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• [Jump to the newest ...

  [Jump to the newest comments] [...]
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  Posted: April 05, 2009, 7:04pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Minor transaction: Philies sign LHP Gustavo Chacin

  One last post before we get this party started. The Phils acquired 28-year-old Gustavo Chacin, who had some pretty decent seasons with the Blue Jays before blowing out his shoulder. The Venezuelan southpaw spent spring training with the Washington Nationals and was released March 31. In four seasons with Toronto [...]
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  Posted: April 05, 2009, 6:45pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Countdown: Imposing offense will keep window open

  The defending champions fall back to the pack tonight when they open the 2009 regular season against the Atlanta Braves. A well-oiled offense puts them in position rise to the top once again. Those who read yesterday's post understand my wild optimism for the reigning champs. Fueled by an offense [...]
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  Posted: April 05, 2009, 9:01am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Minors update: Garcia being delayed by visa issues

  According to Mike Drago of the Reading Eagle, right-hander Edgar Garcia will join the Reading staff once his situation is resolved in the Dominican Republic, but may not be in the picture until May. Garcia, 20, is considered one the top right-handers in the system. Click here for Drago's complete [...]
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  Posted: April 05, 2009, 7:21am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Minors: Worley, Stutes to start season in Double-A

  The Reading roster has been finalized and the biggest surprise finds a pair of 2008 draftees, right-handers Vance Worley and Mike Stutes, making the jump to Baseballtown. Worley, a Long Beach State product selected in the third round of the 2008 draft, posted a 2.66 ERA with a 53/7 K/BB [...]
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  Posted: April 04, 2009, 7:38pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Report: Phils finalize roster by adding Cairo to bench

  Miguel Cairo, 34, will provide right-handed versatility off the bench. Beerleaguer: Think about some of the players the Phils pursued this offseason - Ty Wigginton, Nomar Garciaparra, Will Ohman, and rumored interest in Mark DeRosa, Jeff Baker and others - and one has to feel disappointed by how they finished [...]
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  Posted: April 04, 2009, 5:39pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

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  Posted: April 04, 2009, 3:28pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Saturday thread: Phils, Rays in final dress rehearsal

  Cole Hamels and the Phillies try to make it look good today in the Don't Injure Yourself Classic, starting at 1:05 from Citizens Bank Park. Details are limited since the Phillies didn't bother releasing press notes. Must be focused on the real deal, just like Beerleaguer. [...]
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  Posted: April 04, 2009, 1:21pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies round out bullpen with Happ and Taschner

  Lefthanders J.A. Happ and Jack Taschner bring the roster to 24, with one remaining spot still undecided for the bench. The news was reported by the Phillies press corps. [Latest roster] The announcement also means righthander Gary Majewski, who was signed to a minor league contract, will head to Triple-A [...]
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  Posted: April 03, 2009, 6:30pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Forecast calls for dreary, lame On Deck Series

  Just when you thought 32 Grapefruit League and dozens of split squad, minor league and WBC games weren’t enough, baseball serves up one, final pile of exhibition goodness. Baseball continues their bid to corner the shameless fluff market with an event that makes the NFL preseason feel like the Miracle [...]
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  Posted: April 03, 2009, 3:52pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• 'Team to beat' more than banter for reigning champs

  The hometown nine arrives in Philadelphia with a bullseye on their back. Elsewhere, a division rival has sharpened their swords. As the Phillies break camp, the time to swagger and strut and parade in fine feathers ends and a brutal, very real title defense begins. According to Sports Illustrated, the [...]
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  Posted: April 03, 2009, 8:04am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Midday: Lots to follow as clubs finalize rosters

  Bodies are shaking loose all over the place, but one player who doesn’t appear to be changing sides is Andruw Jones, who has secured the fifth outfielder job in Texas. Meanwhile, Gary Sheffield will meet with Dusty Baker and the Reds today. There isn’t a great fit for Sheffield in [...]
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  Posted: April 02, 2009, 2:40pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies intent on placing best product on the field

