***OFFICIAL Philadelphia Phillies 2010 Thread*** (1 Viewer)

[Lehigh98]

Another fun ride last year and most most of the key pieces will be intact for next year.

Starting this early as there has already been alot of activity.

Please check in with any new developments or what your thoughts are on the team's moves.

 

[Lehigh98]

Offseason moves so far:

January 7, 2010 - Signed Dane Sardinha © to a Minor League contract.

January 6, 2010 - Signed RP Danys Baez to a two-year contract.

December 16, 2009 - Trade Cliff Lee to the Mariners for Phillippe Aumont, JC Ramirez, and outfielder Tyson Gillies.

December 16, 2009 - Trade Kyle Drabek, Michael Taylor, and Travis D'Arnaud to the Blue Jays for Roy Halladay.

December 11, 2009 - Signed Chris Duffy (OF) to a Minor League contract.

December 11, 2009 - Signed Cody Ransom (3B) to a Minor League contract.

December 8, 2009 - Signed OF/1B Ross Gload to a two-year $2.6 MM contract.

December 3, 2009 - Signed 2B (now 3B) Placido Polanco to a three-year $18MM contract with mutual option for a fourth.

December 3, 2009 - Signed IF Juan Castro to a one-year $750K contract with club option for 2011.

December 1, 2009 - Signed catcher Brian Schneider to a two-year contract. ($1.25MM in 2010 & $1.5MM in 2011)

November 25, 2009 - Signed Paul Hoover ©, Andy Tracy (1B), Wilson Valdez (SS), and Dewayne Wise (OF) to Minor League contracts.

November 17, 2009 - Eric Bruntlett refused an outright assignment to Lehigh Valley and elected to become a FA.

November 9, 2009 - Declined to exercise the 2010 option ($5.5MM) on 3B Pedro Feliz.

November 6, 2009 - Exercised the 2010 contract option ($9MM) on LHP Cliff Lee.

Free Agents:

Pedro Feliz - Signed by Houston to one-year $4.5 MM contract.

Clay Condrey - Signed by Minneapolis to one-year contract.

Eric Bruntlett - Signed by Washington to one-year Minor League contract.

Jack Taschner - Signed by Pittsburgh to one-year Minor League contract.

Scott Eyre - Retired

Brett Myers - Signed by Houston to one-year $5 MM contract.

Pedro Martinez

Chan Ho Park

Matt Stairs

Paul Bako

Miguel Cairo

Tyler Walker

Arbitration Eligible:

Shane Victorino

Carlos Ruiz

Joe Blanton

Chad Durbin

 

[Lehigh98]

Lidge, Ibanez, Eyre to have surgery

PHILADELPHIA -- Phillies closer Brad Lidge will have surgery on his right elbow on Wednesday.

Lidge is scheduled to have a loose body removed and Dr. Michael Ciccotti also will evaluate his right flexor/pronator tendon.

General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. also announced Saturday night that outfielder Raul Ibanez and reliever Scott Eyre will have surgery on Monday. Dr. Bill Meyers will repair Ibanez's sports hernia and Ciccotti will remove loose bodies from Eyre's left elbow.

Lidge led the majors with 11 blown saves this season but was better in the playoffs as the Phillies reached the World Series before losing to the Yankees in six games. Ibanez hit a career-high 34 homers in his first season with Philadelphia. Eyre had a 1.50 ERA in 42 games.

 

[Lehigh98]

With the Phils declining Feliz's option, what do you think the plan is at 3B? Who would you like to see at 3B next year?

Don't know the farm players well enough to know if anyone is ready to come up next year.

Guess the options are to call someone up, resign Pedro, trade, or look at the current FA's...

Free Agent Tracker

Updated: November 10, 2009

Player Age Status Old Team New Team Years Dollars Rank

Adrian Beltre 30 Free Agent Seattle -- NR

Aaron Boone 36 Free Agent Houston -- NR

Joe Crede 31 Free Agent Minnesota -- NR

Mark DeRosa 34 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Chone Figgins 31 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Troy Glaus 33 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Adam Kennedy 33 Free Agent Oakland -- NR

Melvin Mora 37 Free Agent Baltimore -- NR

Robb Quinlan 32 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Juan Uribe 30 Free Agent San Francisco -- NR

 

[Billy Bats]

Randy Miller was saying that the Phils would entertain a Hamels for Halladay type of deal. They wouldn't actively shop Cole but they would listen to offers. He says the higher ups are getting frustrated with him, his unwillinness to learn a third pitch and just being stubborn, nit taking advice from teammates and coaches.

He went onto say that we would be most interested in signing DeRosa to play third base, and that we probably won't afford Figgins. Also that resigning Feliz ain't out of the question depending on the market.

 

[Billy Bats]

With the Phils declining Feliz's option, what do you think the plan is at 3B? Who would you like to see at 3B next year?

Don't know the farm players well enough to know if anyone is ready to come up next year.

