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Report: Padres table Rowand-for-Linebrink deal

The two clubs may revisit discussions in spring training, Padres General Manager Kevin Towers told the Union-Tribune. The deal appears contingent on the play of outfielder Terrmel Sledge.

Rowand, who avoided arbitration and signed a $4.35 million deal three weeks ago, hit .262 with 12 homers and 47 RBI over roughly 65 percent of the season. Towers hasn’t hidden his affection for the center fielder. "He'll run through the wall for you," Towers said. "In fact, he has."

Scott Linebrink is one of baseball’s most dependable setup men, but last season was not his best. In 73 games, the 30-year-old right-hander went 7-4 with a 3.57 ERA (120 ERA+), getting hurt by the long ball. A former second-round pick of the Giants, Linebrink signed a two-year, $2.275 million contract with a vesting 2008 option before the 2005 season, which turned into his career year (73 games, 8-1, 1.83 ERA, 212 ERA+, 4 homers). The Padres would be dealing from depth. Last year, they fielded the National League's best bullpen, but were weak offensively.

Beerleaguer: Scott Linebrink is the missing piece. Ryan Madson and Geoff Geary aren’t the answers for back-end relief. I know it, you know it, and the Phillies know it. Howard’s homers and all the double-digit strikeouts by Hamels will vanish in smoke if they can’t hold leads against the better bullpens in New York and Atlanta. Here's hoping Sledge stinks up the Cactus League, and Jayson Werth turns into a nice complimentary outfielder.

Linebrink represents the kind of polished, high-pressure reliever the Phillies need. Forget the auditions. Linebrink gets the ball in the eighth, Geary works lighter spots in the middle, Matt Smith enters against left-handers, Antonio Alfonseca picks up the scraps, and Madson is free to serve in long relief. I can sleep at night knowing that's how they line up.

If it happens, odds are Jon Lieber will be flipped for an outfielder as discussed earlier. Milwaukee’s Kevin Mench and Texas’ Brad Wilkerson would be logical candidates - not great, but serviceable. Both were mentioned in earlier rumors. Or, the Phillies could set their sights higher with a long-term solution like Alex Rios, considering minor league depth is at an all-time minimum. This would take much, much more than Lieber, obviously.

Phillies dominate early rounds of TSN fantasy draft

When Jimmy Rollins called the Phillies the team to beat in the NL East, perhaps he should have added "when it comes to Top 20 rotisserie league picks."

For years, Bobby Abreu set the mold for fantasy baseball excellence: good average, nifty speed, plenty of power, lots of runs and RBIs. Isn’t it funny how after the trade, three Phillies have overtaken him in fantasy clout, according to The Sporting News' annual fantasy baseball preview?

Ryan Howard will be taken with the first pick in many leagues, and the reasons are obvious. The reigning National League MVP lead the league in home runs and RBIs, and kept his batting average surprisingly high. Before this season, the first pick was typically an even split between Alex Rodriguez and Albert Pujols. Now, it’s between King Albert and Deep Six, with A-Rod and Alfonso Soriano hanging in the shadows. Johan Santana is fantasy's top pitcher, and could also break the top three.

Chase Utley's all-around production sets him apart, but the 27-year-old all-star also stands to benefit from a shallow pool at second base. In TSN's mock draft, Utley was taken 10th overall, making him a first-round pick in a 12-team league. The next highest 2B, Dan Uggla, fell way into the fifth round. Next would be Robinson Cano, but after that, the waters grow tepid. One could make a reasonable case for Chase to go between six and 10 in any draft because of the weakness at the position.

After a 25-homer, 127-run effort, J-Roll pushed his way into the mid-second round, right where Derek Jeter, Hanley Ramirez and David Wright would also fall on most charts. Jose Reyes is fantasy's top shortstop, going sixth overall.

Last year’s fantasy season was all about young pitching, and this year there are a number of young arms with high ceilings. GMs who pounced on Justin Verlander, Francisco Liriano, Scott Kazmir, etc. did very well. For those reasons, it wouldn't come as a shock for Cole Hamels to break into the top 40. TSN has him going in the sixth round at 68, just behind Brett Myers at 66, but ahead of Kazmir, Verlander, Jared Weaver, and well ahead of fellow Phillie Freddy Garcia (145th overall). Strikeouts are a mighty luxury. Once you find them, you hold them for dear life. By the end of the season, Cole was averaging about 10 per nine innings, one of the highest ratios in the second half by any starting pitcher.

Fantasy owners did pretty well if they took a chance on Tom Gordon last season. The 39-year-old closer went in the 12th round (140 overall) in the TSN draft, but if you have the guts, you can do just as well trolling the waiver pool for the next J.J. Putz. The second-year Seattle closer is now a 6th-round selection (67th overall).

Pat Burrell rounded out TSN’s Phillies selections, going in the 17th round (194th overall). As for Bobby Abreu, he fell to the fourth round (43rd overall). More than one mock drafter wasn’t paying attention.

Phillies manager sorts his way through catching mix

READING, Pa. – Charlie Manuel offered scouting reports on Rod Barajas, Carlos Ruiz and Chris Coste during the team's recent caravan visit.

Barajas: "Barajas is a good defensive catcher, with some power … what I call ‘pull power.’ He’s got a good arm, and he’s a good catcher. That should be a good dog for us."

Ruiz: "Last year, he had a real big year, and he stayed healthy. By the end of the season, he started to show us what he was doing in Triple-A. He showed some power, and he swings the bat real good. He runs okay for a catcher, and he sees the ball good. We’ve heard that we want him to improve handling the pitchers, calling the game. I think it’s something he can definitely learn; something he can improve on."

Coste: "He can play a little bit at third base; I don’t look at him as someone you could leave in there for a long period of time. And he’s a good pinch hitter; he puts the ball in play and he’s got some power. (I then asked if he would need to win a job in spring training) He’s going to have to compete … I think he caught 46 games last season, late in the season. I remember how he played. We know what he can do. He caught big games for us down the stretch, and he was on the field in those games we were winning a lot. He got some hits that won games for us … He’s sitting right there in the mix."

Beerleaguer: Manuel thinks highly of Ruiz’s line-drive stroke, as do scouts. Scouts have actually backed off their previous high marks for defense, calling him adequate with an above-average arm, but were impressed with his surge in gap power last season. Pitcher/catcher chemistry isn’t Manuel’s field of expertise, and it seemed clear he’s getting second-hand input in that area. Overall, he didn’t seem concerned Ruiz could figure out the other stuff and become a major league contributor.

Manuel seemed a little too excited by Barajas, definitely influenced by his home run totals from two seasons ago. Cholly is a power guy all the way, even if it’s all-or-nothing spot power like Barajas. In reality, Barajas carries a big risk of becoming the lineup’s next tar pit of poor production due to his low on-base. Fortunately, Manuel seemed to recognize the importance of keeping the lineup moving in an earlier question. I was happy to hear that bottom-lineup production will be a big emphasis this spring.

