All Phillies All the Time

Quick News and Notes

2010-11-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

Here's a quick run down on the Phillies action as we anxiously await the big off season...

First base coach Davey Lopes will not be returning to the team after the two sides couldn't come to a agreement on Lopes' next salary. Former manager Larry Bowa is being thought of as one of the leading candidates to replace Lopes.
The Phillies claimed infielder Carlos Rivero from the Cleveland Indians. Rivero will turn 23 in late May. Rivero hit .232 with six home runs this past season in Double-A.
J.C Romero's 4.5 million dollar option will not be picked up by the Phillies. They will most likely lean on Antonio Bastardo to fill that gap.

Off Season Checklist

2010-10-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

The NLCS is over. It doesn't deserve attention. The Phillies did not play well, and they deserved the loss. Cody Ross almost beat the Phils himself, but Juan Uribe contributed big in Game 6. It's disappointing to see the season end on that loss. The Phillies should've won that series or at least competed. They have on of the best rotations in the league and a lineup headed with power hitters, that never hit there stride, with the exception of Jayson Werth, who coincidentally is the only slugger leaving the team. The Giants, besides the big 3 starters, and the black bearded freak, Brian Wilson, are a band of cast offs, who played to the best of there ability. But now, there are more things on the agenda. It's time for the off season, one of the most interesting times of the year.

Preliminary Moves:

1) Tender Ben Francisco a contract.
Ben Francisco is a good fourth outfielder, and could serve as a platoon option with Domonic Brown in right field, for the first part of the season. Francisco shouldn't be too expensive.

2) Offer Jayson Werth Arbitration.
Werth is a Type A free agent, therefore the Phillies will receive two draft picks, from the team that Werth signs with. In the occasion that one team signs multiple Type A free agents the Phillies will get the top pick, because Werth has the highest elias rating of any free agent. In 2009, the Angels received the Yankees top pick, because Mark Teixeira had the highest elias rating, the Brewers and Blue Jays received the Yankees 2nd and 3rd picks. Werth is highly unlikely to accept arbitration, as he will have many suitors.

3) Decline J.C Romero's 4.5 million club option.
The Phillies do not have the money for Romero's option. The team is likely to lean on Antonio Bastardo. This will impact the pen once again.

4) Do not tender Greg Dobbs a contract.
Dobbs was barely good enough to make the major league team and the 1.25 million he earned pretty much went to waste. I'd rather have Andy Tracy or John Mayberry on the roster.

5) Offer Jose Contreras a deal.
I'd offer Contreras a deal for about 2 million over a year. Contreras was the Phillies most reliable reliever this year. Jose will probably seek for more kinda like Chan Ho Park did last year. The Phillies should not budge however, let him walk. I wish the Phils gave Contreras two years, and Baez only one.

6) Tender a contract to Kyle Kendrick.
Kendrick will be the Phillies fifth starter. It seems as if Kendrick has been around forever, but he is only 26. Kendrick should be relatively inexpensive.

7) Grant Chad Durbin, Mike Sweeney, Jamie Moyer, and JC Romero there release.
I know everyone, including myself do not wanna see Moyer leave the Phillies but if he doesn't go for a minor league deal, the Phillies will not be able to keep him. Durbin has been very durable, but he is aging, and isn't getting any better. Mike Sweeney was a nice fill in for Howard, but there really isn't a spot for him, unless he likes Lehigh Valley.

To Be Continued

Phillies Nicknames

2010-10-22T20:58:00.000-07:00

Here's our complete list of nick names for the Phillies players.

Shane Victorino is the Flyin Hawaiian

Jimmy Rollins SS- "J-Roll"
Placido Polanco 3B- "Polly"
Ryan Howard 1B- "The Big Piece"
Carlos Ruiz C- "Chooch"
Roy Oswalt P- "Wizard of Oswalt", ("Roy Story 2"), ("H20")
Roy Halladay P- "Doc", ("Roy Story 2"), ("H20")
Cole Hamels P- "Hollywood", ("H20")
Shane Victorino OF- "Flyin Hawaiian"
Brad Lidge P- "Lights out Lidge"
Ryan Madson P- "Mad dog"
Kyle Kendrick P- "Krazy K"

Please Comment If I missed any big ones.

APATT Awards

2010-10-22T20:52:00.000-07:00

Joey Votto has been in the MVP hunt all year

This is the first annual give out of the APATT awards. The APATT awards are meant to recognize the under valued players of the game as well as the ones who go 100% 24/7 and get the job done. I will give awards for an assortment of things like and all rookie team as well as the "big ones" like CY Young and MVP.