Guess the options are to call someone up, resign Pedro, trade, or look at the current FA's...

Free Agent Tracker

Updated: November 10, 2009

Player Age Status Old Team New Team Years Dollars Rank

Adrian Beltre 30 Free Agent Seattle -- NR

Aaron Boone 36 Free Agent Houston -- NR

Joe Crede 31 Free Agent Minnesota -- NR

Mark DeRosa 34 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Chone Figgins 31 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Troy Glaus 33 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Adam Kennedy 33 Free Agent Oakland -- NR

Melvin Mora 37 Free Agent Baltimore -- NR

Robb Quinlan 32 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Juan Uribe 30 Free Agent San Francisco -- NR

1. Figgins2. DeRosa

3. Feliz

Something tells me we're goingto sign Beltre, which I don't want any part of.

 

[Domination]

With the Phils declining Feliz's option, what do you think the plan is at 3B? Who would you like to see at 3B next year?

Don't know the farm players well enough to know if anyone is ready to come up next year.

Guess the options are to call someone up, resign Pedro, trade, or look at the current FA's...

Free Agent Tracker

Updated: November 10, 2009

Player Age Status Old Team New Team Years Dollars Rank

Adrian Beltre 30 Free Agent Seattle -- NR

Aaron Boone 36 Free Agent Houston -- NR

Joe Crede 31 Free Agent Minnesota -- NR

Mark DeRosa 34 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Chone Figgins 31 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Troy Glaus 33 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Adam Kennedy 33 Free Agent Oakland -- NR

Melvin Mora 37 Free Agent Baltimore -- NR

Robb Quinlan 32 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Juan Uribe 30 Free Agent San Francisco -- NR

I would like to see them make a run at Garret Atkins.

 

[Lehigh98]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

 

[Snotbubbles]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Figgins isn't coming here, he'll be too expensive. But if he did, he'd be either 1 or 2 in the lineup.Question to 4x champ. Why don't you want any parts of Beltre? He's Pedro Feliz with a better bat and he probably won't break the bank like Figgins will.

 

[Please See Mine]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Figgins isn't coming here, he'll be too expensive. But if he did, he'd be either 1 or 2 in the lineup.Question to 4x champ. Why don't you want any parts of Beltre? He's Pedro Feliz with a better bat and he probably won't break the bank like Figgins will.

Anthony Gargano seemed to feel that Beltre is a good possibility. Dave Sims (M's play-by-play guy) was on the show yesterday and claimed that Beltre's power numbers were really hurt by Safeco. Raul number 2?

 

[Snotbubbles]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Figgins isn't coming here, he'll be too expensive. But if he did, he'd be either 1 or 2 in the lineup.Question to 4x champ. Why don't you want any parts of Beltre? He's Pedro Feliz with a better bat and he probably won't break the bank like Figgins will.

Anthony Gargano seemed to feel that Beltre is a good possibility. Dave Sims (M's play-by-play guy) was on the show yesterday and claimed that Beltre's power numbers were really hurt by Safeco. Raul number 2?

With what's out there, I actually think Beltre is the best fit for this team. He's at worst, a gold glove third baseman that will duplicate what Feliz did in that spot. At best, he'll bring power to the 7 slot that Feliz just never did, have a better OPS and be a threat on the bases with his speed.

 

[Billy Bats]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Well acquiring a true leadoff hitter in Figgins, JRoll gets bumped down to 7th in the order.

 

[Billy Bats]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Figgins isn't coming here, he'll be too expensive. But if he did, he'd be either 1 or 2 in the lineup.Question to 4x champ. Why don't you want any parts of Beltre? He's Pedro Feliz with a better bat and he probably won't break the bank like Figgins will.

I just don't think he's that much of an improvement over Feliz. He had a breakout year in his walk year, signed a huge contract and didn't do much after that, it's always been a warning sign for me, tells me he might be a bit of a dog. He's gonna cost double what Feliz will and won't be too much of an upgrade IMO. If we are going to drop some coin, give me Figgins.

 

[Snotbubbles]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Figgins isn't coming here, he'll be too expensive. But if he did, he'd be either 1 or 2 in the lineup.Question to 4x champ. Why don't you want any parts of Beltre? He's Pedro Feliz with a better bat and he probably won't break the bank like Figgins will.

I just don't think he's that much of an improvement over Feliz. He had a breakout year in his walk year, signed a huge contract and didn't do much after that, it's always been a warning sign for me, tells me he might be a bit of a dog. He's gonna cost double what Feliz will and won't be too much of an upgrade IMO. If we are going to drop some coin, give me Figgins.

Feliz's OPS+ (last 5 years)85

79

80

81

81

Figgin's OPS+ (last 5 years)

101

85

117

82

108

Beltre's OPS+ (last 5 years)

93

105

112

108

82

Those numbers tell me that Beltre is more consistent at the plate then Figgins and is 10x the hitter that Feliz was. Plus Beltre is twice the fielder that Figgins is and may even be an improvement over Feliz in that aspect of the game.