As for Coste, Manuel recited his numbers (.328, 7 homers, 32 RBIs, 46 games behind the plate) as if he’d previously made a case for Coste to stay on at catcher. General manager Pat Gillick obviously felt otherwise with the signing of Barajas, and now Manuel has starting envisioning Coste as a primary bat off the bench. During my session, he did not mention Jayson Werth as a catching candidate, which is something Gillick has pointed out in his off-season interviews.

Greg Jacobs delighted to be reunited with Rowand

READING, Pa. -- Outfielder Greg Jacobs isn't the most recognizable face seen during the Phillies Winter Tour, but Aaron Rowand's former Cal State Fullerton roommate is hoping to change that. Find out where the reigning Northern League defensive player of the year is slated to play in 2007, and why he's been spending time with manager Charlie Manuel. [Audio]

Manuel defends reasons behind coaching overhaul

READING, Pa -- A long off-season started with a closed-door meeting between Phillies General Manager Pat Gillick and field manager Charlie Manuel. Afterward came the surprise dismissal of three coaches who were thought to be in good standing.

First base coach Marc Bombard, third base coach Bill Dancy and bench coach Gary Varsho were replaced by Davy Lopes, Art Howe and Jimy Williams. Howe later accepted a job as bench coach for the Texas Rangers and was replaced by former Seattle coach Steve Smith. Dancy, who’d been with the organization for 32 years, was offered a position within the organization.

The sweeping changes signaled an effort to improve in-game strategy and fundamentals, but some speculated whether Manuel was the one on the hot seat, and that the decision was orchestrated by Gillick. Both Williams and Howe have managed hundreds more games than Manuel, and would be qualified to take over should Gillick make a switch.

Either way, the fundamentals argument is a valid point. Lopes, for example, was brought in specifically for his base-running expertise. Williams and Howe, and also Smith, would help in other areas, like fielding and bunting. During the season, the club drew public criticism from Phillies special adviser Dallas Green following a sloppy start, setting off a firestorm that culminated with a pregame blowup between Manuel and the former Phillies boss. Green received a slap on the wrist from the organization and was no longer allowed on the field.

Months later, when the coaching changes were announced Oct. 3, they were accompanied by an official statement from the club, with Manuel's name attached to the release.

"I really appreciate what Marc, Bill and Gary did for the organization, but at this time, we felt it was necessary to make some changes," Manuel said in the statement.

Four months later, when asked whether he had additional input on the decision, the Phillies skipper would not commit to an answer.

"We wanted to sharpen up areas we thought our weaknesses was," Manuel said. "No one likes to change coaches really ... but at the same time, Jimy Williams is a tremendous baseball guy. I’ve known him a long time, as a manager and a coach; he’s got all the experience in the world. He's a tremendous teacher. He’ll be working with our pitchers as far as fielding and bunting. A pitching coach's job is not to teach a pitcher how to field a ball ... In Atlanta, when he was a coach, he had great success with Smoltz and Glavine. All those guys give him credit for bunting and hitting ... The guy we got at third base, Steve Smith, he’s supposed to be a tremendous third base coach. He’s got a little temper to him. He’ll get kicked out of a game every now and then. He's a tremendous teacher. He’s been around A-Rod his whole career, and the Seattle infielders and the Texas guys. I don’t know him real well, but I’ve seen him work.

"I think these guys bring a big addition to our staff," Manuel added.

Garcia passes physical, signs minor league contract

The 31-year-old outfielder spent two seasons playing in Japan, where he hit a combined .281 with 34 home runs in 663 at-bats. This winter in Mexico, he hit .294 with 10 home runs and 32 RBI in 33 games.

(From a Phillies news release) Garcia last appeared in the major leagues in 2004, when he split the season between the Mets and Orioles, hitting .229 with 10 home runs and 33 RBI in 85 games. Garcia also hit .286 (4-14) as a pinch-hitter that season.

In 488 career major league games, Garcia has compiled a .241 average with 66 home runs and 212 RBI for the Dodgers (1995-97), Diamondbacks (1998), Tigers (1999-2000), Orioles (2000, 2004), Indians (2001-03), Yankees (2002-03) and Mets (2004). He played in five games in the 2003 World Series for the Yankees, hitting .286 (4-14).

Beerleaguer: Garcia has been invited to spring training, but was not added to the 40 man roster, which stands at 39. If Garcia were to make the cut, he'd become the first Mexican-born Phillie since Fernando Valenzuela (1994).

Audio: Madson refocused after disappointing season

The league knows Ryan Madson. Now it’s time for Ryan Madson to know the league. Says who? Ryan Madson.

READING, Pa. -- Madson was the topic of last season’s “tastes great / less filling” debate on Beerleaguer. One side claimed his failure as a starter was due to poor command, the other insisted it was his lack of a third pitch. I asked the right-hander to set the record straight in this 4-minute, one-on-one interview. [Audio]

Cholly: High-average Helms will help charge offense

Phillies skipper Charlie Manuel is unwilling to commit to a third baseman this early, but likes what he sees in new acquisition Wes Helms.

READING, Pa. – When answering questions about the new high-motor core of next year’s team, Phillies manager Charlie Manuel is sure to include Wes Helms among the likes of Chase Utley, Aaron Rowand and Shane Victorino.

The 30-year-old third baseman signed as a free agent this offseason after a season that saw 10 homers, 47 RBIs and a .965 OPS in a part-time role with the Florida Marlins.

"Helms is a guy in the last two years, he’s changed his approach to hitting," Manuel said. "He’s a much better hitter; he hits for a high average now instead of going up there and swinging real hard trying to hit the ball out of the ballpark. He’s cut down on his swing; with two strikes he’ll hit the ball the other way. (He) works on hitting for a high average, and when he does that, his power will show up."

At this early stage, it’s difficult to guess how much time Helms will see at third, and Manuel would not commit when asked if the position would be decided in spring training. Abraham Nunez, who ended ended 2006 as the club’s third baseman, is still in the mix.

"Nunez came along after he started getting to play some," Manuel said. "He played tremendous defense, and not only that, was hitting better by the end of the year ... I feel like we got a better defense, especially if we play Victorino and Rowand both in the outfield. There’s Utley, Rollins and Howard, with Nunez at third, and Helms."

Hamels reflects on September game against Rocket

From the Phillies media event held Thursday (AP Photo from Wednesday)

Beerleaguer: “Late in the season against Houston you pitched eight innings with eight strikeouts in a game against Roger Clemens. Was that a career highlight …”

Cole Hamels: “I wish it was 14 strikeouts (Laughs). Yeah, obviously I don’t really remember much about pitching against him; I remember getting a hit off him though. That was more of a highlight for me than anything. I know I still have that ball framed. Just being able to pitch against a player of his caliber, a player I would love to be one day … just to be on the same field is a dream come true.”

Flash feeling fine, according to Phillies boss

The first in a series of short reports from the Phillies' press event in Reading reveals encouraging news about closer Tom Gordon.

READING, Pa. – Pitchers and catchers officially report in less than 20 days, but at least one member of the Phillies pitching staff is getting an early jump on spring. Closer Tom Gordon has been working out with a team trainer at the Phillies spring training facility in Clearwater, Fla., according to Phillies skipper Charlie Manuel.

