Philadelphia Phillies News

Philadelphia Phillies must lose more to be winners in 2011*

Just six days until Philadelphia Phillies pitchers and catchers report to spring training. Position players check in five days later. What’s the Phillies’ biggest concern for 2012? Pitching, hitting, defense, Ryan Howard’s health, Charlie Manuel’s syntax?

Phillies Turn to Ty Wigginton as Ryan Howard Recovers: A Fan's Take*

Unfathomable as it may seem, the Philadelphia Phillies will start the 2012 baseball season with Ty Wigginton as their most viable option at first base. As reported by CBS Sports, Ryan Howard is increasing his work out regime, however, it is appearing more and more likely his return...

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey Jr. goes to bat for Phillies fans in DC*

Need proof this is an election year for U.S. Sen. Bob Casey Jr.? Well he just took a principled stand in defense of...the rights of Philadelphia Phillies fans to travel to the nation's Capitol to root against the Nationals. Casey, in a letter to Nationals owner Theodore Lerner, decries a new team "gimmick" that gives priority to in home game ticket sales to customers from Washington, D.C ...

Former Philadelphia Phillies Right Fielder was a Home Run Leader Before Babe Ruth: Fan Rewind*

The Philadelphia Phillies have had two popular players play right field in recent seasons. Long before Jayson Werth and Hunter Pence were seen in town, former right fielder Gavvy Cravath led the majors in home runs in four different seasons.

Philadelphia Phillies' Victorino May Jump the Shark After This Season: Fan's Take*

Philadelphia Phillies centerfielder Shane Victorino is set to appear in an episode of CBS' hit show "Hawaii Five-O" on February 20. The most recent version of this series is a remake of the original run that famously starred Jack Lord from 1968 through 1980.

Philadelphia Phillies Pitching Staff Potentially Stronger Than Ever: Fan's Take*

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. brought in a big time closer and added some other complimentary parts to his bullpen since the St. Louis Cardinals won the World Series last fall. Do these moves make Charlie Manuel's staff deeper than it has been in past...

Philadelphia Phillies: Reflecting on Pat Burrell's Legacy in Baseball*

 Although seemingly lame on its surface, "Pat the Bat" was the perfect nickname for Pat Burrell. Not only did it rhyme, which of course made it cool, but it did what all nicknames should for athletes: It described their game. Pat Burrell was as much of a bat as Walter Payton's game was of sweetness, Jerome Bettis was a bus or Ed Jones was tall...too tall. Why? He did exactly what a bat could do ...

Visitor's Guide to Bright House Field, Spring Training Home to the Phillies*

When spring training rolls around, the Philadelphia Phillies call Bright House Field home. The 7,000-seat ballpark is located at 601 N. Old Coachman Road in Clearwater, Fla., and has a capacity of 8,500, when berm seating and standing room are factored in.

Former Phillies Slugger Pat Burrell Retires: A Fan's Reaction*

According to reports, former Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Pat Burrell is set to retire . The 35 year old has been battling a nagging foot injury. He is set to hang it up as a result, ending a solid but unspectacular career.

Philadelphia Phillies Sign Pitcher Chad Qualls To One-Year Deal*

The Philadelphia Phillies announced that they have signed right-handed relief pitcher Chad Qualls to a one-year, $1.15 million deal ( via Philly.com ). The 33-year-old pitcher appeared in 77 games for the Padres in 2011. He went 6-8 last season with a 3.51 ERA and 43 strikeouts in 74.1 innings pitched. However, Qualls came on at the end of the season. In his final 19 appearances, he had a 1.96 ...

Philadelphia Phillies Recent Moves May Affect Victorino's Future: Fan's Take*

The Philadelphia Phillies have made a number of moves this offseason. Might some of them affect Shane Victorino's future? Goals not reached After falling well short of their 2011 World Series goal, the Phillies front office implemented a strategy that is intended to supplement...

Philadelphia Phillies In Love With Idea of Juan Pierre, Not Real Juan Pierre*

You ever watch  Role Models ? You know, that halfway-decent Paul Rudd flick (that’s constantly mistaken for a Judd Apatow joint, when it is pointedly not Judd Apatow joint material) with the Stifler guy? About the two screw ups whose punishment for trashing a statue outside a school calls for the mentorship of a couple of troubled boys from hell? Remember what Augie (dorky kid in glasses ...

Philadelphia Phillies Make Two Different Outfield Decisions: Fan's Take*

The Philadelphia Phillies certainly needed to change the roster mix after a descending three-year playoff ride. Last season's National League Division Series elimination by the St. Louis Cardinals was mostly the result of a lineup that was unable to produce in the clutch.

Philadelphia Phillies: Fantasy Football Super Bowl Edition*

Finally it’s here. The big week begins. For professional football fans, nothing beats Super Bowl week.  The hype is 24/7. Everything appears consequential. If Tom Brady misplaces his hair gel, we will all find out. The NFL Network will then tell us what it means, again and again.    Ultimately, they have to kick off and play. The New York Giants and the New England Patriots will take the field ...

Former Philadelphia Phillies Star Pat Burrell Reportedly Set to Retire*

Former Philadelphia Phillies and San Francisco Giants outfielder Pat Burrell has reportedly decided to retire after 12 years in the majors, according to Tim Dierkes of MLB Trade Rumors. The slugging outfielder was a part of two World Series Championships (2008 w/Phillies, 2010 w/Giants) and amassed 251 home runs and 827 RBIs during his career. After hitting free agency this offseason, a possible ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 6 Realistic Moves Phils Should Still Consider for 2012*

This photo is where we last left the Phillies. This is Ryan Howard , who, just before the moment of this photograph, was the proud owner of two healthy Achillies tendons.  This was the final at-bat of Game 5 of the 2011 NLDS, and even up until the final batter that night, the Phillies still had hope to pull that game out and advance. That's because the Philadelphia Phillies were, and remain, a ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Breaking Down the Phillies' Top 5 Prospects*

A flurry of trades over the last three seasons have done a number on the Philadelphia Phillies' farm system. It does speak to how well the front office has drafted that they have been able to acquire Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt and Hunter Pence.  While the major league team is still competing for championships, the system is as weak as it has been in years. There is some quality in the ...

Former Phillies Pitcher Oswalt Headed to a World Series Team?: Fan's Take*

Free agent pitcher Roy Oswalt wasn't in the Philadelphia Phillies 2012 plans, but he might be in the rotation of one of last season's World Series teams. The Texas Rangers are believed to be the front-runners in the bidding for the veteran right-hander, along with the St.

2012 Fantasy outlooks: Philadelphia Phillies*

The Phillies sure have plenty of big names in their lineup and rotation, but do they provide enough bang for the buck in Fantasy? Our Scott White breaks down the perennial NL East contenders.

Phillies First Base Question Still Looming: A Fan's Look*

Spring training is just around the corner for the Philadelphia Phillies. Obviously, there are many questions as there are with every team. But in the case of the Phillies, the question about the first baseman on Opening Day looms as large as any.

Phillies Benefit from Having Another Superstar Leave NL: A Fan's Analysis*

The Philadelphia Phillies have stayed relatively quiet in the offseason, except for when they acquired Jonathan Papelbon and Jim Thome and resigned Jimmy Rollins. Phillies fans like myself are still a bit uneasy that the team is being mostly left as it is, given how their current...

Phillies Trade with Reds Helps to Deepen Pitching Staff Options: Fan's Take*

Wilson Valdez was a fine utility man for the Philadelphia Phillies during the past two seasons. His trade to the Cincinnati Reds, for left-hander Jeremy Horst, is reflective of the team's infield depth and need for additional specialty relief help.

Phillies Ship Wilson Valdez to Reds for Relief Pitcher: A Fan's Reaction*

Philadelphia Phillies fans will see some familiar faces on the Cincinnati Reds in the 2012 season. The Reds have already inked a deal with former closer Ryan Madson. Now they have acquired Wilson Valdez via trade. The Phillies dealt the utility infielder to Cincinnati for relief...

Remembering Philadelphia Legend Andy Musser: A Fan's Look*

The Philadelphia sports scene lost another great broadcaster when Andy Musser passed away on Sunday, January 22. Musser is most famous for being a broadcaster for the Philadelphia Phillies. However, he also called games for the Eagles, 76ers, and Villanova basketball team in...

Roy Oswalt Still Up in the Air for 2012: A Fan's Look*

Spring training is less than a month away for baseball teams. Yet, Roy Oswalt is still a man without a team. While other high profile former Philadelphia Phillies are also looking for work, the fact that Oswalt is still available is more than a little surprising.

Longtime Phillies broadcaster Musser passes away at 74*

Andy Musser, a sports announcer for 45 years and a Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster for a quarter-century, has died. He was 74.

Longtime Phils broadcaster Musser dies*

Andy Musser, a sports announcer for 45 years and a Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster for a quarter-century, has died. He was 74.

Longtime Phillies broadcaster Andy Musser dies*

Andy Musser, a sports announcer for 45 years and a Philadelphia Phillies broadcaster for a quarter-century, has died. He was 74.

Phillies Lose Long-time Family Member Andy Musser: Fan's Reaction*

Andy Musser was 74 when he passed away recently at his home in Wynnewood, Pa. He joined the the Philadelphia Phillies in 1976. That was the same season that the team secured its first playoff berth in 26 years and faced the Cincinnati Reds in the National League Championship...

Hunter Pence Arbitration: Phillies Outfielder Files for $11.8 Million*

The Philadelphia Phillies were unable to avoid arbitration with Hunter Pence like they did with Cole Hamels ( via John Heyman's Twitter ). Pence filed at $11.8 million while the Phillies filed filed at $9 million. This is not Pence's first arbitration battle with an MLB club. Just last season, Pence won his case against the Astros before the 2011 season and took home $6.9 million. The $6.9 ...

Phillies' Hamels Gets $15 Million as Ellsbury Remains With Boston Red Sox*

Pitcher Cole Hamels agreed on a one- year, $15 million contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, avoiding what would have been his final year of arbitration.

Phillies, Hamels agree to one year, $15 million*

The Philadelphia Phillies and pitcher Cole Hamels have avoided arbitration with a one year, $15 million deal, the team announced Tuesday.

Philadelphia Phillies Avoid Arbitration and Ink Cole Hamels to One Year Deal: Fan Reaction*

With Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee out in front of baseball's most potent rotation for the Philadelphia Phillies, people often forget there is a pitcher in the three spot who has an NLCS and World Series MVP to his credit. People often forget that while the Cy Young voters...

Phillies agree to minors deal with veteran righty Pineiro*

A person familiar with the deal tells the Associated Press that the Philadelphia Phillies and free-agent pitcher Joel Pineiro have agreed to a minor-league contract.

Phillies' Window of Opportunity Isn't Closing: Fan's Opinion*

Immediately after the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Tampa Bay Rays to win the 2008 World Series some pundits began to offer their take about the team's 'window of opportunity'. That clever phrase is used when people calculate, sometimes correctly, that a team only has...

Former Phillie Jamie Moyer Drawing Interest from Teams: A Fan's Look*

One of the most popular Philadelphia Phillies in recent memory might be making a comeback . Of course, that comeback won't be with the Phillies. It looks like the Colorado Rockies have offered the ageless Moyer a minor league contract with a shot at a major league roster.

2012 MLB Free Agents: Joel Pineiro Signs Minor League Deal With Philadelphia Phillies Per Report*

It appears Joel Pineiro will take a paycut on his next contract compared to the two-year, $16 million deal he signed with the Los Angeles Angels before the 2010 season. The former Halos hurler has agreed to terms on a minor-league contract with the Philadelphia Phillies with an invitation to spring training, per Jayson Stark of ESPN . Pineiro, 33, was 7-7 with a 5.13 ERA in 27 games, including ...

Boras Misread Madson's Market and Then Questioned Phillies' Tactics: Fan's Take*

Philadelphia Phillies reliever Ryan Madson was directed by his agent Scott Boras to sign a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Reds. This came after the Phillies had initially tried to sign their reliever when the 2011 season had ended.

Phillies Sign Joel Piñeiro: Low-Risk, High-Reward*

Much question has surrounded the Philadelphia Phillies this offseason, and a lot of the answers have come within the last few days. Possibly, not exactly what the Philadelphia faithfuls had wanted coming off of a couple explosive offseasons, but answers, nonetheless.

Philadelphia Phillies sign Kyle Kendrick to one-year deal to avoid arbitration*

Right-hander Kyle Kendrick and the Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to a one-year, $3.585 million contract, avoiding arbitration. Kendrick was 8-6 with a 3.22 ERA in 34 games, including 15 starts last year. He set career bests in ERA and games.

RHP Kendrick, Phillies agree on 1 year, $3.6M*

Right-hander Kyle Kendrick and the Philadelphia Phillies avoided salary arbitration when they agreed Friday to a one-year contract worth $3,585,000.

Kendrick, Phillies agree at $3,585,000*

Right-hander Kyle Kendrick and the Philadelphia Phillies avoided salary arbitration when they agreed Friday to a one-year contract worth $3,585,000. Kendrick was 8-6 with a 3.22 ERA in 15 starts and 19 relief appearances last year, when he made $2.45 million. He set career bests in ERA and games. The 27-year-old is 43-30 with a 4.41 ERA in five seasons in Philadelphia.

Depth in the Rotation a Priority as Philadelphia Phillies Re-sign Kyle Kendrick: Fan Reaction*

In any playoff series, having one or two rock solid aces goes a long way, but you have to get there first. The old adage is that the baseball season is a marathon not a sprint, and the Philadelphia Phillies have loaded up their starting rotation beyond the fifth spot to account for...

Phillies' Kendrick Peers Over Blanton's Shoulders: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies were never in a position where they were going to lose Kyle Kendrick. Their swing man was arbitration eligible, so agreeing with him on a one-year contract was basically a business matter. Kendrick has earned the right to take a more prominent middle...

Phillies not signing Cole Hamels long-term this offseason*

Now that Roy Oswalt is no longer with the Philadelphia Phillies, the team is down to only three aces in its rotation and one of them, 28-year-old Cole Hamels, can be a free agent at season's end. The Phils would love to keep Hamels, who has gone 74-54 for the club since debuting in 2006, around for a long, long time, but CSNPhilly reports that the team is only working on a one-year deal with him ...

MLB notes: Madson joins Reds; bitterness lingers*

It's a mere shadow of the deal Ryan Madson was negotiating with the Philadelphia Phillies, but the relief pitcher has hit the jackpot nonetheless, signing a one-year, $8.5-million contract with the Cincinnati Reds.

Philadelphia Phillies: Could Brad Lidge Be Returning?*

The Philadelphia Phillies already added Jonathan Papelbon to the bullpen this winter as the team's new closer. With that move in the rear-view mirror, what might be coming next? According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports , it is possible that Brad Lidge will be back in the City of Brotherly Love next season. Would this be a good thing? Although Lidge spent a significant part of last year on the ...

MLB 2012 Philadelphia Phillies Spring Training Schedule*

With the start of spring training right around the corner, fans of the Philadelphia Phillies have plenty to look forward to this season. The Phillies train at Bright House Network Filed located in Clearwater, Florida. Note: All start times Eastern and all "home" games...

Will Phillies Sign Cubs' Wood?: Fan's Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies decided to cut ties with last season's closer Ryan Madson when they signed Boston Red Sox free agent Jonathan Papelbon. Even though Madson hasn't signed with another team yet, he apparently doesn't want to return to Philadelphia.

Current Phillies Could Have Hall of Fame Impact: A Fan's Take*

The Hall of Fame vote for 2012 is in the books and Barry Larkin was honored with election . Larkin has had a great career with the Cincinnati Reds, but this was an underwhelming ballot compared to others in recent years. As a Philadelphia Phillies fan, it got me thinking about the...

Philadelphia Phillies On Board Eurodam for a Fan Cruise*

This is a discussion on Philadelphia Phillies On Board Eurodam for a Fan Cruise within the Current Cruise Travel News forums, part of the category; Holland America Blog Has Just Posted the Following: Several members of the Philadelphia Phillies baseball team are on board Eurodam ...

PECO Says It's Not Too Late To Give The Gift Of Warmth This Winter*

Help those less fortunate stay warm this winter by making a donation to PECO’s Matching Energy Assistance Fund . All donations are matched dollar-for-dollar by PECO. Philadelphia Phillies Shortstop Jimmy Rollins and his wife recently supported the program by donating $7,500.

John Bowker Released by Philadelphia Phillies, Utility Man Will Play in Japan*

According to the Philadelphia Phillies ' Twitter account, utility man John Bowker has been released by the club so he can "pursue an opportunity with a professional team in Japan." Bowker, 27, played in a total of 12 games for the Phillies in 2011, pinch-hitting and playing first base and right field. He went 0-for-12 at the plate for Philadelphia, striking out in seven of his 13 plate ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Players Phillies Regret Letting Walk*

The Philadelphia Phillies are known, especially in recent years, to make the blockbuster trade or big offseason signings.  However, Phils fans often look past the impact players the Phillies let venture into the cynical world of free agency thus signing with other teams. Especially with Jimmy Rollins almost not returning as the face of the franchise for the upcoming season, this gave thought of ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 4 Untrue Stereotypes About Phillies Fans*

Not even the Philadelphia Phillies leading the major leagues in attendance last season was enough to erase certain stereotypes about Phillies fans. Of course, not all stereotypes may be bothersome. Philadelphia sports fans have long been thought of for booing Santa Claus, cheering as players lay injured and even watching as police Tasered a fan on the field. But these events may not be accurate ...

Phillies' Halladay Channels Grover Cleveland Alexander: Fan's Opinion*

Philadelphia Phillies ace Roy Halladay is considered to be among the best, if not the best, in the game today. Back in the day the Phillies featured another power right-hander whose name was Grover Cleveland 'Old Pete' Alexander.

Phillies 2012 Pitching Staff Has More Answers Than Questions: Fan's Take*

The Philadelphia Phillies are currently recognized as one of the better teams in baseball. While their playoff line has been trending downward since they defeated the Tampa Bay Rays to win the 2008 World Series, they still have enough pitching to be considered a championship...

Philadelphia Phillies: How Long Can They Keep Halladay, Lee, Hamels Together?*

As the Philadelphia Phillies' offseason breaks into the new year and heads for the homestretch, the team has little left to accomplish. They've already taken care of all their top priorities—they've re-signed Jimmy Rollins, added a power bat off the left side in Jim Thome, found a versatile, slugging backup in Ty Wigginton and have strengthened their outfield depth by signing Laynce Nix. Not to ...

Phillies Should Fear Nationals Over Marlins: A Fan's Opinion*

The offseason has been pretty interesting for the Philadelphia Phillies. For the most part, the team has made its moves by re-signing Jimmy Rollins and bringing in Jonathan Papelbon. The team also added some depth and in the process parted ways with Ryan Madson, Roy Oswalt, and...

Former Phillie Roy Oswalt Drawing Interest: A Fan's Look*

The Philadelphia Phillies are mostly done with their offseason moves. However, several former Phillies are still without teams. Ryan Madson, Brad Lidge, and Roy Oswalt are still without teams. When it comes to Madson and Lidge, it is difficult to guess where they might end up.

Ashburn and Kalas Phillies' Soundtrack Plays On: Fan's Rewind*

During many lean seasons, Philadelphia Phillies broadcasters Harry Kalas and Richie Ashburn entertained fans through an honest friendship that was easily transmitted through the airwaves. Winter Classic I recently covered the Philadelphia Flyers and New York Rangers at the...

Rangers rally to beat Flyers 3-2 in Winter Classic*

Mike Rupp scored twice and Henrik Lundqvist stopped Danny Briere's penalty shot with 19 seconds left as the New York Rangers beat the Philadelphia Flyers 3-2 Monday in the Winter Classic, the NHL's annual outdoor game. Playing on a temporary rink at Citizens Bank Park, the home field of Major League Baseball's Philadelphia Phillies, the Rangers made the league's fifth Winter...

Grading Each of the Philadelphia Phillies' Offseason Moves so Far*

The Philadelphia Phillies pitched their way to new heights in 2011 and won the most games in team history with 102. Pundits across the country smiled as this pitching-heavy team constructed by GM Ruben Amaro crumbled once again on the biggest of stages. You couldn't score one run against Chris Carpenter in a series-clinching game? Really, one run? Have the Phillies done enough this offseason to ...

Phillies' 2012 Bullpen Issues: Fan's Take*

Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr. moved in a new direction when he signed former Boston Red Sox reliever Jonathan Papelbon to a big money contract in November. With Brad Lidge and Ryan Madson both having moved on, the 'Bridge to Lidge' will be replaced...

Phillies 2012 Offensive Wishes: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies offense has been ineffective during the past three playoff seasons. With modest adjustments having been made to the lineup and to the bench, 2012s New Year's wishes might be the best chance for changing part of this team.

Filling Out the Phillies 2012 Roster: Fan's Take*

The Philadelphia Phillies have made various changes to their roster during this offseason. There may be one area of the team that still needs to be addressed, so general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr. may add one more piece to his roster puzzle as the winter plays out.

Phillies 2012 New Year's Resolutions: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies won 102 games on their way to a fifth straight National League East Divisional crown. But, their defeat at the hands of the eventual World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Division Series brought an early end to any October...

Phillies Offseason Filled with Hopes and Dreams: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies have been in the playoffs for five consecutive seasons. They are a playoff contender, but are they a legitimate World Series threat? Starting off Fans can always worry about injuries to their team's starting rotation affecting potential playoff...

Phillies Still Need Outfielder: A Fan's Look*

The Philadelphia Phillies have had a pretty solid offseason. The team re-signed Jimmy Rollins and brought in a good closer in Jonathan Papelbon. They also added some solid depth. Ruben Amaro addressed a lot of key areas and the team should be better in 2012.