 

[Billy Bats]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Figgins isn't coming here, he'll be too expensive. But if he did, he'd be either 1 or 2 in the lineup.Question to 4x champ. Why don't you want any parts of Beltre? He's Pedro Feliz with a better bat and he probably won't break the bank like Figgins will.

I just don't think he's that much of an improvement over Feliz. He had a breakout year in his walk year, signed a huge contract and didn't do much after that, it's always been a warning sign for me, tells me he might be a bit of a dog. He's gonna cost double what Feliz will and won't be too much of an upgrade IMO. If we are going to drop some coin, give me Figgins.

Feliz's OPS+ (last 5 years)85

79

80

81

81

Figgin's OPS+ (last 5 years)

101

85

117

82

108

Beltre's OPS+ (last 5 years)

93

105

112

108

82

Those numbers tell me that Beltre is more consistent at the plate then Figgins and is 10x the hitter that Feliz was. Plus Beltre is twice the fielder that Figgins is and may even be an improvement over Feliz in that aspect of the game.

I'm no so sure about the fielding part of it, Figgins has a career .969 fielding % compared to Beltre's .957. Add in the Figgins will walk and take pitches from the leadoff spot and steal you bases, I'm more inclined to take that over Beltre's power potential. We have plent of HR's, a real leadoff hitter would do wonders for this lineup, IMO.

 

[JaxBill]

I think they try to lowball a couple guys, wait for somebody to sign for less than market value, then go back to Feliz for much less than 5 Mil.

 

[Snotbubbles]

Not sure how Figgins would fit in, where would you put him in a lineup with Rollins and Victorino?

Figgins isn't coming here, he'll be too expensive. But if he did, he'd be either 1 or 2 in the lineup.Question to 4x champ. Why don't you want any parts of Beltre? He's Pedro Feliz with a better bat and he probably won't break the bank like Figgins will.

I just don't think he's that much of an improvement over Feliz. He had a breakout year in his walk year, signed a huge contract and didn't do much after that, it's always been a warning sign for me, tells me he might be a bit of a dog. He's gonna cost double what Feliz will and won't be too much of an upgrade IMO. If we are going to drop some coin, give me Figgins.

Feliz's OPS+ (last 5 years)85

79

80

81

81

Figgin's OPS+ (last 5 years)

101

85

117

82

108

Beltre's OPS+ (last 5 years)

93

105

112

108

82

Those numbers tell me that Beltre is more consistent at the plate then Figgins and is 10x the hitter that Feliz was. Plus Beltre is twice the fielder that Figgins is and may even be an improvement over Feliz in that aspect of the game.

I'm no so sure about the fielding part of it, Figgins has a career .969 fielding % compared to Beltre's .957. Add in the Figgins will walk and take pitches from the leadoff spot and steal you bases, I'm more inclined to take that over Beltre's power potential. We have plent of HR's, a real leadoff hitter would do wonders for this lineup, IMO.

Here's a pretty good article using sabermetrics to evaluate the FA 3b for the Phillies: http://crashburnalley.com/?p=582The only problem I have with it is it bases it's final analysis on 2009 WAR which is a bit unfair to Beltre since he was injured. The bottom line is that Figgins is better at getting on base and baserunning. No surprise there. When I look at Beltre's WAR for the last 4 years (not including 2009): 3.5, 2.7, 4.6, 1.9 and Figgins: 2.5, 2.8, .3, 4.4, it paints a slightly different picture. The question becomes, do you prefer Figgins as your leadoff so you can move Rollins and Victorino down in the lineup, or do you prefer Beltre's defense and power.

Another factor is cost and length, what effect does signing Figgins to 5 years/$50M do to bringing back a guy like Chan Ho. How will it effect re-signing Rollins or Victorino? Is Figgins Rollins eventual replacement at short? I don't know. I'm ok with whoever they get, I just don't want to be tied down Figgins for 5 years.

 

[Billy Bats]

Here's a pretty good article using sabermetrics to evaluate the FA 3b for the Phillies: http://crashburnalley.com/?p=582

The only problem I have with it is it bases it's final analysis on 2009 WAR which is a bit unfair to Beltre since he was injured. The bottom line is that Figgins is better at getting on base and baserunning. No surprise there. When I look at Beltre's WAR for the last 4 years (not including 2009): 3.5, 2.7, 4.6, 1.9 and Figgins: 2.5, 2.8, .3, 4.4, it paints a slightly different picture. The question becomes, do you prefer Figgins as your leadoff so you can move Rollins and Victorino down in the lineup, or do you prefer Beltre's defense and power.

Another factor is cost and length, what effect does signing Figgins to 5 years/$50M do to bringing back a guy like Chan Ho. How will it effect re-signing Rollins or Victorino? Is Figgins Rollins eventual replacement at short? I don't know. I'm ok with whoever they get, I just don't want to be tied down Figgins for 5 years.

