Why Raul Ibanez is the Perfect Fit for the Philadelphia Phillies

Last week, the Philadelphia Phillies signed former Seattle Mariners left fielder Raul Ibanez to a three-year deal worth $30 million.

The signing of Ibanez makes it clear the Phillies aren't going to sign re-sign left fielder Pat Burrell, who has been with the Phillies for the last nine years.

Some fans are questioning if the signing of Ibanez was the right thing to do at the moment. Pat Burrell has yet to sign with another franchise. Not to mention Ibanez is less than four years from hitting the big 4-0.

Before I go on, I want to make it clear—I love Pat Burrell from the bottom of my heart. He was a great contributor this season and I will always cherish the times he came through as the "Met Killer."

As much as I love Burrell, the only reason why he was even on the team for so long was because of his contract.

For years, we have heard numerous trade rumors involving Pat Burrell. The organization felt he was living up to his six-year, $50 million contract after batting just .209 and hitting 64 RBI in the 2003 season.

In my opinion, Burrell hadn't lived up to his massive contract until the half-way mark of the 2007 season. He may have been 7th in the MVP voting for the 2005 season, but that was just one season.

Over the last two seasons, Burrell has been a big part in helping the Phillies make the playoffs. He will be in the Phillies record books as being one of two players to hit two home runs in a single playoff game (game four of the NLDS).

I believe Burrell will be a great contributor to any team that makes him an offer. The big question still stands; can the Phillies be just as great of a team with Ibanez as Burrell's replacement?

Absolutely.

Ibanez may be old. He may not have the championship experience Burrell has. None of that matters.

Take a look at the statistics Ibanez brings to the defending champion squad. He has recorded more than 100 RBI in each of his last three seasons. Burrell hasn't had more than 100 RBI in a season since 2005.

Ibanez hasn't batted below .280 in a season since 2001. For the last three seasons, Burrell's batting average has been in the .250 range.

In my opinion, Ibanez is a great addition to this Phillies squad. His statistics have been impressive throughout his 13-year career. I expect him to put up the same exact numbers as Burrell, if not better.

Towards the end of last season, the media and fans questioned the signing of the "older veteran" Matt Stairs. I'm pretty sure he silenced the critics in game four of the NLCS against the Los Angeles Dodgers.