Spring Training Happenings Update

My Fellow Phans,


Can you tell that I am bored at work? This is the third, and possibly not last, blog post coming at you this morning.

Unlike the past two posts that have involved injuries to some of our most beloved Phillies, this post is one of positive notes and good tidings. I know that it has only been a small dosage thus far, but the Phillies’ rotation already appears to be at mid-season form just a couple starts into Spring Training.

The 6 starters, and yes I am including Kyle Kendrick in the last, have pitched unbelievably this spring and their ERA rests around 2.00. Only two of the starters have allowed earned runs and they may not be the ones you would guess. Cliff Lee has allowed 2 earned in 6 innings, Joe Blanton has allowed 2 runs in 6.2 innings pitched, and Roy Oswalt has allowed an earned run in 2 innings, with his second spring start coming today. Cole Hamels, Roy Halladay, and Kendrick have thrown 16 scoreless innings thus far this spring.

Now, I am not trying to get ahead of myself, I am just updating you on what is occurring down in Clearwater.

Offensively, it has been pretty much the lesser known guys that have stepped it up. Ben Francisco has posted a .417 average while leading the team in RBIs and is tied for the lead in homers with John Mayberry (.364 2 HR) and Ryan Howard. Howard, whom has evidently taken a liking to his improved batting stance, has mashed a pair of homers, knocked in 4 runs, and is hitting a crisp .350.

Another surprising standout has been Wilson Valdez, whose .611 batting average is tops amongst the roster players. His 8 hits are tied with Francisco for the team lead.

Non- Roster invites are also standing out as well. Josh Barfield is hitting .711 on the spring gathering 5 hits in just 7 at bats. Delwyn Young has been extremely impressive this spring knocking in a pair of runs with 7 hits while batting at a .381 clip.

Regulars, Jimmy Rollins (.190) and Raul Ibanez (.200) have been struggling this spring, but it is still early and they have plenty of time to pick it up.

I will keep you guys posted on the happenings down in Florida.

Until we meet again Phillies Fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies!