Bleacher Report - Articles by Tom Dougherty

PHILLIES SIGN BRIAN SCHNEIDER

Tom Dougherty — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:15:16 -0500

Mandy Housenick of The Morning Call is reporting that Northampton graduate Bran Schneider has signed a two-year free agent contract with the Phillies after passing a physical on Tuesday.

Schneider, who grew up a Phillies fan, hit .218/.292/.335 with three home runs and 24 RBI in 170 at-bats with the New York Mets last season while being slowed down by back, calf and knee injuries.

The 33-year-old left-handed hitting catcher is a career .251/.323/.697 hitter while playing for the Mets and the Montreal Expos/Washington Nationals.

He’s regarded as an excellent defensive catcher, committing only 36 errors in 877 career games. He caught 437 innings, and had a .997 fielding percentage while throwing out 34% of base stealers.

Schneider has always been a Phillies killer in his career, hitting .273/.354/.412 against Philadelphia while slugging six homers and driving in 54 runs in 108 games.

I think this is a good move on the part of Ruben Amaro Jr. , who has done nothing but good things since taking over as general manager last winter. Schneider provides a bat and defense at backup catcher.

Interestingly enough, this happened one day after former Phillies catcher and fan favorite Chris Coste agreed to sign with the rival Mets.

For more Phillies coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Philadelphia Phillies: A Glance at What's Going on with the Phils

Tom Dougherty — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 01:34:50 -0500

Jeff Kolpack is reporting that former Phillies catcher and fan favorite Chris Coste has agreed to sign a deal with the New York Mets that will guarantee a spot on their 40-man roster come Spring Training.

Tom’s Take: It will be hard to see Coste playing for the hated Mets, that is if he makes the team of course. His story could eventually make it to the big screen, but his best days are behind him at the age of 37. The Phils waived him last year, and the Astros picked him up. Now, he’ll have a chance to earn a job on a bad Mets team. Good luck, Chris.

Mike Potter writes that the decision to sign DeWayne Wise to a minor league contract was a good move on the part of Ruben Amaro Jr. He thinks that Wise could contribute to the Phils this coming season.

Tom’s Take: With minor league deals, you never expect anything big to come out of it. Usually, these type of players are guys who are way past their prime or never really showed anything to warrant a guaranteed spot. Wise is a player like that, but who knows, it could pay off or it could not. We shall see.

David Murphy thinks that the Phillies will offer Chan Ho Park arbitration when the deadline passes on Tuesday, and he also expects Shane Victorino and Carlos Ruiz to be offered contracts to boot.

Tom’s Take: As much as I want to see Park come back to the Phils’ bullpen, I don’t see it happening. He wants to be a starter so if a team wants him, all they have to do is what the Phillies did last season. Give him a chance to start, and when, not if, he blows, send him to he ‘pen. Victorino and Ruiz will ink deals at some point, at least I expect so.

Sam Donnellon says that Chone Figgins would fit nicely atop the Phillies' lineup this season, and that they should sign him to be their third baseman.

Tom’s Take: Figgins is everyone’s top target this off-season at the hot corner, however I’d rather not spend the money on a 32-year-old who relies on speed, especially if he wants four to five years at $50 million. I would rather go with a guy who has some power like Adrian Beltre, Mark DeRosa, or Miguel Tejada; however, I do agree that Figgins would be a good fit with the Phils.

For more Phillies coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Report: Phillies To Sign Juan Castro

Tom Dougherty — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:27:37 -0500

According to several media outlets, the Philadephia Phillies have agreed to terms with free agent Juan Castro on a one-year contract with a club option for 2011 pending a physical. The signing is expected to be announced next week.

Castro is listed as a shortstop, but he's a utility player who will replace Eric Bruntlett on the roster for the 2010 season. In 2009, Castro played 20 games at second base, eight at third, and two in left field.

The 37-year old hit .277, with one home run, and nine RBI in 112 at bats with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He also had a .311 on-base percentage and scored 18 runs after signing a minor league deal with Los Angeles.

In 15 seasons paying for the Dodgers, Reds, Twins, and Orioles, Castro is a .230 career hitter with a .270 OBP. He's a journeyman infielder, but he's a guy who fits what the Phillies were looking for.

Philadelphia's bench struggled all season long last year, and Bruntlett had one of the worst seasons a player could have. In 105 at bats last year, Bruntlett hit .171 with a .224 on-base percentage.

Charlie Manuel loved Bruntlett's versatility in the field, which was the only reason Bruntlett stuck around the entire season. They Phillies hope Castro can provide a modest offensive upgrade over Bruntlett.

The Phillies are still in the market for a third baseman and bullpen help, but with the signing of Castro, they can cross the utility player off their to do list.

For more Phillies coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Halladay Will Not Re-Sign With Toronto

Tom Dougherty — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 11:57:46 -0500

ESPN.com reports that Roy Halladay will not re-sign with the Toronto Blue Jays after his contract expires at the end of the 2010 season assuming that he is still a Blue Jay for this coming season.

Toronto went public during the summer that they would listen to offers for the right-handed pitcher, and it ultimately got to a point to no return for the Blue Jays.

Halladay wants to play for a winner, and that's not Toronto. At this point in his career, he's made enough money. Every player's goal is to win a World Series, and Halladay knows that won't happen with the Jays.

He's not the kind of guy that would use the media to help him get out of a bad situation. Throughout the craziness that was July, Halladay never once said that he wanted to be traded, or that he wanted out of Toronto.

Instead, Halladay said all the right things, but if you can read body language, it shouted "get me out of here". After the trade deadline past and he was still a Jay, you could see the disappointment in his face.

Toronto can no longer salvage the situation, they have to get something for the six-time All-Star and 2003 A.L. Cy Young award winner. He's too good to let go without receiving something other than a draft pick.

Former Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi failed to find a proposal that floated his boat, and it cost him his job among other reasons like signing Vernon Wells and Alex Rios to terrible extensions.

In case you haven't realized with the multiple rumors thus far into the off-season, Toronto is desperate to trade Halladay. Why else would they say that they would trade him to Boston or New York?

And while thinking about it, why would they call the Chicago Cubs, who have never really been linked to Halladay before, to seek their interest. The Jays are said to be talking to the Dodgers to boot.

Yesterday, I wrote that the Phillies should jump back into the Doc Halladay sweepstakes stating that they have the assets, drive, and financial flexibility to do so.

Despite having over $100-million committed to 12 players next season, the Phils have no financial restraints from the ownership. They'll spend money if they see it as a way of making the team better.

That may surprise you depending on if you believed that a few years ago, David Montgomery was unwilling to spend money for big-name players, but that's this new era of baseball in Philadelphia.

Winning a World Series in 2008 opened the eyes of Montgomery, showing him that spending money to go for the crown every year will lead to more money made from attendance and merchandise.

The prospective of making it to the dance three years in a row, and becoming a dynasty in the process, is something that has never been a reality with the Phillies in their history.

Acquiring Halladay will not be as hard as it was during the regular season as the asking price will not be as high, and if it is, look for Toronto to screw the pooch once again with the handling of Halladay.

At this point in time, they have to get one top prospect, or a Major League ready player in return for Doc. In July, they could have got a high return, now they could still get one, but it seems unrealistic.

Look at the Twins a few years ago, and how they handled trading Johan Santana. They didn't ship him at the deadline when they could've got a big package, but waited until the winter, and got nothing.

Toronto already failed to get the most they can get for him since they didn't trade him at the deadline, but now they have a chance to redeem themselves while getting a top prospect.

The Jays have no leverage, however, so finding a partner who is willing to give them a blue-chip prospect or a ML-ready player like J.A. Happ, who they could still realistically get if they were to trade with the Phils.

Ruben Amaro Jr. doesn't have starting pitching as a top priority this winter as they have to find a new third baseman, restructure the bullpen, and strengthen a crappy bench.

However, if Toronto came calling offering Halladay for Happ, and two mid-level prospects, it's hard to believe that Amaro wouldn't pull the trigger.

Come to think of it, it'll cost more than Happ and mid-level prospects to get Halladay. The Yankees or Red Sox will probably get him by trading Joba Chamberlin or Clay Buccholz.

For more Phillies coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Philadelphia Phillies Should Get Back in on Roy Halladay

Tom Dougherty — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 12:44:20 -0500

So, last week, the rumors resurfaced that the Phillies are still trying to acquire Roy Halladay from the Toronto Blue Jays, and the memories of the hours leading up to the trade deadline in July relinquished.