Injury Update: Ryan Howard Progressing Well, Ty Wigginton Signed to Fill In*

Ryan Howard is an interesting case. He injured himself on the final play, of the final game, of the Philadelphia Phillies postseason loss to the St. Louis Cardinals. He tore his Achilles tendon and many people feared that the newly re-signed Howard might be a lost cause after this...

Phillies Have to Re-Sign Shane Victorino: A Fan's Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies have had a lot of drama in the offseason. However, one player hasn't been involved in any of it. Outfielder Shane Victorino has been active in his community causes and recently hosted his annual toy drive for Christmas.

Phillies Existing Offensive Problems Remain Unsolved: Fan's Take*

The Philadelphia Phillies lack of consistent offense was the main problem that caused them to lose the 2011 National League Division Series to the St. Louis Cardinals. After a number of modest offensive roster adjustments during this offseason, this issue remains a serious concern.

Phillies Present Three Christmas Wishes to Santa: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies have won five consecutive division titles, two National League pennants and one World Series championship during the past five years. But, even rich kids have wishes. Those who don't take baseball, themselves or this piece that seriously will...

Gio Gonzalez Trade Should End Cole Hamels Rumors: A Fan's View*

Fans of the Philadelphia Phillies can put those rumors about trading Cole Hamels for Gio Gonzalez to rest. Not long ago, internet reports speculating the deal were making the rounds. The idea was that the Phillies knew that Hamels would be commanding a huge contract and that they...

Three men in fatal bar brawl outside Phillies ballpark get prison*

Three men who fatally attacked a man outside a Philadelphia Phillies game in a brawl police say was sparked by a spilled drink have been sentenced to prison terms.

Philadelphia Sports 2012 Needs*

What do the Philadelphia Phillies, Flyers, Sixers, and Eagles need in 2012? The Inquirer's Bob Ford discusses what these teams need in order to make 2012 more successful than 2011 for Philadelphia sports.

How Four Phillies' Seasons Project into 2012: Fan Opinion*

Some individuals raise a red herring when they talk about the Philadelphia Phillies offense being among the best in baseball during certain parts of last season. The only part of last season that mattered most was the small bit that was played in October.

Rounding Out the Phillies 2012 Lineup: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies have a heralded starting pitching staff. They've signed a high-profile closer. But, will their 2012 lineup be consistent enough to support the team's strengths? Understandable questions remain regarding how their offense will be able to produce...

3 men sentenced in fatal Phillies ballpark attack*

Three men who fatally attacked a man outside a Philadelphia Phillies game in a brawl police say was sparked by a spilled drink have been sentenced to prison terms.

Phillies Bring Back Ed Wade: A Fan's Reaction*

The Philadelphia Phillies have brought back a guy most fans never thought they would see with the organization again. No, it's not Scott Rolen or J.D. Drew. The Phillies have hired former general manager Ed Wade to work with the scouting team.

Phillies Re-Hire Former General Manager Ed Wade*

The Philadelphia Phillies have hired former general manager Ed Wade as a special consultant.

Phillies' Hiring of Wade Bolsters Baseball Operations: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies rehired Ed Wade this week. The much maligned former general manager will be a special consultant to the baseball operations department. His reincorporation speaks well of the franchise in many different ways.

Ed Wade's Return to Philadelphia Phillies is a Positive: Fan's View*

Ed Wade is back in Philadelphia. After a tumultuous reign as general manager with Houston from late 2007 until 2011, Wade will return to the place that gave him his start. It's a reunion that should help the Phillies, even though many argue he was already helping them by giving...

Phillies finalize deal with Rollins*

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- Jimmy Rollins and the Philadelphia Phillies have finalized a $33 million, three-year contract.

Phillies ink Rollins to rich three-year deal*

Philadelphia Phillies slugger Jimmy Rollins has signed a three-year Major League Baseball contract worth $33 million, the club announced on Monday.

Phillies, Rollins finalize $33 million 3-year deal*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA When Jimmy Rollins had the chance to go somewhere else, he just couldn't walk away from the Philadelphia Phillies. The smooth-talking, slick-fielding shortstop has spent nearly half his life with the same organization, so he turned down more money from the Milwaukee Brewers to stay in Philadelphia. Rollins and the Phillies finalized a $33 million, three ...

Jimmy Rollins staying with Philadelphia Phillies*

When Jimmy Rollins had the chance to go somewhere else, he just couldn't walk away from the Philadelphia Phillies.

The Phillies Three Wise Men: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies are perennial contenders for a World Series title. Within every organization there are always important people. Let's look at three of their wise men during this holiday season. David Montgomery General Partner, President and Chief Executive Office,...

Phillies Reach Deal with Jimmy Rollins: A Fan's Reaction*

The Jimmy Rollins drama is over. The Philadelphia Phillies have reached a deal with their big free agent shortstop. As a Phillies fan, it seems clear that the team got what they wanted. The Phillies signed Rollins to a three year deal worth $33 million.

Rollins agrees to $33 million deal with Phillies*

(Reuters) - Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins has agreed to a three-year, $33 million contract with an option for a fourth year, Major League Baseball's website reported on Saturday.

Philadelphia Phillies Re-sign Their Jimmy Rollins, and Their Fans React*

It didn't take long. MLB.com reported that the Philadelphia Phillies had re-signed their own free agent shortstop, Jimmy Rollins, a bit before three this afternoon. Despite the holiday season, the texted protests started within an hour.

Philadelphia Phillies Re-Sign Jimmy Rollins: Cole Hamels Extension Next?*

According to a multitude of reporters, the Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to terms with shortstop Jimmy Rollins on a three-year, $33 million contract with a vesting option for a fourth year worth the same. Rollins, the team's longest-tenured member, seemingly waned from his previous demands of a five-year deal or a four-year contract with a fifth-year player option. That's great for the team ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 11 J-Roll Moments from Jimmy Rollins*

The show goes on in Philadelphia. Jimmy Rollins will be back after signing a three-year deal with the Phillies , along with a vesting option for a possible fourth year. Rollins, No. 11, will make a reported $11 million annually for the contract to play with the team he's been the starting shortstop the past 11 years. So what can we expect from J-Roll the next few years? Maybe some more J-Roll ...

Phillies sign lefty Willis, plan to use as reliever*

The Philadelphia Phillies have signed lefty Dontrelle Willis to a one-year contract, worth $850,000.

Philadelphia Phillies: Why Trading Domonic Brown Right Now Makes Sense*

Think back to July 2009 when the Phillies were hot for Roy Halladay. The only way they could get him from Toronto was a package that included Domonic Brown. Talks stalled and eventually the trade deadline passed without a move. During the offseason and 2009 Winter Meetings, the teams revisited the idea of trading Halladay to the Phillies. The Phillies again refused to let go of Brown and ...

2012 Season Will Be Crucial for Domonic Brown: A Fan's Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies will contend for another world championship in 2012. There is little doubt about that. This offseason has been about tweaking a team that is already very good. The Phillies focused on the bullpen and depth.

How the Phillies Infield Could Look Without Jimmy Rollins: Fan Opinion*

The Boston Red Sox might have interest in Philadelphia Phillies free agent shortstop Jimmy Rollins based on recent infield moves that they have made. But, that is just one team that might need his services. Since the Phillies free agent hasn't made a decision yet, it's...

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Realistic Offseason Moves the Phils Need to Make*

The Phillies have often followed up Winter Meetings with substantial moves the following week. They use the meetings to set groundwork for moves, and they finalize them once they return home. With this being the week on the calendar which saw moves such as the Raul Ibanez signing, Roy Halladay trade and Cliff Lee signing, there is reason to believe Ruben Amaro will be active this week. We ...

Philadelphia Phillies' Dontrelle Willis Signing Shows Experience Counts: A Fan's View*

If you didn't see the Philadelphia Phillies' signing of Dontrelle Willis coming, you wouldn't be alone. Just when you thought General Manager Ruben Amaro, Jr. was done this off-season he pulls another move out of his hat.

Philadelphia Phillies' offseason moves a fine-tuning, not a makeover*

Three hundred and sixty-five days ago almost to the minute, the Philadelphia Phillies stunned the baseball world by signing Cliff Lee as a free agent and created the "Four Aces" who dominated most offseason baseball talk.

Phillies sign Dontrelle Willis to one-year contract*

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- A person familiar with the deal says the Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to a one-year contract with lefty Dontrelle Willis.

Where Francisco fits with Jays a puzzle*

When the history of the Philadelphia Phillies is written Ben Francisco won’t be more than a couple of lines.

Philadelphia Phillies: Domonic Brown and 25 Creative Ways to Get Younger*

Contrary to popular belief, reducing the age of a Major League roster while maintaining its competitive nature is not a simple task, but it is a challenge that the Philadelphia Phillies have faced over the last couple of seasons and will face with growing importance over the coming seasons. The question is an obvious one with difficult answers: How can a team locked into veteran contracts create ...

Philadelphia Phillies to Sign Dontrelle Willis: Are They Going for a New Look?*

According to espn.com's Jerry Crasnick, the Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to terms on a one-year, $1 million deal with pitcher Dontrelle Willis. The deal also contains incentives for performance bonuses. The 30-year-old Willis, who pitched for the Cincinnati Reds last year, went 1-6 with a 5.00 ERA, a 1.52 WHIP and fanned just 57 batters in 13 starts consisting of 75.2 IP, his highest total ...

Trading Cole Hamels Would Cook the Phillies Goose: Fan Opinion*

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels could become a free agent after the 2012 season . Would it actually be better to trade the left-hander instead of offering him a new contract? That will never happen Unexpected developments, no matter how far fetched, are actually possible.

Possible Suitors for Jimmy Rollins: A Fan's View*

As a Philadelphia Phillies fan, I am well aware of the fact that Jimmy Rollins is still not under contract. The Phillies left the winter meetings without a deal for their shortstop despite some major negotiations. The two sides will probably stay in touch, but with each passing day...

Omar Vizquel a Possibility at Short for Philadelphia Phillies?*

With the future of free-agent shortstop Jimmy Rollins up in the air, here is an interesting rumor for you all to consider as a shortstop: Omar Vizquel has been rumored to be working with the Phillies on some type of contract. I first read about it on MLB Trade Rumors , but the original rumor broke with Enrique Rojas with ESPN on Twitter. I really cannot imagine Vizquel being the top option for ...

Philadelphia Phillies: How Much Does Albert Pujols Signing Affect Jimmy Rollins?*

The signing of Albert Pujols has come to pass. Yesterday, Pujols signed an incredible 10-year, $254 million deal with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim . The contract, which includes a full no-trade clause throughout its duration, is also possibly rumored to be worth $280 million or so with incentives. One of the best hitters in baseball history and arguably the best right-handed hitter of all ...

Phillies sign OF Laynce Nix to two-year contract*

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phillies have signed outfielder Laynce Nix to a two-year contract. Nix batted .250 with a career-high 16 home runs and 44 RBIs in 124 games for the Washington Nationals last season. He started 79 games, including 59 in left field, 12 in right field and six at first base. The 32-year-old Nix is a left-handed hitter. Read full article >>

Philadelphia Phillies lose pitcher Lendy Castillo to Cubs in Rule 5 Draft*

The Chicago Cubs have selected former Philadelphia Phillies farmhand Lendy Castillo in Major League Baseball's Rule 5 Draft today. Castillo, a right-handed pitcher, was 4-2 with a 2.54 ERA at Single-A Lakewood last season.

Phillies Sign Laynce Nix To Two-Year Deal*

The Philadelphia Phillies have signed outfielder Laynce Nix to a two-year contract.

Phillies and Jimmy Rollins Still Don't Have Deal: A Fan's Reaction*

As a Philadelphia Phillies fan, I was hoping the team would have reached a deal with Jimmy Rollins during the winter meetings. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. The team left Dallas without a new contract for Rollins and now fans will have to wait a little longer to learn the...

Phillies Rumors: Charlie Manuel Confident In Jimmy Rollins Return*

Speaking to reports at the winter meetings in Dallas, Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel expressed confidence that the team would be able to re-sign short stop Jimmy Rollins . Manuel says he's spoken with the former MVP and while he wouldn't reveal the details of their conversation, he did say there's a "big chance" than Jimmy would be back in red next season. "I think that Jimmy ...

Phillies Rumors: Phils Chasing A's Lefty Gio Gonzalez*

An old baseball adage says teams can't have enough pitching. The Philadelphia Phillies could be testing that theory,  according to Fox Sports reporter Ken Rosenthal . Already armed with a deep and talented staff, the Phillies are one of a dozen teams reportedly interested in dealing for Oakland A's lefty starter Gio Gonzalez . Philadelphia's interest in Gonzalez is somewhat of a surprise ...

Marlins Close to Having Latest Sports Big Three: A Fan's Perspective*

The Philadelphia Phillies and the entire NL East are keeping a close eye on the Miami Marlins right now. As it turns out, Phillies fans like myself actually have to pull for the St. Louis Cardinals right now, as painful as that sounds after this October.

Marlins Keep Getting Scary Even Without Pujols: A Fan's Analysis*

The Philadelphia Phillies and the NL East had to breathe a sigh of relief on Dec. 7. The previous day, I expressed fear that the Miami Marlins would sign Albert Pujols and take control of the NL East away from the Phillies in one fell swoop.

Philadelphia Phillies reportedly shopping Placido Polanco; could Tigers express interest?*

Former infielder Placido Polanco is reportedly being shopped by the Philadelphia Phillies and could spark the Tigers' interest.

Will Cubs' Free Agent Aramis Ramirez Sign with Phillies If Rollins Doesn't?: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies have been linked to interest in Chicago Cubs free agent third baseman Aramis Ramirez. If talks with Jimmy Rollins don't result in a new deal, would the team actually move in an interesting new offensive direction?

Talks Stall Between Jimmy Rollins and Phillies: A Fan's Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies have been negotiating with shortstop Jimmy Rollins during the winter meetings. Unfortunately for Phillies fans like me, the talks seem to not be going well . The Phillies and Rollins remain far away on a deal.

Phillies Scheduled to Meet with Rollins' Agent: Fan Reaction*

A meeting scheduled between the Philadelphia Phillies and free agent shortstop Jimmy Rollins could be productive, or result in a last goodbye. There's no way of really knowing if either side really wants to reach a deal, or if the face-to-face chat between general manager...

Ex-Phillies pitcher Mathieson headed to Japan*

Former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Scott Mathieson has signed with the Yomiuri Giants.

Yomiuri signs former Phillies pitcher Mathieson*

The Yomiuri Giants have signed former Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Scott Mathieson.

Ryan Howard's Rehab Progressing: Injury Update*

It has been some time since the Philadelphia Phillies saw their 2011 season end in the NLDS. The Phillies lost that series in five games to the St. Louis Cardinals. In the final play of that game, Phillies slugger Ryan Howard was seen limping toward first base before he collapsed on...

25 Greatest Players to Begin Their Careers with the Philadelphia Phillies*

The Philadelphia Phillies know first hand the importance of developing Major League talent within the organization. A quick look at the Phillies' roster in 2008, the year the club won its second World Series title, shows that building talent from within is imperative to winning a championship. Would they have been able to capture the National League pennant and the World Series without the ...

Phillies' Current Belief in Their Offense is Debatable: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies had a solid defense, effective starting pitching and an exceptional closer when they defeated the Tampa Bay Rays to win the World Series in 2008. They also had a dynamic offense that often won games through use of an American League, three-run home run,...

Ryan Howard Injury Update: Phillies' First Baseman In A Walking Boot*

Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard is making progress with his rehab from a ruptured Achilles tendon. He is off of his crutches and into a walking boot. He was seen in the boot while he was at City Hall today. Howard was at City Hall to announce a $1.2 million donation to the Philadelphia School District from the Ryan Howard Family Foundation. The donation includes $750,000 worth of ...

Assessing the Phillies 2012 Lineup: Fan's View*

The Philadelphia Phillies were prohibitive favorites to win the 2012 World Series. That belief was widely held by analysts, fans, detractors and the like because their pitching and to a lesser extent, their fielding, were billed as exceptional.

Philadelphia Phillies All-Fan Favorite Team*

Through over a century of play and two World Series championships, the Phillies have had their fair share of athletes at each position. Many we remember. Some we forget. The ones we remember, though, are usually the ones we love. In Philadelphia, oftentimes, love for their athletes is hard to come by. That only serves to make these individuals even more unique and special. Here is the All-Fan ...

As Winter Meetings Approach, the Potential Loss of Phillies' Rollins Draws Near: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies may learn at next week's Winter Meetings that they need to replace their shortstop. Free agent Jimmy Rollins hasn't been re-signed, which means that both he and the team are exploring all options.

Jerry Clothier, Phillies VP, dead at 66*

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- Jerry Clothier, vice president for business and finance for the Philadelphia Phillies, died Saturday after battling prostate cancer, the team said. He was 66.

Former Phillies' Star Lenny Dykstra Seeks Redemption: Fan Reaction*

Philadelphia Phillies centerfielder Lenny Dykstra was a key member of the team's 1993 World Series team. After a tumultuous number of years, he has faced reality and is seeking redemption. Choosing to develop natural talent, working hard and benefiting from good timing, allowed...

Three Phillies Concerns for the 2012 Season: Fan Opinion*

As the Philadelphia Phillies contingent prepares to head to the winter meetings in Texas next week, there are a number of areas of concern. Let's look at three of them. Concern #3: The closer Signing Jonathan Papelbon is somewhat similar to signing Cliff Lee last year.

Where Do the Phillies Three Aces Go from Here?: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies starting rotation continues to be accurately recognized as one of the best in baseball. As the team moves toward the 2012 season, this area of strength shouldn't be taken for granted. Formerly known as the 4 aces With Roy Oswalt's seemingly certain...

Three Phillies Offered Arbitration: Fan Reaction*

For reasons involving draft picks, the Philadelphia Phillies have offered salary arbitration to Jimmy Rollins Ryan Madson and Raul Ibanez. While none of the players is expected to accept their offers, life without them is currently being considered by the team's top brass.

Don't Read Much into Phillies Arbitration Moves: A Fan's Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies made some moves on Wednesday, November 23 regarding Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Madson, and Raul Ibanez. But before you get too excited, it should be noted that none of those players are any closer to signing with the Phillies.

Madson's Importance in Phillies History: Fan Opinion*

Ryan Madson was born two months before the Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Kansas City Royals to win their first World Series championship in 1980. He was 17 when he signed with the team after being selected in the ninth round of the June 1998 amateur draft.

Phillies' Sandberg Apparently Headed Back to Iron Pigs: Fan Reaction*

Ryne Sandberg apparently will be returning to manage the Philadelphia Phillies Triple A team for a second season. He had been considered as a major league managerial candidate by the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals, but was not hired.

One Improvement the Philadelphia Phillies Must Make: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies signed a big money closer. Now, they must focus on one area of their team if they hope to put themselves into position to become World Series' contenders again. The team must improve its offense if there is any hope of adjusting their fall outcome in...

Philadelphia Phillies 2012 minor league staff*

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Phillies Improve Bench with Wigginton Trade: A Fan's Reaction*

The busy offseason for the Philadelphia Phillies continues. The team acquired Ty Wigginton form the Colorado Rockies for a player to be named later. This is yet another key move the team has done to address their depth issues.

What Life Could Be like for the Philadelphia Phillies After Oswalt: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies acquired Roy Oswalt for the stretch run in 2010. He performed terrifically, posting a 7-1 record, a 1.74 ERA and a 0.0895 WHIP to end that regular season. Cliff Lee's acquisition last winter helped to create the overly hyped scenario that the Phillies...

List of National League MVP award winners*

(Reuters) - List of National League Most Valuable Player award winners after Ryan Braun of the Milwaukee Brewers was named as the 2011 winner on Tuesday. 2011 - Ryan Braun, Milwaukee Brewers 2010 - Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds 2009 - Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals 2008 - Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals 2007 - Jimmy Rollins, Philadelphia Phillies 2006 - Ryan Howard, Philadelphia Phillies ...

Potential Free Agent Hamels' Career Parallels Phillies Rise to Prominence: Fan Opinion*

Philadelphia Phillies ace left-hander Cole Hamels is currently arbitration eligible and could become a free agent after the 2012 season. When will the team secure the best pitcher to emerge from its farm system in at least a generation?

Philadelphia Phillies: 6 Prospects They Should Never Have Traded*

Regret. GM Ruben Amaro doesn't seem to care to much for that word. He has pulled off some of the biggest blockbuster trades in team history during his brief tenure as head honcho of the Philadelphia Phillies . Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt, Cliff Lee, Hunter Pence and others are all top talent that have been acquired via trade. Talent like that doesn't come cheap. The Phillies have dealt some of ...

Phillies re-sign veteran catcher Brian Schneider*

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- The Philadelphia Phillies have re-signed backup catcher Brian Schneider to a one-year contract, worth $800,000.

Philadelphia Phillies: Top Prospects by Position*

After many years of substandard production, the Phillies farm system has served the team very well during the past decade.  It provided the core to the 2008 World Series squad and has since been tapped time and time again in trades to improve the big club. Despite those trades, the system remains in a good position and is by no means barren, as some naysayers have suggested. Recently, draft guru ...

Will Money, or Competition Stop the Phillies from Signing Cuban Star Cespedes?: Fan Opinion*

Like many teams, the Philadelphia Phillies have been scouting Cuban star Yoenis Cespedes. The 26-year-old outfielder hit .333 and smacked 33 home runs in 90 games during his most recent season. Is it possible that he might actually play for the Phillies next season?

Papelbon shipping down to Philadelphia*

PHILADELPHIA - Jonathan Papelbon can do his Irish Jig on Broad Street. A person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press that the Philadelphia Phillies and Papelbon have agreed to a $50 million, four-year contract that's the largest ever for a reliever.

How a Post-Jimmy Rollins Era Would Affect the Phillies: Fan Opinion*

Philadelphia Phillies free agent shortstop Jimmy Rollins doesn't currently have a deal in place with the team that he has played his entire career with. If he is unable to reach an agreement, the landscape that the fans have seen during the past 12 seasons would fundamentally...