Your All-Rookie Team....
C: Buster Posey SFG
1B: Gaby Sanchez FLA
2B: Danny Espinosa WAS
3B: Chris Johnson HOU
SS: Starlin Castro CHI
OF: Jason Heyward ATL
OF: Mike Stanton FLA
OF: Austin Jackson DET

Your Cy Young Award Winners...
AL: Felix Hernandez SEA
NL: Roy Halladay PHI

Your Undervalued Team...
C: Carlos Ruiz PHI
1B: Gaby Sanchez FLA
2B: Kelly Johnson ARI
3B: Placido Polanco PHI
SS: JJ Hardy MIN
OF: Carlos Gonzalez COL
OF: Jose Bautista TOR
OF: Vernon Wells TOR

Your AL Silver Slugger Winners...
C: Victor Martinez BOS
1B: Miguel Cabrera DET
2B: Robinson Cano NYY
3B: Adrian Beltre BOS
SS: Alexi Ramirez CHI
OF: Josh Hamilton TEX
OF: Jose Bautista TOR
OF: Tori Hunter LAA

Your NL Silver Slugger Winners...
C: Brian McCann ATL
1B: Joey Votto CIN
2B: Brandon Phillips CIN
3B: David Wright NYM
SS: Troy Tulowitski COL
OF: Carlos Gonzalez COL
OF: Jayson Werth PHI
OF: Corey Hart MIL

Your MVPs...
NL: Carlos Gonzalez COL .336 34 HR 117 RBI
AL: Josh Hamilton TEX .359 32 HR 100 RBI

Playoff Predictions

2010-10-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

Here are my postseason picks, as we prepare for Halladay's postseason debut.

Atlanta Braves vs. San Francisco Giants
Pitching Matchups
Gm. 1- Derek Lowe 16-12 4.00 ERA vs. Tim Lincecum 16-10 3.43 ERA
Gm.2- Tommy Hanson 10-11 3.33 ERA vs. Matt Cain 13-11 3.14 ERA
Gm.3- Tim Hudson 17-9 2.83 ERA vs. Jonathan Sanchez 13-9 3.07 ERA
Gm.4- TBA vs. TBA
Gm.5- TBA vs. TBA

I think San Fran will take this series in 4. The duo of Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum will be to difficult to beat twice, with the off days Lincecum and Cain should pitch games 4 and 5. The Braves are inexperienced and don't have the pitching.

Cincinnati Reds vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Pitching Matchups
Gm.1- Edinson Volquez 4-3 4.31 ERA vs. Roy Halladay 21-10 2.44 ERA
Gm.2- Bronson Arroyo 17-10 3.88 ERA vs. Roy Oswalt 13-13 2.76 ERA
Gm.3- Johnny Cueto 12-7 3.64 ERA vs. Cole Hamels 12-11 3.06 ERA
Gm.4- TBA vs. Roy Halladay 21-10 2.44 ERA
Gm.5- TBA vs. TBA

I think the Phils will take this series in 3. "H20" provides the Phillies with dominant pitching throughout the series. As well, they will have Joe Blanton and Kyle Kendrick in the bullpen which adds two long relievers if something were to go wrong. The Phillies offense has been on a roll as of late too.

New York Yankees vs. Minnesota Twins
Pitching Matchups
Gm.1- CC Sabathia 21-7 3.18 ERA vs. Francisco Liriano 14-10 3.62 ERA
Gm.2- TBA vs. Carl Pavano 17-11 3.75 ERA
Gm.3- TBA vs. Brian Duesing 10-3 2.62 ERA
Gm.4- AJ Burnett 10-15 5.26 ERA vs. Nick Blackburn 10-12 5.42 ERA
Gm.5- CC Sabathia 21-7 3.18 ERA vs. TBA

I think the Yankees will take this series in 4 games. The Twins pitching is very weak compared to the Yankees'. Brian Duesing is the only pitcher I think will not get rattled and give up a lot of runs.

Texas Rangers vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Pitching Matchups
Gm.1- Cliff Lee 12-9 3.18 ERA vs. David Price 19-6 2.72 ERA
Gm.2- CJ Wilson 15-8 3.35 ERA vs. James Shields 13-15 5.18 ERA
Gm.3- C.Lewis 12-13 3.72 ERA vs. Matt Garza 15-10 3.91 ERA
Gm.4- Tommy Hunter 13-4 3.73 ERA vs. Wade Davis 12-10 4.07 ERA
Gm.5- TBA vs. TBA

I think the Rangers will win this series in 5 games. These are the most evenly matched teams in my opinion. The Rangers have the offense and the Rays have the pitching. Good hitting beats good pitching and good pitching beats good hitting. I think its a matter of who has "better" nights, and Josh Hamilton's health.

Oswalt pitches a Gem

2010-09-23T17:46:00.000-07:00

Roy Oswalt pitched a gem last night putting the Phillies up 6 games in the division and taking the magic number down to 5. With Roy,Roy, and Hamels the Phils completed a 3 game sweep of the Atlanta Braves, almost diminishing there division chances.

The Phillies front 3 has been amazing this year. Roy Halladay pitched a perfect game as we all know. Halladay also eclipsed the 20 win mark. Roy Oswalt has one loss in a Phillies uniform, which came in his first Phils start. Last night he allowed 1 hit in 7 dominant innings. Cole Hamels was called the teams MVP by Ruben Amaro jr. In his last few starts, he has a 0.48 ERA, and has flown under the rater as one of the best pitchers of the second half.

Top 25 MLB Rankings

2010-09-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

Here's my annual list of the top 25 MLB players in my opinion.

Bold - Notable Ranking
Red - Phillies
* - Steroid User
Stats as of 9/16/10

1. Albert Pujols 1B STL .306 BA 39 HR 105 RBI
2. Hanley Ramirez SS FLA .301 BA 21 HR 76 RBI
3. Joe Mauer C MIN .331 BA 9 HR 74 RBI
4. Ryan Braun LF MIL .306 BA 22 HR 89 RBI
5. Evan Longoria 3B TBR .294 BA 21 HR 99 RBI
6. Roy Halladay P PHI 19-10 2.49 ERA 210 SO
7. Mark Teixeira 1B NYY .261 BA 30 HR 101 RBI
8. Tim Lincecum P SFG 14-9 3.60 ERA 208 SO
9. Josh Hamilton OF TEX .361 BA 31 HR 97 RBI
10. Prince Fielder 1B MIL .271 BA 30 HR 75 RBI
11. Felix Hernandez P SEA 11-11 2.39 ERA 214 SO
12. Ryan Howard 1B PHI .279 BA 29 HR 100 RBI
13. Ichrio RF SEA .310 BA 6 HR 40 RBI
14. Miguel Cabrera 1B DET .333 BA 34 HR 118 RBI
15. Chase Utley 2B PHI .274 BA 15 HR 58 RBI
16. Alex Rodriguez 3B NYY* .270 BA 23 HR 107 RBI
17. Joey Votto 1B CIN .320 BA 34 HR 104 RBI
18. Adam Wainwright P STL 18-11 2.50 ERA 199 SO
19. Adrian Gonzalez 1B SDP .306 BA 29 HR 95 RBI
20. Matt Holliday LF STL .309 BA 26 HR 95 RBI
21. Ubaldo Jimenez P COL 18-6 2.75 ERA 186 SO
22. Adam Dunn 1B WAS .266 BA 35 HR 93 RBI
23. Carlos Gonzalez OF COL .341 BA 32 HR 106 RBI
24. Troy Tulowitski SS COL .325 BA 23 HR 82 RBI
25. Brian McCann C ATL .275 BA 20 HR 74 RBI

A Look Ahead - 2011 Phillies

2010-09-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

Ryan Howard is just one young gun to arise from the Phillies farm system.

The Phillies are a team trying to win now. They've dedicating themselves to making the MLB club the best it can be, even if it means losing valuable young players. Cliff Lee, Roy Oswalt, and Roy Halladay, are among the pool of talented and expensive pieces they've added to the club in recent memory. A team that was purchased for 30 million dollars in 1981, is now valued at over 500 million dollars, 537,000,000 to be exact. The Phillies are good, no matter which way you slice it. But this success, may come at a cost, the future.

I won't say the Phillies are all home grown talent, but by any means there not like the Yankees and Red Sox, like there 140m payroll may dictate. Out of there starting 8 and the pitching rotation only 6 players (Cole Hamels, Kyle Kendrick, Carlos Ruiz, Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, and Jimmy Rollins) were drafted and brought up by the Phillies. However, the rest weren't essentially "bought". Roy Oswalt, Roy Halladay, and Joe Blanton were traded for, therefore they don't fall into the category. The Phils did there homework on Werth early and got him for 800k before his career really set foot, counting him out, and Shane Victorino was drafted in the Rule 5 draft. That leaves Placido Polanco and Raul Ibanez. Both were "bought" in free agency in 2009 and 2008. So 2 of the teams 18 "starters" were Yankeed. I went through every teams 18 starters and found 18 teams had the 2 or more "purchased" players. That's over 50% of teams in the MLB. Overall, this proves the point that the Phillies payroll only got so high due to the costs it takes in the modern age to retain your players. Now we move on to 2011.

Jayson Werth will most likely be in another uniform after this winter, as the Phillies have 140 million locked up in player salaries for 2011, even with vets like Durbin and Dobbs leaving the team. Domonic Brown looks like he's ready to step up as the full time starter in right field.

I already mentioned that Dobbs and Durbin will be gone, but to join them Romero, and Ransom have expiring contracts. Andy Tracy, John Mayberry, and Paul Hoover could be used to fill in the bench, while Scott Mathieson, Drew Carpenter, and Antonio Bastardo have pitched well in the minors. They could round out the bullpen.

Phillies Lose in 16 Innings

2010-08-25T17:31:00.000-07:00

Last night the Phillies lost a bizarre 16 inning game to the Houston Astros. The Phils used there entire bullpen up, so they had to send Kyle Kendrick out there. Kendrick has relief experience but was not used. The Astros had only Brandon Lyon to spare in there pen after using middle relief guys like Mark Melancon and Jeff Fulchino to pitch in multiple innings. But that was only the start.

Cole Hamels was electric. You should not let the 7-10 record full you. In his last 8 starts he has received only 9 runs in support, but has posted a ERA under 3, and given the Phils 60+ innings. He went 7 innings and allowed only a two run homer to Carlos Lee in the 4th.

It seemed like it was all over in the 9th. Jimmy Rollins had two strikes on him with two outs in the ninth, the Phils trailing by one. Then with one swing of the bat it was a different ball game. Rollins raked a long fly ball down the right field line.

After the conclusion of this game it seemed like Rollins' game saving home run was in a whole different day. O wait, that's because it was, I forgot to mention this game lasted until about quarter after 12.

Things got heated in the 14th. With two men on and two men down, Ryan Howard checked his swing on a low pitch by Mark Melancon. Howard showed some anger towards both the home plate umpire and the third base umpire. Then he blamed the fiery attitude on himself. On strike 3 Howard was called out on a check swing and flicked his helmet and bat towards the dugout, and was tossed.

The Phillies with a empty bench sent pitcher Roy Oswalt out to play left field, and Raul Ibanez moved to first base. It turns out the Astros did get to see there former ace in this 4 game series, even though he was not a probable. The first batter in the top of the 15th hit a fly ball to left, caught by Oswalt. The crowd went crazy. Then Raul Ibanez made a diving play to retire the speedy Michael Bourn.

In the 16th David Herndon gave up the game on a series of infield hits.

Waiver Moves

2010-08-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a complete list off all of the moves made in August.

Pittsburgh Pirates Claimed RHP Chan Ho Park from the New York Yankees. The Yankees received no compensation.
Cleveland Indians Claimed 1B Wes Hodges from the Colorado Rockies. The Rockies received no compensation.
Cincinnati Reds Claimed CF Jim Edmonds from the Milwaukee Brewers. The Brewers received Chris Dickerson in return.
San Francisco Giants Claimed 2B Mike Fontenot from the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs received Evan Crawford in return.
San Francisco Giants Claimed RF Jose Guillen from the Kansas City Royals. The Royals received no compensation.
St.Louis Cardinals Claimed 3B Pedro Feliz from the Houston Astros. The Astros received David Carpenter in return.
Los Angeles Dodgers Claimed C Rod Barajas from the New York Mets. The Mets received no compensation.
San Francisco Giants Claimed RF Cody Ross from the Florida Marlins. The Marlins received no compensation.
Boston Red Sox Clamed DH Johnny Damon from the Detroit Tigers. Damon is yet to decide whether to accept claim (he has a no trade clause allowing him to due so).

Rotating Backgrounds

2010-08-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

All Phillies All the Time will now feature rotating backgrounds. Every weekend a new background like Roy Halladay's perfect game will be displayed on the home page. Feel free to send some suggestions, too.

Hamels Gets Rocked

2010-08-19T20:14:00.000-07:00

Cole Hamels lasted 5 innings in tonights showdown with the Giants. He allowed 5 runs, 4 earned. Hamels received his 10th loss of the season. However, in his last 3 starts he has received 0 runs of support. His record should be 9-8 as apposed to 7-10.

Hamels was rocked early starting off by rookie Buster Posey. The catcher had the night off behind the plate and played first base instead, putting Aubrey Huff on the bench. After loads off extra bases the Giants sported a 4 run lead. Which was capped off by a Pablo Sandoval homer in the 4th. To that point the Phillies had one hit, a Shane Victorino single.

David Herndon replaced Hamels in the 6th and then went 3 shutout innings. Herndon's work has been limited this year, but the Phillies are very close to keeping Herndon. The Angels, Herndon's former team, can claim him back if the Phils remove him from there 40-Man Roster before September 1st, which seems unlikely. Herndon was the Phillies only Rule 5 Pick by the Phils this year.

Shane Victorino started a 9th inning rally with a leadoff single. Chase Utley, out of the 4 hole, singled through the right side. Then both were brought in by a Mike Sweeney double, laced down the third base line. All-star closer Brian Wilson was then brought in, and he closed the door on a Phils comeback

Halladay Slices Up Mets, Is he Cy Young Worthy?

2010-08-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

Roy Halladay pitched a gem Saturday Night at Citi Field. In 8 innings of work, the ace set down 7 on strikes. The Phillies went on to win the matchup 4-0 after being shut out last night by knuckle baller RA Dickey. Halladay's ERA dropped to 2.24 after this performance.

Placido Polanco went 2 for 5 with a RBI in tonights game. His season average now stands at .318 which is 3rd in the National League.

The real story is Roy Halladay, however. It seems like whenever Halladay goes out there he amazes us. The question now is, "Does he deserve the NL Cy Young". Believe it or not Halladay only has 1 Cy Young which came in 2003. He's up against tough competition, as it is the year of the pitcher. Ubaldo Jimenez, Adam Wainwright, Josh Johnson, and Tim Lincecum, also have a legit shot at the award. Lets evaluate there resumes.

Adam Wainwright: 17-6, 1.99 ERA, 158 SO

Adam Wainwright is the complete package. He's tied for the National League lead in wins with Ubaldo Jimenez. He's leading the NL in ERA as Josh Johnson's 1.69 ERA has sky rocketed to 2.27 since the all star break. As well, he is 5th in strikeouts for the NL.

Ubaldo Jimenez 17-3, 2.55 ERA, 143 SO

Ubaldo looked like the clear cut favorite to win this award until his downturn in early July. After having a few bad starts most notably against the Phillies, Jimenez's ERA sky rocketed. Now, he has found his groove again, and is back to Ubaldoing. He is tied for the lead in wins with Wainwright, like I mentioned before, but is far behind Doc in strikeouts (175 to 143), and isn't in the top 5 for ERA. Ubaldo needs to lower his ERA if he wants the coveted Cy Young.