Yep, I'd rather have more guys on base for Chase and Ryan, than more HR's further down the lineup. But then the other issue is, would Rollins accept being dropped in the lineup? He really believes he's a leadoff hitter, so a Figgins signing can cause some stirring of emotion in Jimmy, and that might not be a good thing. Fun to talk about but it's not a big concern for me either, I'm even ok if they bring back Pedro.

 

[Billy Bats]

I think they try to lowball a couple guys, wait for somebody to sign for less than market value, then go back to Feliz for much less than 5 Mil.

This is exactly how it's going to play out.

 

[Bogart]

I would love to see you guys take Figgins out of the AL West.

If the Angels lose him, Lackey and move Vlad on, that team looks a lot different.

 

[Please See Mine]

With the Phils declining Feliz's option, what do you think the plan is at 3B? Who would you like to see at 3B next year?

Don't know the farm players well enough to know if anyone is ready to come up next year.

Guess the options are to call someone up, resign Pedro, trade, or look at the current FA's...

Free Agent Tracker

Updated: November 10, 2009

Player Age Status Old Team New Team Years Dollars Rank

Adrian Beltre 30 Free Agent Seattle -- NR

Aaron Boone 36 Free Agent Houston -- NR

Joe Crede 31 Free Agent Minnesota -- NR

Mark DeRosa 34 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Chone Figgins 31 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Troy Glaus 33 Free Agent St. Louis -- NR

Adam Kennedy 33 Free Agent Oakland -- NR

Melvin Mora 37 Free Agent Baltimore -- NR

Robb Quinlan 32 Free Agent LA Angels -- NR

Juan Uribe 30 Free Agent San Francisco -- NR

I would like to see them make a run at Garret Atkins.

On WIP, Randy Miller just said that Chase Utley has been lobbying for Atkins, since they were roommates in college. Could be a good cheap option, if they put more money into pitching.

 

[Lehigh98]

A Hot Stove RefresherLet's catch up with where the Phillies stand as teams can sign free agents beginning Friday.First, some important dates to know:The Phillies have until Dec. 1 to offer salary arbitration to their own free agents.Free agents offered arbitration have until Dec. 7 to accept.The Phillies have until Dec. 12 to tender contracts to their remaining unsigned players.Everybody knows the Phillies are looking for a new third baseman. They would love Chone Figgins, but they are not expected to be in the running because he is seeking a reported five-year, $50 million deal. The Phillies already have $106.75 million committed to just 12 players next season, which does not include significant raises to salary arbitration eligible players Shane Victorino, Joe Blanton and Carlos Ruiz, plus upgrades to the bullpen and bench. The Phillies are going to look for a shorter, more affordable contract to fill their void at third. More likely targets are Placido Polanco, Adrian Beltre and Mark DeRosa. The Phillies have had interest in Miguel Tejada in the past, but he also might command too big a contract.The Phillies reportedly have expressed interest in right-hander Fernando Rodney, but if he can close elsewhere, I imagine that is where he would go.The Phillies have nine free agents: catcher Paul Bako, infielder Miguel Cairo, left-hander Scott Eyre, third baseman Pedro Feliz, right-hander Pedro Martinez, right-hander Brett Myers, right-hander Chan Ho Park, outfielder Matt Stairs and left-hander Jack Taschner.Park and Eyre, who are Type B free agents, seem to be the most likely players to return. Ruben Amaro Jr. said he has contacted Park's agent about bringing him back. Eyre, who had elbow surgery last Monday, said he will play for the Phillies or retire. If he decides to play, the Phillies seem interested. He is 5-1 with a 1.62 ERA in 61 games since he joined the Phillies in Aug. 2008.The Phillies have told Myers that he will not be back. If Stairs returns, it would on a Minor League deal.If Feliz returns it means the Phillies' plans to upgrade at third base did not go as intended. Amaro said last week that he has told Martinez that they have not closed the door on his return, but are focusing their attention elsewhere. It seems unlikely Martinez will be back.Amaro hasn't ruled out Bako's return, but he also said finding a backup catcher is a priority, which indicates they will be looking elsewhere. Taschner is expected to sign elsewhere. It is difficult to picture the Phillies signing Cairo to anything other than a Minor League deal.The Phillies have seven players eligible for salary arbitration: Blanton, infielder Eric Bruntlett, right-hander Clay Condrey, right-hander Chad Durbin, Ruiz, Victorino and right-hander Tyler Walker. The Phillies are expected to tender contracts to Blanton, Ruiz and Victorino. Durbin is a good bet, depending on how the Phillies rebuild their bullpen. The futures for Bruntlett, Condrey and Walker seem less certain.

 

[JaxBill]

Phillies have removed INF Eric Bruntlett, RHP Tyler Walker, C Paul Hoover, INF Andy Tracy and RHP John Ennis from 40-man roster. They are all now free agents.