The 25 Most Stunning Moments in Philadelphia Phillies' History*

Everyone loves a good surprise, right? The Philadelphia Phillies sure do, and luckily enough for just about every fan around the sport of baseball, the offseason is chocked full of them. Without the joy of actual baseball to occupy our daily lives, we fans of the sport rely on the secretive speculation of free agent destinations and the behind the scenes trade scenarios that every general ...

Why the Philadelphia Phillies Cut Ryan Madson Loose: Fan Reaction*

The Philadelphia Phillies signed a deal with former Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon. As a result, Ryan Madson's career with the team has ended. Why did the team that he was with his entire career decide to move in a new direction?

Jonathan Papelbon, Philadelphia Phillies Agree To Deal, According To Report*

Free agent closer Jonathan Papelbon has come to terms with the Philadelphia Phillies ,  according to Jim Salisbury of Comcast Sports Philadelphia .  Sources tell Salisbury  that Papelbon's contract will approach $50 million for four years, pending a physical. The soon-to-be 31-year old closer has compiled a 2.33 ERA and 219 saves during seven big league seasons, all spent in Boston. He posted a ...

Red Sox Free Agency: Jonathan Papelbon, Philadelphia Phillies Showing Mutual Interest*

Boston Red Sox free agent closer Jonathan Papelbon and the Philadelphia Phillies are showing "serious" mutual interest, according to an ESPN report. The Phillies were reportedly extremely close to a four-year, $44 million deal to retain closer Ryan Madson on Monday,  but a source told ESPN that negotiations are splintering and Madson is now unlikely to return to Philadelphia.  Philadelphia ...

Philadelphia Phillies Should Find a Way to Keep Ryne Sandberg in the Fold: Fan Opinion*

When a coach or manager starts to get old, rumors begin to spread about who will take over once they've called it quits or reached the end of their rope with an organization. You tend to see it more in college sports than in the professional ranks.

Meeting Philadelphia Phillies Great Robin Roberts*

Growing up in Philadelphia meant it was hard to follow any other baseball team except the Philadelphia Phillies. After going to some games with my dad, I began to follow the history of the team and even as a little kid, I would get books and baseball reference guides (this was...

Phillies Signed Former Red Sox Closer Papelbon for Seasoned Reasons: Fan Reaction*

The Philadelphia Phillies have reached an agreement on a free agent deal with former Boston Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon. The reported $50 million deal sets a new record for relievers. Why did the team move in this direction?

Phillies talking to Papelbon, Madson for closer's role*

The Philadelphia Phillies boast an impressive starting rotation to be certain, but now they are examining their options about shoring up their closer's role.

Report: Phillies Close To Re-Signing Ryan Madson*

According to  reports  from Yahoo! Sports' Tim Brown, the Philadelphia Phillies are close to re-signing right-handed reliever Ryan Madson , who is currently a free agent. Brown believes the deal would be something close to four years for $44 million with a fifth year option for $13 million. The 31-year-old Madson became the team's closer this past season, when he went 4-2 with a 2.37 ERA with ...

Phillies Making Closer a Priority: A Fan's View*

It looks like the talks between the Philadelphia Phillies and a couple of closers are heating up. When the 2011 season ended, Phillies fans like me wonder where the team's priorities would lie when it came to their big free agents.

Can the Philadelphia Phillies Say Goodbye to Yesterday?: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies are going to try to change their offensive course in an attempt to move forward next season. In consideration of the personnel that they have, is it realistic to believe that this goal can be reached in just one season?

Why the Philadelphia Phillies Should Re-Sign Shortstop Jimmy Rollins: Fan Opinion*

Jimmy Rollins is a Type A free agent. He has the ability to leave the Philadelphia Phillies organization and sign with any other franchise. Will he do so? In a postseason press conference he stated that he would be willing to accept a four-year deal, if a fifth year was included at...

Philadelphia Phillies Sign Free Agent Thome to One-Year Contract*

The Philadelphia Phillies signed free-agent first baseman Jim Thome to a one-year contract, the team said on its website.

Philadelphia Phillies Acquisition of Jim Thome Sets Offseason Tone: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies one-year free agent deal with Jim Thome represents an interesting start to what should be an offseason of numerous significant decisions. When a team is expected to win the World Series and gets defeated in the National League Division Series, it's...

Philadelphia Phillies Sign Jim Thome*

Used to be that the Phillies had a prospect in AAA named Ryan Howard who would come up in every trade rumor because he was blocked by Jim Thome. Things are just a little different in 2011. With Howard injured and their bench thin, the Phillies signed Thome to a one-year deal according to CSN Philly : Thome signs w Phillies for 1.25 M according to source. Physical on Sat Assuming that the ...

Philadelphia Phillies reportedly sign Jim Thome to one-year deal*

He will take a physical on Saturday, and if all goes well, he will bring his 604 career home runs to Citizens Bank Park next spring.

Philadelphia Phillies Have Arrived at a Fork in the Road: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies are expected to contend for a World Series championship in 2012. The same was true in 2011. After a season of lofty and extremely unfulfilled expectations, the organization has arrived at an important fork in the road.

Source: Philadelphia Phillies agree to sign Jim Thome to a one-year contract*

PHILADELPHIA - Jim Thome took the stage at the City Club of Cleveland on Oct. 25, and spoke in generalities about staying in the game. On Friday, he got a little more specific.

Phillies Transition from Howard Back to Thome: A Fan's Outlook*

The Philadelphia Phillies were suspected to be interested in Jim Thome before the trade deadline. This made us Phillies fans breathless with anticipation at the prospect of Thome coming home, and maybe wrapping up his career with a championship.

Red Sox interview Mackanin for manager's job*

BOSTON (AP) -- The Boston Red Sox have interviewed Philadelphia Phillies bench coach Pete Mackanin for their vacant managerial job.

Red Sox interview Pete Mackanin for manager's job*

The Boston Red Sox have interviewed Philadelphia Phillies bench coach Pete Mackanin for their vacant managerial job.

Phillies Offseason Update: Jimmy Rollins, Ryan Madson and Roy Oswalt Listed As Type A Free Agents*

If the Philadelphia Phillies lose shortstop Jimmy Rollins , right-handed reliever Ryan Madson or right-handed starter Roy Oswalt to free agency this offseason, at least the team will get something in return. The three players were labeled Type A free agents by the Elias Sports Bureau rankings Monday, meaning that the Phillies will receive two draft picks for every free agent who is offered ...

Rollins Optimistic About Phillies Deal Before Free Agency: A Fan's Take*

Philadelphia Phillies fans like me could learn the fate of Jimmy Rollin soon. The shortstop has said that he expects a contract offer before he becomes a free agent. Free agency begins five days after the end of the World Series, which wrapped up on October 28.

Philadelphia Phillies fans who think 'it should have been' their team instead of the St. Louis Cardinals are wrong*

No way. No doubt Phillies fans would rather it have been the Phillies, and perhaps it could have been -- but should have been? No way. The Cardinals were no fluke, and in every way they were better than the Phillies in the postseason.

List of World Series winners*

List of winners in Major League Baseball's World Series:

Phillies Working Through Health Issues: Injury Update*

The 2011 season ended in disappointing fashion for the Philadelphia Phillies. However, fans have had some time to get over it and look ahead to the 2012 season. There are a lot of things to figure out before spring training. The Phillies have several free agents to worry about as...

Philadelphia Phillies: 4 Possible Replacements for Jimmy Rollins*

Jimmy Rollins is a free agent this offseason and he apparently wants a five-year deal . The Philadelphia Phillies may not be willing to give that type of deal, and it would not be hard to blame them. Rollins is no longer an MVP-caliber player and he will be 33 years old at the end of November. He has also said that he is willing to leave the Phillies, a team that he has spent his whole career ...

Phillies Fans Should Forget About Wright and Reyes: A Fan's Take*

Like most fans of the Philadelphia Phillies, I am anxious to see the World Series end. It's not just because I'm bitter that the Phillies aren't there. It's because I'm anxious for the offseason to start. The end of the World Series means that the free agency...

Philadelphia Phillies 2012: Best and Worst Case Scenarios at Every Position*

A team's journey to the World Series is never as black and white as one would think. The best regular season teams, contrary to popular belief, do not always win it all. Sometimes, even the best regular season teams don't make it out past the LDS. The Phillies can be considered this team. They were touted by many as World Series favorites and after winning a Major League and franchise best 102 ...

Philadelphia Phillies: All Business for Ruben Amaro, Jr. in Jimmy Rollins Talks*

The World Series is coming to an end, closing the book on another thrilling year of MLB action. For the Philadelphia Phillies and general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., focus between the lines on the diamond ended prematurely for the third straight season, sending the organization to a winter of decisions. When the final pitch is thrown by the new champions later this week, baseball will finally heat ...

4 Reasons the Philadelphia Phillies Don't Need Roy Oswalt and Brad Lidge*

So, it looks like the Philadelphia Phillies won’t have veterans Roy Oswalt and Brad Lidge on their roster after declining options on the pitchers for the 2012 season. But is that such a bad thing? The Phillies have clearly proven that they can be successful without these two, and it looks like it’s time to move on.   1. Roy Oswalt Is Too Risky Roy Oswalt went 9-10 in 2011 and spent a ...

Phillies decline options on Oswalt, Lidge*

The Philadelphia Phillies officially declined the 2012 options for the contracts of right-handed pitchers Brad Lidge and Roy Oswalt, the club announced Monday.

Philadelphia Phillies decline 2012 options for pitchers Roy Oswalt and Brad Lidge*

General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said the team will consider re-signing both players.

Philadelphia Phillies: Ranking Their 25 Biggest Targets This Offseason*

Ever since becoming monetary powerhouses in Major League Baseball a few years back, the Philadelphia Phillies have thrown their weight around the free agent and trade markets, reeling in the big names and leaving other teams fighting over the scraps. That's not going to happen this season. It's not that the Phillies can't afford to add more salary or move around big contracts, but the landscape ...

Philadelphia Phillies Make Pitchers Roy Oswalt, Brad Lidge Free Agents*

The Philadelphia Phillies declined to pick up contract options on Roy Oswalt and Brad Lidge, making the 34-year-old pitchers unrestricted free agents.

Phillies decline options on pitchers Oswalt, Lidge*

The Philadelphia Phillies declined the 2012 contract options on 34-year-old pitchers Roy Oswalt and Brad Lidge but could return both players at a cheaper price, the team said on Monday.

Philadelphia Phillies: 3 Prospects Who Can Make an Impact in 2012*

The Philadelphia Phillies are looking toward the 2012 season. They have a few prospects who can make an impact in 2012 and help them return to the playoffs. These young players could play and important role for the Phillies in 2012 and beyond. They need to replace Ryan Howard for the duration of his injury, and the Phillies also have a few other holes that they can fill. Begin Slideshow

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Proposed Fixes GM Ruben Amaro Jr. Should Ignore*

With one resounding grounder to second base, the Philadelphia Phillies ' dream season was stopped in its tracks and hurled into an extended winter filled with questions and uncertainty. Instead of hoisting the World Series trophy, the front office will be mired in the war room trying to find a way to get their hands back on it. The Phillies were on track to win their third championship before ...

Are the Philadelphia Phillies Moving Away From, or Toward Championship Contention?: Fan Opinion*

The Philadelphia Phillies won their first World Series Championship 31 years ago. They won their second World Series Championship three years ago. After losing to the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Division Series, they now face an offseason of serious decisions that...

Philadelphia Phillies' entire coaching staff to return in 2012*

All six of Charlie Manuel's field staff will be back.

Five Changes the Philadelphia Phillies Must Make Before the 2012 Season Begins: Fan Opinion*

After losing the National League Division Series to the St. Louis Cardinals, the seemingly invincible Philadelphia Phillies find themselves on vacation as the World Series is being played. Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers are repeating what the Phillies accomplished in 2008 and 2009,...

Philadelphia Phillies spring training tickets, weekend packages on sale soon*

Three-game packs for the spring training season go on sale Dec. 14. Individual tickets will be available starting Jan. 12.

Will the Philadelphia Phillies Cash in Shane Victorino's Trade Value?: Fan Opinion*

Sometimes very surprising trades happen in baseball. But, some deals don't initially seem to make sense when they are announced. Philadelphia Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr. has developed a reputation for creativity during his tenure as the team's top boss.

Are the Rangers the New Phillies?*

Are the Texas Rangers the new Philadelphia Phillies?

3 plead guilty in fatal Philly ballpark beating*

Three men accused of fatally beating a man outside a Philadelphia Phillies game during a drunken melee pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter on Tuesday.

Blanton Throws Five Innings In Instructional League Start*

Philadelphia Phillies right-hander  Joe Blanton  threw five innings in an instructional league game Saturday at the Phillies' spring training complex in Clearwater, Fla. According to a  report  from the Philadelphia Daily News, Blanton allowed one run in five innings and consistently hit 90 mph with his fastball. The outing was part of Blanton's effort to smooth out the elbow injury that limited ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 25 Best Relief Pitchers in Franchise History*

Though the use of the reliever in baseball has changed drastically over the course of the game's history, the concept remains the same—take one of the best pitchers on your roster and throw him into a pressure-packed situation with the game on the line, whether it's with the bases loaded in the sixth inning or trying to nail down those final three outs in the ninth. In the long history of the ...

Strat-o-Matic Phillies-Rangers World Series Game 2*

BOXSCORE: 2011 Texas Rangers At 2011 Philadelphia Phillies 10/20/2011 Rangers AB R H RBI AVG Phillies AB R H RBI AVG I.Kinsler 2B 3 0 0 0 .000 J.Rollins SS 3 0 0 0 .143 E.Andrus SS 4 0 0 0 .125 C.Utley 2B 4 2 2 1 .286 J.Hamilton CF 4 0 1 0 .250 H.Pence RF 4 0 1 0 .250 M.Young 1B 3 1 1 1 .250 R.Howard 1B 4 1 2 1 .429 A.Beltre 3B 4 1 2 0 .500 S.Victorino CF 4 0 0 0 .000 M.Napoli C 4 0 0 0 .000 J ...

Grading the 2011 Philadelphia Phillies*

Forget all the symbolism and the similarities between the 2011 Phillies and the 1977 team, whose demise was culminated in an error-laden ninth-inning collapse history has come to know as Black Friday.

Top 5 Offseason Questions Facing the Philadelphia Phillies for 2012*

For a team that finished 2011 with the best record in baseball (102-60), you would expect a fairly quiet offseason.  Sure, an early playoff exit may stir up a few issues, but nothing really major.  Such is not the life for the Philadelphia Phillies . Free agency and injuries have the team facing some major decisions before the 2012 campaign.  After signing Cliff Lee a year ago (as well as ...

Phillies' Howard could miss start of 2012 season*

(Reuters) - Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard could miss the start of the 2012 Major League Baseball season after undergoing surgery on his left Achilles tendon on Wednesday, the team said.

Philadelphia Phillies: Possible Ryan Howard Replacements for 2012*

When the final out was made in Game 5 of the NLDS, the Philadelphia Phillies lost more than just the series. The team also saw their star first baseman, Ryan Howard , rupture his Achilles. Howard will be out for all of the 2012 season, and the Phillies will need to change their approach to the offseason. The Phillies will now need to find someone who can fill in for the year at first base. Begin ...

Sports comments: Philadelphia Phillies were too cocky and overconfident entering playoffs*

quitcomplaning writes, 'Instead of pointing fingers, how about this... the team as a whole got too cocky and their over confidence was their downfall.'

Manuel expects Phillies to contend again (AP)*

Still stinging from an early postseason exit, Charlie Manuel isn't ready to lower his team's expectations. The Philadelphia Phillies didn't win the World Series title that everyone from management to players to fans expected this season. But their manager doesn't think it's time to settle for less.

Detention Lecture: Your 2011 Philadelphia Phillies*

As the postseason soldiers on, the eliminated teams are facing an offseason filled with golf rounds and hot-stove strategery. But we're not going to let them get off that easy. No sir. No way. In an attempt to bring some closure between franchise and follower, we're giving a blogger from each team the opportunity to detain their squads for the equivalent of a Saturday morning detention stay. Up ...

Jordan leaves O's to become Phillies director of player development*

Joe Jordan had been the Orioles' director of amateur scouting for seven years Joe Jordan, who has overseen the Orioles' previous seven drafts as director of amateur scouting, confirmed Wednesday that he is leaving the organization to join the Philadelphia Phillies as that club's director of player development. Now, instead of choosing the players - something for which Jordan has received mixed ...

Orioles Insider: Scouting director Jordan interviews with Phillies*

Orioles amateur scouting director Joe Jordan interviewed this week with the Philadelphia Phillies for their vacant director of player development position, according to an industry source.

Jimmy Rollins Free Agency Update: Philadelphia Phillies Shortstop Wants Five Years*

Impending free agent Jimmy Rollins , who has played his entire MLB career for the Philadelphia Phillies ,  wants at least a five-year contract in his new deal . (via the Philadelphia Inquirer) "I'm looking to get five years," Rollins said. "If it's going to be shorter, there would have to be a fifth-year option or something like that. My option." The Phillies cited a policy not to discuss ...

SS Jimmy Rollins wants 5-year deal in free agency, hopes to stay with Phillies*

PHILADELPHIA — The possibility that Jimmy Rollins won’t wear red pinstripes again hasn’t crossed his mind. The 2007 NL MVP and three-time All-Star shortstop is headed toward free agency for the first time, and he wants to return to the Philadelphia Phillies. The team wants him back. But those mutual feelings are no guarantee Rollins will be here next year. Read full article >>

Phillies: Ryan Howard has torn Achilles tendon*

PHILADELPHIA - Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard might miss the start of spring training and possibly part of the regular season after tearing an Achilles tendon.The power-hitting first baseman was injured on the final play of Philadelphia's season-ending loss to St. Louis in Game 5...

2011 NLCS: 15 Greatest Pitching Gems in Phillies Postseason History*

It’s been 96 years since the Philadelphia Phillies made their first postseason appearance in franchise history. In 1915, it was Grover Alexander who led the Phillies on the mound in the World Series. Now, nearly a century later, the Phils have another ace in Roy Halladay leading any hopes of another World Series appearance. But Alexander and Halladay are not just two Phillies pitchers who have ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Seven Reasons Why They Didn't Win the Ring in 2011*

Just as the 2008 World Series image of Brad Lidge on his knees after he struck out Eric Hinske for the Championship is one we will never forget, so is this year's NLDS image of Ryan Howard on the ground in pain as Chris Carpenter and his Cardinal teammates celebrated in front of 40,000+ absolutely stunned Phillies fans. It didn't seem right that the best season in Phillies history would end so ...

2011 Philadelphia Phillies Postmortem: They Fooled Us*

So, that's how it happened. It ended like this? Really? With the best regular season in franchise history and all those lofty expectations and dreams going down in flames as Ryan Howard -- the chief symbol of frustration since winning the World Series in 2008 -- himself went down immediately upon turning to run towards first base... where he would have been out by a mile anyway. Then about an ...

Phils ponder future after falling short (AP)*

All those aces meant nothing at the plate. The Philadelphia Phillies found out that pitching doesn't win championships. It takes clutch hitting, too. An all-or-nothing season in which only a World Series title would be considered a success turned out to be an abysmal failure. The Phillies didn't even make it out of the first round of the NL playoffs.

Serious decisions loom for the Philadelphia Phillies*

Observations as the postseason enters the League Championship Series phase, while wondering just how many people are as surprised as I that neither the Phillies nor Yankees are involved.

Phillies say Howard has torn left Achilles tendon, uncertain for spring training*

PHILADELPHIA - Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard might miss the start of spring training and possibly part of the regular season after tearing an Achilles tendon.

Halladay frustrated about season finale*

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Roy Halladay reacts in the dugout during Game 5. Cardinals won 1-0. / AP PHILADELPHIA — There was no post-game workout. The season was over.

Phils' Howard suffers Achilles tear*

The Philadelphia Phillies say first baseman Ryan Howard has a torn Achilles tendon and it's uncertain if he will be ready for spring training next year.

Phillies ponder future after upset loss (AP)*

All those aces meant nothing at the plate. The Philadelphia Phillies found out that pitching doesn't win championships. It takes clutch hitting, too. An all-or-nothing season in which only a World Series title would be considered a success turned out to be an abysmal failure. The Phillies didn't even make it out of the first round of the NL playoffs.

Phillies' win-or-else season falls way short of World Series title*

PHILADELPHIA — All those aces meant nothing at the plate. The Philadelphia Phillies found out that pitching doesn’t win championships. It takes clutch hitting, too. An all-or-nothing season in which only a World Series title would be considered a success turned out to be an abysmal failure. The Phillies didn’t even make it out of the first round of the NL playoffs. Read full article >>

Carpenter bests friend Halladay in NLDS finale*

Chris Carpenter tossed a three-hitter to outpitch old pal Roy Halladay in a duel for the ages and the St. Louis Cardinals edged the Philadelphia Phillies 1-0 Friday night in the deciding Game 5 of their NL playoff series.

Philadelphia Phillies 2011 MLB Playoffs Collapse: Morning After*

The Philadelphia Phillies lost to the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 5 of the National League Division Series. No, it wasn't a dream. Yes, it is a massive disappointment for a Phillies team that won 102 regular season games. Last night, Philadelphia fans went through stages of shock, anger, sadness, more anger and then just utter disappointment. These Phillies are beginning to look a lot like the ...

Cardinals win thriller to seal division title*

The St Louis Cardinals edged the Philadelphia Phillies in a 1-0 thriller on Friday to reach the National League Championship Series (NLCS) after a classic pitching duel between Chris Carpenter and Roy Halladay.

Philadelphia Phillies, Ryan Howard collapse under playoff pressure*

By DAN GELSTON PHILADELPHIA — Ryan Howard crumpled to the ground with a left Achilles' injury — and Philadelphia's dream season fell with him.

Onto the NLCS: Carpenter, Cardinals outduel Phillies*

Chris Carpenter tossed a three-hitter to outpitch old pal Roy Halladay in a duel for the ages and the St. Louis Cardinals edged the Philadelphia Phillies 1-0 Friday night in the deciding Game 5 of their NL playoff series.

Carpenter outduels Halladay*

PHILADELPHIA -- Chris Carpenter tossed a three-hitter to outpitch old pal Roy Halladay in a duel for the ages and the St. Louis Cardinals edged the Philadelphia Phillies 1-0 Friday night in the deciding Game 5 of their NL playoff series. The wild-card Cardinals scored in the first inning when Rafael Furcal led off with a triple and Skip Schumaker followed with a double. And that was it. read more

Phillies were frustrated by Carpenter's hot hand*

PHILADELPHIA • The Philadelphia Phillies , who have won the last five National League Eastern Division titles, had played in three straight league championship series. That streak ended Friday night.

MLB: Philadelphia Phillies Topple New York Yankees*

What? Is this headline wrong? The World Series is at least a week away! Think back to the off-season when the Yankees were trying to sign Cliff Lee. Had they signed him, their pitching rotation would have been a lot different for the playoffs. With C.C. Sabathia and Lee at the top of the rotation, they might have sailed through the playoffs and won another World Series. But instead, Lee chose to ...

Phillies, Halladay ready for Game 5*

PHILADELPHIA — The National League division series certainly has turned squirrelly for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Cardinals sending Carpenter against Halladay tonight*

Roy Halladay and Chris Carpenter grew up together with the Toronto Blue Jays, and the BFFs have spent plenty of time competing on golf courses and fishing boats. The stakes will be much higher when the All-Stars go head-to-head on a mound for the first time tonight. It’ll be Halladay vs. Carpenter in Game 5 with a berth in the NL championship series on the line for the Philadelphia Phillies and ...

Freese, Cardinals force Game 5, beat Phillies, 5-3*

ST. LOUIS—David Freese homered, doubled and drove in four runs as the St. Louis Cardinals tagged playoff nemesis Roy Oswalt and beat the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 Wednesday night, forcing a deciding fifth game in their NL division series.

Cliff Lee struggles; Cardinals beat Phillies, 5-4, to even series*

PHILADELPHIA—Cliff Lee has lost his October touch. Albert Pujols hit a go-ahead single in the seventh inning after Lee blew a four-run lead, and the St. Louis Cardinals rallied past the Philadelphia Phillies, 5-4, Sunday night to even their NL playoff matchup at one game each.

Madson enjoys role as Phillies closer*

Relief pitchers rarely last eight seasons with their original team, but closer Ryan Madson has been with the Philadelphia Phillies since the start of the 2004 season and even a few days before that at the end of 2003.

NLDS: Cards Beat Phillies*

ST. LOUIS – David Freese homered, doubled and drove in four runs as the St. Louis Cardinals tagged playoff nemesis Roy Oswalt and beat the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 Wednesday night, forcing a deciding fifth game in their NL division series.

Philadelphia Phillies FA Options: 7 Ways They Can Get Younger at Every Position*

For the Philadelphia Phillies , 2011 is an incredibly important year. Not only is it their best shot to win a World Series since 2008, but it may also be one of their few remaining shots to win in the next decade. The Phillies window of opportunity is beginning to close as the years go by. Not only is the team getting older, but they are also going to be faced with a lot of free agent decisions ...

Cardinals vs. Phillies: David Freese, Edwin Jackson Send Series Back East*

The good news for the Philadelphia Phillies is that Roy Oswalt is their playoff rotation's biggest weakness, and Roy Halladay is their playoff rotation's biggest strength. The bad news for the Phillies is that now they absolutely have to win with Halladay, and you can never predict what will happen in any single baseball game. The Phillies took on the St. Louis Cardinals Wednesday night in ...

NLDS: Cardinals Beat Phillies to Tie Series at 2-2*

ST. LOUIS – David Freese homered, doubled and drove in four runs as the St. Louis Cardinals tagged playoff nemesis Roy Oswalt and beat the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 Wednesday night, forcing a deciding fifth game in their NL division series.

Freese, Cards force Game 5*

Cardinals third baseman David Freese (23) homers as Philadelphia Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz looks on during the sixth inning of Wednesday's game in St. Louis.

Howard's HR sparks Phils' 5-run rally (AP)*

Ryan Howard took a mighty cut, dropped his bat and admired the shot. The big slugger didn't go down looking in a clutch spot this time, Roy Halladay overcame a shaky start and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the St. Louis Cardinals 11-6 Saturday night in the opener of their NL division series. Howard shook off his season-ending strikeout last October in the championship series to hit a go-ahead,...

Howard's HR rallies Phils past Cardinals (AP)*

Ryan Howard took a mighty cut, dropped his bat and admired the shot. The big slugger didn't go down looking in a clutch spot this time, and Roy Halladay overcame a shaky start to help the Philadelphia Phillies beat the St. Louis Cardinals 11-6 Saturday night in the opener of their NL division series.

Halladay solid after shaky start as Phillies top Cards*

Ryan Howard hit a huge home run, Roy Halladay overcame a shaky start and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the St. Louis Cardinals 11-6 Saturday night in the opener of their NL division series.

It's all-or-nothing for Phillies this postseason*

PHILADELPHIA — No team enters this postseason under more pressure than the Philadelphia Phillies.

10 numbers for the NLDS: Cardinals vs. Phillies*

As the postseason continues, Big League Stew's Alex Remington will take a look at the statistics that might make a difference in each series. Closing out the series are the St. Louis Cardinals and Philadelphia Phillies , who will get underway later on Saturday. 3.27 The average number of runs the Phillies allowed their opponents, per game. That is best in the big leagues, 0.30 runs per game ...

How the teams match up: Cardinals outplayed Phillies during season*

Can the St. Louis Cardinals ' good fortune against the Philadelphia Phillies continue in the National League Division Series?

Lohse falters, Cards lose 11-6 to Phils*

Kyle Lohse couldn't beat Roy Halladay twice in two weeks. Unhittable for a few innings, Lohse ran out of gas in the sixth and the St. Louis Cardinals blew an early lead against Halladay, losing 11-6 to the Philadelphia  Phillies  on Saturday night in the opener of their NL division series. Lance Berkman hit a three-run homer off Halladay in the first, a lead that stood until Ryan Howard ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Checking Out Their National League Playoff Opponents*

All that Philadelphia Phillies fans can say right now is that we are glad that is over. After finally snapping an eight-game skid yesterday, the Phillies have one three-game series with the Atlanta Braves as a final tuneup before they enter playoff competition. However, what would be the ultimate scenario for the Phillies in the playoffs? Let's take a look at each of the potential matchups that ...

Atlanta Braves fall to Philadelphia Phillies but still cling to wild-card lead*

Atlanta Braves fall to Philadelphia Phillies but keep wild-card lead after St. Louis Cardinals lose to Houston Astros.

Philadelphia Phillies: 7 Vital Players Who Will Determine Their Playoff Success*

As the season winds down and final playoff positioning is decided, the Philadelphia Phillies are once again looking for their team to make it all the way to the 2011 World Series. After winning in 2008, coming so close in 2009 and then falling short in 2010, the Phillies have something to prove and they have players who are willing to prove it. Although the entire team is essential to the ...

Braves drop into tie with Cardinals: NL roundup*

Derek Lowe had another miserable outing, surrendering five runs in four-plus innings, and the Philadelphia Phillies romped to a 7-1 victory Tuesday night that left the Braves on the brink going to the final day of the regular season. Click here for your NL action.

Phillies defeat Braves 7-1*

Atlanta Braves catcher Brian McCann sits on the bench in the bottom of the ninth inning of the Braves' game against the Philadelphia Phillies in Atlanta on Tuesday. Philadelphia won 7-1.

Lowe pounded again, Braves routed by Phillies 7-1*

PAUL NEWBERRY AP Sports Writer ATLANTA The Atlanta Braves are doing their best to give away what looked like a certain playoff berth just a few weeks ago. Derek Lowe had another miserable outing, surrendering five runs in four-plus innings, and the Philadelphia Phillies romped to a 7-1 victory Tuesday night that left the Braves on the brink going to the final day of the regular season. Chase ...

Starters, Victorino worthy of Schmidties*

Four more days of regular season baseball remain. Then Philadelphia Phillies fans finally can start to concentrate on what they've waited for since that December day Cliff Lee returned to town: the playoffs.

Phillies' skid at 8 after Mets sweep DH (AP)*

With nothing left to play for in the regular season, the Philadelphia Phillies are playing as if they have nothing left. Manager Charlie Manuel isn't sure how to fix it. There's no reason to panic, his players say. Hunter Pence dropped a deep fly ball for an error that led to five unearned runs, and the New York Mets completed a doubleheader sweep with a 6-3 victory Saturday night that...

Cold spell is chilling for Phillies Paul Sokoloski Opinion*

This is no time to relax for the Philadelphia Phillies.

Phillies lose 8th straight, longest skid in 11 years*

With nothing left to play for in the regular season, the Philadelphia Phillies are playing as if they have nothing left.

Phillies seek to get on track in DH with Mets*

(Sports Network) - Despite having already secured their fifth straight National League East title and also home-field advantage throughout the playoffs, the Philadelphia Phillies need to find their offense as they make final preparations for the postseason.

Hamels sharp, but Phils lose 7th straight*

R.A. Dickey took a no-hit bid into the seventh inning, David Wright hit a tiebreaking double in the eighth and the New York Mets beat the slumping Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 Saturday in the opener of a day-night doubleheader, sending the NL East champions to their seventh straight loss.

Philadelphia Phillies lose seventh straight game as they fall to New York Mets, 2-1*

David Wright hit a tie-breaking double in the eighth inning for the Mets.

Putting Nationals' Winning Record Vs. Philadelphia Phillies In Perspective*

The Washington Nationals completed a four-game sweep of the mighty Philadelphia Phillies last night, clinching a winning record (10-8) over the league's leading team this season. To put that in perspective, some facts: Teams with winning records vs. the Phillies this year: Nationals (10-8), St. Louis Cardinals (6-3), Seattle Mariners (2-1). Teams who have swept the Phillies this season ...

Phillies-Mets postponed by rain, DH on Saturday*

The scheduled game between the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets has been postponed because of rain. The game will be made up as part of a day-night doubleheader Saturday, though rain is in the forecast again. The first game is slated to start at 1:10 p.m. and the second game at 7:10 p.m. Cole Hamels had been scheduled to pitch Friday night for the NL East champion Phillies against New ...

Nationals Vs. Phillies Final: Nationals Beat Phillies 6-1, Complete Four Game Sweep*

The Philadelphia Phillies are at 98 wins and two games from having a 100-game winning season. If they thought they'd easily reach that goal off the Washington Nationals dime, they learned a valuable lesson Thursday. After a four-game series at Citizens Bank Park the Phillies are still looking for those two wins. The Nationals swept all four games against the Phillies, ending with Thursday's game ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Is the Season of No Angst Over?*

Early on in the year, it was clear that this would finally be the Phillies season that I had been waiting for: The Season of No Angst. While the Phillies—especially in recent years—have had great teams before, they have never had a team that caused almost no worry for its fanbase.  Even in great seasons like 1993 and 2008, the team had long stretches where they went into maddening slumps and ...

Philadelphia Phillies drop fifth straight game with loss to Washington Nationals*

Danny Espinosa and Wilson Ramos each hit two-run homers as the Nationals posted a 7-5 win.

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Unexpected Obstacles to Their World Series Hopes*

The 2011 season for the Philadelphia Phillies has been a joyride for most of the year. Their much-hyped starting rotation actually lived up to the hype, some unknown names at the start of the season became bullpen stalwarts and with the acquisition of Hunter Pence at the trade deadline even their on-again off-again offense seemed to hit its stride.  The Phillies won their record fifth-straight ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Citizens Bank Park's Top 5 Moments of the Last 5 Years*

With the Philadelphia Phillies having now clinched a historic fifth consecutive National League East title it is an appropriate time to put that in perspective. This current Phillies run is now the third longest run of consecutive division titles behind only the 1991-2005 Atlanta Braves and 1998-2006 New York Yankees .  Regardless of what happens going forward this is a great achievement that ...

Zimmerman lifts Nats past Phils in 10th*

Ryan Zimmerman's pinch-hit single in the top of the 10th inning lifted the Washington Nationals past the Philadelphia Phillies 4-3 Tuesday in the first game of a day-night-doubleheader.

Kendrick strong in Phillies' loss*

Kyle Kendrick is making a strong statement about being included on the Philadelphia Phillies' postseason roster.

Philadelphia Phillies: Tops in MLB, but Will They Capture Any Individual Honors?*

Like that Old Man River, the Philadelphia Phillies just keep rolling along. Even after Monday's 4-3 loss to the St. Louis Cardinals and a rare series loss, the Phillies still clinched home-field advantage throughout the postseason. Actually, it was the first four-game series all year that they haven't at least split. The Phils are where they want to be, and they have the luxury of resting ...

Nats' Detwiler outduels Phillies' Lee*

Ross Detwiler outpitched Cliff Lee by tossing 7 1-3 impressive innings and the Washington Nationals beat the NL East champion Philadelphia Phillies 3-0 on Tuesday night to complete a sweep of their day-night doubleheader.

Nationals sweep Phillies in day-night doubleheader*

The Philadelphia Phillies hardly look like NL East champs _ on the field and scoreboard.

Lohse beats Halladay, Cards gain ground (AP)*

The celebration in the St. Louis clubhouse showed just how excited the surging Cardinals are to be in the thick of the playoff chase. Kyle Lohse outpitched Roy Halladay, and St. Louis held off the Philadelphia Phillies 4-3 on Monday night to gain ground on Atlanta in the NL wild-card race. Lance Berkman homered and had an RBI single for the Cardinals, who moved within 2 1/2 games of the wild...

Halladay outpitched by Lohse, Phillies offense quiet again in 4-3 loss to Cardinals*

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phillies will have home-field advantage for as far as they go in the postseason. Now, they just need to start getting some hits. Kyle Lohse outpitched Roy Halladay, and the surging St. Louis Cardinals held off Philadelphia 4-3 on Monday night to gain ground on Atlanta in the NL wild-card race. Read full article >>

Lohse outpitches Halladay, Phillies*

Kyle Lohse outpitched Roy Halladay, and the St. Louis Cardinals held off the Philadelphia Phillies 4-3 on Monday night to gain ground on Atlanta in the NL wild-card chase.

Lohse outpitches Halladay, Cards gain ground*

St. Louis Cardinals' Lance Berkman follows through on a RBI-single off Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Roy Halladay in the third inning of a baseball game, Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, in Philadelphia.

Phillies clinch 5th straight NL East title*

The Philadelphia Phillies clinched their fifth straight NL East title with a 9-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday night.

Phillies roll over Cardinals, clinch NL East title*

Roy Oswalt threw seven dominant innings, Raul Ibanez hit a grand slam and the Philadelphia Phillies clinched their fifth straight NL East title with a 9-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals.

Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. is not afraid to take big risks*

With several bold moves, including trading Cliff Lee to clear salary space for Roy Halladay, Amaro has turned Philadelphia into the winningest team in baseball. Reporting from Baltimore -- Ruben Amaro Jr. was hired as general manager of the Philadelphia Phillies two weeks after the team celebrated the second World Series victory in franchise history.

Phils clinch fifth straight East title (AP)*

Hunter Pence clutched a bottle of champagne and jumped around like an excited child opening Christmas presents. The Philadelphia Phillies won another division crown, and Pence is along for his first postseason ride. Roy Oswalt threw seven dominant innings, Raul Ibanez hit a grand slam and the Phillies clinched their fifth straight NL East title with a 9-2 victory over the St.

Phillies win, clinch 5th straight NL East title*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Roy Oswalt threw seven dominant innings, Raul Ibanez hit a grand slam and the Philadelphia Phillies clinched their fifth straight NL East title with a 9-2 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday night. In a season where nothing less than a World Series championship would be considered a success, there wasn't much of a party on the field. The ...

Philadelphia Phillies Clinch Fifth Straight NL East Title*

Good game, let's go pop the champagne! The Phillies routed the St Louis Cardinals tonight 9-2 as they cliched their fifth straight NL East title. Good game, let's go pop the champagne! The Phillies routed the St Louis Cardinals tonight 9-2 as they cliched their fifth straight NL East title. It's the Phils 11th overall NL East crown, which ties them with the Braves for the most since the division ...

Inching closer: Cards top Phils*

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — An unlikely hero emerged for surging St. Louis as the Cardinals kept alive their playoff push while putting the Philadelphia Phillies’ title celebration on hold.

Cardinals win in Philly, 4-2*

A reconfigured lineup resulted in an 11-inning, 4-2 win over the Philadelphia Phillies .

Philadelphia Phillies miss chance to clinch solo NL East title*

The Cardinals' extra-inning win means the Phils will have to wait at least one more day.

Philadelphia Phillies' hitting woes are cause for concern as playoffs approach*

Don’t they? Friday night's painful 4-2 extra-inning loss to the St. Louis Cardinals in front of 45,572 leather-lunged loyalists at a full blast rocking Citizens Bank Park cost the Phillies a chance to clinch a solo National League East crown, but that's not that important in the grand scheme of things.

MLB Standings Update: Phillies Are In, With Others Soon To Follow*

Since last we met, the Philadelphia Phillies have clinched a playoff spot, and other teams are getting close, with the Detroit Tigers right on the cusp. Here is our Friday look at the Major League standings with a little less than two weeks to go in the regular season. We will give the "who's playing whom" for all teams still in contention. AL Central Standings W L PCT GB STRK Detroit 87 63 .580 ...

Cardinals-Phillies Preview*

The Philadelphia Phillies' magic number to wrap up their fifth consecutive NL East crown is down to two, but there's no great sense of urgency after clinching a playoff berth earlier in the week. Trying to join the Phillies in the postseason, the St. Louis Cardinals are feeling nothing but pressure.

Phils hand Astros record 98th loss, clinch playoff spot*

Roy Halladay pitched his 20th career shutout and the Philadelphia Phillies became the first team to reach the playoffs this season with a 1-0 victory over the Houston Astros on Wednesday.

Philadelphia Phillies 2011: 10 Keys to Postseason Glory*

Halloween in Philadelphia has historically fallen during the frigid portion of the Fall season.  But in 2008, millions of fans still felt the chills even as the sun washed over the crowded streets and sidewalks.  Their lovable band of hometown stars mixed with valuable role players finished a dream season by bringing the city its first title in a quarter-century. While the memories of a ...

Phillies clinch playoff spot behind Halladay*

Philadelphia Phillies' Shane Victorino (8) scores as Houston Astros catcher Humberto Quintero reaches for the ball in the first inning of a baseball game Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011, in Houston. Victorino scored from second base on a Placido Polanco single.

Morrison puts grievance aside, homers in loss*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Logan Morrison is doing his best to work through a difficult situation. Shortly after it was learned he filed a grievance his own team, Morrison hit his 20th homer of the season in the Florida Marlins' 3-1 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies in the opener of a day-night doubleheader Thursday. Morrison was sent to the minors on Aug. 13, several hours after ...

Howard leads Phils to doubleheader sweep*

Ryan Howard hit an RBI double in the 10th inning soon after Cliff Lee fell one strike short of his seventh shutout, and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Florida Marlins 2-1 Thursday to sweep the day-night doubleheader.

Phillies' deck is loaded with aces*

The Philadelphia Phillies have so many aces in their rotation that rookie Vance Worley — 11-1 with a 2.88 ERA — will probably spend the playoffs in the bullpen. The Philadelphia Phillies' most successful starting pitcher is likely to spend the postseason in the bullpen. That is a tribute to the depth of a rotation topped by Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee , and certainly no knock on the amazing ...

Philadelphia Phillies' Charlie Manuel: From Hayseed to Hero*

The Philadelphia Phillies won another game last night beating the Milwaukee Brewers 5-3.  It was their 93rd win of the year.  Roy Halladay was... well Roy Halladay as he allowed only 4 hits, one run and had nine strikeouts through eight innings.  He is now 17-5 with a 2.44 ERA. Ryan Howard provided almost all the offense the Phillies would need with his three-run home run in the first giving ...

Phillies top Brewers, near playoff berth (AP)*

Raul Ibanez reached second after a small bobble. Carlos Ruiz laid down a crucial bunt. It is the little things that the Philadelphia Phillies keep excelling at as they run away with the National League. Ibanez doubled and scored on LaTroy Hawkins' throwing error in the 10th, and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Milwaukee Brewers 3-2 on Saturday night for their sixth straight win.

Phillies win in 10*

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Raul Ibanez doubled and scored on LaTroy Hawkins' throwing error in the 10th, and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Milwaukee Brewers 3-2 on Saturday night for their sixth straight win.

Philadelphia Phillies down Milwaukee Brewers in 10 innings*

Raul Ibanez scored the game-winning run on a throwing error in the top of the 10th inning.

Philadelphia Phillies: Pennant Fever Stretches Down to the Farm*

Since 2007, the Philadelphia Phillies have been one of the elite organizations in baseball.  They have a laundry list of team and personal accomplishments in the span that goes unmatched by any other franchise in baseball. The success was built upon by a homegrown core supplemented by trades to acquire additional star power and occasional free agents. However, this will to win does not exist ...

Philadelphia Phillies win game but may have lost Chase Utley*

The second baseman left the 3-2 win over Atllanta with a potential concussion. View PHOTOS.

Philadelphia Phillies' cushion could come in handy down the stretch*

Chase Utley was taken out of Wednesday night's game with a headache after getting hit by a pitch. View PHOTOS of the Phillies' walk-off win over the Atlanta Braves.

Phillies shoot down Braves*

The Philadelphia Phillies wrapped up their three-game series against the Atlanta Braves with a 6-3 win at Citizens Bank Park on Tuesday.

Braves veteran outpitched by Phillies rookie*

PHILADELPHIA — Rookie Vance Worley pitched six effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves 6-3 on a rain-soaked Tuesday night to extend their lead in the NL East to 9½ g...

MLB: Phillies 6, Braves 3*

By Rob Maaddi Associated Press PHILADELPHIA — Rookie Vance Worley pitched six effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta B ...

Worley, Phillies top Braves; NL East deficit grows*

Rookie Vance Worley pitched six effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves 6-3 on a rain-soaked Tuesday night.

Worley, Ibanez lead Phillies past Braves*

Rookie Vance Worley pitched six effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves 6-3 on a rain-soaked Tuesday night to extend their lead in the NL East to 9 1-2 games.

Braves blanked by Cliff Lee, fall 9-0 to Phillies*

PHILADELPHIA — The way Cliff Lee was pitching, the Atlanta Braves knew they were in for a tough night. Lee tossed a five-hitter for his sixth shutout of the season, helping the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies beat the second-place Braves 9-0 on Monday. Lee (16-7) struck out six, walked none and needed only 100 pitches to finish off the Braves after falling one out shy of a shutout in his ...

Braves fall to Lee, Phillies*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA The way Cliff Lee was pitching, the Atlanta Braves knew they were in for a tough night. Lee tossed a five-hitter for his sixth shutout of the season, helping the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies beat the second-place Braves 9-0 on Monday. Lee (16-7) struck out six, walked none and needed only 100 pitches to finish off the Braves after falling one out ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Joe West and His Illogical and Arrogant Call*

In the sixth inning of the Phillies - Marlins game played on Sunday, September 4th, Florida manager Jack McKeon and Umpire Crew Chief Joe West combined to make both an illogical instant replay request and the most asinine call in recent memory. With Ryan Howard at first, Hunter Pence drove a ball to deep right field. Marlins' right fielder, Bryan Petersen (who, as it turns out, is a better ...

Ex-ump: Overturning Pence hit was right call*

ESPN umpiring consultant Jim McKean says he believes Joe West used the replay rule properly when he called Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Hunter Pence out Sunday because of fan interference.

Phillies play game vs. Marlins under protest*

Due to apparent fan interference, a Hunter Pence double was reviewed and caused the Philadelphia Phillies to protest the game.

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Things Ruben Amaro Must Do This Winter*

As the Phillies make their way through a very busy September, I am sure that they are extremely focused on the present and on finishing successfully. However, Ruben Amaro Jr. must already be considering the off-season in the back of his mind. He needs to worry about the Phillies future as well. There will be several big decisions that need to be made this winter, and several of them will be ...

Lee tosses another gem, shuts out Braves*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Cliff Lee tossed a five-hitter for his sixth shutout of the season, helping the NL East-leading Philadelphia Phillies beat the second-place Atlanta Braves 9-0 on Monday night. Lee (16-7) struck out six, walked none and needed only 100 pitches to finish off the Braves after falling one out shy of a shutout in his previous start at Cincinnati. The left ...

Phils aim to stay hot in Florida*

The 2011 Philadelphia Phillies may have accomplished something that no other team in the club's history has ever done, but this squad knows it won't mean anything if they don't end the season as World Series champions.

Philadelphia Phillies: Why Vance Worley Is the Most Underrated Player in MLB*

Even on the days when he takes the mound, Vance Worley is the least talked about member of the Philadelphia Phillies pitching rotation. With the way Worley has been playing this season, he just may start to finally get the respect he deserves.  At the beginning of the season, the Philadelphia starting rotation was the most talked about commodity in all of baseball. Roy Halladay, Cole Hamels ...

Phils Reach 5th Consecutive Win, Beat Marlins 5-3*

John Mayberry drove in three runs with a homer and a sacrifice fly Friday, and the Philadelphia Phillies climbed 42 games above .500 for the first time in franchise’s 129-year history by beating the Florida Marlins 5-3.

Mayberry drives in 3, Phillies climb 42 games above .500 for 1st time by beating Marlins 5-3*

MIAMI — The crowd clad in red rose as one in anticipation of the night’s final strike, which Ryan Madson delivered to trigger a roar from the fans of the visiting team. These days it’s fun to root for the Philadelphia Phillies, even in Miami. John Mayberry drove in three runs with a homer and a sacrifice fly Friday, and the Phillies climbed 42 games above .500 for the first time in the franchise ...

Leake fails to stop slide as Cincinnati Reds lose 6-4 to Philadelphia Phillies*

CINCINNATI — Chris Heisey and the Cincinnati Reds finally got a couple of big hits against the Philadelphia Phillies. And it was too late to stop an embarrassing four-game sweep. Heisey came off the disabled list and hit a three-run homer, but Ryan Howard went deep to lead Philadelphia to a 6-4 victory Thursday. “There is a big-time small margin for error against them,” Reds manager Dusty Baker ...

Howard hits 30th homer as Phillies complete four-game sweep in Cincinnati with 6-4 win*

CINCINNATI — The Philadelphia Phillies just reached a number they haven’t seen in 35 years, and Ryan Howard wants more. Howard hit his 30th homer, Vance Worley pitched into the seventh inning and the Phillies completed an historic four-game sweep in Cincinnati with a 6-4 win on Thursday. “Everybody’s playing well,” Howard said. “Atlanta’s playing well. Milwaukee’s playing well. The way I see it ...

Howard homers as Phils sweep Reds*

CINCINNATI (AP) — The Philadelphia Phillies just reached a number they haven't seen in 35 years, and Ryan Howard wants more.

Reds lose again to Phillies, 6-4*

Chris Heisey and the Cincinnati Reds finally got a couple of big hits against the Philadelphia Phillies. And it was too late to stop an embarrassing four-game sweep.

Philadelphia Phillies: Ranking the Importance of All Their Injury-Prone Stars*

This season, the Philadelphia Phillies have seen over half of their 25-man roster land on the disabled list. In total, the Phils have sent five infielders, four relief pitchers, three starting pitchers and one outfielder to the DL. Yet, they have kept on winning. Thanks to players such as Ryan Howard, Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee missing minimal, if any, time, and Michael Martinez, Wilson Valdez ...

Phillies acquire RF Bowker from Pirates (AP)*

The Philadelphia Phillies acquired outfielder John Bowker from the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday for a player to be named or cash, adding a left-handed hitter to their bench. The 28-year-old Bowker played in 19 games for the Pirates this season, going 4 for 17 with a double before he was designated for assignment on May 4.

Philly tops Reds, 3-0*

CINCINNATI (AP) — Hunter Pence homered for the second straight game, and Cliff Lee got his sixth straight win Wednesday night, leading the Philadelphia Phillies to a 3-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds that took them to a new high point.

Cliff Lee wins 6th straight start, Phillies beat Reds 3-0 for season high point*

CINCINNATI — Cliff Lee wanted one more out. Instead, the dominating left-hander had to settle for the biggest share of another shutout, one that swept the Philadelphia Phillies to new heights. Lee got his sixth straight win on Wednesday night, coming up one out short of another complete game, and Hunter Pence homered for the second straight game, setting up a 3-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds ...

Lee wins sixth straight, Phils now 86-46 (AP)*

Cliff Lee wanted one more out. Instead, the dominating left-hander had to settle for the biggest share of another shutout, one that swept the Philadelphia Phillies to new heights. Lee got his sixth straight win on Wednesday night, coming up one out short of another complete game, and Hunter Pence homered for the second straight game, setting up a 3-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds that gave ...

Lee, Phillies beat Reds 3-0 for season high*

Hunter Pence homered for the second straight game, and Cliff Lee got his sixth straight win Wednesday night, leading the Philadelphia Phillies to a 3-0 victory over the Cincinnati Reds that took them to a new high point.

Philadelphia Phillies: Could Roy Oswalt'S Retirement Be More Likely?*

Roy Oswalt followed perhaps his best start of the season against the Washington Nationals with one of his worst against the Florida Marlins . There has been talk all season as to whether or not the 33-year-old right-hander will be able to pitch another season in Philadelphia. Is this retirement becoming more and more probable? Unfortunately, outside of that gem against the Nationals where he ...

Phils activate Hamels from DL*

The Philadelphia Phillies activated pitcher Cole Hamels from the 15-day disabled list on Monday.

Philadelphia Phillies: Taking a Look at the Full End of Season Schedule*

The Philadelphia Phillies only have 33 games left in the season. However, thanks to Hurricane Irene, all of these games will be played in 31 days. That will definitely test their durability. Let's take a look at where they will play and who they will play. They will have one or two games every day for the rest of the season. This might not be so bad if every game was in Philadelphia. Of course ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Key Players For Phils Down the Stretch*

The Philadelphia Phillies play 33 games in 31 days as the season winds down. This is too much baseball to rely on just one or two hot players. Players are going to need a day off, and other players will need to pick up the missing production. Every athlete on this team will surely get an opportunity to contribute something during the final push. Nevertheless, some players will surely contribute ...

Phils-Marlins, Mets-Braves rescheduled by storm*

PHILADELPHIA (AP) -- The Philadelphia Phillies and Florida Marlins have rescheduled Saturday night's game to Sept. 15 because of Hurricane Irene.

Marlins, Phils begin set at Citizens Bank Park*

(Sports Network) - The Philadelphia Phillies have been shaky the past two weeks but will try to continue their recent dominance of the Florida Marlins when the two NL East inhabitants begin a three-game series tonight from Citizens Bank Park.

Philadelphia Phillies: 7 Best Mid-Season Additions in Phils History*

After their transactions in recent years, the Philadelphia Phillies declining to make a big-name, mid-season acquisition ,would be like seeing Bill Belichick without his sweatshirt; it just wouldn’t be right. From Chuck Klein and Harry Walker, to Cliff Lee and Roy Oswalt, the Phillies have been trading their fair share of big-name players for over 70 years. Unfortunately, these trades have not ...

No-names have been as vital as stars for Phillies*

PHILADELPHIA - They have four aces, two former MVPs and a roster stacked with guys who've made numerous All-Star teams and earned plenty of awards. It's no surprise the Philadelphia Phillies are heading toward their fifth straight NL East title and have the best record (83-45) in baseball.

Hurricane forces Phillies doubleheader*

The Philadelphia Phillies have rescheduled Sunday's game against the Florida Marlins due to the threat posed by Hurricane Irene, the club announced Thursday.

Philadelphia Phillies move Sunday game to Saturday afternoon to avoid Hurricane Irene*

The Phils will host the Florida Marlins in a day-night doubleheader Saturday.

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Big Trends as the Phillies Chase the Pennant*

A ninth consecutive winning season is already secured, a 90-win campaign is a mere formality, and 100 wins looks more and more likely. So what’s left for these Philadelphia Phillies ? A little fine tuning, that’s what. The goal for the rest of the regular season is clear: Stay healthy and secure the best record in the National League. Ignore what head-to-head history or gut tells you, the ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Series vs. Florida Marlins Threatened by Hurricane Irene*

The Phillies have an off day on Thursday before hosting the Florida Marlins for a weekend series. Hurricane Irene, a Category 3 storm, is also heading up the east coast and is going to be in the Philadelphia area this weekend. The weather could put at least one game on the schedule at risk of postponement. Sunday's series finale against the Marlins has the most ominous weather forecast, with an ...

Kendrick struggles, Phillies lose to Mets*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA The bright side for Kyle Kendrick is that he may not have to wait five days to pitch again. Kendrick struggled in what may be his last start for a while and the Philadelphia Phillies lost 7-4 to the New York Mets on Wednesday. Mike Pelfrey threw six effective innings, Nick Evans and David Wright homered to help the Mets snap a five-game losing streak ...

Pelfrey pitches Mets past Phillies*

PHILADELPHIA — Mike Pelfrey pitched effectively, Nick Evans and David Wright homered and the Mets snapped a five-game losing streak with a 7-4 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday.

Kyle Kendrick struggles, Phillies to Mets 7-4*

PHILADELPHIA — The bright side for Kyle Kendrick is that he may not have to wait five days to pitch again. Kendrick struggled in what may be his last start for a while and the Philadelphia Phillies lost 7-4 to the New York Mets on Wednesday. Mike Pelfrey threw six effective innings, Nick Evans and David Wright homered to help the Mets snap a five-game losing streak. Read full article >>

Philadelphia Phillies can't catch up with fast-starting New York Mets*

A Michael Martinez error opened the floodgates for a four-run first and the Phillies never really recovered.

Mets rebound to beat Phillies, snap losing streak*

New York Mets starting pitcher Mike Pelfrey throws against the Philadelphia Phillies in the first inning of Wednesday's game in Philadelphia. / ASSOCIATED PRESS

Vance Worley gets 7th straight win, Phillies beat Mets 9-4*

PHILADELPHIA — John Mayberry Jr. isn’t going to ride those minor league buses anytime soon. Mayberry hit another homer and Shane Victorino also went deep to back Vance Worley and help the Philadelphia Phillies beat the New York Mets 9-4 on Tuesday night. Mayberry, who had the game-winning hit in the season opener, has shuttled between Triple-A Lehigh Valley and Philadelphia three times this year ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Is Vance Worley Lofty or Lucky? BABIP, FIP Raise Doubt*

Kevin Negandhi was merely filling air. Dressing up a highlight. Teasing the Vance Worley story. He wasn't seeking to stoke a debate. But however accidentally, he did. "And Vance Worley, the Phillies lucky rabbit's foot," he quipped, and sparked, this morning on SportsCenter . It just so happens that luck and Worley are more than familiar with one another. Consider: Worley's 2011 batting average ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Utility Man John Mayberry Jr. the Next Jayson Werth?*

"It's better late than never" is a fitting cliche for Phillies utility man John Mayberry Jr. The late bloomer has been coming into his own as of late, developing into a key offensive weapon. His play is reminiscent of a former member of the team that had a similar rise to stardom, Jayson Werth.  Mayberry, 27, is making the most of his opportunities and looking like the player worthy of being ...

Worley wins 7th straight, Phillies beat Mets*

New York Mets catcher Josh Thole tags out Philadelphia Phillies' John Mayberry, who tried to score on a hit by Brian Schneider, during the fifth inning Tuesday in Philadelphia. The Phillies won 9-4.

Hamels on DL with inflamed shoulder*

The Philadelphia Phillies have placed all-star left-hander Cole Hamels on the disabled list and recalled Canadian infielder Pete Orr from AAA Lehigh Valley.

Phillies Pitcher Cole Hamels Goes on Disabled List With Shoulder Injury*

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels will miss a start against the Florida Marlins on Aug. 26 due to inflammation in his pitching shoulder, the team said.

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Bad Moves We're Glad the Phillies Didn't Make*

Hindsight is supposedly 20/20. However, luckily for Philadelphia Phillies fans, there doesn't seem to be a lot of regret regarding the trade deadline. The blockbuster trade involving Hunter Pence was enough to make quite a few people happy. Some people say the price was too high, but that is not what this article is about. The Phillies always have a lot of rumors swirling around. There were a ...

Phillies clobber Mets 10-0*

Cliff Lee threw seven sharp innings, John Mayberry Jr. and Hunter Pence each hit a two-run homer and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the New York Mets 10-0 Monday night.

Philadelphia Phillies: Will New Injury Woes Hurt Their Chances to Win It All?*

Let's start with the good news.   Phillies third baseman Placido Polanco was activated off the disabled list yesterday and was in the Phillies starting lineup last night against the Mets for the first time since August 6. Polanco looked like he was making up for lost time with two singles, a walk, a run scored and several slick plays at third.     Can Phillies fans heave a sigh of relief now ...

Phillies blow lead in ninth, lose to Nationals in extra innings*

WASHINGTON — The Philadelphia Phillies are sick of wet weather, tired of waiting around and not terribly happy about losing. After nearly six hours of rain delays in the past four games, the Phillies lost in improbable fashion for the second time this weekend.

Placido Polanco and the Best Third Basemen in Philadelphia Phillies History*

Third basemen don't necessarily have to be as quick as shortstops or second baseman, but they must have extremely quick reflexes and a strong arm. The Phillies have had a few dandies defensively man the hot corner... Begin Slideshow

Phillies' bullpen blows another game vs. Nats*

WASHINGTON -- The Philadelphia Phillies are sick of wet weather, tired of waiting around and not terribly happy about losing.

Phillies-Nationals*

Ryan Zimmerman hit a grand slam on a full count with two outs in the bottom of the ninth Friday night, capping a six-run inning and lifting the Washington Nationals to an improbable 8-4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.

Phillies Vs. Nationals: Ryan Zimmerman Walk-Off Grand Slam Defeats Philadelphia 8-4*

Neither mother nature nor the Philadelphia Phillies bullpen could keep the Washington Nationals down Friday night at Nationals Park. Thanks to the ninth inning heroics of star third baseman Ryan Zimmerman , the Nationals beat the Phillies in a game initially started (for all of five minutes), then delayed for the next two hours and 22 minutes. It was just the second loss in the last 13 road ...

Zimmerman hits slam in 9th; Nats beat Phillies 8-4*

Ryan Zimmerman hit a grand slam on a full count with two outs in the bottom of the ninth Friday night, capping a six-run inning and lifting the Washington Nationals to an improbable 8-4 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.

Madson gives up grand slam to Zimmerman in 9th; Phillies lose 8-4 to Nationals*

WASHINGTON — Manager Charlie Manuel said: “Those things happen.” Starting pitcher Kyle Kendrick said: “Games like this happen.” But, immediately after the Philadelphia Phillies’ 8-4 loss Friday to the Washington Nationals, don’t try telling that to Ryan Madson. The closer allowed six runs in a ninth inning that ended with Ryan Zimmerman’s grand slam. Read full article >>

Phillies aren't guaranteed anything come the postseason*

Toronto, Canada (Sports Network) - At the beginning of the season, the Philadelphia Phillies were as safe a bet as any to reach the World Series -- if not win it.

Lee, Valdez lead Phillies past Diamondbacks*

Philadelphia Phillies Wilson Valdez doubles to deep center, scoring both Hunter Pence and John Mayberry, during the seventh inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Wednesday in Philadelphia. The Phillies won 9-2.

Philadelphia Phillies' Cliff Lee excellent as Arizona Diamondbacks' Joe Saunders falters*

Cliff Lee threw seven impressive innings, Wilson Valdez hit a tiebreaking two-run double in the seventh, and the Philadelphia Phillies beat Arizona 9-2 to snap the Diamondbacks' seven-game winning streak.

Saunders struggles, Diamondbacks lose to Phillies*

Joe Saunders' dominant run on the road is over. The Philadelphia Phillies beat Arizona 9-2 last night to snap the Diamondbacks' seven-game winning streak.

Phillies take 2 of 3 from Diamondbacks (AP)*

Missing four regulars, the Philadelphia Phillies turned to their bench and bullpen. John Mayberry Jr. hit a two-run homer, David Herndon tossed three scoreless innings in relief and the Phillies beat the Arizona Diamondbacks 4-1 Thursday night in a matchup of division leaders. The major league-leading Phillies took two of three in a potential playoff preview, improving to 14-1-1 in their last 16 ...

Mayberry Jr. leads Phillies over D-Backs*

Missing four regulars, the Philadelphia Phillies turned to their bench and bullpen.

Pitching-strong Phils get lift from bats*

From the cover of Sports Illustrated's Baseball Preview issue to dominating the National League's staff at the all-star game, the Philadelphia Phillies pitching rotation has been the baseball story of 2011.

Phillies All-Star Hamels will skip next start with left shoulder inflammation*

PHILADELPHIA — Phillies All-Star left-hander Cole Hamels will skip at least one turn in the rotation with shoulder inflammation. Hamels complained that he wasn’t able to get loose in his last start Friday against Washington. He lasted just five innings in a 4-2 loss and dropped to 13-7 with a 2.62 ERA. Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr., says an MRI showed inflammation near the rotator ...

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels to miss at least one start with shoulder inflammation*

Hamels complained that he wasn't able to get loose in his last start Friday against Washington.

Phillies, Halladay Host First Place Diamondbacks*

The Philadelphia Phillies resume business this evening after a two day break as they welcome the NL West leading Arizona Diamondbacks to town for a three game set. The Philadelphia Phillies resume business this evening after a two day break as they welcome the NL West leading Arizona Diamondbacks to town for a three game set. The Diamondbacks have ridden a six game winning streak to the top of ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Players They'll Be Eyeing This Offseason*

The Philadelphia Phillies 2012 offseason will feature general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., signing a big name player, just as he has during the past three offseasons. The only difference this year is that, instead of a big name player signing on with the Phils for the first time, the player will be re-signing with the team. Jimmy Rollins, Raul Ibanez, Ryan Madson, Brad Lidge, Brian Schneider, Ross ...

Howard powers Phillies past Nats 11-3*

Ryan Howard homered and drove in four runs and Roy Oswalt pitched seven solid innings to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to an 11-3 victory over the mistake-prone Washington Nationals on Saturday.

Philadelphia Phillies: 15 Greatest Outfielders in Team History*

Earlier this month, when the Philadelphia Phillies acquired All-Star right fielder Hunter Pence in a trade with the Houston Astros , the team topped off what is now one of the most potent outfield combinations in the league. Pence, Shane Victorino, and Raul Ibanez are, or have at some point been, statistically among the best in the league at their respective positions. Together, they create a ...

Livan Hernandez pitches, hits Nationals to 4-2 victory over Phillies*

PHILADELPHIA — Livan Hernandez had a feeling in batting practice that he would do some damage at the plate. Oh, by the way, he did just fine on the mound, too. Hernandez pitched 6 2-3 strong innings and drove in two runs with a pair of singles, helping the Washington Nationals beat the Philadelphia Phillies 4-2 Friday night. “I work hard on my hitting,” said Hernandez, who has 10 career homers ...