Josh Johnson 10-5, 2.27 ERA, 156 SO

Johnson had a nice shot at this award back when his ERA was well below 2. After having a few rough starts after the all star break, Johnson's ERA is up to 2.27. Johnson doesn't have nearly as many wins as some of these other guys, and would practically have to win all of his remaining starts to finish with 20 wins. Johnson is somewhat of a longshot.

Tim Lincecum 11-6, 3.41 ERA, 163 SO
Lincecum like JJ will have a tough time getting 20 wins. He is also a longshot to win. His strikeouts are impressive, (second in the NL to Doc Halladay) but his ERA is not. Players like Tim Hudson, and Jaime Garcia (no offense to them but they don't have the big name recognition) are giving up less runs.

Other Top Performers
Mat Latos 12-5, 2.32 ERA, 125 SO
Tim Hudson 14-5, 2.13 ERA, 89 SO
Chris Carpenter 13-4, 2.95 ERA, 139 SO

Phillies Acquire Mike Sweeney

2010-08-05T17:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday the Phils picked up former all-star, first basemen Mike Sweeney, off waivers from the Seattle Mariners. In return for Sweeney the Mariners will receive either a player to be named later, or cash considerations. Sweeney will definently help fill in at first base for the ailing Ryan Howard, along side Ross Gload.

Sweeney was most recently seen at the Mariners Triple-A club on a rehab assignment. Sweeney has been limited to 30 games with a assortment of injuries. In that limited time span Sweeney is only hitting .263 with 6 home runs, 2 shy of his total for all of last year. As the 37 year old doesn't have flashy stats, he does have a quite impressive resume, and brings the Phillies club an experienced leader. In 12 full seasons with the Kansas City Royals Sweeney made 5 all star teams, and hit over .300 5 times. His career average lies at .298, while he's launched 213 home runs.

To make room for Sweeney on the 25 man active roster the Phillies DFA'd utility man Cody Ransom. Ransom has hit only .190 in 22 games with the Phils this season.

Ryan Howard to the Disabled List

2010-08-03T17:05:00.000-07:00

Ryan Howard will be forced to miss 15 days of action, due to a ankle sprain, suffered in sundays win. Howard injured his ankle sliding back to second on a pickoff throw. He was then helped off the field by team trainers.

What now lies for the Phillies? 3 of the teams opening day starters are on the DL. Howard might have had the most impact of the three, however. He's leading the team in home runs and his batting average is second among Phillies starters, behind Placido Polanco. I would guess Manuel will put a platoon together consisting of right hander Cody Ransom and left hander Ross Gload. Ransom replaced Howard in sundays game and started today versus Sean West and the Marlins. To fill Howard's spot the Phils called up John Mayberry from Triple-A Lehigh Valley. In AAA Mayberry hit 12 home runs and drove in 54 runs.

How do they get there?

2010-07-31T21:28:00.000-07:00

It seems like the Phillies are in such a great position to make it to the world series once again, and have a legitimate shot to be world champs. The Phillies have acquired all star Roy Oswalt, to pair with "the other Roy" Roy Halladay, and the 2008 World Series MVP, Cole Hamels. As well, super elite prospect Domonic Brown made his big league entrance just 4 days ago. But, headed by Brad Lidge, the Phillies have what could be the worse bullpen in the national league.

In tonight's game versus the Washington Nationals, Lidge gave up a walkoff three run home run to perennial all star Ryan Zimmerman, after walking journeyman Adam Kennedy on a 3-2 slider the at bat before. As the bats have came to live, the bullpen has dragged them down. In a post game show, Ricky Bottalico said, "It has gotten to the point where Manuel may want to ask the bullpen who wants to close out our games, and give someone else a shot, whether it's Ryan Madson, Jose Contreras, or whoever.

The Phillies need to find the answer from within, as they were unable to acquire a bullpen arm before the trade deadline this afternoon.

Buster Olney generally said in a analysis article of the Roy Oswalt move, this trade only makes the Phils two or three wins better in the regular season, but there post season rotation is now stacked. If the Phillies make it to the post season, there rotation will be very hard to beat. Depending on how the off days fit in they may only need "the big three" as we saw last year with the Yankees, as they only used three different starting pitchers.

Phillies Farm After the Roy Oswalt deal

2010-07-30T21:53:00.000-07:00

The Phillies packaged major leaguer JA Happ and minor league prospects Anthony Gose and Jonathan Villar to acquire all star Roy Oswalt. Gose was then shipped out to Toronto for first basemen Brett Wallace. The Phillies farm system, has taken hits as the mlb team has improved. The Phils sent 4 prospects to Cleveland, Carlos Carrasco, Jason Knapp, Lou Marson, and Jason Donald. Then to acquire Roy Halladay they sent Michael Taylor, Kyle Drabek, and Travis D'Arnaurd elsewhere, in the infamous Cliff Lee Roy Halladay 3 way. Now we take a look at who is left.

