February 6, 2008
A season removed from winning the National League East pennant, the Philadelphia Phillies look poised to make another run at the playoffs.
National League MVP Jimmy Rollins will return at shortstop, as well as star second baseman Chase Utley, left fielder Pat Burrell and 2006 N.L. MVP Ryan Howard. Solid young catcher Carlos Ruiz will be back as well.
With the departure of Aaron Rowand to the San Francisco Giants, speedy Shane Victorino will move back to his original position of center field (from right field). Outfielder Michael Bourn, originally the choice for right field, departed as well.
The Phillies signed former Milwaukee Brewer Geoff Jenkins to man right field. Jenkins hit 21 homers last season.
The recently signed Pedro Feliz will play third base, taking over for Wes Helms, who will be a backup. Feliz had 20 home runs last year.
On the pitching front, ace Cole Hamels, up-and-comer Kyle Kendrick, veteran Jamie Moyer and Adam Eaton will all return to the starting rotation. Last year’s closer Brett Myers moves back to his original position of starting pitcher to round out the starting five and make room for newcomer Brad Lidge.
The bullpen emerged late last season after being shaky early on. Tom "Flash" Gordon will be the setup man for Lidge. J.C. Romero was solid all year, and Ryan Madson had a decent ERA.
The Phillies have a strong young team. Seven of the nine offensive starters hit 20 or more home runs last year, and the rotation is solid.
The bullpen is a question mark though, and with the rival New York Mets' signing of two-time Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana, the competition will be fierce.
Overall, the Phillies have as good a chance as anyone to reclaim the pennant and maybe go deep into the playoffs.
