Post by philliesgm on May 22, 2007 23:11:47 GMT -5
Potential For A Long Postseason Run?
Philadelphia - With the recent struggles in the city of Philadelphia, the Phillies have brought new life to the city of Brotherly Love.
In a deal a little less than a week ago, the Phillies sent potential future ace, Cole Hamels, along with utility outfielder, Shane Victorino and Ryan Madson to Kansas City in exchange for rookie third-basemen, Alex Gordon and relievers, David Riske and Octavio Dotel.
30-year old reliever, David Riske. The word around the organization is that Riske will be the opening day set-up man.
33 year-old veteran, Octavio Dotel, the probable opening day closer.
And the Phillies biggest concern coming into the season, the left corner of the infield, third base. While it did hurt moving Hamels, the Phillies certainly covered that need. The team acquired rookie sensation, Alex Gordon.
The Phillies offense should be one of the best in the bigs, supported by reigning MVP, Ryan Howard, all star second basemen, Chase Utley, all star shortstop, Jimmy Rollins, slugger Pat Burrell and the rookie himself, Alex Gordon. But the major question circling Philadelphia is this. Can the Phillies pitching get the job done? Let's take a quick look at the projected Phillies rotation.
1.) Brett Myers-This guy clearly has the stuff to be a major player in the Cy Young talks, but major concern here is the consistency.
2.) Freddy Garcia-Acquired from the White Sox during the offseason, Freddy brings the ability to help the Phillies out in a big way, quickly.
3.) Jon Leiber-It seems as if every offseason Leiber has been a member of the Phillies in, his name always pops up in trade conversations. But to this day, Leiber still remains a Philadelphia Phillie. Will age become a factor here?
4.) Adam Eaton-Another one of the offseason acquisitions from the Phillies. The Phillies are hoping to get a good deal of starts from him and that the injury bug has finally worn off.
5.) Jamie Moyer-While struggling in Seattle in 2006, the fresh start in Philly certainly did a favor to Jamie. This 17-year veteran appears to be the #5 guy in the rotation.
Projected opening day starter, Brett Myers
The Phillies expectations are at an all-time high. Nothing less of a World Series would be a major disappointment to management and the fans.
-Phillies reporter, Mark Pryzby.