The Phillies biggest strength is in the lower levels, especially low A. Top pitching prospect Jarred Cosart resides there. He's posted a 7-3 record with a 3.79 ERA. Cosart has plus stuff and control. Scouts compare him to Kyle Drabek, the former number 1 pitching prospect of the Phillies.

The catcher Sebastian Valle has shown promise as well. 2010 has been Valle's best season. He's knocked 12 balls out of the park. However, he needs to make much more contact. His average is at a low .256.

Anthony Gose was definently the best prospect at Clearwater, but he wasn't the only player that grabs scouts eye. Phillippe Aumont, the main piece in the Lee deal, was sent down from Double-A Reading earlier this season. Since coming to the Threshers, Aumont has been able to lower his ERA, but it is still sub 4. Aumont has trouble with his control and stamina. Phillippe's stuff isn't quite plus either.

As we move to Double-A, one might point out Vance Worley. Worley was talked about a lot during the Roy Oswalt negotiations. Vance has gone 9-4 with a ERA just above 3. His performance has been a shocker to many people around the organization. Worley recently earned a call up to the show, but was sent down minutes after making his major league debut.

Tyson Gillies' season has been tainted by injuries. Gillies is only hitting .231 this year in 26 games. The Phillies will depend on Gillies to fill in Gose's shoes.

Roy Oswalt officially accepts trade to Phillies

2010-07-29T09:26:00.000-07:00

NEW UPDATE: Jonathan Villar is the third prospect headed to Houston, not Singleton or Worley, as we had been hearing.

Roy Oswalt has officially accepted a trade to the Phillies, even though they will not pick up his option. Oswalt said the he was happy about being on a competitor but was said to leave his old teammates. Oswalt will make his first appearance in the red pinstripes friday. Houston will receive JA Happ, Anthony Gose, and one other player, either Jonathan Singleton or Vance Worley. Gose will be shipped to Toronto though as apart of another trade. More anaylsis will come later, in a different post.

CSN's Jim Salisbury confirms that Anthony Gose and JA Happ are definently in the deal. The remaining prospect is probably Jonathan Singleton or Vance Worley.

Roy Oswalt plans to ok trade to the Phillies, but nothing is official. Now sources are hearing speedy outfielder Anthony Gose may be involved in this trade. As well, Oswalt's option will not be picked up but he will be compensated in another way. To cover Oswalt's contract the Astros will send around 11 million to the Phillies.

MLB Insider Todd Zolecki hears that first base prospect Jonathan Singleton is involved in the Oswalt deal, while Ken Rosenthal says he's not. The Astros have pushed hard to get Singleton throughout negotiations. Singleton ranks as the Phillies third best prospect behind phenom Domonic Brown and pitcher Jarred Cosart. Singleton has had a breakthrough season with Lakewood, in which he's hit .319.

Jayson Stark has added that Houston has added 12 million to the deal in which could help cover his 16 million dolllar option.

SI's Jon Heyman notes that the Astros have scouted 22 year old righty Vance Worley who was recently sent down from the Phillies. He's posted a ERA just above 3 at Double-A Reading.

Astros, Phillies only need Oswalt's approval

2010-07-29T09:04:00.000-07:00

All that now stands in the way of a Roy Oswalt deal, is his no trade clause. The Astros accepted the Phillies package of only 3 players, after insisting on 4, a mlb ready high potential guy, 2 top of the line propects, and 1 mediocre prospect. Many sources close to both teams have said JA Happ is involved in this deal.

Oswalt has until the 31st to decide whether he wants to go to Philadelphia or not. During trade negotiations Oswalt wanted any team to pick up his 16 million dollar before he would waive his full no trade clause. Oswalt also said he did not want to play in Philly and would rather play in St.Louis.

Many scouts said the Astros and Oswalt would have to lower there demands if they wanted to get any deal done. Obviously the Astros have probably taken a lesser package to get Oswalt moved. Also they have agreed to eat some of his salary. Now we'll see if Oswalt does the same.

Domonic Brown Earns Promotion!

2010-07-28T16:59:00.000-07:00

Domonic Brown has finally earned his promotion to the Philadelphia Phillies, due to Shane Victorino's injury. Victorino has been placed on the 15 Day DL giving Brown a chance to crack into the starting lineup. Brown may provide the type of production they need to pull ahead in the NL East.

Domonic will start in right field as Jayson Werth slides over to center. I now seriously doubt Werth gets moved with Victorino on the disabled list.

In Brown's first major league at bat he launched a rbi double off Arizona's Edwin Jackson. Jason Heyward and Stephen Strasburg may have a little more competition for rookie of the year.

Trade Deadline Rumors

2010-07-27T11:58:00.000-07:00

The Nationals have many players drawing interest, most notably Adam Dunn. Dunn has been linked to the Rays, Yankees, Red Sox, Giants, and Padres. The Nationals would like to keep Dunn through 2010, (he is a free agent at the end of this season), but if they can't agree on a extension the Nats may be forced to move them
Outfielder Josh Willingham is also drawing interest from teams like the Braves, Red Sox, and Giants.