“He’s doing good; he’s doing real good,” said Manuel. “I ask the trainer all the time. I’ve left Tom a couple messages, and I talk to our trainer about once a week.”

The 39-year-old closer earned an All-Star nod last season, but wore down after the break, landing on the disabled list Aug. 14 with inflammation in his pitching shoulder. After an MRI revealed no damage, he battled back in September to finish with 34 saves, fourth most in the National League.

Despite his advanced age and history of arm trouble, Manuel feels confident his stopper will be set to go when baseball resumes.

“He goes in there a couple times a week and works out," Manuel said. "He’s doing well. He’s feeling really good right now.”

21 days until glorified jogging and stretching

Baseball deprivation hits hard, as a bubble of Arctic air seeps into the Atlantic Coast like a ruptured spleen. Fortunately, the Phillies caravan swings into Reading tomorrow with a nice, warm intravenous drip of optimism.

Otherwise, fans would be forced to ride the Chase Utley wave until Feb. 14 when pitchers and catchers report, a time when hundreds of retirees shed their winter hangovers by watching Jon Lieber do lunges.

Speaking of fingers (not that anyone was, except for anyone who’s reported on Antonio Alfonseca the last 24 hours) the 12-fingered reliever passed his physical and agreed to a one-year, incentive-laden deal, with $400,000 guaranteed, nearly $34,000 per finger. News of the finalized contract prompted Leslie Gudel of Comcast Sportsnet to quip "The Phillies may have found their setup man in Antonio Alfonseca!" Hey! How 'bout that!

Yesterday, Jimmy Rollins, Aaron Rowand, Charlie Manuel and others gave the Philadelphia press corps an overdose of hope. Rollins went on a prime-time bender about how the Phillies should be considered favorites to win the NL East, and how he likes the pitching staff, and then this crazy rant about how he remodeled his basement and turned it into a workout room - and get this - is actually using it. Enough with the sunshine, J-Roll. If you want to talk baseball in January, I suggest you take your cues from a more grounded source, like our very own comment thread. Current topic: Which depression-era uniform readers like best.

Tomorrow, the public relations zeppelin circles southeastern Pennsylvania, giving its mostly Californian cargo an aerial tour of such landmarks as Limerick Power Plant and Zern’s Farmers Market. Yesterday, Cole Hamels spoke with dusty reporters about his blossoming career. The 23-year-old left-hander and recent newlywed reportedly spent the offseason in Philadelphia to "experience the Philadelphia experience," which is to say, "experience Philadelphia’s weird obsession with its football team." Hamels was later seen, along with bespeckled handler Scott Palmer, at the Sixers/Hornets game for "Phillies Night at the Sixers." The Sixers won 102-96, with Ryan Howard scoring a game-high 31.

$85 million man: Utley signs for seven more seasons

Baseball's best second baseman is a Philadelphia Phillie through the 2013 season, as Chase Utley and the Phillies agreed to a seven-year, $85 million contract announced Sunday morning. The contract covers Utley's three arbitration years and first four years of free agency.

Utley, now symbolically locked in as Philadelphia's new cornerstone athlete, hit .309 with 40 doubles, 32 home runs, 102 RBI and 131 runs scored last season, unbelievably his first complete season as a full-time player. He also assembled a 35-game hitting streak (June 23-August 3), which tied for the 10th-longest in major league history. Utley became just the 15th player in major league history -- and second Phillie -- to compile a .300 average, 200 hits, 30 home runs, 100 RBI, 40 doubles and 130 runs in one season. Hardball Times rates him as the most productive second baseman in baseball. Over the past two seasons (2005-06), Utley leads all major league second basemen in home runs (57), RBI (197), hits (350) and runs (217).

Utley was originally selected by the Phillies in the first round of the 2000 draft out of UCLA (15th overall). He has spent his entire professional career with the club and owns a .290 career average with 75 home runs and 285 RBI in 444 games.

Beerleaguer: It would be impossible to love the deal, or the player, any more. Cheers to the Phillies for restoring our faith, and to Utley for reigniting our passion. What a tremendous, tremendous boost for the Phillies organization.

Two arbitration cases remain in Geoff Geary and Brett Myers, and a raise for Ryan Howard still looms. How this deal will impact the historically frugal Phillies' pockets remains to be seen. Pat Burrell, still the highest-paid player, could also land back on the market, in addition to Jon Lieber, who's due to make $7.5 million.

Beerleaguer 2007 Phillies season preview project

For your consideration, Beerleaguer's leg of the NL East preview exchange has been posted at Chris Needham's Capitol Punishment. [Link].

This preview was written last week before the Gillick interview, otherwise I would have tweaked a few areas, including a better outlook for Joe Bisenuis and a worse prediction for Chris Coste. The plan is to send this to other NL East blogs in exchange for their own team preview, but I intend to run a thorough, poetic season preview in this space closer to the season using this first draft as a foundation. Readers are encouraged to add comments or make changes in the thread below. Thanks to your dedication and insight, I'm confident we can construct the best independent Phillies preview available on the planet. Here's the latest draft ...

Bullpen woes could hinder high-motor Phillies

Jason Weitzel / Beerleaguer

What started as a mission to land Alfonso Soriano and trade Pat Burrell ended with the acquisition of a couple of starting pitchers, positional reinforcements and a beleaguered slugger back for another round.

With less than a month until spring training, the 2007 Phillies forecast into a sound team, but certainly no ringer. Led by reigning National League MVP Ryan Howard, all-star Chase Utley and star shortstop Jimmy Rollins, the nucleus has evolved into what writers are calling a “high-motor” changing of the guard. Nevertheless, there are questions, including serious concerns about the bullpen.

Starting pitching: The Phillies have three pitchers in Freddy Garcia, Brett Myers and Cole Hamels, all at different stages of their career, and one could make a reasonable case for all of them as the team’s No. 1 starter. Knowing Charlie Manuel’s tendencies, Garcia, acquired from the White Sox for Gavin Floyd and Gio Gonzalez, holds the inside track after a 17-win season. The right-hander could become a dominant force in the NL East, but at 31, he’s logged a lot of miles and his velocity has slipped. Nearing prime, Myers has shown flashes of brilliance, but gets in his own way. His curveball may be the best pitch in the organization, plus, he added a splitter late in the season. Some see a slow-but-steady career rise, but others doubt his mental makeup. The cheap homer is his worst enemy. His pending arbitration could get hairy. At 23, Hamels lords over the mound like a seasoned vet. If he can avoid the injury bug and master his breaking pitch, the sky’s the limit. If Myers’ curve isn’t the best pitch in the organization, Hamels’ change-up is. Fans quietly believe he is "the one." Moyer re-upped for two seasons and brings much-needed experience to the staff. The 44-year-old vet was a savvy late-season addition and is considered a good guy to have around the young players like Hamels. The fifth starter is less certain, with Eaton as the likely choice. Originally a first-round pick of the Phils, he signed a three-year, $24 million deal in November, but has missed significant time due to problems with this pitching finger. Jon Lieber is due to make $7.5 million this season and indications are the Phillies want to move him for bullpen help. At this late stage, it’s likely Lieber will be in Clearwater to audition for scouts before any deal is made, or he could stick around as insurance. Health is the primary concern of an otherwise solid rotation.