Top Blogs*

PHILADELPHIA – The full and considerable might of the Philadelphia Phillies coursed through every nook of their overstuffed ballpark early Friday night. They returned home to Citizens Bank Park and their ravenous fan base having won nine out of 10 games on the West Coast. They had five more wins than any other team in the majors. Seven of their nine starters, at some point, had been all-stars ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Re-Sign Jimmy Rollins or Suffer the Consequences*

Perhaps the biggest storyline for the Philadelphia Phillies heading into this year's offseason will be the contract situation with shortstop Jimmy Rollins . Rollins, who has only ever known Philadelphia as his home in the big leagues, is set to become a free agent for the first time in his career after the 2011 season, marking the end of his six-year, $48.5 million contract.  Naturally, Ruben ...

Phillies' Polanco headed for surgery?*

The Philadelphia Phillies have played 115 games so far this season and third baseman Placido Polanco has appeared in 89 of them, due to one injury or another. Now the team with the best record in the majors will need to continue finding ways to win without the 35-year-old in the lineup. Polanco, who is hitting .275 with four homers, has been diagnosed with a sports hernia , the Philadelphia ...

Philadelphia Phillies' 5 Minor Leaguers Most Likely to Contribute in September*

Well, the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline has passed, and the Phillies sure made a splash in acquiring Hunter Pence. It came at a high price, though—the Phils had to surrender their two top prospects, first baseman Jonathan Singleton and starting pitcher Jarred Cosart, along with pitcher Josh Zeid and a player to be named later. Fortunately, the Phillies did get $2 million cash from the Astros ...

Lakewood close to Philly, but far from the Show*

SALISBURY, Md. — The Lakewood BlueClaws have been one of the most successful teams at the turnstiles in Minor League Baseball since the Philadelphia Phillies moved their Class A squad to the Jersey shore in 2001, and the gorgeous $22 million stadium that opened with the team is a big reason why.

Philadelphia Phillies: Cliff Lee and His Self-Win Against the Dodgers*

Well, obviously there's no such thing, unless you're Satchel Paige.  But  Cliff Lee  came pretty close last night, going eight shutout innings, fanning 10 while scattering just four hits and walking two in the Philadelphia Phillies ' 2-1 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Los Angeles.  He also hit a solo home run. In other words, Lee did better against a rock-solid Ted Lilly than the ...

Howard, Pence homer, Phils overcome 6-run deficit*

Ryan Howard and Hunter Pence homered as the Philadelphia Phillies overcame an early six-run deficit and beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 9-8 Wednesday for a three-game sweep.

Phillies 5, Dodgers 3: Halladay Wins NL Leading 15th Game*

Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins each drove in two runs and Roy Halladay became the National League's first 15-game winner, as the Philadelphia Phillies held off the Los Angeles Dodgers, 5-3, in the opener of a three-game series. Los Angeles, CA (Sports Network) - Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins each drove in two runs and Roy Halladay became the National League's first 15-game winner, as the ...

7 Best Waiver Wire Trade Ideas for the Philadelphia Phillies*

For the Philadelphia Phillies , attempting to acquire an impact player through the waiver wire will be more difficult than trying to get Brett Favre to stay retired. Since the Phillies currently have the best record in baseball, and the waiver order is the reverse order of the MLB standings, the remaining 29 other teams would  have to pass on a player in order for the Phils to work out a deal ...

Halladay first in NL to 15 wins (AP)*

Shane Victorino kept playing, Roy Halladay kept winning and Ryan Howard kept driving in runs. Halladay became the NL's first 15-game winner and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 5-3 on Monday night. Howard and Jimmy Rollins each drove in two runs and Victorino homered to help Philadelphia improve the majors' best record to 75-40.

Dodgers can't complete comeback story, lose 5-3 to Philadelphia*

A three-run deficit is not insurmountable. But the Dodgers on Monday night made it look impossible against the Philadelphia Phillies.

MLB suspends Shane Victorino 3 games for brawl*

Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino is appealing a three-game suspension imposed Monday.

Phillies CF Shane Victorino suspended 3 games for role in weekend brawl, appeals penalty*

SAN FRANCISCO — Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino is appealing a three-game suspension imposed Monday for his part in a weekend brawl at San Francisco. A pair of Giants players who expected one-game suspensions only received fines after playing key roles in the benches-clearing brawl between NL division leaders Friday night. Nobody was injured. Major League Baseball also fined ...

Phils face challenge in quest for 10th straight win*

Roy Oswalt returns from the disabled list Sunday trying to help the Philadelphia Phillies to a 10th straight win and a four-game sweep of Tim Lincecum and the San Francisco Giants. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m PT.

MLB: Bochy expects to hear from commissioner's office*

SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Giants manager Bruce Bochy says he expects to hear soon from Major League Baseball what the ramifications of his team's bench-clearing brawl with the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday night will be.

Hamels crisp as Phillies beat Giants again, 2-1*

Cole Hamels pitched a five-hitter for his first win in two weeks and the Philadelphia Phillies made a pair of first-inning runs hold up in a 2-1 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Saturday, extending their season-high winning streak to nine games.

Cole Hamels dominates as Philadelphia Phillies win their ninth straight*

Also, left-hander Juan Perez sent to IronPigs to make room for Roy Oswalt.

Cole Hamels, Philadelphia Phillies add to San Francisco Giants' slump*

Cole Hamels led Philadelphia to its third consecutive victory over the Giants on Saturday, handing San Francisco its eighth loss in its last nine games

Phillies run winning streak to season-best 8 games*

Philadelphia Phillies' Shane Victorino, center, is restrained by home plate umpire Mike Muchlinski, right, after Victorino was hit by a pitch thrown by San Francisco Giants' Ramon Ramirez, left, during the inning of a baseball game Friday, Aug. 5, 2011, in San Francisco.

Phillies win 9-2 over Giants*

Philadelphia Phillies' Shane Victorino, left, is restrained by home plate umpire Mike Muchlinski, after Victorino was hit by a pitch thrown by San Francisco Giants' Ramon Ramirez, right, during the inning of a baseball game Friday, Aug. 5, 2011, in San Francisco.

Philadelphia Phillies: The First Week of Hunter Pence*

It has been quite an eventful week for Hunter Pence .  It started with emotional hugs goodbye with his Astros teammates in Milwaukee and ended with a bench-clearing brawl with his new Phillies teammates in San Francisco. And in between?  Well, there has been a little bit of everything.  So let's take a closer look at Hunter's first week.   Friday, July 29 Pence was pulled from the game in ...

Giants lose for seventh time in eight games*

JANIE McCAULEY AP Baseball Writer SAN FRANCISCO Giants catcher Eli Whiteside called for a fastball inside — and it wound up way inside. Ramon Ramirez's pitch hit Shane Victorino square in the lower back, igniting a benches-clearing brawl in San Francisco's 9-2 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday night. The reigning World Series champions are in quite a funk, and the frustration sure ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Has Chase Utley Regained His All-Star Form?*

There have been few years where Phillies fans were as excited for Spring Training as they were for it this year.  The Phils had just recently come out of nowhere to give their fans an early Christmas present in the form of Cliff Lee. There were talks of an historic rotation.  A team for the ages people would say. Then the news struck about Chase Utley .  At first his injury was downplayed ...

Monte Poole: Philadelphia Phillies manager can't help but fixate on pesky San Francisco Giants*

The Giants did so much more than crush the dreams of Philadelphia when the teams met last postseason. They also moved into the collective head of the Phillies lineup.

Philadelphia Phillies: Cliff Lee Has Most Shutouts Since Steve Carlton*

Cliff Lee threw his fifth shutout last night to defeat the Giants and give the Phillies their seventh straight win. With his fifth shutout, he has become the first Phillie since Steve Carlton to record five in a season. Of course, whenever anyone comes close to Carlton in any statistic you have to look at how great this achievement really is. According to Baseball Reference , Carlton had six in ...

Giants bats silenced by Phillies' Lee*

San Francisco Giants' Madison Bumgarner pitches to the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning of a baseball game Thursday, Aug. 4, 2011, in San Francisco.

Lee tosses 5th shutout of 2010 as Phils top Giants*

Cliff Lee threw a seven-hitter, Hunter Pence and John Mayberry hit back-to-back home runs and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the San Francisco Giants 3-0 Thursday night.

Philadelphia Phillies Unlikely to Make Any Waiver Wire Deals*

When the 4 PM deadline passed on July 31st, fans of the Philadelphia Phillies were still busy rejoicing in their acquisition of All-Star right fielder Hunter Pence. What went nearly unnoticed at the time was that Phillies GM Ruben Amaro had been pursuing a second deal to help bolster a battle-worn bullpen.  Unfortunately, those pursuits turned out to be unfruitful, as he could not seal the deal ...

Giants vs. Phillies, MLB Schedule Preview: Cliff Lee, Madison Bumgarner Open Series at AT&T Park*

We've reached the dog days of summer, meaning that teams across the league are gearing up for a playoff push. And in the first week of August the San Francisco Giants and Philadelphia Phillies bring a playoff type atmosphere to the shores of McCovey Cove starting with the matchup of Cliff Lee and Madison Bumgarner on Thursday night.  Bumgarner (6-10 3.80 ERA) is coming off a very forgetful start ...

San Francisco Giants vs. Philadelphia Phillies Better Than Red Sox vs. Yankees?*

Over the past decade, it has been widely accepted that the greatest rivalry in baseball is between the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees . Especially between 2002 and 2004, these two teams met in the postseason regularly and fans of the game were all acutely aware of the Yankee dominance over the Sox until the miracle season of 2004, in which Boston finally broke the "Curse of the Bambino ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Roy Oswalt to Return Soon, Who Will Go?*

Good news out of Lehigh Valley.  Roy Oswalt feels good and is ready to return to Philadelphia for the final stretch of the season.  Having been sidelined since late June with bulging disks in his back, Oswalt now says his velocity is up and there is no more pain his back . After going six strong innings, Oswalt wrapped up his rehab assignment and is ready to rejoin the team for their west coast ...

Hunter Pence: Philadelphia Phillies' Deadline Deal Pays Immediate Dividends*

Hunter Pence was brought to Philadelphia in order to provide some much need balance to a lineup dominated by lefties. The Phillies parted with their top two prospects, along with two others, in order to acquire their new right fielder. Let’s take a look at the early returns on the Phillies’ big move. Philadelphia has won all five of its games since adding Pence. However, this is a Phillies team ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Ryan Howard, the Big Piece, Keeps on Slugging*

It's not always easy to be a slugger in the baseball-crazed town of Philadelphia. Jut ask Mike Schmidt. But Ryan Howard has handled his days as the Phillies' resident missile launcher with grace and style. And 276 home runs. In an era where many hitters who homer have become more known for the drugs they take than the moon shots they hit, Ryan Howard has been a glorious exception: a soft-spoken ...

Phillies down Rockies: NL roundup*

Kyle Kendrick tossed eight sparkling innings, Ryan Howard homered twice and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Colorado Rockies 5-0 on Tuesday night.

MLB: Kendrick, Howard lead Phillies to 70th win*

DENVER — Kyle Kendrick tossed eight sparkling innings, Ryan Howard homered twice and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Colorado Rockies 5-0 on Tuesday night.

Philadelphia Phillies Offense, Defense Unstoppable with Howard, Kendrick, Worley*

What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? No clue. The whole thing explodes? What is known, however, is the quickly-rising skill of both the Phillies offense and defense. The Phillies offense? I would call it pretty close to unstoppable. Philadelphia's starting rotation? Pretty close to immovable. Here's why: Ryan Howard Ryan Howard's .252 batting average on the season is ...

Former Philadelphia Phillies General Manager Ed Wade comes through again for his old team*

The current Houston Astros G.M. traded Hunter Pence last week to Philadelphia. Wade is also responsible for sending Brad Lidge and Roy Oswalt to the Phillies in recent years.

Phillies Vs. Rockies: John Mayberry, Shane Victorino Deliver Late Victory For Philadelphia*

The Colorado Rockies were just a pitch away from picking up a 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday night, but Huston Street hanged a pitch and saw John Mayberry Jr. hit a game-tying two run home run in the top of the ninth. It didn't get any better in the top of the 10th, as Shane Victorino homered to left field for the 4-3 lead. The Rockies went down easily in the bottom of the ...

Mayberry, Victorino save Phillies with late homers*

The Associated Press The Associated Press DENVER Relying exclusively on his out pitch, Colorado closer Huston Street threw eight sliders to Philadelphia pinch-hitter John Mayberry Jr. in a drawn-out, ninth-inning at-bat that ended with a bang. Mayberry hit the last of the sliders for a game-tying two-run homer and Shane Victorino homered to lead off the 10th as the Philadelphia Phillies overtook ...

Kendrick, Howard power Phillies over Rockies, 5-0.*

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Kyle Kendrick throws to the Colorado Rockies during the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2011, in Denver.

Philadelphia Phillies: The 15 Greatest Defensive Infielders in Team History*

The Philadelphia Phillies are one of the oldest professional sports teams in America and they have had their fair share of wins and losses. The Phillies are in the midst of their finest decade of baseball ever. There is a famous old saying: "Offense wins games but defense wins championships." The Phillies have had some of the best defensive players in baseball history lace up their cleats for ...

Tim Lincecum shows no weakness in San Francisco Giants' win over Philadelphia Phillies*

PHILADELPHIA -- The infamously clever fans at Citizens Bank Park merely offered scattered wolf whistles for Tim Lincecum.

BIG Series: Pirates, Phillies and the battle for Pennsylvania*

As the pennant races start to heat up, Big League Stew will be there to take a closer look at some of the biggest series down the stretch. Pittsburgh Pirates at Philadelphia Phillies The situation : A non-divisional series in late July qualifying as a big deal? Maybe that's not usually the case, but it's been a long time since both Pennsylvania teams met when they were both at the top of their ...

MLB Trade Rumors: Which Trade Is Best for the Philadelphia Phillies?*

Before I begin let me just say that I was one of the people who believed the Philadelphia Phillies didn't have to make a move in order to win a World Series this year. But after watching Philadelphia face San Francisco Giants starters Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum, against whom the Phillies only put up 2 runs combined , I'm ready to say I was wrong. With Carlos Beltran in a Giants uniform, the ...

MLB Trade Deadline: Will Phillies' Series Loss to Giants Push Hunter Pence Deal?*

The San Francisco Giants seem to have the Philadelphia Phillies ' number. After taking two of three games in this week's highly-anticipated NLCS rematch between San Francisco and Philadelphia, the defending world champions head for their next series against the Cincinnati Reds feeling pretty good about themselves. Not only did they defeat the team with the best record in baseball, but they also ...

Philadelphia Phillies welcome defending World Series champion San Francisco to town*

Philadelphia is set for its National League championship series rematch with San Francisco. Payback is not their immediate concern. "I don't walk around saying I want revenge on these guys," Phillies centerfielder Shane Victorino said.

Cole Hamels Goes For Win #13 Tonight Against Giants*

(Sports Network) – Cole Hamels goes after win No. 13 this evening when the Philadelphia Phillies continue their three-game series against the San Francisco Giants at Citizens Bank Park. Hamels won for the third time in four starts on Friday, as he beat the San Diego Padres , holding them to a run and three hits over eight innings. He also matched a season high with 10 strikeouts and improved to ...

Matt Cain leads combined 4-hitter, outduels Cole Hamels as Giants top Phillies 2-1*

PHILADELPHIA — Matt Cain and Cole Hamels made it feel like October baseball again. In what played like a rerun of Game 3 of last year’s NL championship series, Cain pitched into the eighth inning to top Hamels and lead the San Francisco Giants to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday night. “Any time you play the Giants with that pitching and bullpen, it figures to be low scoring ...

Philadelphia Phillies Trade Rumors: Now Is the Time to Trade Vance Worley*

Vance Worley tossed the first complete game of his career Tuesday night as the Philadelphia Phillies opened up a three-game series against defending World Series champions the San Francisco Giants with a final score of 7-2 . Worley is now 7-1 on the season with a 2.02 ERA , 53 strikeouts and 27 walks. He appears to be getting better with each start, showing no signs of intimidation despite being ...

Hamels denied NL-best 13th win as Giants top Phils*

DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Matt Cain and Cole Hamels made it feel like October baseball again. In what played like a rerun of Game 3 of last year's NL championship series, Cain pitched into the eighth inning to top Hamels and lead the San Francisco Giants to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday night. "Any time you play the Giants with that pitching and bullpen ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Cliff Lee and 6 Best Trade Deadline Deals in Team History*

The trade deadline is fast approaching and rumors have been swirling by the minute. GM Ruben Amaro of the Philadelphia Phillies has made quite a name for himself since taking over the reigns from Hall of Fame Inductee Pat Gillick in 2009. Amaro has acquired some of the biggest and best names in baseball at the trade deadline in the past three seasons, and many rival executives expect the same in ...

Philadelphia Phillies face issues to resolve in upcoming homestand*

The bullpen, the rotation and the trade winds all need attention.

MLB Trade Rumors: Hunter Pence to Philadelphia Phillies a Longshot Worth Taking*

Hunter Pence being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies has been a trade rumor that has been sweeping through the mill for quite a while now. Whether or not this deal will actually go down is in question now, and it seems like nobody can get a good bearing on what is going on. Todd Zolecki of MLB.com seems to think that another blockbuster trade between the Astros and Phillies is seems unlikely ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Why Trading for Carlos Beltran Isn't a Good Option*

Philadelphia has gone crazy, folks, and it's all Roy Halladay, Cole Hamels, Cliff Lee, Roy Oswalt and Vance Worley's fault. Ruben Amaro's, too. Listening to the Philly masses lately you'd have thought the Phillies were struggling to keep above .500. Everywhere you go it's, "Who should they go after at the trade deadline?" and "The Phils need a right-handed bat desperately to balance out their ...

2011 Philadelphia Phillies mid season review*

  With a 58-35 record the Philadelphia Phillies sit in first place in the National League East. What is more impressive is they have already played 44 games against their four divisional opponents and have a 28-16 record there. If they can beat up on their non-divisional foes in the second half this team seems [...] 2011 Philadelphia Phillies mid season review is a post from: The Inquisitr

Phillies 2, Mets 11: Tables Turned*

Flushing, NY (Sports Network) – Jonathon Niese pitched seven solid innings and the Mets knocked Cole Hamels out in the fifth, as New York crushed the Philadelphia Phillies , 11-2, in the second meeting of a three-game series. Niese (9-7) gave up two runs — one earned — on six hits and was backed by an offense that thrived facing its fifth All-Star in six games. Scott Hairston doubled twice ...

Mets eye series victory over visiting Phils*

(Sports Network) - The New York Mets target their first series victory of the season over the despised Philadelphia Phillies today from Citi Field.

Philadelphia Phillies: The Curious Case of Joe Savery*

The Philadelphia Phillies have just promoted Joe Savery to Lehigh Valley for the second time in his career.  Ordinarily, people do not applaud a former first-round pick for making it to Triple-A.  Then again, there is nothing ordinary about Joe Savery.  He is trying to achieve something very few have ever done—reach the Major Leagues as both a hitter and pitcher. During his five years in the ...

Mets' Pelfrey can't shut down Phillies*

HOWIE RUMBERG AP Sports Writer NEW YORK Mike Pelfrey is not pitching in the manner expected of a No. 1 starter — and he knows it. Pelfrey gave up Michael Martinez's first career homer, a three-run shot, and was outpitched by Kyle Kendrick, who helped lead the Philadelphia Phillies to their seventh straight series win with an 8-5 victory over the New York Mets on Sunday. "I have to go out there ...

Philadelphia Phillies: How Well Would Heath Bell Fit in a Crowded Bullpen?*

With the recent news that José Contreras might not return at all this season, the hot stove is heating up for the Phillies bullpen. Even though he was never really a target for the Phillies, since Francisco Rodriguez has been traded to Milwaukee , the overall league competition for the remaining relievers on the market will rise. This price increase will also affect San Diego Padres closer Heath ...

Strong pitching has Philadelphia Phillies perched atop the National League at mid-season*

The Philadelphia Phillies are right where they were supposed to be, leading the majors in wins at the All-Star break. It's proof what excellent pitching can do.

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Moves They Could Make as Buyers or Sellers This July*

Now that the All-Star Break has ended, there is one big thing left to watch for in baseball in July: trades. Since Ruben Amaro, Jr. has taken over as Phillies general manager following the team's World Series championship in 2008, he has been the backbone behind many of the team's big splashes near the July 31 trade deadline. In 2009, he traded minor league prospects Lou Marson, Carlos Carrasco ...

Tackling the trade deadline: Philadelphia Phillies*

Philadelphia Phillies First-half record: 57-34 Standings: 3 games up on Braves in NL East Needs Bullpen: Ryan Madson should return to form after he comes back from a hand injury, but the Phillies can’t rely on either Brad Lidge (shoulder, elbow) and Jose Contreras (elbow). Adding another late-game reliever should be this team’s priority. Fortunately, it…

Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge to rehab against Thunder at Waterfront Park*

Phillies closer Brad Lidge will rehab for Class-AA Reading against the Thunder beginning Thursday at Waterfront Park.

MLB Trade Rumors: 5 Philadelphia Phillies Upgrade Options in the Outfield*

As the July trade deadline looms, the Philadelphia Phillies will continue to shop the major league market to upgrade their current corner outfield situation. The Phillies are in need of a right handed bat to break up their abundance of left handed hitters. The team is missing the right handed power of Jayson Werth who signed a mega-deal with the Washington Nationals . With Raul Ibanez on the ...

Philadelphia Phillies' mid-season report card looks pretty positive*

The pitching staff earns some stellar marks.

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Players Phillies Fans Hate the Most*

They are the players we love to hate.  The players that because of something they did, or more likely did not do, are given a very special welcome whenever they return to Philadelphia.  The kind of welcome Phillies fans have become famous for. Now all of these players did something to earn the wrath of the fans.  Maybe they failed to run out a ground ball or they weren't willing to sacrifice ...