 

[Billy Bats]

 

[Lehigh98]

Earth-shattering news...

Phillies sign former Met C Brian Schneider

PHILADELPHIA -- Free-agent catcher Brian Schneider and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed Tuesday to a two-year contract.

Schneider, who spent the last two seasons with the New York Mets, will be a backup to Carlos Ruiz for the NL champion Phillies.

"We feel Brian is ideal for our ballclub," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "He's a guy that we would feel comfortable with playing for an extended period of time, if needed."

The 33-year-old Schneider hit .218 with three homers and 18 RBIs in 59 games last season for the Mets. He threw out nine of 28 runners attempting to steal.

Schneider began his career with the Montreal Expos in 2000 and played with the Expos/Washington Nationals through 2007. He is a .251 career hitter with 59 homers and 356 RBIs.

Update: He has signed a two-year, $2.75 million deal, a source said. It will pay him $1.25 million in 2010 and $1.5 million in 2011.

 

[Billy Bats]

Report on 610 this morning says we are discussing a 2 year deal with Polanco for $10-12 million.

 

[Lehigh98]

Source: Phils pursue PolancoBy Jayson Stark The Philadelphia Phillies are targeting Placido Polanco as their next third baseman, according to a source familiar with their thinking. And they were making a "very serious" effort to sign the 34-year-old free agent Wednesday, the source told ESPN.com.Before Wednesday, the Phillies appeared to be locked in on three potential free-agent third basemen -- Polanco, Adrian Beltre and Mark DeRosa. But talks intensified with Polanco's agents Wednesday, a day after his old team, the Tigers, declined to offer him arbitration.Polanco is a Type A free agent, so the decision not to offer him arbitration means the Phillies could sign him without losing their first-round draft pick.There were indications Wednesday that the two sides were discussing a three-year deal.Polanco played for the Phillies from 2002-05. And their mutual familiarity appeared to be a major force driving their pursuit.Although Polanco has won two Gold Gloves at second base since the Phillies traded him to Detroit, he played 95 games at third as a Phillie. And the club seems to have no reservations about moving him back to third.The Phillies declined the option on third baseman Pedro Feliz last month to see if they could find a right-handed hitting offensive upgrade who could help balance their left-leaning lineup. They envision Polanco hitting second behind Jimmy Rollins, a move which would drop Shane Victorino lower in the order.

 

[whoknew]

I can't imagine the 3yrs/$18mm numbers being mentioned for Polanco thrill Philly fans too much.

 

[Parrothead]

Polanco is a nice hitter, but I suspect his arm strength will be an issue at third.. he's more a natural 2B man...

 

[Lehigh98]

Looks like its a done deal...

Phillies get new third baseman

Phillies get new third baseman

By Jayson Stark

Placido Polanco is returning to the Philadelphia Phillies, signing a three-year, $18 million deal, with a mutual option for a fourth year.

The contract includes a $5.5 million mutual option for 2013, according to a baseball source familiar with the terms. Polanco has 10 days after the 2012 World Series to decide whether he wants to exercise his option. If he does, the team either has to pick up the option or pay him a $1 million buyout. If he declines, he becomes a free agent with no buyout.

There are also $450,000 in potential annual award bonuses -- $100,000 for MVP ($75,000 if he finishes second, $50,000 if he finishes third); $50,000 each if he wins a Silver Slugger or Gold Glove; $50,000 if he makes the All-Star team; $50,000 if he's named to the AP, Sporting News or Baseball America all-star teams; $100,000 if he's World Series MVP; and $50,000 if he's the LCS MVP.

The 34-year-old infielder arrived in Philadelphia on Thursday morning to take a physical, and told NBC-10 TV's John Clark that he's "excited to join a championship team."

Before Wednesday, the Phillies appeared to be locked in on three potential free-agent third basemen -- Polanco, Adrian Beltre and Mark DeRosa. But talks intensified with Polanco's agents Wednesday, a day after his old team, the Tigers, declined to offer him arbitration.

Polanco is a Type A free agent, so the decision not to offer him arbitration means the Phillies signed him without losing their first-round draft pick.

Polanco played for the Phillies from 2002 to 2005. And their mutual familiarity appeared to be a major force driving their pursuit.

Although Polanco has won two Gold Gloves at second base since the Phillies traded him to Detroit, he played 95 games at third in Philadelphia. So the club seems to have no reservations about moving him back to third. And Polanco told NBC-10, "I feel very comfortable playing third base."

The Phillies declined the option on third baseman Pedro Feliz last month to see if they could find a right-handed-hitting offensive upgrade who could help balance their left-leaning lineup. They envision Polanco hitting second behind Jimmy Rollins, a move that would drop Shane Victorino lower in the order.

Polanco batted .337 at Citizens Bank Park while with the Phillies, with more walks (23) than strikeouts (20). And it's his plate discipline that appeals most to the defending NL champs. Polanco has never struck out 50 times in any season in his career. Feliz, on the other hand, had a 618-217 career strikeout-walk ratio, and the Phillies were looking to add more contact to a strikeout-prone lineup.

 

[belljr]

I can't imagine the 3yrs/$18mm numbers being mentioned for Polanco thrill Philly fans too much.

I'm not thrilled but not that upset about it.The best part of Polanco is he doesn't strikeout a lot. We needed that in this lineup.He may be a more of a liable than Feliz in the field though

 

[Lehigh98]

Phils reach one-year deal with Castro

The Phillies reached agreement on a one-year deal with veteran infielder Juan Castro on Thursday. Figures of the deal were not disclosed, and Philadelphia will hold a team option for 2011.

The 37-year-old Castro hit .277 with a homer and nine RBIs in 57 games for the Dodgers last season, making 19 starts at shortstop, eight at second base and two at third base, while also appearing in left field for two games.

The right-handed-hitting Castro batted .462 (6-for-13) against National League East teams in 2009.

"In Juan Castro, we have a versatile guy who can play multiple positions and is coming off a year in which he swung the bat fairly well," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said in a statement. "We're very happy to add him to our club, as he will give [manager] Charlie [Manuel] options."

Castro, a native of Mexico, sports a career .230 batting average in 15 seasons in the big leagues. He's made most of his appearances as a shortstop, but has seen ample playing time at second and third base.

On Thursday morning, MLB.com reported that the Phillies are closing in on a three-year deal with Placido Polanco to serve as their third baseman. Castro would join Greg Dobbs as a backup infielder.

 

[JaxBill]

Schneider is an upgrade over Bako but I still don't see where Castro, Dobbs, and [insert 4th outfielder here] are much of a bench.

 

[JaxBill]

Ross Gload added to the bench. Not bad, could be worse. Does this mean Mayberry has no chance of making the team out of spring training?

INDIANAPOLIS - And just like that, the bench is complete. The Phillies have agreed to terms on a 2-year deal with former Marlins outfielder Ross Gload, the team's Web site said last night. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr said he could not confirm or deny the deal, which the team's Web site said is pending a physical.Gload, who will turn 34 in April, presumably would fill the void that was vacated when the Phillies opted against re-signing veteran slugger Matt Stairs. A lefthanded batter who is familiar with a reserve role, Gload hit .261 with six home runs and 30 RBI in 230 at-bats last season. In an 8-year career with the Cubs, White Sox, Royals, Marlins and Rockies, Gload has hit .283 with a .736 OPS.The Phillies now have all five of their likely bench slots filled with lefthanded third baseman Greg Dobbs, righthanded outfielder Ben Francisco, lefthanded backup catcher Brian Schneider, righthanded utility man Juan Castro, and Gload.

 

[JaxBill]

SI article - "Phillies Boldly Raising Bar in NL"

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writ...p#ixzz0ZM4UFmOS

 

[Domination]

I love the Halladay rumors...But it is being reported that by signing Hallady long term, they would be bracing for not signing Lee long term. I don't see how it benifits them to trade a bunch of minor leaguers, and let Lee walk, rather than keeping Lee and having a great farm system.

BTW not thrilled with their signings. They are signing older veteran players, and eventually the age will catch up to them. As I expect it will with both Polanco and Ibanez at the end of their contracts.

 

[Lehigh98]

Not sure where I am on this one.

Of course I'd like to see Halliday on the team but at what price?

Don't want to mortgage the entire future for a guy with a 1 year deal.

Also not sure if I'm comfortable signing him to the kind of 5 year deal (through age 37) he'd probably want.

Would be great to win another now but this team could get old very fast.

Heard rumors of moving Cole in the deal to get him but where does that put us, what is the upgrade worth considering their contracts?

Will be interesting to see how this one plays out and if Amaro can pull another rabbit out of his hat with the inclusion of a 3rd team.

Rumors being kicked around:

- Ken Rosenthal of FoxSports.com says that the Angels and Phillies have emerged as the frontrunners in the Roy Halladay sweepstakes. Philadelphia is prepared to offer a package that will likely include J.A. Happ, plus either Michael Taylor or Domonic Brown

- Mark Feinsand of The NY Daily News spoke to a source who said "Don't rule out them including Cole Hamels"

- Halladay will likely require a contract extension in exchange for waiving his no-trade clause according to Rosenthal, and the Phillies would almost certainly have to make another move to fit Halladay into the payroll. Joe Blanton is a prime candidate to be that sacrificial lamb.

 

[Darth Cheney]

I love the Halladay rumors...But it is being reported that by signing Hallady long term, they would be bracing for not signing Lee long term. I don't see how it benifits them to trade a bunch of minor leaguers, and let Lee walk, rather than keeping Lee and having a great farm system.BTW not thrilled with their signings. They are signing older veteran players, and eventually the age will catch up to them. As I expect it will with both Polanco and Ibanez at the end of their contracts.