  In his brief time at the top, Ruben Amaro Jr. has sent a message: No contract is too big, and no pact cannot be broken, when you're the reigning champ. So much for laying low. In his first off-season since taking over for Pat Gillick as the Phillies GM, Amaro' [...]
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  Posted: April 02, 2009, 7:48am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Phillies give Drabek a chance today

  Righthander Kyle Drabek gets his first opportunity with the big club this afternoon when the Phillies travel to Tampa to take on the Yankees. First pitch is 1:05. The 21-year-old, who went 1-3 with a 2.23 ERA in eight starts in 2008 and has been working out at minor league [...]
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  Posted: April 01, 2009, 12:28pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Wednesday: Pursuit of Gary Sheffield in poor form

  In addition to the mounting evidence that he can no longer play, the Phillies would jeopardize the chemistry and goodwill they built during last season's title run. There are bad fits. This would be a destructive one. Even though the possibility has already been labeled as a longshot, Sheffield represents [...]
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  Posted: April 01, 2009, 8:06am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Report: Chan Ho Park wins battle for fifth starter

  According to David Murphy’s Twitter page, Park, who posted a 2.45 ERA and 25/2 K/BB ratio this spring, will round out the rotation, beating out lefthander J.A. Happ. Park, 35, who worked on refining his change-up this spring, owns a 4.30 ERA in 378 games, including 280 starts. No word [...]
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  Posted: March 31, 2009, 3:38pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Breaking news: Phils release outfielder Geoff Jenkins

  According to Phillies.com’s Todd Zolecki, the club will part ways with the 34-year old outfielder, and be on the hook for the $8 million he’s owed this season, including a $1.5 million buyout. Beerleaguer: The man who hit a $13 million double. Jenkins, by all accounts a high-character teammate during [...]
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  Posted: March 31, 2009, 2:30pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Tuesday: Community call for '09 season predictions

  So let's have it: Where do you see the Phillies finishing the season? Provide your regular-season record, NL East standing and playoff status. Later this week, Beerleaguer will tally the community results, plus, issue his official prediction. Last season, readers settled on 88 wins and were pessimistic about a postseason [...]
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  Posted: March 31, 2009, 7:17am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• In race for starting rotation, Park has done all he can

  If the Phils are holding an honest audition for fifth starter, as the team has stated publicly, than the job belongs to Chan Ho Park, who pitched another beauty today and has posted better numbers than J.A. Happ. Promised an opportunity to win a spot in the rotation dating back [...]
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  Posted: March 30, 2009, 7:58pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Giles sent packing as Phils make significant cuts

  Marcus Giles’ comeback attempt reaches the end of the line, along with John Mayberry and Carlos Carrasco’s bid to make the Opening Day roster. Both were optioned down. Giles was outright released. In addition, righthander Mike Koplove, outfielder Jason Ellison and utilityman Pablo Ozuna have been told they will not [...]
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  Posted: March 30, 2009, 11:48am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Defense: Feliz touted, Ibanez slammed, in magazine

  With Opening Day approaching, I'm reminded that nothing kills a good buzz like a hackneyed, dumbed-down, 10-part Phillies preview. If it's all the same, I'd like to continue with regular, unplanned posting this week and let Pop Pop get his general, 5,000-word fix from newsstands (the Reading Eagle and the' [...]
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  Posted: March 30, 2009, 8:16am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Transactions: Phils slash 27 from minor league camp

  The indie league labor pool just became a little deeper with the release of many players who've reached the end of the line with affiliated ball. (From today's press notes) The following minor league players have been released: RHP’s Jorge Crespo, Ben Pfinsgraff, Dustin Cameron, Yorman Bazardo, Reymond Cruz, Berman' [...]
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  Posted: March 29, 2009, 3:55pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Bruntlett's quirky spring; tracking a bullpen subplot