All throughout the middle month of the season, all the talk surrounding Major League Baseball was whether or not Toronto would stick to their word and trade Halladay.

Then general manager J.P. Ricciardi said that he would listen to offers for the right-hander at the start of the month, and Philadelphia had the need and the financial flexibility to make a blockbuster.

For a couple of weeks, Ricciardi played a game of chicken with the Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr . as everyone in Ricciardi's position would. Toronto was asking for the farm while the Phils weren't willing to meet the demand.

In the end, the Phillies ended up acquiring another former Cy Young winner in Cliff Lee for far less than they would have had to give up to get Halladay, who isn't much better than Lee.

With Halladay still under contract for another season, Toronto felt that they could wait until the offseason to trade him and still get the same value they would've if they shipped him at the deadline.

I believe that the way that Ricciardi handled the whole ordeal ultimately cost him his job. It got to a point where they kind of needed to trade Doc because he wanted out, and mentally, he was gone.

The Blue Jays hired Alex Anthopoulos as the general manager after firing Ricciardi in October, and Anthopoulos has the responsibility to dealing a bona-fide ace before things get worse for Canada's only baseball team.

A few weeks into the offseason, we already know that the Jays are willing to trade inside the division, and that the Yankees and Red Sox both are players in the sweepstakes.

On Friday, we learned that the Jays called the Chicago Cubs to seek their interest in adding the 32-year-old starter. And then Yahoo Sports Tim Brown tweeted that Toronto is talking to the Dodgers about Halladay.

It's obvious that the Blue Jays want to trade Halladay this winter, and not wait until next season's trade deadline where they would have to settle for a sub-par package instead of getting a top prospect or two.

Toronto is looking pretty desperate to get rid of Doc while getting the best possible package they can at this point in time; remember Minnesota lost value when waiting until the offseason to trade Johan Santana .

This is why I think the Phillies should re-enter the Roy Halladay sweepstakes: They have the assets to complete a trade, they have the need to acquire another top-of-the rotation guy, and it makes (some) sense.

The Jays already know who they like in the Phils farm system from the scouting they were doing when the two sides were negotiating in July, and Philadelphia can afford trading away one top prospect.

In order to land Halladay during the summer, the Phillies were going to have to part ways with top pitching prospect Kyle Drabek , a Rookie of the Year candidate J.A. Happ , and outfielder Domonic Brown .

That was entirely way too much then, and it's way too much now. The circumstances have changed in the four months since the two teams have talked trade, and the Phils don't need an ace anymore.

Negotiating is all about leverage, and at this point in time, the Blue Jays have none on any team because everyone knows they need to get rid of Halladay.

When someone knows that a product will eventually come down in price, they will, more often than not, wait the wave out until the price drops to within their range. It's the same thing when trading in baseball.

Since Toronto has pretty much came out and said that they'll trade Halladay, the rest of the league aren't going to pay full price. The longer it goes on, the further the asking price drops.

This soap opera has been going on for a few months now so you have to think that the Jays will not be able to pony a team to give up top value for the six-time MLB All-Star.

Let's go back in time when the Phillies were aggressively trying to acquire Halladay. Several reports indicated that the Phillies offered the same package for Lee, however included Happ in the offer.

It's well known that Amaro didn't want to part ways with Drabek because of his potential. Despite already having Tommy John surgery, Drabek is a blue-chip pitching prospect who has been dominating the minors.

Drabek is an untouchable to the Phillies as is Brown, who the Jays want(ed). Brown is a five-tool prospect who has the potential to become a superstar for years to come.

The package the Blue Jays asked for was the roof, and would have been the best return in any trade for Halladay; however the Phillies weren't going to do that trade, and come to think of it, neither would anyone else.

While the Phils don't have the prospects like they did in July since they traded Lou Marson , Jason Donald , Carlos Carrasco , and Jason Knapp for Lee, they still have the crop to get Halladay, and afford it.

Even with trading four pretty respectable prospects to get Lee, Philadelphia still has a lot of depth in the organization for once in a very long time. When was the last time the farm system was this good?

Toronto asked for the Phils top outfielder prospect in Brown, but the Phillies also have another top-tier prospect in Reggie Taylor , who seems to have been the forgotten one.

At one point last season, many people Taylor to be the better prospect than Brown. Both guys are five-tool prospects, and one day could potentially turn out to be a superstar.

Some people think that it would be wise trading Happ this offseason because of the economical concept, which applies in this scenario, of buy low, sell high.

Happ was tied for the team lead with 12 wins in 2009 with a 2.93 earned run average. He was never considered to be anything more than a back-end-of-the-rotation pitcher, but he was performing as a No. 2.

I would have traded him at the deadline, and I would trade him now for Doc. Let's face the truth that Happ will never accomplish as much as Halladay has thus far into his career from a statistical standpoint.

The asking price for Roy will not be as lucrative as it was before, but it will still cost a team some high prospects. Offering Happ, Taylor and a mid-level prospect for Halladay would give the Jays what they want.

Of course, Anthopoulos will want a pitching prospect who has a lot of potential like Drabek, but adding Happ, who is 27-years-old, would give them an immediate impact on their rotation.

Taylor would be ready to be called up in as soon as 2011, and would give them a player to replace Vernon Wells in the outfield, and would let them dump his salary at the deadline next July.

While the need for an ace is no longer as pressing as it was before the deadline, the Phillies certainly need another reliable starting pitcher since Cole Hamels is an uncertainty after a miserable 2009 season.

Lee was able to carry the rotation into the World Series, but he will not be able to do so again throughout an entire campaign. Hamels needs to return to form that got him the W.S. MVP in 2008.

The Phillies want to win as many championships as they can with their current core because they know how special this team is. Halladay presents a great chance of getting to their third straight Fall Classic.

With that being said, I'm not saying that Halladay is the only way the Phillies make it back to October baseball, and better yet, contending for a title. They have a great chance as it stands, but Halladay would make it better.

For both sides, the move makes sense. Toronto will still get a great crop of players while the Phils get another ace that would give them as strong as a rotation than the Yankees with Halladay-Lee-Hamels.

It would be a bold statement by the Phillies to the rest of the MLB, and to their fans. We know they are trying to win the World Series, and do whatever it takes, but acquiring Halladay would just reaffirm it further.

For more Phillies coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

A Glance at What's Going on With the Philadelphia Phillies

Tom Dougherty — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 01:21:37 -0500

Paul Hagen wrote a story in yesterday's Philadelphia Daily News informing fans to expect a few fireworks in free agency. Hagen tells us that he doesn't think there will be any introductions of any new Phillies anytime soon.

Tom's Take: It's not really much of a surprise that he writes that; no one is really expecting the Phillies to come out of the gate to sign a top-notch free agent. They're looking at third base, bullpen and bench, and all three positions will require some homework being done before jumping on the perceived top option.

Mike Potter reported that Omar Vizquel is no longer an option for the Phillies as he signed a one-year contract with the Chicago White Sox as the first notable free agent signing. Vizquel will be a backup in the Windy City.

Tom's Take: Vizquel was an intriguing player that many believed that the Phils could be targeting to come off the bench, and backup Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley at shortstop and second base. Players like Jerry Hairston Jr. and Fernando Tatis as potential targets.

Hagen reports that the Phillies say that the rumors of Pat Gillick returning to the baseball front office with the team that he built his reputation, the Toronto Blue Jays, are all false .

Tom's Take: Gillick is a god in Philadelphia for putting together the pieces that Ed Wade left him, and getting the city their first championship since 1983, and the organization's second title in their history. He knows how to build winning baseball teams, and I hope he goes to Toronto if he does return because my god, I don't want him anywhere close to the National League.

Yoon Chul, a staff reporter for the Korean Times, writes that free agent Chan Ho Park wants to start in 2010. Park is a free agent, and the Phillies want him back, but only as a reliever.

Tom's Take: It's so obvious to everyone that Park is best suited for the bullpen. The Phils know it, every MLB team knows it, and Park knows it himself. He wants to start so his friends and family in Korea can see him pitch, and I understand that, but you also want to pitch in the States so he'll ultimately end up in the 'pen.

Todd Zolecki relays that FOXSports.com reported that the Phillies are the favorites to land Mark DeRosa . Zolecki says that it makes sense that he signs with the Phils because he's a Penn graduate and has been linked to the team before.

Tom's Take: Anyone surprised? A lot of people thought that he'll be the guy that he Phillies would be going after in free agency. They've liked him in the past, and he's now available for them again. You know what they say, third time's a charm.

For more Phillies coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Can Brandon Lyon Help the Phillies?

Tom Dougherty — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 02:41:49 -0500

The Phillies' top priorities this offseason are to upgrade the bench, find a new third baseman, and retool the back end of the bullpen which was so good in their World Series-winning season two baseball years ago.

On Monday, they made a huge step towards improving the bench when they decided to remove Eric Bruntlett from the 40-man roster, which means he will become a free agent.

I have already said that the Phils should get either Garrett Atkins or Adrian Beltre to replace Pedro Feliz as the Phillies' everyday third baseman, with Mark DeRosa being another guy that I wouldn’t mind picking up.

Yesterday, I said that the Phillies should take a chance on free agent starter Ben Sheets to solidify the starting rotation.

So how do you fix a bullpen which ranked ninth in the National League last year?

As a whole group, the bullpen posted a respectable 3.91 earned run average. However, they blew 22 save opportunities, led by closer Brad Lidge and his 11 blown saves.

While Ryan Madson had a strong season as the setup man, his identity wasn’t known for most of the season because of the uncertainly that Lidge was each and every night.

Scott Eyre also had a terrific year in his role as the left-handed specialist, but he is a free agent and had surgery last week to repair some loose bodies in his elbow. To boot, he’s pondering retirement.

Ruben Amaro Jr. will have a pretty solid group of guys to pick from to improve the ‘pen. However, I wonder if Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Brandon Lyon could help the Phightins in a setup role.

Lyon, 30, appeared in 65 games last year with the Tigers while posting a 6-5 record with a 2.86 ERA and 15 holds in 78.2 innings. It was his only season playing in the Motor City.

In 2008, Lyon spent most of the season closing games out for the Arizona Diamondbacks, in which he converted 26 of 34 save opportunities with a 4.70 ERA.

I think he’s a guy that the Phillies should target in free agency because his numbers from last year are impressive, and he is a guy who has closer experience, so if Lidge falters again, you have a guy to fall back on.

Lyon can retire both right-handers and left-handers as shown last year, when both hit .205 off him. What’s most impressive is that he only surrendered one home run to lefties while giving up six to righties.

In 21 save situations last year with the Tigers, Lyon allowed only 11 hits and four runs in 20 innings, which hammers out to a 1.99 ERA. He struck out 21 batters compared to just eight walks.

With two outs and runners in scoring position, opposing batters only hit .190 off him, which shows that he performs well when there are guys on second or third with one out to get.

The only disturbing stat regarding Lyon is that in three games played at Citizens Bank Park, he has given up two runs in 2.1 innings, which is a 7.71 ERA.

He has been pitching in pitcher’s parks the last five seasons while playing for the Diamondbacks and Detroit. Adjusting to a hitter’s haven like the Bank would be something he would have to do.

Another plus in signing Lyon for the Phillies is that he has proven to be a very good postseason pitcher. In five playoff games, Lyon has allowed only one hit and has five strikeouts to go with no runs allowed.

Lyon would be a solid option as a seventh or eighth inning guy for the Phillies depending on how they plan on determining the closer. Will Lidge be handed the job, or will Madson get a fair shot?

For more Phillies coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Not Happ-y With Rookie of the Year Award

Tom Dougherty — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:51:28 -0500

J.A. Happ was the favorite to win the National League Rookie of the Year, however that wasn’t the case when the award was announced on Monday afternoon.

Florida Marlins outfielder Chris Coghlan beat out the Phillies left-hander by receiving 17 first place votes compared to Happ’s ten first place votes.

Final count: 105-94.

Coghlan hit .321 with nine home runs and 47 RBI in 128 games during his first season in the big leagues. After the All-Star break, the 24-year-old hit .370 with a MLB-leading 113 hits.

There are a lot of Phillies fans irate that Happ didn’t win the award, but his slow finish to the season didn’t help him out in the voting process. Awards are determined in late-September, not in June-July.

Happ finished the season with a 12-4 record with a 2.93 ERA in 166 innings. He led all rookies in innings pitched, strikeouts (119), ERA and complete games (5).

The 27-year-old didn’t have a strong finish to the season as he missed two starts in Sept. with a strained rib-cage, and had a 4.84 ERA in the last month of the regular season.

While I thought that Happ would come back down to earth, which he did, and that I would have parted ways with him to get Roy Halladay , he got snubbed with the Rookie of the Year voting.

I’m not taking anything away from Coghlan because he had a great season, and he was just as deserving, but Happ was arguably the Phillies’ best pitcher not named Cliff Lee .

Happ was a big part of the Phils winning their third straight division title, and making it to the World Series.

Okay, maybe he wasn’t that big of a piece during the postseason, but you get the point.

It stinks that he didn’t get it, but who really cares if he was given a trophy that is worthless. All that matters is that he pitches well on the field, and the Phillies win games. I don’t care about these awards too much.

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Phillies Should Take a Chance on Sheets

Tom Dougherty — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:17:23 -0500

It’s no secret that the Phillies are in need of another reliable starting pitcher, because you can’t count on Cliff Lee being as great as he was down the stretch and carry the entire pitching staff throughout a full season.

We all can hope that Cole Hamels finds a way to focus on baseball rather than the off-the-field issues and prove to everyone that last year was just a hiccup in what will turn out to be a brilliant career.

But how far does hoping get you in sports? It doesn’t get you far, I can tell you that. Being a Philly sports fan, I’ve hoped for a lot of things and more often than not, I’ve come out disappointed.

Is anyone comfortable going into spring training with a rotation consisting of Lee, Hamels, J.A. Happ , Joe Blanton , and Jamie Moyer or Kyle Kendrick ? I’ll be surprised if someone answered yes to that.

The Phillies will have to add some insurance to the rotation, even though their bullpen remains the top priority in the pitching department and bringing back Pedro Martinez isn’t a solution either.

I’m not calling for the Phils to sell the farm to acquire an elite pitcher like Roy Halladay; they’re not in need of an ace. Nor am I saying go out and sign John Lackey who is the best starter available to buy.

Considering the fact that the Phillies have $106.75 million committed to 12 players next season, they should take somewhat of a risk like they did with Pedro and there are a couple of guys out there whom I'd like to see them take a chance on.

What I am suggesting is the Phightens take a look at Ben Sheets who has been a free agent since last winter after opting for surgery to repair a torn flexor tendon in his elbow in February.

I don’t know the market for Sheets because he didn’t pitch last year and has a poor injury history, but I don’t see the harm in signing the former Milwaukee Brewers ace, at the right price, of course.

Sheets, 31, built a reputation of being one of the league’s premier pitchers strictly based on his stuff and his stuff alone. He’s like another free agent, Rich Harden , who has dominant stuff, but finds his way to the D.L. every year.

The Baton Rouge, Louisiana native has a career record of 86-83 with a 3.72 ERA, and made four All-Star teams in his tenure with the Brewers, who have been pretty bad except for the couple of the years Sheets spent there.

His best season was the 2004 campaign, when he posted a 12-14 record with a 2.70 ERA, five complete games, and 264 strikeouts to just 32 walks in 237 innings.

Sheets threw at least 200 innings in three of his first four years in the league, but then ran into arm and ear troubles, which forced him to hit the disabled list five times from '05 to '07.

In 2008, Sheets had a 3.09 ERA with a 13-9 record in 198.1 innings while striking out 158 batters and tossing five complete games, three of which were shutouts.

He lasted pretty much the entire season for Milwaukee, however, he did find himself getting hurt in late-September forcing him to pitch just 4.1 innings in his final two starts.

According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com, Ben Sheets’ agent, Casey Close, believes that there will be a decent market for his right-handed client. Close said that he already had a “number of teams inquiring” about Sheets.

It’s highly unlikely that the Phillies are one of those teams, but I think they should take a chance on Sheets and at least explore the option of signing him. Adding a healthy Sheets would strengthen the rotation easily.

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Lost in the Mix: Phillies Should Get Atkins

Tom Dougherty — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:29:26 -0500

While the big fish in the pool all seem like good fits for the Phillies vacant third base hole, the answer may be someone who could be had in a trade or become available via free agency in a couple of days.

And with all the Phillies faithful calling for the team to sign Adrian Beltre , Mark DeRosa or Chone Figgins to man the hot corner for the Phils in 2010 and beyond, I’m thinking they should go a different route.

The Colorado Rockies are exploring the market for third baseman Garrett Atkins , and if they fail to find a new home for him in the trade market, they’ll simply release him, and hand the gig to Ian Stewart .

Atkins had a miserable year last season after being one of the Rockies key run producers the previous three seasons. In 126 games last season, Atkins hit a lousy .226 with eight home runs and 48 RBI.

In 2008, however, he hit hit 21 homers with 99 RBI while batting a respectable .286, and 56 extra-base hits compared to just 22 hits last year.

The 29-year-old finished 14th in the N.L. MVP voting in 2006 when he hit .326 with 29 dingers and 120 RBI while having 78 extra-base knocks, and a .409 on-base percentage.

Atkins opens my eyes because he has a history of driving in runs for what has been one of the better lineups in the National League the past few years in Colorado, and he could be had for cheap.

Someone with his past history of producing runs in what used to be a hitter's friendly ballpark, and hitting for average while doing so, is quite intriguing.

On a plus-side with Atkins, he'll likely cost you under four million bucks because after a dreadful 2009 year, no one will give him close to what he made with the Rox last year, which was a little over seven million.

According to Patrick Summers of the Denver Post , one general manager said: "I know some guys who think he could be a bargain pickup, but other guys think he's lost his swing."

Summers also says that the same GM has concerns that his 2009 slump "was not an aberration."

With Charlie Manuel and Milt Thompson being hitting geniuses, I think Atkins could benefit from having them as his coaches. They would show him what not to do, and help him get out of the funk.

Baseball is all about having fun, and when players are in a bad way like Atkins was last year, having fun is the No. 1 way to get out of it. That's one thing this Phillies team knows, they know how to have fun.

Another positive for Atkins to the Phillies is that it would reunite him with his college teammate, roommate, and one of his best friends, Chase Utley .

Utley is a great leader, and he leads by example. He's the first one to the park each day, and players want to be like him. His hard work could help Atkins adopt the same work ethic, and get himself out of his slump.

The Phillies are in need of another right-handed power bat to add to their lineup, and Atkins would be just that. It's a riskier decision than signing Figgins, DeRosa or Beltre, but it could pay huge dividends.

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

A Glance of What's Going On with the Philadelphia Phillies

Tom Dougherty — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:37:39 -0500

David Murphy reports in today’s Philadelphia Daily News that Chase Utley has won his fourth straight Silver Slugger award. Utley led all N.L. second baseman in runs scored, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, home runs, and extra-base hits.

Tom’s Take: Utley is the best second baseman in the league, and it’s not even close. At the end of the day, when it’s all over, Utley could very well go down as the league’s best second baseman in history, but he’ll be considered right on up there with Ryne Sandberg and Jeff Kent.

Jim Salisbury says that there are three third baseman that the Phillies are targeting : Adrian Beltre, Mark DeRosa and Placido Polanco. He also claims that Chone Figgins and Miguel Tejada also interest the Phils, but to a lesser-extent.

Tom’s Take: I like Beltre the most out of the available third baseman because he has some pop from the right hand side of the dish, and is the youngest of the group at 30-years-old. I think he would do great in this lineup while playing at a hitter’s friendly Citizens Bank Park.

Philadelphia Daily News Bill Colin believes that the National League should switch to the designated hitter, and it’s time to for both leagues to get on the same page. He says that it would restore the competitive balance that has been lacking from the MLB since 1973 when the American League went to the DH.

Tom’s Take: Personally, I hate the DH, and if it were up to me, the A.L. would eliminate it from their game. There’s no strategy with the designated hitter, and that’s why I love watching baseball.

I like seeing the chess match that N.L. managers play throughout a game. When to pinch hit, when not to. When to pinch run, when not to. Should I bunt or let the hitter swing away. These are all things that N.L. skippers have to make while the A.L. guys don’t.

Todd Zolecki reports that Scott Eyre filed for free agency yesterday after successful surgery on Monday. Eyre is considering retirement, and said that he would only pitch for the Phillies. Eyre had a 1.50 ERA in 42 appearances last season.

Tom’s Take: Eyre was great for the Phillies last year, and quite frankly, I did not know how good he was until I checked his stats in Zo’s article. I took a double-take at it, and went to ESPN to check it. I couldn’t believe. Hey, if he’s healthy, and wants to pitch, I think he should be back. He was the team’s lefty this year since J.C. Romero was injured, and suspended.

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Philadelphia Phillies Pursuing Chone Figgins and Mark DeRosa

Tom Dougherty — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 02:35:48 -0500

Jon Heyman of Sports Illustrated is reporting that the Phillies are "intent on pursuing Chone Figgins hard," and that they have already reached out to fellow free agent third baseman Mark DeRosa.

Philadelphia is seeking a replacement at third base after declining Pedro Feliz's $5.5 million option this past weekend, and Heyman claims that they feel that Figgins presents the biggest upgrade to the Phightens.

Figgins is the cream of the crop at the hot corner on the open market, and will more-than-likely find himself landing a pretty big paycheck whether it'll be re-signing with Los Angeles or somewhere else.

The 31-year-old hits for a high average, gets on-base by all means and steals a ton of bases batting mostly leadoff for the Angels in his seven-year career. Last year, he had a career high .395 on-base percentage.

Figgins batted .298 with five dingers and 54 RBI in 158 games for the Halos last year while stealing 49 bases, and walking 101 times. If he was in the Phils' lineup, he'd lead the team in walks, average and runs.

Over the past three seasons, the 5'8", 180-pound Figgins has swiped 117 bags while hitting .301 with a .386 OBS. Last season, he set a career high in walks; no other season has Figgins walked more than 65 times.

Should the Phillies sign Figgins, they see a chance to improve the lineup while shaking it up. Heyman quotes an AL executive: "like the idea of putting Figgins at the top of their lineup with Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino."

Let's say that he does sign with the Phils, what will Charlie Manuel do with the lineup as Rollins and Victorino have been excellent 1-2 hitters. Should Figgins step in as the leadoff hitter is the next question.

With Rollins and Victorino atop the order, the Phillies have been in the top three in the National League in runs scored. They have been the most important batters in the lineup, and it would change if Figgins' is added.

Some feel that Rollins is better suited lower in the order, and signing Figgins would allow the Phillies to do it without losing any kind of a spark at the top of the lineup.

Rollins has some power, and hits his fair share of home runs so batting him in the fifth-hole makes a lot of sense because it'll give him a chance to drive in runs. And at the same time, it doesn't make sense.

When Rollins scores a run, the Phillies usually win. He's the heart-and-soul of the lineup even though Chase Utley and Ryan Howard are the team's best run producers; If Jimmy isn't going, the Phils aren't.

Having him bat lower in the lineup would give him less at-bats, but it will also give him a better pitch selection due to batting behind the "Big Piece." In this scenario, there's a ton of point-counterpoints.

Here's a comparison of Figgins and Rollins stats from a season ago:

Figgins:
Average: .298
Home Runs: 5
RBI: 54
R: 114
SB: 42
OBP: .395

Rollins:
Average: .250
Home Runs: 21
RBI: 77
R: 100
SB: 31
OBP: .296

Ruben Amaro Jr. said that there's a few guys out there that could be upgrades, and DeRosa is one of them. According to Heyman, the Phils are one of eight teams to have reached DeRosa's agent already.

DeRosa, 34, has enamored the Phillies for a couple of years now. Last winter, they tried to acquire him from the Chicago Cubs in a three-way trade with San Diego, and prior to that, they tried to sign him.

The former University of Pennsylvania quarterback hit 23 homers with 78 RBI while splitting last season with Cleveland and St. Louis. In seven of his 10 years in the MLB, he has made the playoffs.

Adrian Beltre is another candidate to be the new third baseman for the Phightens next season, and Philly has been linked to him in the past. Some think he would be a perfect fit in Citizens Bank Park.

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Philadelphia Phillies: Ryan Madson Deserves a Fair Shot To Win Closer's Role

Tom Dougherty — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 12:56:33 -0500

I feared throughout the regular season that Brad Lidge would blow the Phillies' chances at becoming the first team to repeat since the 2000 Yankees.

My fears came to fruition in Game Four of the World Series against the Bronx Bombers. Lidge surrendered three runs as the Phils went onto lose 7-4 a half an inning after they tied the game at four. That game was crucial.

If the Phillies win that game, the series is tied at 2-2. Anything can happen. Instead, New York took a commanding 3-1 lead and went on to win in six games.

While a lot of things went wrong against the Yankees and even that inning, Lidge played his role in losing the Fall Classic.

Lidge will have surgery on his elbows, and might be ready for Spring Training; however, who says he should be automatically handed the closer's role? I'm not.

Any closer who blows 11 saves in 33 opportunities, has a 0-8 record and a 7.21 ERA doesn't deserve any kind of security. Charlie Manuel is a loyal man, but sometimes loyalty ultimately costs you championships.

Enter Ryan Madson.

Madson has been one of the better set-up guys in baseball the past two years, and has developed a 97 mph fastball to go along with one of the better changeups in the league among relievers.

Madson could be a very capable ninth inning hurler because he certainly has the stuff to handle the job, and I believe that he has the mental makeup to do so too if he knows he is the closer

The 29-year-old righty had 26 holds, 10 saves, 78 strikeouts and a 3.26 ERA in 77-1/3 innings. He was 10-for-16 in save situations. He was 1-3 in save situations with a 3.48 ERA, and 14 strikeouts in 10-1/3 innings. .

The Phillies played musical roles with him a few years ago, yanking him from the bullpen into the rotation and back. He was shaky at best as a reliever and a starter when he didn't know what he was.

Then, in 2008, Madson knew that he was going to be the eighth inning guy; that he was going to be the guy that gets to Lidge. We called him the "Bridge to Lidge," but that was when Mr. Perfect was on his A game.

If you think that Madson doesn't want to be a closer someday, you're crazy. Every reliever wants to be the guy that his club turns to when the game is on the line.

For me, I don't think Lidge deserves anything for 2010. He pitched terrible, and blew a lot of games and a big one in the postseason. Madson deserves, and should get a chance to become the Phils' closer.

What's the harm having an open competition? It can't possibly hurt, can it?

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Ray Emery Proving Doubters Wrong with Philadelphia Flyers

Tom Dougherty — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:08:50 -0500

When the Philadelphia Flyers signed goaltender Ray Emery this past summer, there were a lot of so-called experts and fans questioning the decision to bring in the troubled netminder, who played in Russia last year.

The doubters were saying that he's a time-bomb waiting to go off. That he's a cancer, and will destroy the Flyers' locker room. They were saying this will be another failed experiment at the goalie position.

They were wrong.

Emery has played outstanding in the early going of the season, and has started five straight games for the Orange 'n Black. Razor is 9-3-1 in 13 starts, and has a 2.27 GAA with a .922 save percentage.

In his last seven games between the pipes, Sugar Ray has won six of those contests, including a 39-save effort against the Carolina Hurricanes. He has allowed only 13 goals in that span, stopping 195-of-208 shots.

The Hamilton, Ont. native has only two games this season where he has allowed more than three pucks past him; an overtime win over Washington and a 5-4 loss to the Penguins.

His play has forced backup goalie Brian Boucher to play only one game this season, and it was a disappointing 4-1 loss to his former team, the Sharks.

Boucher had a terrible preseason, and found himself on injured-reserve to begin the season, but it doesn't explain why he has played in only one game.

A lot of people were speculating that Boosh would make his second start against the Blues on Saturday, but John Stevens decided to go with Emery. Wonder if that hints at no confidence in Boucher.

With the Flyers having off until Thursday, it's likely that Emery will make his sixth straight start in goal for the Flyers against his former team, and get his first chance at revenge against Ottawa when the Sens come to Philly.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Phillies Decline Pedro Feliz's Option: Who Should Play Third?

Tom Dougherty — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 21:22:02 -0500

The Phillies have declined their $5.5 million option on third baseman Pedro Feliz, which means that the 34-year-old will become a free agent and likely won't return to the Phils in 2010.

Feliz quietly hit 12 home runs and drove in 82 runs last year batting in the seven-hole of the Phils' potent lineup. He was the team's best hitter with runners in scoring position, hitting for a .336 average.

In two seasons in Philadelphia, Feliz slugged 26 homers and knocked in 140 runs.

I always thought of him as a steady player who would be good for a few homers, but would make his biggest impact playing the field, which he he did. Feliz's glove work is among some of the best in the league.

He was by far the best third baseman that the Phils have had since Scott Rolen.

By not picking up his option, it shows that Ruben Amaro Jr. finds that there are a few options available on either the trade or free agent market who could provide either more or the same production at a cheaper price.

Here's a look at who's out there and where they played last season:

Chone Figgins, Los Angeles Angels — Figgins hit .298 last season with five homers and 52 RBI, but he's a true lead-off hitter. The 32-year-old has hit .301 and has a .386 on-base percentage over the past three seasons while stealing 117 bases.

Adrian Beltre, Seattle Mariners — Beltre had seven homers and drove in 44 runs in 111 games last year with Seattle. His average was Feliz-like, and he has a good glove, but he has had a poor injury history. He has a lot of pop in his bat despite only slugging eight dingers for the M's last year.

Mark DeRosa, Cleveland Indians/St. Louis Cardinals — DeRosa has been on the Phillies wish list for a long time. They tried to sign him when he was a free agent, but he decided to go to the Cubs. DeRosa hit .250 with the Cards and Tribe last year while smacking 23 balls out of the park and bringing in 78 runs.

Placido Polanco, Detroit Tigers — Remember me? Polanco came over to the Phils in the Rolen trade with St. Louis, but was later traded to the Motor City because of Chase Utley's emergence. Polanco hit .285 with 10 homers and 72 RBI last year. He hasn't played third since 2005.

Dan Uggla, Florida Marlins — Acquiring Uggla would have to come by means of a trade. He plays second base, which some may see as a problem with Utley occupying that space.

But some think Uggla could benefit by moving to the hot corner. The 29-year-old hit 31 homers and drove in 90 runs, but doesn't hit for a great average as he hit only .243 with the Fish.

Other candidates: Melvin Mora (Baltimore) , Troy Glaus (St. Louis) , Garrett Atkins (Colorado)

The question to you, who should be the Phillies third baseman in the 2010 season?

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

A Glance at What's Going On With The Phils

Tom Dougherty — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:49:48 -0500

Rich Hofman has an article in today's Philadelphia Daily News saying that the Phillies should acquire Roy Halladay . Hofman also points out the obvious that the Yankees won the World Series because they had the better pitching, which is nothing but the truth. He also says that retooling the bullpen, and adding to the bench are other priorities.

Tom's Take: I can't say that I disagree because the Phils could use another reliable starter since Cole Hamels is a wild card, and you can't count on J.A. Happ to repeat his rookie season. Could you imagine a rotation of Cliff Lee, Halladay, Hamels, Joe Blanton, and Happ?

Jim Salisbury broke the news that Brett Myers will not return to the Phillies in the 2010 season . Myers was told by general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. that they will not renegotiate a contract with the 29-year-old right-hander. Myers said he'll be open to starting or relieving for his new team.

Tom's Take: Brett Myers is best suited to be a closer. He has the stuff to do so, and did it well in 2007. He has the stuff to be a decent starter, but he's not an ace or even a No. 2 that people have made him out to be. He can be at times, but he's too inconsistent to be a top-of-the-rotation pitcher. A team looking for a closer may be where Myers ends up.

The Phillies exercised the option on Cliff Lee , which will pay the southpaw $9 million this upcoming season. Lee posted a 4-0 record with a 1.56 ERA in 40 1/3 innings in the playoffs for the Phils. His contract expires after this upcoming season, and the Phillies will want to offer him an extension. Also, the Phils have until Monday to decide whether to pickup Pedro Feliz's option.

Tom' Take: Sweet relief even though everyone knew it was going to happen. Lee is the best pitcher on the Phillies roster, and his deal ends following this upcoming season. Look for the Phils to talk extension with him this offseason or during next year because he's a guy who they pretty much have to sign. I don't expect to see Feliz back because of the $5.5 million he'll be on the books for next year.

David Brown of Yahoo Sports suggested yesterday that the Phillies sign Mark DeRosa and John Lackey . In his scenario that DeRosa would replace Feliz at third base, and Lackey will add some postseason experience and stability to a rotation that needs it.

Tom's Take: Phillies will need another starting pitcher, and Lackey is a work-horse when he's healthy. Putting Lackey with Lee and Hamels would give the Phillies a solid three-man rotation. Of course, that is counting on Hamels to right the ship. DeRosa is a good guy to have since he's versatile and is a decent hitter. As Brown points out, six of his 10 seasons in the MLB, he has made the playoffs. Chone Figgins, Garrett Atkins, and Adrian Beltre are other options.

For more Phillies' coverage, please go to my blog: Phillies Phandom

Danny Briere Leaves Practice; Will Not Play Against Carolina

Tom Dougherty — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:00:06 -0400

You knew the Philadelphia Flyers were legitimate Stanley Cup contenders entering the season as long as the injury bug didn't get them.

Unfortunately, that's been the case in the last couple of days, with Simon Gagne landing on long-term injury with two hernias.

If that wasn't bad enough, Danny Briere left practice on Friday with a "lower-body injury," and is not expected to play in Philadelphia's matinee against the Hurricanes on Halloween.

Briere, 32, has collected five goals and two assists in 10 games this season after missing 53 games with abdominal and groin injuries last year.

The Flyers called up David Laliberte from the Adirondack Phantoms to take Briere's spot on the roster. Laliberte potted two goals and four assists for six points with a plus-two in eight games for the Phantoms.

Laliberte was one of the last players to be cut this preseason, and played well enough to earn a call-up in case of injury. Newly acquired Stefan Legein could be an option later down the line, but he's only played one game with Adirondack, in which he scored a goal.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Los Angeles Kings Claim Defenseman Randy Jones Off Re-Entry Waivers

Tom Dougherty — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:21:46 -0400

The Los Angeles Kings claimed defenseman Randy Jones off of re-entry waivers on Thursday morning, which means that the Flyers are responsible to pay half of his salary.

Jones, who has one assist in six games with the Adirondack Phantoms, is in his final year of a two-year contract extension he signed in the summer of 2008 with Philadelphia, and he is making $2.73 million this season; the Flyers are on the books for $1.73 million.

In 217 games with the Flyers in his five year career, Jones collected 13 goals and 56 assists for 69 points with a minus-three rating. Going undrafted, the 6′2″, 200-pound blue liner spent seven years with the Flyers organization.

Jones will always be remembered for the hit he put on Boston’s Patrice Bergeron a few years ago that concussed Bergeron, and forced him to miss the rest of the season. He was suspended two games for the incident, but he was never the same player after the hit.

The Orange ‘n Black put him on re-entry waivers trying to get him back on the roster since cap space cleared up when Simon Gagne was placed on long-term injury; however, the Flyers will not have to eat the cap hit for a player that will not even be playing for them.

Ryan Parent will return to the lineup on Saturday along with Blair Betts. Parent will be paired with Kimmo Timonen while Braydon Coburn will play with either Ole-Kristian Tollefsen or Danny Syvret.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Flyers Place Randy Jones On Re-Entry Waivers

Tom Dougherty — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:48:21 -0400

According to Bob McKenzie, the Philadelphia Flyers have placed defenseman Randy Jones on re-entry waivers.

Jones, who was placed on waivers by the Flyers on Sept. 26, has two assists and is a plus-two while playing for the Adirondack Phantoms.

This move likely means that Simon Gagne will be headed to the long-term injury reserve, and Jones will rejoin the Flyers to add some defensive depth. If Jones should not clear re-entry, the Flyers will split his $2.75 million salary for this season.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Simon Gagne Out Indefinitely With Two Hernias

Tom Dougherty — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 22:12:00 -0400

Philadelphia Flyers left wing Simon Gagne will miss a significant amount of time with two hernias in his right groin as general manager Paul Holmgren revealed on Tuesday. No decision has been made on whether he'll undergo surgery, but he'll be out an indefinitely.

Bucks County Times Flyers beat writer Wayne Fish reported prior to the official announcement that Gagne may require season ending hernia surgery, and that the Flyers were "contemplating" placing him on injured reserve.

The 29-year-old didn't see a lot of ice time in the third period of Sunday night's 4-1 loss to San Jose, and didn't practice on Monday. He had an ultrasound done, which showed the hernias.

Gagne was off to the slowest start of his career, potting only one goal in nine games; a power play tally in Saturday's 5-1 victory against Florida.

Lower-body injuries have plagued Gagne in the past four years as he has had three surgeries on either his groin or hip, including off-season hip surgery. Holmgren said that this is a new injury, and isn't related to any previous injury. The winger has missed 76 games in the last four years.

Gagne pulled his groin on the first day of Team Canada's Orientation Camp, but was ready for the start of the season. It has been bothering him all season, however.

Last year, Gagne scored 34 goals in his comeback season after missing 57 games in the 2008-09 season with multiple concussions.

If surgery is required, Gagne will be placed on IR.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Philadelphia Flyers: Mike Richards Not Suspended, Call Ups, Interest in Shanny?

Tom Dougherty — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 18:31:48 -0400

The Flyers will have their captain and best player in uniform for tonight's game against San Jose as the NHL decided not to suspend Mike Richards for his hit on Florida Panthers' left winger David Booth on Saturday night.

Richards caught Booth with his head looking the other way, and threw a shoulder check that knocked the 24-year-old Booth out cold. The hit, while controversial, was a clean. Leading with his shoulder, Richie didn't leave his feet to make contact with Booth; it was unfortunate that a young player to Booth's caliber got injured, but that's hockey.

Colin Campbell, who is usually in charge of these decisions, was not involved in the final say because his son, Gregory Campbell, plays for the Panthers. Mike Murphy had the duty to decide whether or not the hit was worthy of a suspension or not; he made the correct call.

The league is usually very strict when it comes to questionable hits involving players wearing the Orange sweaters; however, Richards isn't known as a "dirty" player and doesn't have any previous history of controversial hits.

Honestly, I'm pleasantly surprised that he wasn't given a game or two to send a message to the Flyers—and the rest of the league.

Bartulis called up from Phantoms

The Flyers have recalled defenseman Oskars Bartulis from Adirondack, and the 22-year-old Latvian will be available to play against the Sharks. He'll wear No. 38.

Bartulis has two goals and an assist this year while playing for the Phantoms. In three seasons in the AHL, Bartulis has recorded 37 points and 113 penalty minutes.

It's unclear as of now whether or not the 6'2", 195-pound Bartulis will play against the Sharks. With that said, it's unlikely that he'll play in tonight's game. If he does, either Ole-Kristian Tollefsen or Danny Syvret will have the night off.

Brian Boucher will be in goal for his first start.

Flyers interested in Shanahan...again?

According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Flyers are talking to veteran free agent Brendan Shanahan about possibly playing for the Orange 'n Black.

Shanahan, 40, still feels that he has something left in the tank, and the Flyers have been interested in acquiring his services a few times in last couple of years. Last year, Shanny was highly touted by Philadelphia, but they didn't have the cap space to ink him so he signed with the Devils.

New Jersey released the grizzled vet after he failed to secure a significant role in the preseason. Shanny has 21 years of NHL experience under his belt, and wants to stay close to his family, which lives in New York. Philly seems to be a good fit considering it's a train ride away; however, the Canadiens and Bruins are also believed to be interested.

Personally, I would have been OK with this move prior to the start of the season, but I don't see where he fits into the lineup. He wants to play on at least the third line, but is it fair to bump Ian Laperriere to the fourth line or scratch Arron Asham—who is on a three-game scoring streak.

If Shanny does sign with the Flyers, what does this mean for Riley Cote? He doesn't get a lot of playing time as it is, but to add another forward into the mix, wouldn't Cote just be a waste of roster space and cap space? I'm a big Cote fan, but let's get real, there's no need for him, anymore.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Mike Richards Should Not Be Punished for Clean Hit

Tom Dougherty — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 23:52:13 -0400

Philadelphia Flyers center Mike Richards received a five-minute major and game misconduct late in the second period after laying a huge hit on Florida Panthers left wing David Booth, which knocked the up-and-coming 24-year-old out cold and forced him to leave on a stretcher.

Booth was seen moving his arms and legs, and was taken to Pennsylvania Hospital. He'll remain at the hospital while the rest of the Panthers board the plane for their next game when they host Ottawa on Wednesday.

According to Anthony SanFilippo , it sounds like Booth will be okay with a concussion and bad cut over the eye.

Back to the devastating hit, the Flyers' captain led with his shoulder and not his elbow, and didn't leave his feet prior to contact. Because of the game misconduct, the league will review the hit and hand any punishments by tomorrow night's game against San Jose.

The hit was a violent, but it was legal and shouldn't warrant a suspension.

Booth was caught with his head down after admiring a pass inside Florida's blue line, which can never lead to good things. Coaches preach to their players at every level to keep your head up and never admire a pass; Booth did both of those and paid for it.

Richards' shoulder hit Booth up high, but it appears that the ice did more harm than Richie's shoulder did. There was blood, and Booth was unconscious, however the hit could have been avoided if his head was up.

Obviously both sides have different opinions as the Panthers' general manager and announcers believe that Richards should be suspended while Paul Holmgren see nothing that is suspendable.

Randy Sexton, Florida's GM, said that there's "no place" for hits like the hit Richards laid on Booth in the game when in fact, Sexton admitted that he didn't see the hit live.

Does Sexton know anything about hockey? Does he even watch the game? Maybe that's why he's the GM of the Florida Panthers.

Colin Campbell, who is the NHL's disciplinarian, hasn't always been fair when reviewing hits like these by players wearing the Oranges 'n Black sweaters so we'll see whether or not Richards will be seated for a few games.

The hit is comparable to the one where Calgary's defenseman Dion Phaneuf annihilated New York Islanders' forward Kyle Okposo in the preseason. Phaneuf received a five-minute major and a game misconduct, but he was not suspended for any games; neither should Richards.

I believe that Booth had his head turned the other way and put himself into a situation where he was sustainable of getting crushed, and that's exactly what happened when Richards leveled him with a perfectly legal hit.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Brian Boucher to Start His First Game for the Flyers Against San Jose

Tom Dougherty — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:40:47 -0400

Flyers goalie Brian Boucher will make his first start in between the pipes against the San Jose Sharks, with whom he spent the previous two seasons.

Boucher, 32, had a miserable preseason leading up to tweaking his groin in a game against New Jersey, which forced him to start the season on injured reserved. After just three games, the Flyers activated him, though he hasn't appeared in a game yet.

In 22 games last year with San Jose, Boucher posted a 12-6-0 record with a 2.18 GAA and a .918 save percentage. Boosh did a fabulous job backing up the Sharks No. 1 netminder, Evgeni Nabokov.

Ray Emery will get his first game off after starting the first seven games for Philadelphia.

During today's practice, the Flyers had Simon Gagne playing with Claude Giroux and Ian Laperriere. Gagne has yet to tickle the twine this season, and the Orange 'n Black need him to get going.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Flyers Defense Takes a Hit As Parent Will Miss 10 Days with Groin Injury

Tom Dougherty — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 15:15:33 -0400

In their first game since last Saturday, the Philadelphia Flyers blue line took a hit in their 4-2 loss to the Florida Panthers on Friday when defenseman Ryan Parent left the game in the first period, and did not return.

After the game, general manager Paul Holmgren announced that the 22-year-old will miss about 10 days with a "lower-body injury," which more than likely is a groin pull; however, Parent has suffered groin injuries before, and has recovered rather quickly compared other cases of groin pulls.

Parent, who was acquired as part of the Peter Forsberg traded with the Nashville Predators, has one assist with a minus-2 rating in six games. The Prince Albert, Saskatchewan-native has had to deal with multiple injuries in his young career, including two lower-body injuries late last season.

A shoulder injury cost him his roster spot last year because of the salary cap, but he eventually did crack the lineup after recovering and spending some time with the Phantoms to establish himself as a solid shutdown defenseman paired with Kimmo Timonen when he actually plays.

Sometimes injuries can deter a talented prospect's growth, and for Parent, he needs to find a way to stay on the ice because he could one day become a top-six defenseman who excels at shutting players down.

In a game against the Penguins on Mar. 22nd, Parent helped the Flyers hold the two best players, Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, in the National Hockey League to zero shots in a 3-1 victory over Pittsburgh. While Crosby and Malkin each tallied an assists in that game, they didn't hurt the Flyers.

Parent has been playing in the bottom-six pairing this year since the addition of Chris Pronger has Matt Carle playing on the first pairing, and Braydon Coburn is with Timonen. His partner has been Danny Syvret or Ole-Kristina Tollefsen, depending on who was playing on any given day.

With Parent out of the lineup, Tollefsen and Syvret will both be playing, but it's still uncertain whether those two will be a pair or if Stevens will break up the struggling Timonen-Coburn pairing. In my opinion, I think it would be best to put Syvret with Timonen, and Tollefsen with Coburn.

For more Flyers' coverage, please go to my blog: Operation Orange Crush

Flyers Notes: JVR to Return; Betts Recovering; Gagne Takes Trip To Doc's

Tom Dougherty — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 20:17:40 -0400

The Philadelphia Flyers have the next four days off before their next game on Friday night against the Panthers in Florida. From a fan's point of view, it’ll be difficult to not have any hockey to watch until the weekend; however it’s the best thing for the Orange ‘n Black.

Rookie forward James van Riemsdyk, who left in the second period of the game against Washington after taking a hefty hit from defenseman Milan Jurcina, will return to the lineup.

Van Riemsdyk had been held out of the previous two games on precautionary circumstances as there was really no point to play JVR this early with a head injury. In the first three games of the season, the 20-year-old winger recorded three assists and was the team’s leading scorer after the first two games.

When he does make it back to the lineup, van Riemsdyk may find himself some new linemates as Claude Giroux has been bumped from the third line center to first line winger and certainly doesn’t look as if he’s going to be demoted back to third-line duties.

According to Tim Panaccio, center Blair Betts told him that he could return next Thursday against the Bruins in Philadelphia.

Betts, who signed a one-year contract after earning a spot on the roster on a pro tryout, dislocated his shoulder in the last minute of regulation against the Capitals, and was initially told he would miss at least four weeks.

He injured his right shoulder, which he had dislocated before while playing for the Rangers. It occurred on a faceoff in which he fell after losing the draw only to land awkwardly on the shoulder.

For some, the idea of the loss of a fourth line center being a big deal is somewhat mind-blowing since most bottom-nine forwards are interchangeable; however Betts will play a huge role for the Flyers.

Betts has been the team’s best penalty killer in the first three games, and won 25-of-50 faceoffs for a 50 percent mark—which is the highest among any Flyers’ center with at least 40 faceoffs. Not only was he valuable on the PK, Betts allowed John Stevens to rotate all four lines without hesitation.

In the first three games, the line of Dan Carcillo-Betts-Ian Laperriere was a line that created a ton of energy, and surprisingly, scoring chances. The same pressure wasn’t existent when Riley Cote and Arron Asham—who was filling in for van Riemsdyk—were in the lineup.

Whether or not Betts is back in the lineup next Thursday against Boston is still up in the air, but just knowing that he’s healing ahead of schedule is a good thing because the Flyers really can’t afford to miss him for any longer than the diagnosed four weeks.

Chuck Gormley of the Courier Post reported that Simon Gagne went to the doctor today with head trainer Jim McCrossin because he has been experiencing “tightness” in his groin, which he pulled in the Olympic training camp.

Gagne has yet to score a goal this season, but has three assists. The most concerning thing about Gagne is that he isn’t showing the same step he did in his comeback season last year in which he potted 34 goals after an injury-plagued 2008-09 campaign.

While the Flyers may have the depth to survive the loss of a Betts and van Riemsdyk for a short period of time, the Orange ‘n Black cannot afford to lose a top player like Gagne to injury. That’s one negative about this year’s version of the Orange ‘n Black; not a lot of depth.

Gormley also proposes the idea that Gags may have reinjuredthe groin in today’s hard practice as it has been reported that Stevens held some hard sprints after practice, which wasn’t “meant” as punishment for blowing a 2-0 lead in the third period against Anaheim to lose in the shootout.

Don't forget to check out my website: Operation Orange Crush

Philadelphia Flyers-Pittsburgh Penguins: Gameday Preview

Tom Dougherty — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 17:11:09 -0400

Tonight marks the first of six regular season showdowns between the Philadelphia Flyers and their cross-state rival Pittsburgh Penguins at the Wachovia Center. With Ray Emery in goal, Philadelphia will attempt to start the season 4-0-0.