Cliff Lee will not sign. I think it was Bill Conlin who wrote last year that although the Lee move was a good one.....Roy Halladay would have taken a contract extension and basically retired a Phillie.

 

[Snotbubbles]

I love the Halladay rumors...But it is being reported that by signing Hallady long term, they would be bracing for not signing Lee long term. I don't see how it benifits them to trade a bunch of minor leaguers, and let Lee walk, rather than keeping Lee and having a great farm system.BTW not thrilled with their signings. They are signing older veteran players, and eventually the age will catch up to them. As I expect it will with both Polanco and Ibanez at the end of their contracts.

Cliff Lee will not sign. I think it was Bill Conlin who wrote last year that although the Lee move was a good one.....Roy Halladay would have taken a contract extension and basically retired a Phillie.

That's why you trade for Halladay extend him and take the Type A picks you'll get from Lee (and possibly Werth) to replenish the farm.

 

[Darth Cheney]

I love the Halladay rumors...But it is being reported that by signing Hallady long term, they would be bracing for not signing Lee long term. I don't see how it benifits them to trade a bunch of minor leaguers, and let Lee walk, rather than keeping Lee and having a great farm system.BTW not thrilled with their signings. They are signing older veteran players, and eventually the age will catch up to them. As I expect it will with both Polanco and Ibanez at the end of their contracts.

Cliff Lee will not sign. I think it was Bill Conlin who wrote last year that although the Lee move was a good one.....Roy Halladay would have taken a contract extension and basically retired a Phillie.

That's why you trade for Halladay extend him and take the Type A picks you'll get from Lee (and possibly Werth) to replenish the farm.

Good enough....the only big problem being that I'm sure they've slotted Taylor and Brown to replace Werth and Ibanez when their contracts are up. To get Halladay would cost you one of them.

 

[Snotbubbles]

I love the Halladay rumors...But it is being reported that by signing Hallady long term, they would be bracing for not signing Lee long term. I don't see how it benifits them to trade a bunch of minor leaguers, and let Lee walk, rather than keeping Lee and having a great farm system.BTW not thrilled with their signings. They are signing older veteran players, and eventually the age will catch up to them. As I expect it will with both Polanco and Ibanez at the end of their contracts.

Cliff Lee will not sign. I think it was Bill Conlin who wrote last year that although the Lee move was a good one.....Roy Halladay would have taken a contract extension and basically retired a Phillie.

That's why you trade for Halladay extend him and take the Type A picks you'll get from Lee (and possibly Werth) to replenish the farm.

Good enough....the only big problem being that I'm sure they've slotted Taylor and Brown to replace Werth and Ibanez when their contracts are up. To get Halladay would cost you one of them.

Personally, I'd keep Werth and trade Victorino.

 

[Lehigh98]

Grabbed the following post from here when looking up contract status...

Breaking Down Phillies Players Contract STATUS

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This Post's Objective Is to List how long Phillies players are under contract and under control of the team. It attempts to answer the Questions: At what point will these players be eligible for free agency and at what point do their contracts expire and which players are Arbitration Eligible.

Note: Example (2011-12) means a player would become a Free Agent during the offseason in between the 2011 and 2012 seasons.

I'll work my way backwards from those who have potentially the longest future with the Phillies to those whose departures may be imminent.

Frequently Mentioned But Still Haven't Arrived.

The top 3 Prospects in the Phillies minor league system who could become cornerstones of future Phillies teams in the next decade, OF Micheal Taylor, OF Domonic Brown and P - Kyle Drabek still have not made their major league debuts. The Phillies will control them for a full six years once their major league clock starts ticking. Taylor and Drabek are likely due in Philadelphia sometime next season with Brown arriving in 2011.

Not Yet Eleigible for Arbitration (under 2 years plus MLB seniority).

P- Antonio Bastardo, OF-John Mayberry Jr. and P-Sergio Escalona were the only Phillies players to make their major league debuts with the team in 2009. All have less than one year MLB seniority. They would have to be in the majors continuously for the next six seasons before they gained Free Agency (until the offseason between the 2015 & 2016 seasons). Antonio Bastardo was the only one of the three used by the Phillies in post-season games.

P- J.A. Happ has one year and 47 days in the majors. He will be arbitration eligible after the 2010 season and would become a potential free agent after the 2014 season. (2014-15)

P- Kyle Kendrick has about 2 full seasons in the majors. He is just short of the time needed for arbitration eligibility. HE'S Arbitration eligible after 2010 and gains free agency (2013-14).

Arbitration-Eligible (About 2 years and 30 Days minimum MLB Seniority).

Free Agent eligibility Date In Parenthesis.

OF- Ben Francisco also with 2 years plus MLB seniority, but unlike Kendrick he's eligible for arbitartion right now. Free Agency 2013-14).

2B- Chase Utley's LONG TERM contract expires after 2013 season. (2013-14)

C- Carlos Ruiz now has three years plus MLB seniority - Currently Arbitration EligibleFree Agent: 2012-13).

P- Cole Hamels - in same category as Ruiz. (2012-13)

P - Brad Lidge - His contract expires after 2011, but the club can extend it with a 2012 option year (2012-13, if option year is picked up.)

P- Ryan Madson signed through 2011 (2011-12).

P - J.C. Romero signed through 2010 with a 2011 option year (potential free agent (2011-12 including option year).

INF-OF -Greg Dobbs (signed through 2010. Potential Free Agent with six years in majors by 2011. (2011-12).

P - Clay Condrey contract expired, currently Arbitration-Eligible. Attains six years MLB seniority and Free Agency (2011-12).

SS- Jimmy Rollins - Long Term contract expires after 2010 but has one year option for '11 (2011-12).

OF - SHANE VICTORINO WILL ATTAIN SIX YEARS SENIORITY BEFORE HIS CONTRACT EXPIRES AFTER THE 2011 SEASON. (2011-12).

OF - RAUL IBANEZ has a three year deal through 2011. (2011-12).

1B - Ryan Howard signed a three year deal after the 2008 season. That contract expires after the 2011 season at the same time he gains six year MLB seniority rights for Free Agency. (2011-12).

P- Chad Durbin has five years seniority. His contract just expired but he is arbitration-eligible . Potential Free Agency ((2010-11).

P- Cliff Lee - Phillies exercised his one year option for next season (2010-11).

P - Jamie Moyer - Conract expires after 2010 season (2010-11).

OF- Jayson Werth - Contract expires after 2010 and he will be eligible for free agency at that time (2010-11).

INF-OF - Eric Bruntlett is in the almost the same category as Werth. Werth has already reached the six year minimum for free agency while Bruntlett will reach that milestone next season. (2010-11).

P- Joe Blanton and

P- Tyler Walker are 5 yr. MLB men - Both their contracts expired after 2009 and both are likely Arbitaration candidates. Both attain the minimum six years MLB seniority needed for Free Agency next season (2010-11).

Current Free Agents (2009-10):

3B - Pedro Feliz: The Phillies declined to pick up his 2010 option year, and Feliz is now a Free Agent.

Players with six Years MLB seniority whose contracts expired after the 2009 season who are now Free agents (2009-10):

P- Pedro Martinez

C- Paul Bako

P - Brett Myers

INF - Miguel Cairo

OF - Matt Stairs

P- Scott Eyre

P- Chan Ho Park

There is always the possibility that free agents can be re-signed by their previous team (typically - one year deals at lower salaries).

*PHILLY-BROWNSFAN*

(DENNIS ORLANDINI)

 

[Please See Mine]

nice list.

FTR, Hamels signed a 3-year deal after the WS win, so he is not a free agent like Ruiz.

 

[Please See Mine]

I love the Halladay rumors...But it is being reported that by signing Hallady long term, they would be bracing for not signing Lee long term. I don't see how it benifits them to trade a bunch of minor leaguers, and let Lee walk, rather than keeping Lee and having a great farm system.BTW not thrilled with their signings. They are signing older veteran players, and eventually the age will catch up to them. As I expect it will with both Polanco and Ibanez at the end of their contracts.

Cliff Lee will not sign. I think it was Bill Conlin who wrote last year that although the Lee move was a good one.....Roy Halladay would have taken a contract extension and basically retired a Phillie.

That's why you trade for Halladay extend him and take the Type A picks you'll get from Lee (and possibly Werth) to replenish the farm.

Rosenthal claiming that there is chatter about the Phils trading Lee to someone for prospects and then using those to trade for Halladay.Seems a little bit lateral to me, but I guess the theory is that they could sign Halladay to an extension at the time of the trade and then not have to worry about Lee's contract situation.

 

[JaxBill]

Andy Martino is blogging that Halladay and agent have checked into a Philly area hotel.

 

[Billy Bats]

Andy Martino is blogging that Halladay and agent have checked into a Philly area hotel.

Jim Salisbury(CSN) reporting that he's scheduled to take a physical for us.

 

[INRIhab]

"Reports are that Roy Halladay just ordered a turkey club with barbecue potato chips from room service."

Gotta love twitter, haha

 

[Snotbubbles]

If we can get Halladay (with extension) for just Cliff Lee I'm all for it. If we have to give up Happ, Taylor or Brown, I have my reservations.

 

[JerseyEagles]

If we can get Halladay (with extension) for just Cliff Lee I'm all for it. If we have to give up Happ, Taylor or Brown, I have my reservations.

I don't know about giving up Lee to get him. I'm not sure you could lose a better pitcher

 

[Lehigh98]

If we can get Halladay (with extension) for just Cliff Lee I'm all for it. If we have to give up Happ, Taylor or Brown, I have my reservations.

Sounds like Brown or Taylor. Have my reservations as well, we'll see, Amaro has earned some slack.