Phillies' Lidge pitches perfect inning at Double-A*

Philadelphia Phillies closer Brad Lidge pitched a perfect inning at Double-A on Monday while coming back from shoulder and elbow problems. The All-Star closer hasn't pitched in the majors this season. The 34-year-old right-hander struck out two in the sixth inning in an Eastern League game for Reading against Trenton.

Phils back Hamels with outburst*

PHILADELPHIA - The Philadelphia Phillies ended the first half of the season Sunday with another strong outing from a starting pitcher and a surprising outburst by their inconsistent offense.

Hamels, Ibanez lift Phillies over Braves*

Philadelphia Phillies' Michael Martinez, Raul Ibanez, Ryan Howard and Carlos Ruiz, from left, celebrate after a three-run home run by Ibanez in the eighth inning of a baseball game against the Atlanta Braves, Sunday, July 10, 2011, in Philadelphia. Philadelphia won 14-1.

Braves fall 14-1 against Phillies*

The Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies started their key NL East series by splitting two close, dramatic games.

Philadelphia Phillies: Inconsistency Between Sabermetric and Actual Wins?*

I found a kind of funny statistic today. The Phillies have the best record in baseball at 57-34. However, if you look at the statistics on FanGraphs, the Phillies are ranked third in overall wins above replacement when you add batting and pitching together behind the Red Sox and Yankees . How does a team that is not the best in sabermetric terms manage to have the best record in baseball? I know ...

Philadelphia Phillies have lots to like heading into the All-Star break*

Philadelphia has the best first-half record in all of baseball.

MLB Trade Speculation: 3 Prospects the Philadelphia Phillies Could Use to Deal*

The Philadelphia Phillies are currently right where they expected to be when they bolstered their rotation during the offseason with the Cliff Lee signing. With a record of 55-33, the Phillies currently hold a three game lead over the Atlanta Braves in the National League East division. The Phillies are rumored to be looking for an outfield bat to help their offense and replace some of the ...

NL East leaders Phillies, Braves set to battle before All-Star break*

PHILADELPHIA -- Leading the division for all but one day this season means little to the Philadelphia Phillies at this point They're well aware the standings only matter after 162 games.

Philadelphia Phillies: The 7 Most Shocking Moments in Team History*

There are some moments in sports that are so unexpected, so shocking that we can all remember exactly where we were when we heard the news.  The Philadelphia Phillies ' signing of pitcher Cliff Lee this past off-season was certainly one of them.  It caught Phillies fans, even the Phillies manager, by surprise and was the talk of the baseball world.  We can all remember where we were for that one ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Taking Another Look at the MVP of 1950, Jim Konstanty*

People like to talk about six degrees of separation. People like to know how close they are to famous people, and since I am indeed a person, I can understand why. So, imagine my surprise when I discovered because of a small-town newspaper sidebar the MVP of the "Whiz Kids," Jim Konstanty, grew up in the same town that my mom's side of the family is from. This prompted me to the little bit more ...

Shane Victorino to see hand specialist*

Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino is going to have his injured right thumb examined by a hand specialist.

Howard, Phillies crush Marlins: NL Roundup*

An intentional walk to Ryan Howard with a runner at first backfired when the next four hitters singled, and the Philadelphia Phillies went on to drub the Florida Marlins 14-2 on Tuesday night.

Philadelphia Phillies turn up the offense in 14-2 drubbing of Florida*

After Marlins manager Jack McKeon opted to walk Howard with the game scoreless in the third, the Phillies scored five times in the inning. When the Marlins pitched to Howard an inning later, he hit his 18th home run, and he finished with four hits and four RBIs.

Phillies Victorino has sprained thumb*

Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino has a grade-one sprain of his right thumb, and assistant general manager Scott Proefrock didn't rule out the possibility of placing him on the disabled list.

Phillies Victorino to see hand specialist*

Philadelphia Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino is going to have his injured right thumb examined by a hand specialist.

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Bold Second-Half Predictions*

The Philadelphia Phillies are the best team in the MLB this season, and they have had an impressive first half. Under Charlie Manuel, the Phillies have dealt with injuries to Chase Utley, Roy Oswalt, and just about everyone else on the team to go 54-32. The Phillies have been the most talked about team in baseball since they signed Cliff Lee in the offseason to give them four legitimate aces ...

Halladay returns to haunt Blue Jays*

Roy Halladay beat his old team and won his sixth straight decision by guiding the Philadelphia Phillies to a 5-3 win over the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday in Major League Baseball interleague action. Halladay (11-3), who took the mound to a standing ovation from the crowd of 44,078, spent the first 12 years of his career with the Blue Jays before being traded to Philadelphia at the end of 2009.

Howard's clutch single rallies Phillies past Blue Jays*

Ryan Howard hit a go-ahead two-run single in the ninth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies rallied past the Toronto Blue Jays 7-6 Friday.

Howard's 2-run single lifts Phillies by Blue Jays*

Ryan Howard hit a go-ahead two-run single in the ninth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies rallied past the Toronto Blue Jays 7-6 Friday.

Halladay pitches 8-hitter as Phils beat Jays 5-3*

The Associated Press The Associated Press TORONTO A banner hanging from the outfield seats pleaded with Roy Halladay to be gentle with the Blue Jays. Sorry, Toronto. Halladay treated his former team the same way he does everyone else. Halladay pitched an eight-hitter to win his sixth straight decision, Chase Utley hit a go-ahead home run and the Philadelphia Phillies topped the Toronto Blue Jays ...

Great debate: Should Phils trade for a bat or arm?*

Twenty-nine days remain until the much-hyped trade deadline. So, get ready for plenty of rumors involving the Philadelphia Phillies. General manager Ruben Amaro Jr. has said relief pitching is his top priority. Phillies fans are craving a right-handed bat, or so it seems.

RED SOX: Lackey's strong effort not enough as Boston falls to Philly 2-1*

Raul Ibanez hit a tiebreaking solo homer in the seventh, Vance Worley pitched seven strong innings and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Boston Red Sox 2-1 on Wednesday night.

Red Sox beaten despite Lackey*

Boston pitcher scatters 8 hits over 72/3 innings Raul Ibanez hit a tiebreaking solo homer in the seventh, Vance Worley pitched seven strong innings and the Philadelphia Phillies beat Boston 2-1 on Wednesday night. In a series billed as a World Series preview, the major league-leading Phillies (51-30) have taken two straight and go for a sweep Thursday. The rookie right-hander has filled in ...

Ibanez, Worley lead Phillies over Red Sox*

Boston Red Sox shortstop Marco Scutaro, top, leaps over Philadelphia Phillies' Chase Utley to turn a double play in the first inning of an interleague baseball game on Wednesday, June 29, 2011, in Philadelphia. Phillies' Ryan Howard was out at first.

Philadelphia Phillies can afford to have Domonic Brown grow up in the big leagues*

The Phils' young right-fielder is learning how to play Major League Baseball in the best place possible.

Philadelphia Phillies' Cliff Lee rules the Boston Red Sox*

Lee tosses his third straight shutout as he baffled Boston on just two hits.

Philadelphia Phillies and Boston Red Sox: World Series Preview?*

The Philadelphia Phillies begin their interleague series with the Boston Red Sox tonight. Philadelphia has the best record in baseball while Boston has the third best (the Yankees are in between). It is definitely possible that this series could be an early preview of what the World Series is going to look like. However, since these teams haven't played yet, let's see how the teams matchup; not ...

October dreams*

PHILADELPHIA — Long before spring training even started, the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies were favorites to play each other in October. Here comes an early taste.

Red Sox shut out by Lee in 5-0 loss to Phillies*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Perhaps Big Papi can help the suddenly slumping Boston Red Sox. Cliff Lee tossed a two-hitter for his third consecutive shutout and the Philadelphia Phillies beat Josh Beckett and the Red Sox 5-0 Tuesday night. In a series hailed as a potential World Series preview, Lee (9-5) and the Phillies dominated the opener. The Red Sox have lost five of six after a ...

Cliff Lee 2-Hits Red Sox For 3rd Straight Shutout*

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Cliff Lee tossed a two-hitter for his third consecutive shutout and the Philadelphia Phillies beat Josh Beckett and the Boston Red Sox 5-0 Tuesday night.

Philadelphia Phillies: Ranking Their 5 Worst Trade-Deadline Deals Since 2000*

As we enter into the month of July, baseball's trade rumor mill kicks into overdrive. By this point in the season, many teams have distinguished themselves as either buyers or sellers. Whether it be from poor production or an injury, many contending teams have been able to determine an area of need. In recent years, few teams have been as successful as the Philadelphia Phillies in using the ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Josh Willingham and 5 Possible Deadline Additions*

Despite being recently placed on the 15-day disabled list, Oakland's Josh Willingham remains a possible addition to the Phillies roster via a deadline deal. Not to beat a dead horse, but a right handed bat is sorely needed in this line-up. If Willingham returns in time from Achilles injury, he would be an attractive option as a trade target. Begin Slideshow

Halladay goes the distance in Phillies' 3-1 win over A's*

PHILADELPHIA—With two first-inning runs, the Philadelphia Phillies gave Roy Halladay an almost insurmountable lead.

Red Sox-Phillies Preview*

Long before spring training even started, the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies were favorites to play each other in October. Here comes an early taste. Although the calendar says it's June and more than half the games remain, this week's Red Sox-Phillies series is being billed as a World Series preview.

Athletics vs. Phillies, MLB Scores: Trevor Cahill Better Enough Than Cole Hamels*

The Oakland Athletics ended a three game skid courtesy of strong pitching from Trevor Cahill as they defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 4-1. Cahill had lost five straight decisions before bouncing back with a strong performance last weekend against the San Francisco Giants . He showed that start was no fluke as he held the Phillies to one run on three hits and three walks over 7 2/3 innings ...

Athletics' days in Philadelphia worth remembering*

Hundreds, maybe thousands, of people will stroll by the statue today on their way in and out of Citizens Bank Park. Most will give very little thought to the 8-foot tall figure, trademark scorecard in hand, standing just across the street from the home of the Philadelphia Phillies.

MLB: How the Atlanta Braves Will Overtake the Philadelphia Phillies*

The Atlanta Braves are currently in second place in the NL East, which I find very impressive, yet they remain five games behind the Philadelphia Phillies.  I know the Braves are quite capable of overtaking their first-place rivals—they have only a few obstacles that are keeping them from doing so. In this slideshow, I will explain what these obstacles are and how the Braves can possibly ...

Oakland trumps Phillies for 4-1 win*

The Oakland Athletics beat the Philadelphia Phillies 4-1 on Saturday night.

Phillies Waste Strong Hamels Start In 2-1 Loss To A's*

Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) – Trevor Cahill was just a little better than Cole Hamels , and the Oakland Athletics pulled away late for a 4-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies . Adam Rosales homered while Scott Sizemore drove in the go-ahead run in the fourth inning, helping the A’s snap their three-game slide. Oakland scored a total of three runs during the losing streak. The A’s ...

Francisco's hit in ninth lifts Phillies over A's*

The Philadelphia Phillies won a 1-0 victory over the Oakland Athletics on Friday night.

Oswalt out with bulging disc*

DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Roy Oswalt rushed to return the first time his balky back put him on the disabled list. He won't make that mistake again. He can't — a mild bulging disc means it's unlikely he'll return before August. The Philadelphia Phillies right-hander, who shot down retirement rumors Saturday, has battled back trouble all season. He went on the DL in May because of ...

Philadelphia Phillies Bullpen Suffers Another Blow: Jose Contreras Hits the DL*

Thirty-nine-year-old starter-turned-reliever Jose Contreras of the Philadlephia Phillies has hit the disabled list earlier today. According to NBC's HardBallTalk.com, Contreras is headed to the DL due to a right forearm strain . This isn't the Cuban right-hander's first stint on the DL, either. He spent time on the DL earlier this year (April 25 to May 26 to be exact) with a right flexor ...

Oswald exits early after struggling in Phillies loss*

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Roy Oswalt lasted just two innings against the St Louis Cardinals on Thursday, before leaving the game with tightness in his lower back.

Cardinals too much for Phillies 12-2*

Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Kyle Kendrick throws during the third inning against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday in St. Louis. Kendrick took over after starting pitcher Roy Oswalt left the game after working two innings.

Philadelphia Phillies: As the Weather Heats Up, so Does Cliff Lee*

Rapper DJ Khaled recently released a single sure to be a summer hit called "I'm on One."  While the Philadelphia Phillies and their fans would certainly not approve of Cliff Lee being on one of whatever the rapper proclaims himself to be on, the pitcher is "on one," and has been for the past month. Over his last four starts, Lee has been the definition of "on."  In his four starts, the lefty has ...

Philadelphia Phillies 2011-12: Who Is at the Shortstop Position?*

Ladies and gentlemen, the Philadelphia Phillies are coming up on the final year of longtime shortstop Jimmy Rollins' contract. The former National League MVP's offensive productivity has dipped, yes, but his defensive skill is not in question. Rollins, the three-time Gold Glove winner, has given significant contributions throughout his career, swiping at least 20 bases from 2001 from 2009, and ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Ruben Amaro's Best and Worst Trades as GM*

It has been mentioned countless times this season that expectations have never been higher in the entire 121 year history of Philadelphia professional baseball. Behind four of the top pitchers in the game in Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee , Roy Oswalt and Cole Hamels and a lineup that features two former MVP's and perennial and potential all-stars. Even with an offense that has been pretty, well ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 5 Players That Could Be Gone Come the July Trade Deadline*

As the July trade deadline nears, The Philadelphia Phillies will be looking to move current players to relieve some salary and acquire a much-needed corner outfielder. There are several Phillies and players in Triple-A Lehigh Valley that could be combined to obtain a quality right-handed bat. The Phillies need help in both right and left field. Raul Ibanez' career is over, Domonic Brown is still ...

Ready or not, here come the Phillies*

There's no good time for the St. Louis Cardinals to lose first baseman Albert Pujols, but that's particularly true with the Philadelphia Phillies coming to Busch Stadium.

Philadelphia Phillies: Five Keys to Staying at the Top*

The Phillies continue to be one of the best teams in baseball. With a Major League best record of 45-28, they seem to be in pretty good shape despite a little trip up recently with the Mariners, losing two out of three. The Phillies still hold a 4.5 game lead in the division over Atlanta. It is great to be in this position right now, but this position needs to remain steady because all that ...

Baseball. Former Jayhawk Murray Signs with Philadelphia Phillies' Organization*

The Philadelphia Phillies announced Monday that they have come to terms with former Kansas pitcher Colton Murray on a minor league contract after selecting the junior right-hander in the 13th round of this season's Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. Murray has been assigned to the Phillies' Short-Season Class A affiliate - the Williamsport (Pa.) Crosscutters.

The Cliff Lee Effect: Cole Hamels and His Rising Contract Demands*

While the current successful run the Philadelphia Phillies are experiencing is unprecedented in the team’s 128 year history, there is also another situation brewing that's just as unique.  Unless a long-term extension is worked out beforehand, the moment the last out is recorded in the 2012 World Series, Cole Hamels will be eligible to file for free agency and sign with any team he chooses. This ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Moves They Could Make at the Trade Deadline*

With the best record in baseball, you wouldn't think there would be much room for improvement. However, for the Phillies there is always one more move that can be made to shore up any deficiencies. GM Ruben Amaro Jr. recently stated that there would be no big moves this year at the deadline. If Amaro decides to change his mind, here are ten moves he could make to make this club even better ...

Vargas outshines Hamels to lead Mariners over Phillies*

Jason Vargas outdueled ace Cole Hamels with a scintillating pitching performance as the Seattle Mariners took down the Major League-best Philadelphia Phillies 2-0.

Vargas tosses 3-hitter to lift M's over Phils 2-0*

share: digg facebook twitter SEATTLE (AP) — Jason Vargas tossed a three-hitter for his second shutout of the season, outdueling Philadelphia left-hander Cole Hamels to lead the Seattle Mariners to a 2-0 win over the Phillies on Sunday. After a two-out walk to Carlos Ruiz in the fourth, he retired the next 15 straight batters until Ryan Howard's two-out single in the ninth. Hamels, third in the ...

Philies Vs Mariners: Cole Hamels Looks For MLB Leading 10th Win*

(Sports Network) – Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels can become the first 10-game winner in the major leagues when he toes the rubber today against the Seattle Mariners in the finale of a three-game series at Safeco Field. Hamels is 4-0 with a 1.64 earned run average in his last six starts — with the Phillies going 5-1 in that stretch — and is coming off seven innings of one-run ball ...

Victorino helps Phillies beat Mariners*

The Associated Press The Associated Press SEATTLE Shane Victorino figured he was the guy who would have to step up against Seattle Mariners ace Felix Hernandez in the seventh inning Saturday night. Victorino came through with a tiebreaking two-run double in the seventh inning and finished a single shy of the cycle with a season-high four RBIs, leading the Philadelphia Phillies to a 5-1 victory ...

Philadelphia Phillies: The Brilliance of Cole Hamels*

Today against the Mariners , Cole Hamels can become the first pitcher in the MLB to reach 10 wins. Wow, what a difference one year makes.  Phillies pitching coach Rich Dubee raved about Hamels this spring, saying he was improved and finally would live up to his potential. After a terrible showing in his first start of the season going only two and two-thirds innings while allowing six runs in a ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Why It's Time for Ben Francisco to Leave*

At the beginning of the 2011 season, the Philadelphia Phillies and their fans had high hopes that RF Ben Francisco could fill the void after Jayson Werth signed a mega-contract with the division rival Washington Nationals . Unfortunately, Francisco has done everything but impress so far this season. He currently is batting .218 with six home runs and 25 RBI. He has only 12 extra-base-hits in 170 ...

Philadelphia Phillies at Mariners: June 18, 2011 game thread*

The Mariners have four walks already including two with two out in the seventh, but then the Phils brought in left-hander Antonio Bastardo to face Adam Kennedy. Kennedy wound up striking out on a pitch down and away with a real ugly-looking swing. Don't see that from him too often. As the kids from South Park (the TV show, not the local place) might say: "Oh my God, he whiffed Kennedy!...You ...

A night of high energy, key plays and a Mariners victory over the Phillies*

A few things we learned from tonight’s 4-2 Mariners victory over the Philadelphia Phillies – the night most fans will remember as Dustin Ackley’s major league debut.

M's open series against Phillies with win*

A 4-2 Mariners win over the Philadelphia Phillies could hardly have been drawn up better.

Philadelphia Phillies baseball tryout camp at ICC cancelled*

Itawamba Community College baseball coach Rick Collier said the tryout camp scheduled for Thursday with the Philadelphia Phillies has been cancelled. Collier said the tryout will be rescheduled for a future date.

Phillies take season-best win streak to Seattle in Ackley debut*

(Sports Network) - The Philadelphia Phillies have proven they can win at home, but will now take the majors' best record to the Emerald City when they begin a three-game interleague series tonight against the Seattle Mariners at Safeco Field.

Marlins swept away by Phillies*

The Associated Press The Associated Press PHILADELPHIA The Florida Marlins got to Roy Halladay and even had a lead in the ninth inning. It still wasn't enough to keep them from another brutal loss. Florida scored four runs off Halladay and had a two-run lead entering the ninth inning of Wednesday's nightcap, but the Philadelphia Phillies tied it with two outs and won it 5-4 on Carlos Ruiz's two ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Worry No More, Cliff Lee Is Back on Track*

Cliff Lee just finished a two hit, complete game, shut out, to help the Philadelphia Phillies solidify a four-game sweep over the Florida Marlins . Lee also had two hits, including a go ahead RBI double in the bottom of the fourth Inning. Lee is currently batting .242 on the season. After today's win the Phillies find themselves 5.5 games ahead of the Atlanta Braves for first place in the NL ...

Marlins' swoon continues as Lee tosses 2-hitter*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA The Florida Marlins have gone from contention to last place in a short span. Cliff Lee tossed a two-hitter and had two hits and an RBI, helping the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Marlins 3-0 Thursday to complete a four-game sweep and win their seventh in a row. The struggling Marlins have lost 15 of 16. They were 29-19 and just one game behind ...

Lee throws 2-hitter as Phillies top Marlins 3-0*

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cliff Lee, left, celebrates with catcher Carlos Ruiz after their 3-0 win over the Florida Marlins on Thursday in Philadelphia. Lee tossed a two-hitter and had two hits and an RBI in the game.

Phils chase Marlins rookie, cruise in Game 1 of DH*

Jimmy Rollins hit a three-run homer, Wilson Valdez had a three-RBI triple and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Florida Marlins 8-1 Wednesday in the first game of a doubleheader.

Philadelphia Phillies rout Florida Marlins 8-1 in first game of doubleheader*

Philadelphia Phillies rout Florida Marlins 8-1 in first game of doubleheader

Phils beat Marlins 5-4 in 10 innings for DH sweep*

Carlos Ruiz's RBI single to center with two outs in the 10th inning gave the Philadelphia Phillies a 5-4 comeback victory over the Florida Marlins on Wednesday night and a sweep of their doubleheader.

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Best Draft Picks in Team History*

The Phillies are well known for their roster moves during the offseason and near the trade deadline.  Ruben Amaro Jr. is often able to pull off big moves to improve the team and the Phillies have taken heat for not developing players. This criticism should be looked at again, however.   The Phillies have drafted and developed some very talented players over the years.  Here is a list of 10 of ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Biggest Surprises of the Season -- so Far*

The Philadelphia Phillies, heading into the games of June 14, stand at 40-26. They current have the best record in baseball, and hold a two-and-a-half-game lead over the Atlanta Braves in the NL East. Their wins project to 98 for the season, one more than they amassed during their MLB-best 2010 regular season run. So, how do we uncover and rank the 10-most surprising developments from the 66 ...