Bullpen: Nobody seems to know the status of Tom Gordon’s shoulder, but if last season is any indication, the aging closer is holding on by a thread. An all-star first half quickly dissolved after the break. When he returned from the shelf, his curve had no bite and he wasn’t dependable in tight spots. They also have no sure answer for the setup role. Geoff Geary had a surprising year, displayed excellent command and kept the ball down, but doesn’t have the stuff most setup men have. Ryan Madson does, but after a back-and-forth season, nobody knows where he’s at. Matt Smith, acquired from the Yankees in the Bobby Abreu deal, defaults as the top left-hander. Pending a physical, Antonio Alfonseca is in the mix, along with a cast of inexperienced hopefuls. In a recent interview, GM Pat Gillick named 24-year-old Joe Bisenius as someone who could emerge in spring training.

Infield: Wes Helms was brought in to erase several seasons of offensive futility at third, but the problem is he’s never held a regular job. Flyweight hitter Abraham Nunez will revert back to futility infielder, but could see more time at third than most fans are expecting. Rollins, Utley and Howard need no further mention, but contract-wise, Utley is looking at about a $5 million raise, although the Phillies may try to hammer out a long-term deal. After landing high-profile representation with Derek Jeter's agent, Howard’s situation is starting to make fans uneasy.

Outfield: Bodies don’t equal depth for the Phillies outfield. They’ll find out this season whether Shane Victorino can handle a full-time role, but some feel his small size, wild swing and lack of power may translate better as a fourth outfielder. Burrell was hounded by slow healing foot problems and will look to get fickle fans off his back. It’s important to note he ended last season as a part-time player, losing his job in the heat of a Wild Card race. However, he is still considered Howard’s primary lineup protection, a hot topic of stathead/seamhead debate this offseason. Aaron Rowand returns to center field and is entering his walk year. Jayson Werth is an intriguing addition and could pick up at bats if his wrist is ready. Beyond that, journeyman Karim Garcia, rookie burner Michael Bourn, switch-hitting speedster Chris Roberson and multi-purpose reservist Greg Dobbs will battle for final spots.

Catching: The Phillies signed Rod Barajas away from Texas, but second-year man Carlos Ruiz is the player to watch. Expect a fairly even split between the two, with Ruiz emerging late once he gains trust from a head-strong rotation. Following a Cinderella season of unexpected clutch hitting, 34-year-old Chris Coste could emerge as their primary pinch hitter, or could miss the cut altogether. He does not figure to see much time behind the plate.

Expectations: By now, fans are conditioned for the same result year after year, where the Phillies hover close to the Wild Card but ultimately fall short. They desperately need a strong start following two consecutive seasons of April futility if they are to make believers out of weary fans. Once again, it could all boil down to pitching, but watch out for problems at third, catcher and in the outfield. The season could hinge on the bullpen.

Positional Depth Chart:
C: Rod Barajas, Carlos Ruiz, Chris Coste, Jayson Werth
1B: Ryan Howard
2B: Chase Utley
SS: Jimmy Rollins
3B: Wes Helms, Abraham Nunez
Bench INF: Abraham Nunez, Greg Dobbs, Chris Coste, Randall Simon, Danny Sandoval
LF: Pat Burrell
CF: Aaron Rowand
RF: Shane Victorino
Bench OF: Jayson Werth, Chris Roberson, Karim Garcia, Michael Bourn, Greg Dobbs

Pitching Depth Chart
SP: Freddy Garcia, Brett Myers, Cole Hamels, Jamie Moyer, Adam Eaton, Jon Lieber
Cl: Tom Gordon
RP: Geoff Geary, Ryan Madson, Matt Smith, Antonio Alfonseca

Pitchers to watch in spring: Joe Bisenius, Fabio Castro, Clay Condrey, Eude Brito, Brian Sanches, Anderson Garcia, Jim Ed Warden (Rule 5), Alfredo Simon (Rule 5), Kane Davis, Zach Segovia, J.A. Happ

Gillick dishes the dirt in revealing radio interview

A guest of Jody MacDonald’s show on 950 AM, the Phillies GM gave listeners a taste of what they can expect this season. [Audio]

With the hot stove reaching an icy cool, this was a nice warm cup of cocoa. It’s as if Jody Mac read our thoughts. I encourage readers to listen to the entire interview.

The points that resonated most dealt with two players barely on the radar. Things continue to look grim for Chris Coste. When asked about the catching situation, Gillick restated his confidence in Carlos Ruiz and Rod Barajas, indicating Ruiz is here to stay. Meanwhile, it seems Coste has dropped out of the catching mix entirely; Gillick even went so far as to restate Jayson Werth’s ability to catch.

The kind of versatility Werth brings appears to be the top requirement to win a spot on the bench, and Gillick suggested that Coste will need to prove himself in the field. Jody Mac, in true Beerleaguer spirit, actually kicked off the interview with a Greg Dobbs question, and Gillick seemed excited that he can play all corners. Dobbs, Randall Simon and Karim Garcia were mentioned in the same breath as candidates for the left-handed bench spot, but it would seem that versatility is in Dobbs' favor.

The second mention of an unknown commodity focused on the bullpen. When asked which player had the best chance to emerge this spring, Gillick flatly said Joe Bisenius.

Bisenius, pronounced BYE-senius, had a breakout year in 2006 and impressed scouts this fall. The former 12th-round pick out of Oklahoma City University didn’t generate much buzz before the season, but after a few Double-A appearances, the Phillies knew they were sitting on something hot. The right-hander’s fastball tops 94-95 mph, but his bread-and-butter pitch is a nasty, late-breaking curve.

Additional points:
-- Gillick talked with manager Charlie Manuel earlier in the week about the lineup, including Pat Burrell’s role in it. Once again, Gillick attempted to "dress up" Burrell's numbers, as Enrico from the 700 Level also noted (Thanks for the heads-up on this interview, Enrico).

-- Because of control problems, Fabio Castro does not project into a late inning reliever just yet, but has the ability to be there down the road.

-- The amount of time Wes Helms sees at third base will be determined in Clearwater. Jody Mac wondered if it would be something like 70 percent.

-- Gillick did not get into too many specifics regarding contract negotiations, but suggested that Ryan Howard’s contract will be dealt with in February after the remaining arbitration candidates - Chase Utley, Brett Myers and Geoff Geary - are resolved. He also indicated that Ruben Amaro’s talks with the arbitration players were progressing.

Winter league playoff heroics
Several players had big nights in the winter leagues, reports senior correspondent Martin Smith. Carlos Ruiz hit a grand slam for Licey in Dominican League, Karim Garcia hit two homers for the Tomato Growers’ win in Mexico, and Chris Roberson has been hitting well and scoring runs in front of Vinny Castlla and Euribel Durazo, also in Mexico.