  Sunday stat summary: There's an Eric Bruntlett story every spring. The versatile utilityman is hitting .339 after 64 at bats. Here's a quick look at some other numbers worth tracking, particularly in the 'pen. Jayson Werth and Ryan Howard are slugging over .700. Raul Ibanez has not homered in 65' [...]
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  Posted: March 29, 2009, 9:27am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies betting on bullpen value in Jack Taschner

  The 30-year-old lefty becomes the latest Philadelphia reclamation project. Critics would argue that there isn't much to reclaim. Summary: Taschner, the subject of trade rumors dating back to last season, had actually suggested to the Giants that a change of scenery would benefit all parties, according to several West Coast' [...]
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  Posted: March 28, 2009, 3:39pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Breaking news: Phils trade Paulino for LHP Taschner

  From a Phillies news release: Giants left-hander Jack Taschner was acquired by the Phillies for catcher Ronny Paulino. Taschner, 30, went 3-2 with a 4.88 ERA in 67 games for the Giants last season. Paulino, 27, was hitting .194 with one home run in 13 Grapefruit League games and reportedly [...]
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  Posted: March 27, 2009, 10:48pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Stark: Sense of purpose fueled Phillies' title drive

  ESPN senior baseball writer Jayson Stark, author of the new book "Worth the Wait: Tales of the 2008 Phillies," drops in to answer the first in a series of softball questions. Beerleaguer: Why did the Phillies win the World Series? Briefly explain the philosophy, performances and decisions that formed the [...]
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  Posted: March 27, 2009, 2:57pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Beerleaguer for breakfast: Spring in hard slog mode

  The WBC is over. Players have been at it for weeks. Have mercy. It's getting harder to keep up this Spring Training charade, even harder when you're forced to work with second-hand sources and rehash last year's data. It's even difficult to find a reason to look at the box' [...]
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  Posted: March 27, 2009, 8:37am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Phillies host Yankees in Clearwater

  They say it’s a two-horse race for the starting rotation between J.A. Happ and Chan Ho Park, yet here’s young hopeful Carlos Carrasco getting another chance this afternoon when the Phils battle the Yankees. First pitch is 1:05. Brad Lidge, Scott Eyre and Clay Condrey are also scheduled, according to [...]
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  Posted: March 26, 2009, 1:07pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Thursday: Revisiting the lineup protection debate

  Remember when keeping pitchers honest against Ryan Howard was one of the primary concerns of summer? Either fans have short memories, or they’ve written off the issue as a bunch of malarkey. It’s the Beerleaguer way to sweat the small stuff and ignore the big picture, and offensively, it doesn't' [...]
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  Posted: March 26, 2009, 10:16am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Minors: Mixed farm squads combine for 49 runs

  The exhibition schedule started last week for four squads representing the highest levels of the minor leagues. As usual, the R-Phils Web site sheds some light on the daily action. [Link] Yesterday in Florida, Lehigh Valley blasted Pittsburgh’s Triple-A team 16-8, Reading pummeled the Double-A Pirates 18-6, Clearwater stifled Pittsburgh’s [...]
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  Posted: March 25, 2009, 12:25pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Wednesday: Lidge conspicuous by his absences

  Phillies closer Brad Lidge experienced some discomfort in his forearm early in camp and has pitched in only four Grapefruit League games. Phillies.com scribe Todd Zolecki told Howard Eskin yesterday that he hasn't heard or seen anything unusual regarding the Phillies' stopper, who was a perfect 48-for-48 in regular-and-postseason save [...]
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  Posted: March 25, 2009, 8:00am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Inferior clubs, bitter press, put Schil's bid in jeopardy

  It's 7 p.m. in Philadelphia, which means it's time for Jeopardy. The category is "Curt Schilling." The answer is: "Ricky Otero, Steve Frey, Desi Relaford, Jeff Brantley, Alex Arias." The correct response: "Who are a sampling of scrubs that cost Curt Schilling wins when he was a member of the" [...]
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  Posted: March 24, 2009, 8:23pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Park makes another pitch for rotation

