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Season Wrap Up

The Phillies beat the Tampa Bay Rays, MLB‘s Cinderella story of 2008, to become the World Series Champs! What more needs to be said about 2008 except that Cole Hamels proved that he IS a # 1 starter with his performance in the playoffs. Just in case anyone was questioning his ability on baseball’s biggest stage. Also, despite an insane amount of K’s and a low average, 1B Ryan Howard once again had an MVP-type of season only to be outdone by a fellow first baseman who will go unnamed here for now.

Holes to Fill

For the first few months of the season there will be a gaping hole at 2B with Chase Utley‘s hip surgery sidelining him until around June. After that, they might want to look at replacing Feliz at 3B and if Boston gets Teixeira, they may be able to land Mike Lowell for less than usual given his hip injury. It’s a gamble, but might be worth it for the right price. Then, depending on what happens with free agen Pat Burrell (see below), they might need another OF to man LF and they’ll need someone with some power. Then there’s the problem with replacing Moyer in the rotation if they don’t resign him.

Free Agents

The reigning World Series Champion Philadelphia Phillies have  4 players from their championship team in free agency this off season and they are LF Pat Burrell (32), RP Tom Gordon (41), SP Jamie Moyer (46), RP Rudy Seanez (40). It is probably safe to say that everyone here 40 and over will not be playing for Philly in 2009 unless Moyer takes what they offer which might not be much. Look for a hometown discount if anything is offered at all. In the case of Burrell, it all depends on who else is pursuing him and how affected the market is this off season by the economy. Most guys seem to be getting equal or lesser value than they have in recent years.

The Outlook

I don’t see any reason why the Phillies won’t be in the running for a playoff spot next year, but I won’t go so far as 1st place in the NL East again until I see what transpires with the NL East via trade or free agency this off season. Also, if Utley comes back healthy and has as good of a second half (right after he returns from the DL) as his first half of 2008, that will be the equivalent of a HUGE trade deadline move! It can only help, all they have to do is stay healthy and within reach of first place until then.

Off Season Moves Made So Far
None so far.

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