Post-Intelligencer: Lawrence leaning toward Phillies

Buried in today’s Seattle daily paper is this bit about right-hander Brian Lawrence, leaning toward Philadelphia employment. [Link]

The 30-year-old right-hander did not pitch in 2006 and is recovering from rotator cuff surgery. The former Padres hurler was part of the Vinny Castilla trade, but was shut down in spring training and was released after the season.

Lawrence has been working out in front of scouts this winter and has been offered several deals, including serious offers from Pittsburgh and Colorado. Seattle and San Diego have also offered deals. He is expected to decide where to sign this week.

In five seasons, Lawrence, who turns 31 in May, is 49-61 with a 4.10 ERA, averaging about 200 innings and 120 strikeouts in each of his full seasons. If this report is true, the Phillies could be looking at him as a sixth starter, further implying that Jon Lieber will be moved. The starting rotation appears set with Cole Hamels, Freddy Garcia, Jamie Moyer and Brett Myers, although Myers, who’s nearing abitration, is reportedly unhappy with the Phillies’ one-year offer.

Provided he's healthy, or even if he needs a little more time to recover, Lawrence might be an ideal swingman and represents a better answer than anything down of the farm. Considering the age and health of the starting rotation, the sixth starter could play a vital role this season.

Welcome back: Winter tour begins with media event

After the Eagles' season ends in heartbreak, the scoopless Philadelphia writers (empty press box pictured) flock to the Phillies' annual media hoo-ha to discuss the upcoming season. Here are some coverage highlights, from various sources.

Inquirer columnist Phil Sheridan discussed the club's new "high-motor" dynamic and pointed toward the team’s 36-23 record without Bobby Abreu and others (vastly improved starting pitching, better defense, hot streaks from unlikely sources, weaker opponents and favorable pitching match-ups not considered). Adam Eaton still feels stiffness in his finger during cold weather, but otherwise feels fine. Six starters is Charlie Manuel's concern, according to Pat Gillick's interview with Comcast. Fabio Castro has a very good shot at the bullpen, assistant GM Mike Arbuckle told Marcus Hayes of the Daily News. In that same space, Chris Coste used air quotes when he uttered the phrase "lack of experience."

Phillies claim INF Dobbs off waivers from Mariners

The 28-year-old lefty-hitting reservist split time between Triple-A Tacoma and Seattle, hitting .370 in 37 games with the Ms.

The former University of Oklahoma standout began the season at Tacoma and hit .314 with nine home runs, 55 RBIs and 14 SB in 99 games. In limited action over three big-league seasons, he’s a .257/.291/.351 hitter with two homers in 222 at bats. He's primarily considered a corner infielder, emergency outfielder and pinch hitter.

Beerleaguer: If it wasn’t clear already, it’s clear now: Pat Gillick loves the Seattle Mariners. That, and the Phillies are absolutely, positively uninterested in spending any more money, least of all for their bench. Whether it’s this pending business of arbitration, or some other mandate, expect only minor tinkering between now and spring. If Antonio Alfonseca and Karim Garcia pass their physicals, the 40-man roster will be filled.

If Greg Dobbs sounds like one of those faceless players from video game baseball, you’re not alone, but a few hopefuls will get to know his face quite well this spring. Things just got interesting for a list of bench candidates, including Randall Simon, Karim Garcia and Chris Roberson. Even Chris Coste could be feeling the heat. Dobbs is younger, plays first and third, swings from the left and has the bonus ability to patrol the outfield in a pinch. Though his Major League experience has been minimal, his 121 big-league innings at 3B are indeed 121 more than Coste. Our resident Seattle fan, Deanna, had this to say earlier:

“I was actually a little bit surprised that Bavasi put Dobbs on waivers, but I guess the Mariners decided he was expendable when they signed Sean Burroughs to a minor league deal … Dobbs is a reasonable lefty bench bat, can play the corners and a little bit of outfield as well, and is probably better off in the NL where pinch-hitters and part-time players get more playing time anyway."

The club has wasted no time in adding Dobbs to the 40-man roster, and a proactive Web designer at Phillies.com already Photoshoped a Phillies hat on Dobbs' mugshot.

Dobbs or no Dobbs, expect plenty of pink slips this spring. They’ve got enough fringe players to field two Triple-A teams.

Rowand avoids arbitration, agrees to 1-year deal

Phillies outfielder Aaron Rowand, pictured following his collision with the center field wall, will earn a base salary of $4.35 million, including award and performance bonuses.

(From a Phillies news release) - Rowand, 29, appeared in 109 games and hit .262 with 12 home runs and 47 RBI for the Phillies in 2006. Originally selected by the White Sox as a supplemental pick in the 1998 draft (35th overall), Rowand is a career .279 hitter with 66 homers and 258 RBI with Chicago (2001-05) and Philadelphia (2006). The Phillies have three arbitration-eligible players remaining: righthanders Geoff Geary and Brett Myers and second baseman Chase Utley.

Pitching-starved Nationals bracing for rough season

With pitchers and catchers reporting in less than a month, Chris Needham of Capitol Punishment provides an early rundown of the Phillies' beltway rivals.

Chris Needham / Capitol Punishment
"Pitching, pitching, pitching," is the tired phrase Jim Bowden has uttered at each and every opportunity since taking the job as Nationals GM, yet Nats fans are left wondering what kind of dreck is going to take the hill next year.

Pitching: Oft-injured John Patterson is inked in to the No. 1 slot for as long as he can remain upright. The other four slots are a grab bag of mediocrity, has-beens and never-weres. Mike O'Connor is the top returner, though he's battling an arm injury. Behind him comes a cast of new guys who've never lived up to their potential: Tim Redding, Jerome Williams, Colby Lewis, Joel Hanrahan, Brandon Claussen and Jason Simontacchi. They join the other returning players headed by Shawn Hill, who, if healthy, is a legit No. 3-4. Expectations are low, and it's likely the Nats will once again field one of the worst pitching staffs in the league.

Infield: Almost everything is set. After the Jose Vidro trade, the defensively challenged Felipe Lopez moves to second, opening up short for fan favorite (in hell) Cristian Guzman. Perhaps the 20 pounds he lost and the lasik surgery will revert him to his prior mediocre form instead of the crime against humanity that was 2005. Catcher Brian Schneider should rebound to be a roughly league average catcher. Nick Johnson, who's recovering from a broken femur, and Rookie of the Year runner-up Ryan Zimmerman round out the infield.

Outfield: With Austin Kearns in right, the Nationals will go with some combo of Ryan Church, Alex Escobar, Chris Snelling and the godawful Nook Logan for the other two slots. Manager Manny Acta has said centerfield is Logan's job to lose, which all reasonable Nats fans are hoping he does. Church continues to be on the trading block, though interest seems tepid.

Expectations: Nameless team officials have quietly whispered '03 Tigers in reference to expectations this year, so Nats fans are trying to find the silver lining. The last two years, I've penciled them for 75 wins. I can't see them coming close to that. With pitching this up in the air, 100 losses seems inevitable. If Patterson stays, and Hill or one of the other scrubs break out, they could conceivably get to 75. However, it's more likely they'll pass through 12 different starters before settling on three or four who can pitch under a 6.00 ERA.