  In his bid for fifth starter, Chan Ho Park has the ball when the Phillies face the Blue Jays this afternoon at 1:05. Last night, Park, who has a 1.54 ERA in 11 2-3 Grapefruit League innings, watched his fellow South Korean countrymen fall to Japan 5-3 in the World [...]
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  Posted: March 24, 2009, 1:00pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Abridged Metsblog: Opening Day roster taking shape

  Like the French and Jerry Lewis, or the Germans and David Hasselhoff, we at Beerleaguer can't get enough Metsblog. Here's the latest abbreviated offering. Projected starting lineup: Jose Reyes, Daniel Murphy, David Wright, Carlos Beltran, Carlos Delgado, Ryan Church, Brian Schneider, Luis Castillo. Rotation: Johan Santana, Mike Pelfrey, Oliver Perez,' [...]
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  Posted: March 24, 2009, 11:00am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Report: Phillies inquiring about Colorado utility man

  Jeff Baker, who is out of options, hit .268/.322/.468 with 12 home runs in a utility role with the Rockies last season. Ken Rosenthal, who reported the story for FoxSports, lists Kyle Kendrick as a possibility for Baker, who is also drawing interest from the Astros and Pirates in addition [...]
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  Posted: March 24, 2009, 5:55am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Jason Donald among latest to be voted off the island

  After a long look, the impressive prospect, who has drawn comparisons to Craig Biggio from manager Charlie Manuel, was sent to minor league camp today, along with relievers Jake Woods and Dave Borkowski. Beerleaguer: So with Jason Donald gone, along with several others today, the field of bench contenders narrows [...]
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  Posted: March 23, 2009, 10:40pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Report: Phils pull plug on Kendrick in rotation race

  According to Scott Lauber of the News-Journal, the Phillies have optioned righthander Kyle Kendrick to minor league camp, ending his bid to break camp as the fifth starter in the rotation. The demotion is good news for lefthander J.A. Happ, who has the ball when the Phillies host the Yankees [...]
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  Posted: March 23, 2009, 12:38pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Report: Phillies dangling Marson, Red Sox nibbling

  According to a report in the Boston Globe, the Phillies have been talking to Boston about prospect Lou Marson, but the Phils want Clay Buchholz or Daniel Bard and the Sox are reluctant to part with them. Bard, 23, went 4-1 with a 64/26 K/BB ratio over 49 1-3 relief [...]
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  Posted: March 23, 2009, 10:58am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Monday: Better bench coach mark of a better Manuel?

  There's no question Charlie Manuel improved his tactical game over the course of his Philadelphia tenure, but did he benefit most from time on the job or the presence of bench coach Jimy Williams? Following a disappointing end to the 2006 season, that resulted in Charlie Manuel sitting on the [...]
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  Posted: March 23, 2009, 7:55am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Que Sera, Sera: Phillies fans singing a different tune

  From winning the World Series, to a run of successful acquisitions, several factors have created the perfect storm of trust in the Phillies. In comic books, there's the golden age, represented by the birth of such icons as Superman, Batman and the genesis of the DC universe. Then there was [...]
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  Posted: March 22, 2009, 10:44am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Kendrick solid, Bruntlett homers, but Phillies fall 2-1

  Twins pitching has been dominant this spring and today was no exception. Behind a solid outing by Kyle Kendrick, who settled in after the first inning, the Phillies couldn't mount an attack against knuckleballer R.A. Dickey. CLEARWATER, Fla. - Bright House Field smelled like a big bottle of suntan lotion.' [...]
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  Posted: March 21, 2009, 8:31pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Phillies take on Twins in televised game

  Kyle Kendrick replaces Chan Ho Park, who was scratched with a minor hamstring issue, when the Phillies host the Minnesota Twins at 1:05 in Clearwater. Comcast SportsNet will carry the ballgame, which is sure to lose out to the Nova-UCLA game for the attention of Philadelphia sports fans. Tip off [...]
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  Posted: March 21, 2009, 11:56am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Saturday: Phils may be leaning toward veteran Cairo