The defending Stanley Cup champion Penguins will be bringing their 2-1-0 record into the City of Brotherly Love with Marc-Andre Fleury between the pipes after a night off Wednesday.

Pittsburgh lost 3-0 to the Phoenix Coyotes.

Flyer defenseman Ole-Kristian Tollefsen will make his debut tonight. Philadelphia goes with his physical defensive game over 24-year-old, offensive-minded blue-liner Danny Syvret, who played in the first four games.

Tollefsen isn't the only addition to the lineup tonight.

Arron Asham will skate in his first game of the year, replacing James van Riemsdyk in a precautionary move to avoid any further damage to JVR's head injury—which isn't being called a concussion.

Asham, who recorded eight goals and 12 assists in 78 games in Flyers orange last season, is looking forward to making the most of his opportunity and working his way back into the everyday lineup.

Van Riemsdyk's loss isn't the biggest for Philadelphia.

During their electrifying 6-5 victory over the Capitals on Tuesday, center Blair Betts separated his shoulder in the last minute of regulation.

The team's best penalty killer and faceoff guy will miss at least four weeks. Riley Cote will dress for his first game of the year.

Pittsburgh will play enforcers Eric Godard and Mike Rupp against the Flyers in what they expect to be a very physical contest. Danny Carcillo's best friend, Max Talbot, will not be in the lineup.

Flyers' Lineup:

Simon Gagne-Mike Richards-Mika Pyorala
Scott Hartnell-Jeff Carter-Danny Briere
Asham-Claude Giroux-Darroll Powe
Cote-Ian Laperriere-Carcillo
Chris Pronger-Matt Carle
Kimmo Timonen-Braydon Coburn
Ryan Parent-Tollefsen
Emery

Penguins' Lineup:

Chris Kunitz-Sidney Crosby-Bill Guerin
Pascal Dupuis-Evgeni Malkin-Ruslan Fedotenko
Matt Cooke-Jordan Staal-Tyler Kennedy
Rupp-Craig Adams-Godard
Sergei Gonchar-Brooks Orpik
Mark Eaton-Kris Letang
Alex Goligoski-Jay McKee
Fleury

What to watch for:

These teams don't like each other at all, so expect a physical game with a lot of excitement.

The Penguins have handed Philadelphia their last two playoff exits, and last season left a sour taste in the Broad Street Bullies' mouth. Look for the Flyers to try to intimidate Pittsburgh early and often.

This will be the first time Chris Pronger faces the likes of Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in the Orange sweater. It's the moment Flyers fans have been looking forward to since Philly acquired him at the draft.

Will Pronger introduce himself to Crosby and bring the Flyers' faithful to their feet?

Emery had a difficult time with Alex Ovechkin and Alex Semin against the Caps. The two accounted for four of the team's five goals.

How will Razor fare against two of the best offensive players in the league in Crosby and Malkin?

Keys to the game:

Keep Jeff Carter away from Pittsburgh's Jordan Staal

In the playoffs last year, Staal completely shut down Philadelphia's top goal-scorer.

Without Carter's scoring, the Flyers were almost hopeless against the Pens. In order to have some success against Pittsburgh this year, they'll need to avoid Staal as much as possible.

Carter is a solid two-way center, so the Flyers will try and get him on the ice with Crosby or Malkin while putting Mike Richards on the ice with the other.

Special teams

Games are often decided on special teams and Pittsburgh typically has an elite power play.

This year, the Pens are off to a slow start with the man advantage, scoring one goal in 10 opportunities so far. But you know that's going to change.

With the Flyers lineup tonight, Pittsburgh should get the brunt of the power plays. The Philly penalty-kill will have to be sharp.

Stay away from a momentum-shifting game

Both teams are certainly looking forward to tonight's battle. But the Flyers have to avoid the momentum-shifting games that they are used to against Pittsburgh.

Play a safe, slow game against the Pens' usually high-powered offense. Avoid neutral zone turnovers and don't force Emery to win the game.

If they play like they did against New Jersey or Carolina, the Flyers should come away with a victory.

Where to catch the game:

You can watch the game on Comcast Sportsnet when the puck drops at 7:00 p.m. EST. You can also hear it on 610 WIP.

I will be hosting a live chat beginning at 6:45 p.m. EST.

Join the chat by clicking this link Flyers-Penguins Live Chat

Don't forget to check out my website: Operation Orange Crush

Ray Emery Records First Shutout in Flyers 2-0 Victory over Carolina Hurricanes

Tom Dougherty — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 03:40:33 -0400

Jeff Carter and Mike Richards scored power play goals just 22 seconds apart, and Ray Emery turned away 28 shots in his Philadelphia debut, leading the Flyers to a 2-0 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on Friday at the RBBC Center.

Emery looked poised in his first regular season action since the 2007-'08 season when he was with Ottawa, but he didn't do it by himself. The Flyers played a sound game in front of him, forcing the majority of Carolina's opportunities to the outside.

In his last three appearances against the Hurricanes, Emery has blanked them three consecutive times. Razor has nine career shutouts, and the last Flyers goalkeeper who posted a shutout in his first game with the team was back in 2003 when Jeff Hackett held the Sabres scoreless on Oct. 9th.

With Sergei Samsonov in the penalty box serving a double-minor for high sticking, Carter backhanded a rebound past Carolina’s goalie Cam Ward and into the net to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead. In the second half of the power play, just moments later, Richards redirected a Simon Gagne shot through Ward’s five-hole to put the Orange and Black up 2-0.

To finish reading Tom's recap of the Flyers-Hurricanes game: CLICK HERE

Betts Remains Unsigned; Flyers Rosters Finalized

Tom Dougherty — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:52:31 -0400

Utility forward Blair Betts is still without a contract after seemingly earning a roster spot on his pro tryout with Philadelphia.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean the two sides will not come to an agreement sometime before Friday’s opener against Carolina.

General manager Paul Holmgren said today that if no deal is done by Thursday, they’ll probably not sign Betts.

It appeared to be a match made in heaven as Betts would provide the Flyers with some much-needed penalty killing and an outstanding defensive faceoff specialist. The holdup appears to be the money, as the length of the contract isn’t an issue right now.

Betts made $615,000 last year with the Rangers.

To continue reading about Betts, and the Flyers' cuts: CLICK HERE.

Flyers Notes: Jones Clears, Betts Contract Imminent, Backlund Called Up

Tom Dougherty — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:06:39 -0400

Flyers defenseman Randy Jones cleared waivers on Monday, and has been assigned to the Adirondack Phantoms along with left wing Patrick Maroon according to Ryan Bright of Philabright.com.

Jones, who was placed on waivers Saturday, will still earn his $3 million salary, however his contract comes off the salary cap. In simple words, the Flyers are responsible for the money owed to Jones but it will not count against the $56.8 million salary cap.

Ole-Kristian Tollefsen or Danny Syvret will replace Jones in the everyday lineup while the other sits out as a healthy scratch.

The move clears the way for the Flyers to sign forward tryout Blair Betts to a contract, which should happen as soon as today. Betts is expected to make the team along with forwards James van Riemsdyk and Mika Pyorala.

In other news, the Flyers have called up goaltender Johan Backlund to fill in as Ray Emery’s backup since Brian Boucher will miss at least a week with a lower body injury.

Be sure to check my website for more coverage of the Flyers: Operation Orange Crush

Philadelphia Flyers Will Waive Jones Today or Tomorrow

Tom Dougherty — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:09:18 -0400

According to Anthony SanFilippo, the Philadelphia Flyers will waive defenseman Randy Jones either today or tomorrow. The move will clear up $2.75 million and will allow the Flyers to carry Blair Betts, Mika Pyorala and James van Riemsdyk.

If Jones clears waivers, he’ll be sent to the Adirondack Phantoms where he’ll play the 2009-10 season. His contract will not count against the cap. If a team claims him straight off waivers, Jones will no longer be a problem for the Flyers because they’ll be off the hook for his $2.75 million contract. If he is put on re-entry waivers and claimed, his contract will be split in half between the Flyers and the claiming team.

This assures that Danny Syvret and Ole-Kristian Tollefsen will make the Flyers as the sixth and seventh defensemen. It remains unseen who will be what.

Make sure to check Operation Orange Crush for more insight from Tom!