Depth Chart:
C: Brian Schneider, Jesus Flores
1B: Nick Johnson, Robert Fick
2B: Felipe Lopez
SS: Cristian Guzman
LF: TBD. Chris Snelling, Alex Escobar, Kory Casto, Michael Restovich are possibilities
CF: TBD.  Ryan Church, Nook Logan are possibilies
RF: Austin Kearns

SP: John Patterson, with Mike O'Connor, Shawn Hill, Tim Redding, Jerome Williams, Colby Lewis, Joel Hanrahan, Jason Simontacchi and Brandon Claussen as possibilies.
Cl: Chad Cordero
BP: Jon Rauch, Luis Ayala, Ryan Wagner, Saul Rivera, Ray King, others

Chris Needham is the author of the Washington Nationals blog Capitol Punishment.He welcomes e-mail at chrisneedham@gmail.com.

Madson avoids arbitration, signs for 1-year, $1.1M

The 26-year-old right-hander went 11-9 with two saves and a 5.69 ERA in 50 games, including 17 starts in 2006. As a reliever, he was 3-4 with a 4.50 ERA.

The Phillies have four arbitration-eligible players remaining: Geoff Geary; Brett Myers; Aaron Rowand; and Chase Utley. As written earlier, it would come as no great shock to see one of these players moved, aside from Utley. According to league sources cited by the Daily News, Myers is not pleased with the Phillies' one-year offer. As for his pal Mad Dog, there’s no telling what the season holds.

Extracurricular Eagles
Because this is a Phillies site, it felt appropriate to deliver Beerleaguer's official year-end Eagles synopsis in a separate formatted PDF file rather than a typical blog entry. Call it a self-imposed separation of church and state to keep agnostics like RickSchuBlues satisfied. Click here to download Beerleaguer's 2006-2007 Eagles summary.

Report: Phils reach deal with former closer Alfonseca

According to the Miami Herald, the 34-year-old right-hander accepted a one-year contract worth up to $1.1 million yesterday. Details are limited, but indications point toward an incentive-laden contract. Update: The deal is pending a physical, which will occur after the Dominican season.

Alfonseca missed most of 2006 with elbow problems and was released by the Rangers in June. In 10 seasons, he’s 30-35 with a 3.99 ERA, to go with 121 saves. Last season, he was limited to just 16 innings, and 27 the year before.

This winter, he’s pitching with La Romana of the Domican League and was scouted by the Marlins. In 9 1-3 regular-season innings, he held batters to a .176 average (1.93 ERA) and has notched two saves. Since then, he has not allowed a run or walk in 5 1-3 round-robin innings.

According to the Herald, Alfonseca turned down the Marlins' offer of a one-year, $338,000 deal plus incentives. The Marlins have instead signed former Phillie Felix Rodriguez.

Beerleaguer: Alfonseca adds cheap experience, and probably satisfies both sides of yesterday’s debate to some degree. Besides closer Tom Gordon, he’s the only reliever on staff with playoff experience. If he stays healthy, you can bet Charlie Manuel will find significant use for him, including the potential for late-inning action. He has not been a closer since 2002 and is an unlikely answer for the setup role, which the Phillies could still address in a trade.

Call it going back on my words, but I'm mostly okay with this free agent signing, which looks like a fallback plan. Alfonseca had a career year just two seasons ago in Atlanta, in between ups and downs. That makes him no different than many veterans. I like that he brings a different look to the pen. He's big, intimidating and has been through the wars. He's a high injury risk with darkhorse 8th inning potential. This would bring the 40-man roster up to 38, with Alfonseca, Ryan Madson, Matt Smith, Geoff Geary and Tom Gordon as the most likely front-runners of the yet-to-be assembled 'pen. However, I would not expect a full, healthy season from the so-called 34-year-old.

Report: Howard finds representation in Jeter's agent

According to FOXSports.com, the reigning NL MVP will be represented by Casey Close, agent for Derek Jeter and Derrek Lee.

Few ballplayers earn as much in endorsements and share the spotlight more than New York's favorite son Derek Jeter. Howard, a class act and the new face of Philadelphia sports, deserves nothing less. Jeter is entering the seventh year of a 10-year contract and made $20.6 million last season. Howard is not eligible for salary arbitration until after next season, enabling the Phillies to control his salary for 2007. The Phillies are expected give Howard a $1 million raise over last season’s salary.

--- Catching up on Beerleaguer's running debate, if there’s one pitcher whose path cannot be predicted by anyone, it’s Ryan Madson. He prepared as a starter in 2006, failed, went back and forth for a while, until he finally settled into back-end relief during a tight Wild Card race. When it was all said, he was a relief pitcher who logged 134.1 innings. Career-wise, he’s been around the block. Bobby Cox and Willie Randolph know about the changeup. Nobody knows about the curve, including the Phillies. Physically, what is his delivery doing to his shoulder? Mentally, how’s the confidence? In the life of a reliever, that’s the name of the game. I’ve never doubted his toughness, and thought he pitched in some bad luck late in the season, but how much can he handle until it all falls to pieces?

--- Ron Villone. Now we’ve hit the bottom of the barrel. None of the remaining free agents should be seen as anything more than damage control, and Villone is not going to be the cheapest. He declined the Yankees’ arbitration offer and is looking for a two-year deal. If the Phillies are nervous about their current options -- and they will test more young arms this spring than in any camp in memory -- then resign Rick White to a minor league deal. Either way, none of the free agents will help them win a championship, so it’s probably better to use the opportunity to break the cycle of veteran retreads and test young players.

--- The Hall of Fame results deserve mention. Final voting: Cal Ripken Jr., 537 votes, 98.5 percent; Tony Gwynn, 532 votes, 97.6 percent; Rich Gossage, 388 votes, 71.2 percent; Jim Rice, 346 votes, 63.5 percent; Andre Dawson, 309 votes, 56.7 percent; Bert Blyleven, 260 votes; 47.7 percent; Lee Smith, 217 votes, 39.8 percent; Jack Morris, 202 votes, 37.1 percent; Mark McGwire, 128 votes; 23.5 percent; Tommy John, 125 votes; 22.9 percent; Steve Garvey, 115 votes, 21.1 percent; Dave Concepcion, 74 votes, 13.6 percent; Alan Trammell, 73 votes, 13.4 percent; Dave Parker, 62 votes, 11.4 percent; Don Mattingly, 54 votes, 9.9 percent.

I’ve never felt much passion for the Hall, but Tom Goodman of Swing and a Miss has a worthwhile take on Cal Ripken Jr., written in the context of his own timeline as an Orioles fan. [Link]

Baseball America hosts live Phillies chat at 2 p.m.

Submit your questions about the Phillies farm system in the comment thread below, and Beerleaguer will do his best to pass them along to Chris Kline of Baseball America during their live member-only Q&A. [Live Chat]

Martin’s question from last week is already loaded in the queue: Besides Matt Smith, did the Phillies acquire anyone remotely considered a Major League prospect in the Bobby Abreu trade (SS C.J. Henry, LHP Matt Smith, RHP Carlos Monasterios, C Jesus Sanchez)?