  Manager Charlie Manuel is dropping hints that the 13-year veteran would be an ideal fit for the final spot on the bench. But is there room? Beerleaguer: Scott Lauber of the News-Journal provides all the details on Cairo in print and on his blog and reminds readers that Cairo's contract [...]
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  Posted: March 21, 2009, 10:00am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Friday: Spring roster battles still too close to call

  Today is Clout Day on Beerleaguer, marking the official date it's acceptable to assess spring training performance and draw responsible conclusions. The Phillies will need an extension. Once again, the calendar flips to March 20 for our annual celebration of Clout Day, a day that might cause many of you [...]
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  Posted: March 20, 2009, 11:43am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Radio note: Beerleaguer on Howard Eskin Friday

  Tune in Friday afternoon at 3:40 p.m. when Beerleaguer sits in the 610-WIP hot seat with the King of Bling, discussing the Phils and the 2009 Maple Street Press Annual. As a long-time listener, first-time caller, I look forward to keeping it real. You won't want to miss it. Log' [...]
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  Posted: March 19, 2009, 9:44pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Blanton tosses six scoreless in effortless 6-1 win

  Beerleaguer's first-ever female correspondent, Phargo, takes her turn with today's game and waistline report. JUPITER, Fla. - Tomorrow may be Clout Day, but today was Jason Donald Day. He started strong in the first inning with a single to shallow left and a good play on a line drive for [...]
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  Posted: March 19, 2009, 5:42pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Phils take a peek at Marlins in Jupiter

  Joe Blanton makes his fifth Grapefruit League appearance of spring when the Phillies play the first of two road games this afternoon. Clay Condrey, Bobby Mosebach and Brad Lidge are also scheduled. Astros need a third baseman: By way of an additional discussion point, it’s been a quiet spring in [...]
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  Posted: March 19, 2009, 1:13pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Lack of surprises could keep Phillies status quo

  There's only so much tinkering to be done when the last, true measure of a team's greatness is winning the World Series. There's been some pretty wild speculation based on a few short weeks of spring training baseball. The flight of fancy starts with physical specimens like John Mayberry Jr. [...]
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  Posted: March 19, 2009, 6:13am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies, Jays call it a draw despite Werth's big day

  CLEARWATER, Fla. - Jayson Werth's three-run, seventh-inning homer highlighted a busy day for the suddenly hot outfielder. Werth's day included a double and reaching base on a well-struck ball that was scored a two-base error. Werth's right-handed power has been on display since getting back on the field following some [...]
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  Posted: March 18, 2009, 8:09pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Wednesday thread: Discussing Myers; Phils host Jays

  Baseball Prospectus describes Brett Myers’ career as “sporadic bouts of brilliance coupled with bizarre struggles.” For Phillies fans, there’s nothing bizarre about it. When he’s bad, it's all in his head. Although medical exams revealed no structural damage to his pitching elbow, it’s looking less likely that Cole Hamels will [...]
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  Posted: March 18, 2009, 10:34am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Myers on mound; batting stats discussed

  The Phillies return to Clearwater today when Brett Myers, Clay Condrey, Chad Durbin and Brad Lidge are scheduled against the Cincinnati Reds. If that isn't enough to wet your whistle, for your viewing pleasure, here are some early stats from guys getting the most at bats:' [...]
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  Posted: March 17, 2009, 11:00pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Myers masters Reds; Phils prevail 8-1 in Clearwater

  CLEARWATER, Fla - Impressive pitching from Brett Myers and timely hitting from much of the lineup helped the Phillies beat the Reds 8-1 and shake off the horse bleep from yesterday's dismal loss. Myers worked quickly through the Reds lineup, striking out seven in a scoreless 5 2-3 innings. The [...]
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  Posted: March 17, 2009, 7:56pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Beerleaguer for breakfast: Time to take inventory?

  Must ... resist ... urge ... to ... post ... standings ... must ... avert ... gaze ... The forces are just too powerful this morning after learning that Charlie Manuel ripped into his club hard following yesterday's 12-0 drubbing. And so we've reached that point in spring training when' [...]
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  Posted: March 17, 2009, 10:30am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Bad case of the Mondays culminates in shutout loss

  Cole is headed home. Kyle could be headed elsewhere. Phillies fans haven't sweated this much since Bud Selig called Game 5. Nineteen days until opening day. Two months until teams establish much of anything. Today, the Phillies told their ace to take all the time he needs. It isn't necessarily [...]
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  Posted: March 16, 2009, 11:06pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Injury would open things up in rotation race

  With Chan Ho Park impressing in yesterday's start against St. Louis, and J.A. Happ continuing to throw well, the Phillies' pitching depth could be tested immediately if Cole Hamels goes on the shelf. Hamels met with reporters this morning and the lefthander categorized his elbow situation as "discomfort," downplaying concerns' [...]
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  Posted: March 16, 2009, 1:00pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Report: Hamels to leave Florida for elbow exam

  Here's an unpleasant piece of news to start your Monday morning. Cole Hamels has been experiencing "persistent soreness" in his elbow, according to GM Ruben Amaro Jr., and will be checked by team physician Michael Ciccotti in Philadelphia. Amaro told Scott Lauber of the News-Journal that missing his opening day [...]
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  Posted: March 16, 2009, 9:26am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Peanut gallery projection: Condrey and Coste

  Clay Condrey and Chris Coste are learning that when you're the last man on a championship roster, everyone is gunning for you. I've consulted a leading publication for help in predicting the seasons of Condrey and Coste. According to Field & Stream, Condrey will bag two quail, one whitetail, two [...]
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  Posted: March 15, 2009, 11:28pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies' reserves finish it for the regulars in 2-1 win

  Miguel Cairo continued his hot hitting with a ninth-inning single, followed by a walk-off Jason Ellison double, to win it over the visiting Cardinals. CLEARWATER, Fla. - Injury concerns are fading, as the returns of Jayson Werth, Pedro Feliz and Chase Utley in recent days allowed the Phillies to field [...]
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  Posted: March 15, 2009, 5:45pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Utley makes Grapefruit League debut

  Chase Utley takes a giant step forward in his return from hip surgery today when the Phillies host the Cardinals at 1:05 p.m. from Bright House Field. Utley will lead off, followed by Jayson Werth, Greg Dobbs, Ryan Howard, Raul Ibanez, Pedro Feliz, Geoff Jenkins, Jason Donald and Carlos Ruiz, [...]
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  Posted: March 15, 2009, 12:48pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies use patience to prevail over Astros

  The Phils fielded a lineup with almost no regular players, but had some good patient at-bats, played some small-ball and beat the Astros 5-2. KISSIMMEE, Fla - Jason Donald started at third and cemented his status as a dirtball type player with a hit, two stolen bases, two runs scored [...]
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  Posted: March 14, 2009, 8:02pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Saturday thread: Carrasco goes in Kissimmee

  Young righthander Carlos Carrasco faces another test against Major League competition today when the Phillies visit the Astros at 1:05 p.m. Drew Carpenter and Mike Koplove are also scheduled. Meanwhile, a minor league game featuring Brad Lidge, Chad Durbin and Scott Eyre fires off at noon. Moving over to the [...]
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  Posted: March 14, 2009, 12:08pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Five-run sixth not enough for Phillies in 6-5 loss

  Observations from today's Pirates-Phillies game, including an unfavorable report on Pedro Feliz, courtesy of our correspondents. CLEARWATER, Fla - Pedro Feliz returned to the lineup today, which is good, but he looked to be moving gingerly in the field and at bat. His mobility appeared to be limited on the [...]
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  Posted: March 13, 2009, 6:43pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Fan connection better late than never for Burrell