The Red Sox are expressing interest in A's reliever Michael Wuertz. The Red Sox have also made there own reliever Ramon Ramirez available.
The Dodgers are looking into Chicago's Ted Lilly. The idea of Roy Oswalt to LA has not been abandoned but the Astros demands may be too steep for the Dodgers. They have repeatedly asked for James Loney plus 2 other high level prospects.
Cody Ross will most likely not be traded during the season, due to Chris Coghlin's injury. Ross has drawed interest from Atlanta, Boston, and New York.
Talks between the Red Sox and Blue Jays about Scott Downs have stalled. The Phillies are among many other teams that have been linked to him.
The Yankees have dangled top prospect Jesus Montero in Joakim Soria talks. Soria, the Royals closer would make a great set up man for Mo. The Yankees are one of six teams Soria can reject a trade to. Montero is rated no.6 prospect in the country by ESPN's Keith Law.

The Phillies and Rangers are interested in Christian Guzman. He's hitting .287 and can play multiple positions. However, the Phillies like Miguel Tejada more. Think of Guzman as a backup plan.

Phillies in on Ty Wigginton and Miguel Tejada

2010-07-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

The Orioles are shopping both utility man Ty Wigginton and third base men Miguel Tejada. The Phillies have been rumored to be interested in both. Both Wigginton and Tejada would serve as fill ins for the ailing Chase Utley.

According to Jeff Zrebiec of the Baltimore Sun the Orioles have been talking to the Rangers, Yankees, and Phillies about Ty Wigginton. It has also been noted that negotiations between the Orioles and Phillies have been going on for a few weeks. Wigginton was named to his first all star game just two days ago after having a great May and April, filling in for Brian Roberts. The Phillies would benefit from his versatility. Ty can cover left, third, second, and first. Until Polanco comes back Wiggy would most likely play third, but then slide to second once Polly comes back. No prospects have been named in these negotiations.

The Phillies also have mild interest in Miguel Tejada. He's only hitting .276, his lowest since 2001, back when he was with the A's. His bat definently isn't where it used to be, but he is a steady glove. Tejada would play third base and Polanco would slide to second. Tejada probably won't be as pricey as Wiggy, because not as many teams have inquired on him and his contract is higher. As well he just hasn't played as well as Ty.

Could Jose Bautista be a Phillie?

2010-07-13T16:53:00.000-07:00

Remarkably this season Jose Bautista is leading the entire league in home runs with 24. The long bench player finally got his shot at the everyday lineup with Toronto, and has made the most of it. While you may not see him at the same batting slot or position everyday, he's most likely in that lineup card some where. Bautista is becoming a household name. If Jose keeps his home run hitting up, he may become a usual to the all star game, where he is making his first appearance tonight.

The question for Toronto is "Should we move this guy?" He hasn't been a 20-30 home runs hitter consistently over his career. In fact this year is the only time he's eclipsed 20 home runs. Baustista will draw great interest if they put him on the block. Toronto is not a contender this year so getting prospects for the future in return would be beneficial.

A team like Philadelphia could become a good suitor for Bautista if the Blue Jays do indeed move him. Bautista would presumably play third base, and Polanco could play second base, in place of the ailing Chase Utley. Polanco is due back shortly after the all star break. Once Utley returns in about 4-6 weeks Bautista could platoon in left field with Raul Ibanez, or play right field, (maybe in a platoon with Domonic Brown) if the team decides to move Jayson Werth.

Bautista fits all of the Phillies needs. He would, in a way, fill in for Chase Utley. He has power, which is lacking due to Raul's poor season and the injuries to Polanco and Utley. And to cap it off, he is a right handed hitter, which would help split up the lefties in the lineup. The only problem for Philadelphia is who can they afford to give up for him. Many have named Scott Mathieson as a potential trade chip along with Jonathan Singleton and Anthony Gose. Singleton and Gose are very talented, but a clogged by Howard and the influx of outfielders higher in the organization. As we've seen before though, in negotiations with Toronto (2009 Roy Halladay), they may demand for Domonic Brown. And Philadelphia simply will not budge, which I agree with. Recently Dave Cameron of Fangraphs ranked Brown as the 50th most value able player in all of baseball. It has also been rumored that Philadelphia would rather move impending free agent Jayson Werth instead of super prospect Domonic Brown.

Phillies Mid Season Prospect Rankings

2010-07-11T20:08:00.000-07:00

The Phillies may have moved a lot of prospects to improve the major league team but this farm system is not fully depleted. With the likes of highly regarded Domonic Brown, Jarred Cosart, and others the Phillies will still be contenders in the future. All Phillies All the Time will look through the minor leagues and give you insight on how there doing and who may be involved in a potential trade.

#7 l RF l Domonic Brown

AAA Lehigh Valley Ironpigs

Domonic Brown has continued to dazzle scouts left and right. This year the power has finally set it for him. After 13 games with Triple-A Lehigh Valley he launched 4 out of the ball park. He has much more to offer then just power however. He has 19 stolen bases on the year between both Double-A Reading and Lehigh Valley. Who could overlook his .326 average between both AA and AAA, and his .364 average in just AAA. This guy is so valuable to the Phillies that it has been noted in trade rumors that they'd rather trade Jayson Werth and call up Brown, then move Brown.

#31 l P l Jarred Cosart

Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws

What a surprise! The Phillies organization never thought Cosart would be there #1 minor league pitcher, but he's gone out a pitched like an ace. His ERA stands at 3.79. He has a fastball that reaches mid 90s along with a plus change. Cosart is the real deal. Give this kid some time and he'll develop into a quality 1 or 2 starter. Cosart will most likely remain with Philadelphia, but if they want to grab a major league arm like Dan Haren, they may be forced to move him.

#14 l 1B l Jonathan Singleton

Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws

Is Single-A too easy for this guy. He's torn up Single-A pitching all year. Like Brown he is the complete package. He has 10 home runs along with 49 rbis. He can not only hit for power but he can do it consistently. He has maintained a .328 average. Singleton has matured quickly. He's only 18.

#61 l P l Phillippe Aumont

High-A Clearwater Threshers

Aumont was the central prospect in the Cliff Lee deal. After being unsucessful in AA Reading (posted a 7.43 ERA) he was moved back down to Clearwater. In Single-A though he has found success. His 4.35 ERA is a bit high but he's is 1-0 with a save. Aumont's time will come but his potential is slipping.

#24 l OF l Anthony Gose

High-A Clearwater Threshers

Gose is blazing fast. Halfway through the season Gose has 28 steals. Gose needs to raise his average in the second half, which currently stands at .266. Gose isn't gonna be a power hitter, as he only has 4 home runs this year. He's more of the speed type player. Gose may be involved in a trade deadline move, due to the Phils surplus of outfielders.

#3 l SS l Jonathan Villar

Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws

Villar is another speed demon. His steal total stands at 33. Villar probably edges Gose when it comes to base running. But Gose has more hitting ability. Villar is the future of the shortstop position for Philadelphia. He needs to find more gaps and maybe get a few doubles or triples.

#21 l CF l Tyson Gillies

AA Reading Phillies

Gillies was acquired with Phillippe Aumont and JC Ramirez in the Cliff Lee/Roy Halladay deal. Gillies is a speed threat. He's been limited due to injury, but in his short time active he has not been impressive. Gillies could become a very talented player if he can stay more consistent with the bat. He is a speed threat, like I mentioned earlier, and plays outstanding defense.

#9 l C l Sebastian Valle

Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws

Sebastian Valle has power and there's no doubt about that. Midway through the year Valle has 52 rbis and 9 home runs. I guess I know why they could afford to trade catcher Travis D-Arnaurd, who ranked as a honorable mention in BA's mid season top 25 list. If Valle can raise his average up from .263 he'll be real dangerous.

#37 l P l Trevor May

Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws

Trevor May was considered by some as the Phillies best pitching prospect before the year started. However, he did not start well for Clearwater. In 14 starts with Clearwater he went 5-5 with a 5.01 ERA. May has faired a little better with the Low-A team but still has a ERA over 5. May has plus stuff he needs to improve his control. If May's performance picks up in the next few weeks he may become a trade chip for a lower level player.

#18 l OF l Leandro Castro

Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws

Castro is a triple threat. He can run, hit in the runs, and hit for average. On a team with Jonathan Singleton, Jonathan Villar, and Sebastian Valle, Castro is the man who leads them all with 56 rbis. He also has 15 stolen bases to his credit. His .273 average will probably climb, especially if he hits a hot streak in the late part of the season. I really like this guy and think he is underrated and overlooked by most.

Honorable Mention:

#19 l C l Joel Naughton l High-A Clearwater Threshers

#40 l 1B l Matthew Rizzotti l AA Reading Phillies

#23 l OF l Jiwan James l Low-A Lakewood Blueclaws

# -- l P l Michael Stutes l AAA Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs

#27 l P l Scott Mathieson l AAA Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs

#4 l SS l Freddy Galvis l AA Reading Phillies

#27 l P l Jesus Sanchez l High-A Clearwate Threshers

3 Straight Walkoffs

2010-07-11T05:54:00.000-07:00

Every thing went well for the Phillies, in the 3rd game of their Cincinnati Reds series. For a 3rd straight time, the Phillies capped off their victory with a walkoff win. Saturdays hero, Jimmy Rollins, while on Thursday and Friday Brian Schneider and Ryan Howard went yard to win the game.

Roy Halladay entered a pitching duel with Reds pitcher Tim Wood, that lasted the first 9 innings. Both pitchers would have had shutouts if the game didn't go into extras. As you may expect, they were dominant. In fact, Tim Wood took a perfect game into the 9th inning. It was spoiled by recently activated catcher Carlos Ruiz. Roy Halladay pitched a gem of his own going 9 innings with only 5 hits and 9 strikeouts.

Brad Lidge and Jose Contreras held down the fort after the 9th, both pitching scoreless innings.

Bottom of the 11th, 2 outs, Jimmy Rollins at the plate, men on first and second, CRACK!, base hit Carlos Ruiz comes around to score and the Phillies win it once again in extras.