Phillies add farm depth with RHP Landon Jacobsen

The 27-year-old right-hander spent most of 2006 with Double-A Altoona (Pirates) and became a six-year minor league free agent after the season. The signing was reported in Baseball America’s transaction update.

Jacobsen, a 6-3, 220-pound former 50th round pick, went 14-9 with a 3.21 ERA, 80/55 K/BB in 26 games, earning the club’s Co-pitcher of the Year honor. His 14 wins were good enough for second in the in Eastern League, and his 30 career wins are the most in Curve franchise history. He also made two starts for Triple-A Indianapolis last season, going 0-1 with a 10.80 ERA.

Jacobsen figures to anchor the Phillies Double-A staff, and is pitching this winter with Caracas of the Venezuelan Winter League. In seven minor league seasons, he's 60-48 with a 3.25 ERA. [Baseball Cube]

Phillies take another shot in the dark with Garcia

Outfielder Karim Garcia becomes the latest acquisition, agreeing to a minor league deal after spending two seasons abroad. As the Phillies head closer to spring training, the body count rises, as do the question marks. [Link]

Remember how all the new acquisitions fell embarrassingly flat last season, contributing heavily to the slow start? Hold on to your hats, folks. The pessimistic fan recognizes that history often repeats itself. From Adam Eaton, to Karim Garcia, to Wes Helms, this season's batch of new additions are shaping up to be one, giant coin flip. In many cases, such as Eaton or Jayson Werth, the Phillies are banking on improvement over their career average. Neither has been able to stay healthy, and at this stage, both figure prominently into next season's plans.

Running down the roster, there's more mystery than a book-of-the-month club. The Phillies hand the hot corner to Helms, who's been unable to secure a third base job anywhere in the past. In right, Shane Victorino will run with the thoroughbreds as an everyday player, the consensus being he needs to maintain a high average in order to justify his offensive shortcomings, even with his strong arm and lightning speed. We'll see whether Major League pitchers feast on that wild swing after a full season of exposure.

Every team faces questions like these, and picking your spots to roll the dice and take a risk can often work to your favor. Then again, not every team will head into spring training in complete darkness about the back of their bullpen. Tom Gordon's shoulder is a puzzle nobody has solved, and they haven't had a reliable answer to the setup role in two seasons. Optimistically speaking, even with Gordon, Geoff Geary, Matt Smith and Ryan Madson, the Phillies have two open slots in a six-man 'pen, to be filled with Rule 5 picks, prospects or fringe talent. That's assuming Gordon is healthy and Smith is ready. GM Pat Gillick has indicated he will not add a free agent reliever.

The Phillies are wishing on a few surprises. Whether it's too much blind faith remains to be seen.

Karim Garcia selecting between Phillies, Rockies

According to his agent, the 31-year-old outfielder will decide today on a minor league deal with either club. He's been with the Orix Blue Wave of Japan the past two seasons.

Charitably speaking, Garcia last helped a Major League club in 2003. Best know for his high-profile service with the Yankees, the Mexican-born outfielder played himself out of majors in mid-2004 and has been in Japan ever since. He's actually done admirably well for himself there, hitting .281 with 34 homers in 664 ABs, according to the Denver Post. This winter, he’s lacing up with the Tomateros de Culican of the Mexican Pacific League and hit .294/.378/.587 with 10 homers during the regular season. He’s reportedly whipped himself into shape and has been scouted by the Rockies, but it also appears the Phillies are biting on his comeback attempt.

Meanwhile, the Rockies signed utility man Alexis Gomez today as a lefty bat off the bench, which could swing Garcia toward the Phillies. The Rockies are also talking with Sal Fasano. Thus the Phils and Rox are reaching similar lows in their offseason dealings. One can only assume these negotiations are happening in dark alleys, train yards and under overpasses.

In 10 seasons, Garcia is a .241/.279/.424 hitter with 66 homers and 212 RBIs. His last year in the majors, he had a .265 OBP. Defensively, he’s considered serviceable at all three positions. He was involved in some sort of brawl in 2003 and received probation.

If Garcia receives Pat Gillick’s suitcase full of cash, it would be for a minor league deal. Todd Hollandsworth, the subject of yesterday’s post, is seeking a guaranteed major league deal. Like Hollandsworth, the issue isn’t the signing of cheap bodies; it’s how much these cheap bodies actually help.

Report: Phils offer Hollandsworth minor league deal

The Philadelphia Inquirer says soon-to-be 34-year-old outfielder Todd Hollandsworth is seeking a major league deal, but is mulling a Phillies minor league offer. [Link]

Beerleaguer: This would be your garden variety annoying Phillies signing, where they acquire a name and nothing else. Knowing Charlie Manuel's "safety-first" propensity to go with veterans, there’s no question Hollandsworth makes the team if he accepts this contract. It would also mark the end of their free agent signing period. Hollandsworth is precisely the kind cheap measure that surfaces once the Phillies reach their threshold. Meanwhile, fans pull their hair watching second place finishes in the Wild Card.

I’ve never seen a team so fussy about their left/right matchups. It’s intolerably black and white. If a player hits from a certain side of the plate, it’s good enough for the Phillies. If a player had success at any point in his career, i.e. tagging right-handers in 2004, it’s good enough for the Phils. They don’t care whether Hollandsworth posted a pedestrian .737 OPS against right-handers last season, and a .655 in 2005.

Four years ago, this makes sense, but he’s slowing down in every facet of the game. After watching him a few times last season, “desperate” was the word that came to mind. If this happens, it’s almost as if they traded Jeff Conine in order to make room for the same player. In 224 at bats, he hit .246/.275/.427 (.707 OPS) with 7 homers in stops with Cleveland and Cincinnati.

This would be a very disappointing final step, and I hold out hope something more is coming. The final outfield spot was an area they could have truly improved, not with a one-dimensional bench player, but someone who could make a significant, daily contribution. Maybe a trade is coming, but I don’t see it. Here’s how I see it:

2006: Burrell/Rowand/Abreu/Dellucci/Victorino
2007: Burrell/Rowand/Victorino/Werth/Hollandsworth

Phillies claim right-handed reliever off waivers

Anderson Garcia, 25, pitched for five different minor league teams between the Mets and Orioles organizations in 2006. Overall, he went 4-6 with one save and a 3.84 ERA in 42 games.

Between stops at Class-A Gulf Coast, Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Norfolk, Garcia posted a 2-5 record and a 4.23 ERA in 33 relief appearances with the Mets organization. After being claimed off waivers by Baltimore in August, dropped by the Mets in order to make room for outfielder Ricky Ledee, Garcia combined to go 2-1 with a 2.40 ERA over nine games in stints with Double-A Bowie and Triple-A Ottawa.