  Departed outfielder Pat Burrell used ads in the Daily News and Inquirer to express his gratitude toward the city and organization today, suggesting that he finally gets it after all these years. During his tenure, Burrell established himself as a hard worker and leader, but withdrew from the media and [...]
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  Posted: March 13, 2009, 12:50pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Beerleaguer for breakfast: Werth still on ice

  Jayson Werth's latest setback is reportedly a minor groin injury. He's set to return to action today against Pittsburgh. Still, the time away from the field is starting to add up, with time running out for Werth to get into a good groove before the season. Expected to have right [...]
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  Posted: March 13, 2009, 7:01am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Pitching and defense shine, but Rays silence Phils

  A summary of today's action, courtesy of our spring correspondents. PORT CHARLOTTE, Fla. -- The visiting Phils lost to the Rays today 3-2. Not much offense, but solid pitching and defense. The lack of offense may have been due to the fact that Joe Maddon used real Major League pitchers [...]
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  Posted: March 12, 2009, 7:35pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Game chat: Moyer, Happ take turns vs. Tampa

  Lefthanders Jamie Moyer and J.A. Happ will be making their fourth Grapefruit League starts this afternoon in a World Series rematch against the Tampa Bay Rays. First pitch is 1:05 p.m. from Port Charlotte, Fla. Based on performance alone, Happ, who is among the Grapefruit League leaders in ERA and [...]
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  Posted: March 12, 2009, 11:21am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Thursday thread: Dude, this Donald kid can play

  Another day, another solid game by Jason Donald, who started at third and went 3-for-4 to boost his Grapefruit League average to .379. There's something about spring training, and young talent like Donald, that reminds me of "American Idol." As if he just nailed a Stevie Wonder number, Donald goes [...]
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  Posted: March 12, 2009, 7:24am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Wednesday: Lots happening in busy day for Phils

  After a day off, the hometown nine go back at it today when Kyle Kendrick tries to restate his case for a spot in the rotation against the Atlanta Braves. First pitch is 1:05 p.m. Meanwhile, Pedro Feliz sees action for the first time this spring in a simulated game [...]
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  Posted: March 11, 2009, 1:07pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Beerleaguer peanut gallery projection: Pat the Bat

  Someone once said that if I didn't feel like writing, just post a picture of Pat Burrell and let the readers have at it. After five years of writing Beerleaguer, the best topics are the ones that fall into my lap. The next best are posts about Pat Burrell, which' [...]
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  Posted: March 10, 2009, 9:49pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Transaction: Ennis signs AAA contract with Phils

  John Ennis, a 29-year-old righty, pitched in three games with the Phillies in 2007, including an emergency start. He returns from a brief stint in Korea. Ennis had originally started the 2008 season with Triple-A Lehigh Valley, where he went 4-3 with a 3.67 ERA in 40 relief appearances. This [...]
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  Posted: March 10, 2009, 4:27pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Tuesday: Tinkering rarely stops when camp breaks

  Recent history tells us the Phillies' 12th pitcher hasn't arrived yet. Quick trivia: Who was awarded the last spot in Charlie Manuel's bullpen at the end of 2008 spring training? If you answered Tim Lahey, you are correct, and if you said "Who the hell is Tim Lahey," you wouldn't' [...]
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  Posted: March 10, 2009, 8:04am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Howard stays hot, but Phillies fall to Reds

  A grand slam by Reds shortstop Chris Valaika off non-roster invitee Justin Lehr was the difference as the Reds defeated the Phils 8-4. Summary: Cole Hamels, making his first Grapefruit League start, retired the first six batters. He ran into some trouble in the third inning when Reds slugging prospect [...]
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  Posted: March 09, 2009, 6:11pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Monday: Lucky breaks outweighed setbacks in '08

  The news of the day, followed by a pragmatic look at a major reason why the Phillies won it all. Good morning. Bill Conlin writes today that twenty-three days after pitchers and catchers laced up their cleats, it's officially on among players competing for jobs on the Phillies’ roster. He’s [...]
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  Posted: March 09, 2009, 9:53am EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Sunday open thread: Blanton, Phillies visit Braves

  Righthander Joe Blanton takes the mound when the Phillies take on the Braves at 1:05 p.m. from Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Carlos Carrasco, Clay Condrey and Ryan Madson are also listed. Notes: The Phillies press office has compiled a list of league leaders. Bear in mind some of them would [...]
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  Posted: March 08, 2009, 12:23pm EDT
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies use 15 strikeouts to tame Tigers 8-2

  Summary: Jamie Moyer started and pitched four innings, allowing a solo home run to second baseman Scott Sizemore. But the big story today was J.A. Happ, who fanned seven of the 11 batters he faced in his three innings. He had total command of his fastball and effectively mixed in [...]
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  Posted: March 07, 2009, 4:42pm EST
  by J. Weitzel

• Saturday chat: Lefties face Tigers; WBC starts for USA

  It's too nice to sit inside and track baseball if you're a fan living in the Delaware Valley. But in case you are, the Phillies host Detroit at 1:05 in Clearwater, where Jamie Moyer, J.A. Happ and Scott Eyre are scheduled to pitch. Meanwhile, the WBC gets underway for Jimmy' [...]
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  Posted: March 07, 2009, 1:03pm EST
  by J. Weitzel

• Phillies swept by Jays in exhibition doubleheader

  The Jays completed their A/B sweep by beating the Phils 4-3 last night. The game was highlighted by strong pitching performances by Chan Ho Park and Gary Majewski. Park surrendered just one run in four innings, striking out four and walking none. He was staying ahead of the hitters all [...]
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  Posted: March 07, 2009, 8:54am EST
  by J. Weitzel

• Backup 1B job baseball’s ultimate resume fluff

  Depth is important, but not at first, where the Phillies have none. A college friend once made the mistake of leaving a rough draft of his resume in a place where his roommates could find it and make fun of it. Under "experience," he listed Subway, the sandwich chain, followed [...]
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  Posted: March 06, 2009, 3:55pm EST
  by J. Weitzel

• Beerleaguer for breakfast: All eyes on the infield

  This was a good week for thoughtful comments, a sign the season is getting close. Topping the list: the battle for the last remaining bench spots, where Marcus Giles and others are making a solid case. With every passing day that Chase Utley and Pedro Feliz do not take the [...]
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  Posted: March 06, 2009, 3:02am EST
  by J. Weitzel

• Kendrick can't catch a break in loss to Team USA

  CLEARWATER, Fla. - Team USA used four home runs to power past Kyle Kendrick and the Phillies 9-6 in exhibition play. Ryan Howard and Jason Donald went yard for the Phils. Kendrick's line (2 2-3 innings, 5 hits, 4 ER) appears worse than how he actually pitched. Team USA got [...]
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  Posted: March 05, 2009, 7:54pm EST
  by J. Weitzel

• Report: Phils sign Rodrigo Lopez to minor deal

  The 33-year-old righthander last appeared in the Majors in 2007 and had his best years with the Orioles, where he was a 15-game winner twice and finished runner-up for Rookie of the Year in 2002. A native of Tlalnepantla, Mexico, Lopez is a lifetime 65-65 in 187 games (161 starts) [...]
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  Posted: March 05, 2009, 4:04pm EST
  by J. Weitzel

• Thursday thread: American stars visit Clearwater

  Kyle Kendrick and the Phillies host Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino and Team USA 12:05 from Bright House Field. Including yesterday's exhibition win over Team Canada, the Phils have won four straight contests, as bench candidates such as John Mayberry Jr. continue to state their case for making the Phillies' roster.' [...]
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  Posted: March 05, 2009, 7:56am EST
  by J. Weitzel