The Dominican-born Garcia, who's listed at 6-2, 170, was originally signed by the New York Yankees as a non-drafted free agent in 2001. Used primarily in relief since the 2003 season, he's 26-21 with a 3.80 ERA in six minor league seasons. With his addition, the Phillies have 37 players on their 40-man roster. [Baseball Cube Stats]

Baseball America ranks top 10 Phillies prospects

In the granddaddy of all prospect reports, 19-year-old right-hander Carlos Carrasco earns Baseball America's top spot, as pitching dominates the list of the best Phillies farmhands.

1. Carlos Carrasco, RHP
2. Kyle Drabek, RHP
3. Adrian Cardenas, INF
4. Edgar Garcia, RHP
5. Scott Mathieson, RHP
6. Josh Outman, LHP
7. Michael Bourn, OF
8. J.A. Happ, LHP
9. Matt Maloney, LHP
10. Greg Golson, OF

Beerleaguer: I haven’t read the full report, but a couple of comments on the rankings. Carrasco jumped from 8 in 2005 to 1 after a breakout season for Lakewood. Stuff-wise, he’s been compared with a young Tony Armas Jr., and BA recently ranked him as one of the best right-handers in the minors. From all the positive press, it’s no surprise to see Cardenas in the top three. The former national high school standout looks like an early winner and hit .318 in the rookie league. Garcia and Outman climbed higher than I thought, and Happ, after jumping several levels, ranked a little lower than expected, even at his age (24). I am with Beerleaguer regular, clout, when he says Scott Mathieson is not a top five prospect. Bourn is also high at seven. Nine and 10 is about where I’d put Maloney and Golson. The rest: D’Arby Myers, Joe Bisenius, Zach Segovia, Jason Jaramillio figure to be on the outside looking in. Third baseman Mike Costanzo will head into a make-or-break year, probably at Reading, but at this point, is no longer being considered a top prospect.

Contract talk: Howard seeks agent; arbitration looms

Getting up to speed on the business of Phillies baseball.

Ryan Howard’s search for a new agent is worth its own thread, but isn’t an issue I have much desire to discuss or compare with recent Phillies history. The reigning National League MVP is seeking new representation and is staring at a modest raise by today's standards. According to the Daily News, the Phillies are expected to toss in $1 million over last year’s salary.

As for the unease of feeling all this money going around will lessen Howard’s ambition to drive baseballs into the upper deck: unlikely. That isn’t Ryan, and players understand the pecking order. He’s put in a year-and-a-half of service, four years from the point Jimmy Rollins signed his five-year extension, and over 18 seasons less than the most senior member of the squad.

However, for a player of Howard’s caliber, there’s only one comparison you need to know: Albert Pujols. The Cardinals first baseman put in three full seasons of superstar service before hitting pay dirt. The 2005 MVP avoided his first arbitration to sign a deal worth $100 million over 7 years right before the 2004 season. Expect a comparable timetable for Howard, with a similarly structured deal, making the arbitration years more profitable while locking up a few seasons past free agency. This is a solid pact for all involved, and Howard will stand to earn more than Pujols when it's all said. The Phillies understand their home-run king is a non-issue until after this season, and are treating it as such. Meanwhile, the industry's best agents are jockeying for position to cash in.

The Phillies have more pressing matters, frankly. Marcus Hayes of the Daily News reminds readers this morning the Phils are preparing for arbitration with five players: Chase Utley, Ryan Madson, Geoff Geary, Brett Myers and Aaron Rowand. Utley may have reached the point where the Phillies want to lock him down.

I've thought all along this year's arbitration situations won't be cut-and-dry, and to brace for at least one player to be moved. There are a couple of stars on that list, and it figures to be a difficult challenge for Gillick and crew to get through this unscathed with all players returning. The Phillies haven't gone to arbitration since 2001.

It was also reported today that the Phillies are unlikely to pursue any of the remaining free agent relievers. One possibility could be to wait on what shakes loose from other clubs. It was last year at this time when Texas was able to swing a deal for Vicente Padilla.

Boston Globe: Phillies interested in David Wells

The 43-year-old free agent split time with Boston and San Diego last season, going 3-5 with a 4.42 ERA. Let the speculation begin.

This could be nothing, or it could be something. Something big. Brett Myers for a hitter big. Doubts about character, temperament, and the belief he could be replaced are not only probable, but likely from the Phillies front office. In this crazy climate, desperate teams will view Myers as an ace. The Phils may be less inclined to entertain such a notion.

Trading Myers was inconceivable just three months ago, with the prospect of losing two starters via free agency. But circumstances have changed. Freddy Garcia, Jamie Moyer and Adam Eaton are in, and Jon Lieber is still hanging around as a sixth starter. The Phillies also came away empty handed in their quest for a marquee hitter, and it's been suggested that general manager Pat Gillick is still hot for a bat, and not the part-time Trot Nixon variety, either.

Bullpen remains the Phillies’ top priority, but under the surface, they have other issues. The team will soon require a complete outfield overhaul. Pat Burrell has two years remaining on his contract and it’s no secret the Phillies have been trying to move him. Center fielder Aaron Rowand will become a free agent after the season. The farm system is producing few answers, with Michael Bourn, the best of the bunch, projecting as a fourth outfielder.

If the Phillies were to acquire another starter, like Boomer, they would be in better shape to flip from a strength to address this issue. Myers is about to become expensive through arbitration, but his value, at 26-years-old, is very high. Gillick recently visited the right-hander at his home in Florida, with speculation that it could have been to gage Myers’ future. After the Garcia trade, there was also a report from Jayson Stark on ESPN that Myers’ name was circulating the way Josh Beckett’s was with Boston. Myers is eligible for free agency after the 2008 season.

We've talked about Manny, we've talked about Rocco, but one name that hasn’t been mentioned much on Beerleaguer is Carl Crawford, whose value has quietly gone through the roof since teams started going nuts with contracts. Crawford, 25, signed a four-year deal before the 2005 season with club options for 2009 and 2010. This is one of the most attractive contracts in baseball. There are two reasons Tampa Bay would consider moving the toolsy star. First, Delmon Young and Elijah Dukes are two of the top outfield prospects in the game. Second, the organization needs to start winning some ballgames, and that means more pitching. Myers would also fit the profile of someone they could lock up long-term where he could stay close to home. Crawford is a left-handed hitter with good pop and blazing speed. Simply put: He could balance their offense like no other. Considering the quality of the contract - post free agent frenzy - it might take Myers, and more, to land Crawford.

To have the guts to pull it off, the Phillies would need faith in the health of Wells in addition to what they already have, plus, confidence in their arms down on the farm to produce starting in 2008. Several prospects, including Matt Maloney, Carlos Carrasco, J.A. Happ and Josh Outman, took strides in their progress toward the majors last season, with Happ being the closest to the majors. Scott Mathieson, also considered in the mix, will miss next season with Tommy John surgery.

Wells has not been used in relief since 1993, and it seems unlikely he would accept such a role, especially back on the East Coast. The Padres and Diamondbacks are also suitors, though both are reportedly focusing on Randy Johnson. The story in the Globe also mentions the Mets as a possibility.

One other point of note: Wells was a 1982 draft pick of the Toronto Blue Jays, under the watchful eye of – you guessed it – Pat Gillick.