Phillies' Cole Hamels Donates $200,000 For Philadelphia School Improvements*

Philadelphia Phillies' lefthander Cole Hamels and his wife, Heidi, are helping out Philadelphia schools at a time when they need it most.

Phillies' offense not likely to improve: A fan's perspective*

Sean O'Brien The Philadelphia Phillies' offense is not in a slump, is not sluggish, and is not limping along. It is mediocre and it will likely stay that way. The post-steroid era Baseball has quite obviously transitioned to a more …

Hanley hopes to give Marlins a boost in Philly*

(Sports Network) - The struggling Florida Marlins could use anything about now to revive their season and will welcome the return of All-Star shortstop Hanley Ramirez tonight in the opener of a four-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.

Philadelphia Phillies Need a Better Horse in the Stable: Heath Bell*

I don’t know about most Philadelphia Phillies fans, but I am still not content with the team’s options in the closer role. I’m not sure if it is because of the Phillies ’ climbing payroll or simply because there is no one else on the market, but so far General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. has decided to let his team ride on some questionable arms at the back of its pen. We will start at the beginning ...

Howard Lifts Phillies Over Cubs*

Ryan Howard went 3 for 3 and drove in three runs, and Roy Oswalt recovered from a rocky first to pitch seven solid innings and lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 4-3 comeback victory over the Chicago Cubs on Sunday.

Phils go for 40th win in finale vs. Cubs*

(Sports Network) - Owners of the best record in baseball, the Philadelphia Phillies aim to become the majors' first club with 40 wins when they wrap up a four-game series versus the Chicago Cubs today at Citizens Bank Park.

Ramirez Homers, But Cubs Lose Series Finale 4-3*

Ryan Howard went 3 for 3 and drove in three runs, and Roy Oswalt recovered from a rocky first to pitch seven solid innings and lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 4-3 comeback victory over the Chicago Cubs on Sunday.

Howard has three hits, leads Phillies over Cubs, 4-3*

Philadelphia Phillies' Ryan Howard watches his one run double hit against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, June 12, 2011, in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Phillies saved from their own problems by inept Chicago Cubs*

If the Philadelphia Phillies had managed to blow a seven-run lead against the National League's long-running, always-rolling clown circus known as the Chicago Cubs, a surly Citizens Bank Park crowd might have turned vicious Friday night.

Utley's bat, Lee's arm power Phillies past Cubs*

PHILADELPHIA — Cliff Lee insists he isn’t going for strikeouts. Lee had seven strikeouts in eight strong innings, and Chase Utley homered and drove in four runs to lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 7-1 win over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday.

Phillies Vs Cubs: Cliff Lee Takes The Hill As Phils Look For Consecutive Wins*

(Sports Network) – Philadelphia Phillies co-ace Cliff Lee seems to be back to his old winning ways. Pitching against the Chicago Cubs has always put a smile on his face too, as the Phillies resume a four-game set with the NL Central inhabitants this afternoon from Citizens Bank Park. Lee recently went through a stretch in which he compiled an 0-3 mark with a 3.66 earned run average in six starts ...

Chase Utley homers in Philadelphia Phillies' win over Chicago Cubs*

Lee (6-5) passed teammate Roy Halladay for the league lead in strikeouts, recording seven to up his season total to 107. He allowed four hits and one run while walking two.

Utley's four RBI, Lee pitching lead Phillies past Cubs*

Chase Utley homered and drove in four runs to back Cliff Lee's eight strong innings and lead the Philadelphia Phillies to a 7-1 win over the Chicago Cubs.

Phils surprise veteran employee*

PHILADELPHIA — Phillies video production manager Dan Stephenson figured he had just about taped it all in his 30 years with the team.

Cubs rally in ninth, beat Phillies in 11*

Geovany Soto hit a tying homer off Ryan Madson with one out in the ninth and Colvin scored from second on third baseman Placido Polanco's throwing error in the 11th inning to lift the Chicago Cubs over the Philadelphia Phillies 4-3 in a game which had the start delayed over an hour by rain and ended early Friday morning.  

Minor League Teams Getting Help From Philadelphia Phillies*

Getting a ticket to a Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park can be tough, but to still get your Phils fix the team is promoting its three minor league teams.

Madson blows save, Phillies lose in 11*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Ryan Madson's perfect streak is over. Geovany Soto hit a tying homer off Madson with one out in the ninth and Tyler Colvin scored from second on a throwing error in the 11th to lift the Chicago Cubs over the Philadelphia Phillies 4-3 on Thursday night. Madson had been 14 for 14 in save chances before allowing Soto's tying solo homer on a 2-0 pitch. "It's ...

Hamels K's nine, Howard homers as Phils blank L.A.*

Cole Hamels struck out nine in eight strong innings and Ryan Howard homered to lift the Philadelphia Phillies to a 2-0 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Philadelphia Phillies' Cole Hamels is hotter than the heat wave*

On a sizzling night in the soupy steam that passed for air in South Philadelphia, the only thing hotter than the temperature was Hamels. Overcoming the weather was almost as much of a battle as subduing the Dodgers.

Philadelphia Phillies: 4 Prospects the Phillies Should Hold onto at the Deadline*

The Phillies have been very active at the trade deadline the last couple of seasons.  This has many fans speculating that Philadelphia will once again make a big move at the deadline. I'm not as speculative. The Phillies already made their big splash by landing Cliff Lee in the offseason.  Due to that signing, they are a bit strapped for cash. If a move is made, it will be nothing drastic like a ...

Phillies' Rollins returning Wednesday -- or headed to DL?*

Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins fouled a ball off his right kneecap Saturday night and the rumor has been that he could be headed to the disabled list . General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said Tuesday that an MRI shows that Rollins has a "pretty significant" bruise and the Phils would take the next 24-48 hours to decide if Rollins needed to take a break or not, the Philadelphia ...

Lee strikes out 10 in Phillies' win over Dodgers*

PHILADELPHIA -- One devious curve at a time, Cliff Lee has become a strikeout specialist. Lee hit double-digit strikeouts for the sixth time this season, fanning 10 in seven shutout innings and leading the Philadelphia Phillies to a 3-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday night.

Phillies' Lidge suffers setback*

The Philadelphia Phillies haven't had the services of closer Brad Lidge all season and now it looks like the team will need to wait a little longer before it does again. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Lidge suffered a second setback Monday during his rehabilitation in Clearwater, Fla. The culprit? Elbow soreness while he pitched a bullpen session. Lidge is being brought back to ...

Phillies Vs Dodgers: Roy Oswalt Takes On Rubby De La Rosa*

(Sports Network) – Cliff Lee was able to frustrate the Dodgers in last night’s opener of a three-game series at Citizens Bank Park. Roy Oswalt will try to deploy a similar tactic tonight and avoid a fourth straight losing decision as he takes the mound for the Philadelphia Phillies , who seek a fourth straight victory over Los Angeles. Oswalt, who has pitched to a 1.96 earned run average over ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Looks Like Jimmy Rollins Could Be Headed to the DL*

According to MLB.com's Todd Zolecki, Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr. has stated after an MRI on Jimmy Rollins knee, doctors have found "a pretty significant bone bruise." Just when the Phillies thought their everyday line up was finally going to get some reps together an a unit, BAM, another one goes down. It is almost comical the way the Phillies core players have been dropping like flies. Ryan ...

Phillies return home to face Dodgers*

(Sports Network) - After getting a solid effort by one ace to snap a season high-tying losing streak, the Philadelphia Phillies hope that Cliff Lee can follow a similar pattern and recover from one of his worst outings of the season.

Phillies top Pirates to end four-game losing streak*

PITTSBURGH -- Roy Halladay pitched seven effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies snapped a season-high four-game losing streak, beating the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-3 on Sunday to avoid a sweep. Neil Walker hit a two-run homer in the first inning, one of six Pittsburgh hits off Halladay (8-3), who had six...

Phillies Top Pirates, Snap 4-Game Skid*

Roy Halladay pitched seven effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies snapped a season-high four-game losing streak, beating the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-3 on Sunday to avoid a sweep.

Dodgers-Phillies Preview*

The Philadelphia Phillies finally came through at the plate to avoid a fifth straight loss, but the Los Angeles Dodgers have been showing even more consistent signs that their long-struggling offense has awakened. Cliff Lee, meanwhile, is hoping his latest start was nothing more than an aberration. A poor outing should have the former Cy Young Award winner anxious for redemption Monday night as ...

Phils snap four-game skid, avoid sweep against Bucs*

Roy Halladay pitched seven effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies snapped a season-high four-game losing streak, beating the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-3 on Sunday to avoid a sweep.

Phillies snap 4-game skid, beat Pirates 7-3*

Roy Halladay pitched seven effective innings and the Philadelphia Phillies snapped a season-high four-game losing streak, beating the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-3 on Sunday to avoid a sweep.

Phillies Vs. Pirates: Charlie Morton, Lyle Overbay Lead Bucs To 6-3 Win*

Charlie Morton registered five strikeouts in the Bucs' victory over the Phillies Saturday. Led by a strong start by Charlie Morton and a surprisingly good game by Lyle Overbay , the Pirates defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 6-3 in front of a sold-out crowd at PNC Park Saturday night. The Phillies' Jimmy Rollins led off the game with a double and came around to score on a groundout by Ryan ...

Draft philosophy: get the best athlete available*

When it comes to the annual draft, the Philadelphia Phillies long have been known for going after players who look good in a baseball uniform. "Toolsy" is often the word used as an adjective, as in "toolsy outfielder Domonic Brown."

Pirates hand Phillies 4th straight loss 6-3*

The Philadelphia Phillies are still struggling to score runs, and they might have to find a way out of that funk without their leadoff hitter. Charlie Morton pitched seven solid innings and the Pittsburgh Pirates sent Philadelphia to its fourth consecutive loss, 6-3 Saturday night. The Phillies, who have scored only seven runs during the losing streak, played the final six innings without ...

Tabata's single in 12th fuels Pirates*

Jose Tabata hit a game-ending single with two outs in the 12th inning, lifting the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies in a game without an extra-base hit.

Pirates beat Phillies 2-1 in 12 innings*

The Associated Press The Associated Press PITTSBURGH Jose Tabata hit a game-ending single with two outs in the 12th inning, lifting the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies in a game without an extra-base hit. Tabata smacked a sinking liner off of Danys Baez (1-3) into the hole on the right side that a lunging second baseman Chase Utley could not handle. Right fielder ...

Tabata's single in 12th carries Pirates past Phillies*

Jose Tabata hit a game-ending single with two outs in the 12th inning, lifting the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies in a game without an extra-base hit

Lackluster offense leads Phils to extra-innings loss*

PITTSBURGH — All season, the Philadelphia Phillies have waited to have their entire everyday lineup available. Friday, they finally got it. What it didn’t get was any sustained offense.

Phillies waste another solid outing by Hamels*

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Jose Tabata hit a game-ending single with two outs in the 12th inning, lifting the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies in a game without an extra-base hit.

Philadelphia Phillies: Are Halladay, Howard and Gang Over or Under Expectations?*

On a cold, February morning, I proposed 33 over-under proposition bets to keep the Philadelphia Phillies season interesting. Truth be told, for baseball lifers like yours truly, baseball is always fascinating, and the Florida Marlins , the Atlanta Braves and the ever-busy Disabled List have all kept things quite interesting so far. How interesting? With their 5-4 Memorial Day matinee win over ...

Nix's heroics spark Nats teammate Lannan vs. Phils*

Laynce Nix hit a home run and made a spectacular diving catch, helping Washington Nationals starter John Lannan beat the Philadelphia Phillies for the first time in 14 tries, 2-1 on Wednesday.

Nationals' Lannan hopes to end career woes against Phils*

(Sports Network) - Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results can be considered an irrational way of thinking. John Lannan of the Washington Nationals can relate to that concept when facing the Philadelphia Phillies.

Nationals' Lannan beats Phillies for first time*

Laynce Nix hit a home run and made a spectacular diving catch, helping Washington Nationals starter John Lannan beat the Philadelphia Phillies for the first time in 14 tries, 2-1 on Wednesday.

Philadelphia Phillies: Cole Hamels and the Top 5 Phillies in May*

The Philadelphia Phillies started and ended the month of May in first place in the NL East, and technically increased their lead over the Florida Marlins from one-and-a-half games to two. For the month, the red-pinstriped gang played to a fairly good 16-13 record, which was a step down from their excellent 18-8 April. Still, their overall 34-21 record projects to 100 wins, which would be a three ...

Oswalt hooked, Brown robbed, Phillies lose 2-1*

Roy Oswalt was upset. Domonic Brown was stunned. The rest of the Philadelphia Phillies weren't pleased, either.

Lee gives up 6 runs in 10-2 loss to Nationals*

This was an outing Cliff Lee would soon forget. The Philadelphia Phillies' left-hander gave up six runs on seven hits in 5 1-3 innings, including a pair of home runs to Washington Nationals rookie second baseman Danny Espinosa, and the Nationals went on to rout the Phillies 10-2 Tuesday night. "I'd like to erase this from my memory, wish it never happened, but can't do that,"...

Former New York Mets/Philadelphia Phillies baseball star Lenny Dystra arraigned on federal charges*

Lenny Dykstra #4 of the Philadelphia Phillies bats during Game three of the 1993 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Veterans Stadium on October 19, 1993 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Nationals roll over Phillies*

Phils' 2 runs come on solo homers; Cliff Lee gives up six runs. WASHINGTON — Danny Espinosa hit a pair of homers and drove in four runs to lead the Washington Nationals to a 10-2 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night.

Phillies call up LHP Zagurski from Triple-A*

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Philadelphia Phillies have recalled left-handed pitcher Mike Zagurski from Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

Only 3 umps working Phillies-Mets game*

Only three umpires are working the game between the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Mets because Wally Bell was not at the ballpark.

Philadelphia Phillies Notes: The Offense, Chase Utley, Brad Lidge and More*

The Philadelphia Phillies ' offense have been a puzzling bunch for most of the 2011 season. For a while, on Opening Day as the team struggled making contact with Houston Astros ' starter Brett Myers, it looked like the lineup picked right up where it left off following the 2010 National League Championship Series—standing at the plate looking at strike three. On that day though, John Mayberry Jr ...

Philadelphia Phillies' Shane Victorino could be back by Friday*

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Phillies 5, Mets 9: Worley Struggles As Phils Fail To Sweep*

Flushing, NY (Sports Network) – Jose Reyes went 4-for-5 and Josh Thole drove in three runs, helping the New York Mets beat the Philadelphia Phillies , 9-5, in the finale of a three-game series at Citi Field. Daniel Murphy collected three hits and one RBI for the Mets, who snapped a three-game losing streak and won for just the second time in eight games. New York starter Jon Niese (4-5) gave up ...

Reyes, Mets break loose to beat Phillies 9-5*

Philadelphia Phillies' Ryan Howard, right, follows through on a two-RBI double as New York Mets catcher Ronny Paulino, left, looks on during the eighth inning of a baseball game on Saturday, May 28, 2011, at Citi Field in New York.

MLB: Philadelphia 6, New York Mets 4*

NEW YORK, May 27 (UPI) -- Domonic Brown singled in the go-ahead score during a three-run ninth Friday to bring the Philadelphia Phillies a 6-4 decision over the New York Mets.

Philadelphia Phillies: Chase Utley's Return Finally Gives Spark to Phils Offense*

Chase Utley made his much anticipated 2011 debut this week in the Phillies series against the Cincinnati Reds. Utley finished his first night back going 0-for-5, but his presence on the field and in the lineup became immediately noticeable. The Philadelphia Phillies, who for the past few seasons have had one of the best offenses in the league, have been struggling mightily to remain consistent ...

Phillies rally to beat Mets*

NEW YORK (AP) — Domonic Brown grounded a tiebreaking single under the glove of first baseman Daniel Murphy in the ninth inning, and the Philadelphia Phillies scored three runs off star closer Francisco Rodriguez to beat the sinking New York Mets 6-4 on Friday night.

Phillies Beat Mets, 6 To 4*

Domonic Brown grounded a tiebreaking single under the glove of first baseman Daniel Murphy in the ninth inning, and the Philadelphia Phillies scored three runs off star closer Francisco Rodriguez to beat the sinking New York Mets 6-4 on Friday night.

Domonic Brown a star sub, Phillies beat Mets 6-4*

New York Mets center fielder Angel Pagan misjudges a ball hit by Philadelphia Phillies' John Mayberry Jr. for a fielding error during the fifth inning of a baseball game, Friday, May 27, 2011, at Citi Field in New York.

Philadelphia Phillies: Are the Phillies Looking to Trade Vance Worley?*

For as long as most Philadelphia fans can remember, the Phillies have been an offense-first, pitching-whenever team.  There was a time when trading away Cory Lidle seemed like a mistake, acquiring Kyle Lohse helped the team, and re-sigining Jamie Moyer was vital to the team's success. Which is why it seems so odd now to sit at the kitchen table, behind the wheel of the car, or under a tree in ...

Philadelphia Phillies: 10 Solutions to Their Offensive Struggles*

How great of a time in Phillies history are we in right now? The Phillies have the best record in Major League Baseball and a starting rotation that has shut out their opponents seven times this season. Phillies Nation could (should?) be checking their calenders and telling their families that no vacations are to be booked in October. The Phillies are clearly the class of the NL East, and their ...

Bruce delivers big hit, Reds snap 6-game skid*

Cincinnati Reds shortstop Paul Janish, right, leaps over Philadelphia Phillies’ Carlos Ruiz after attempting to turn a double play in the sixth inning of a baseball game Tuesday in Philadelphia. Ruiz was forced out at second and Domonic Brown was safe at first. Cincinnati won 6-3.

Phillies hand Reds sixth straight loss*

Jimmy Rollins, Placido Polanco and Raul Ibanez homered to back Cole Hamels, and the Philadelphia Phillies handed the Cincinnati Reds their sixth straight loss, 10-3 on Monday night.

Philadelphia Phillies: Joe Blanton's Injury Gives Vance Worley an Opportunity*

Ever since Vance Worley made his starting debut as a Philadelphia Phillie on September 6th, 2010, there were a whole lot of early assumptions being made about the right-hander's future. The most prominent one? Hey, maybe this guy can be our fifth starter in 2011. After the Phillies signed Cliff Lee in December, it seemed almost a near certainty that the Phillies would attempt to trade Joe ...

Philadelphia Phillies: Raul Ibanez and the Miserable Phillies Offense*

Phillies fans, we all know the drill—our veteran left fielder comes to the plate and the entire crowd bursts into a chorus of what sounds like boos. Then the guys calling the game, especially if it is an out-of-town crew or a national broadcast, will explain "Now, fans at home may think that the crowd is booing their left fielder, but really they're saying 'Ra-uuuuuuuuuul" Of course, Phillies ...

Harrison shuts down Phillies in 2-0 win*

Matt Harrison took a five-hitter into the ninth inning and helped the Texas Rangers avoid a three-game sweep with a 2-0 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday.

Utley set for season debut in Phils' opener with Reds*

(Sports Network) - He won't be riding into Citizens Bank Park on a white horse to save the offensively-challenged Philadelphia Phillies, but the return of All-Star second baseman Chase Utley should give the club a major boost.

Philadelphia Phillies' Jose Contreras continues elbow rehab with Lehigh Valley IronPigs*

The relief pitcher was injured in April after a strong start with the big team.

Philadelphia Phillies Slumping Offense: What They Need Is a Good Dose of Poe*

I’m excited that the baseball season is in full swing. My husband was so bored in the offseason, I had to fake a bladder infection just to get some sleep. At first, things for the 2010 division champs looked promising: The February 15th Philadelphia  Inquirer   headlined the sports page with a picture of the five aces—an upgrade from the “Bought and Paid Four”. There they sat with name plates in ...

Philadelphia Phillies should show relief pitcher Danys Baez the door*

The right-hander has struggled in his two seasons in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia Phillies use simple formula to open interleague play with a win*

Two home runs plus Roy Halladay and Ryan Madson on the mound equaled a loss for the Texas Rangers.

Philadelphia Phillies: Five Things We've Learned About the Phillies' Core Four*

The Phillies are currently 26-16 and still sit in first place in the NL East despite an anemic offense. Heading into this season, the Phillies Phaithful knew that if they were to expect another parade down Broad Street that it would be led by the four aces. Expectations have never been higher in the entire 121 year history of Philadelphia baseball. Talk radio rang out when Cliff Lee rejoined the ...

Phillies go long to edge Rangers 3-2*

The Philadelphia Phillies provided just enough offense for Roy Halladay to carry them past the Texas Rangers 3-2 in their interleague clash on Friday.

Halladay wins again as Rangers lose to Phillies*

DAN GELSTON AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Elvis Andrus stole home in the first inning to scratch out a run against Roy Halladay. When the Rangers got aggressive again in the ninth, it cost them. Andrus stole home on a delayed double steal for the first run, but David Murphy was thrown out trying to steal second base to end the game, costing Texas in a 3-2 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on ...

St. Louis Cardinals Top Philadelphia Phillies; Albert Pujols Plays Third*

The St. Louis Cardinals managed to scrape six walks from the typically stingy Cliff Lee and made three runs out of the resulting baserunners; that was all Jake Westbrook needed, as he delivered one of his best starts of the season, picking up 12 groundball outs in front of an infield that included Albert Pujols , starting at third base for the first time since 2002. Ryan Theriot , Yadier Molina ...

Berkman delivers again for Cardinals in 2-1 victory*

Lance Berkman lined a bases-loaded single over a drawn-in outfield with one out in the ninth inning, giving the St. Louis Cardinals a 2-1 victory over the run-starved Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night.

Garcia tries to remain unbeaten in finale of brief set with Phils*

(Sports Network) - Unbeaten St. Louis Cardinals left-hander Jaime Garcia aims to continue his hot start to the season when he takes on the Philadelphia Phillies tonight in the finale of a two-game series at Busch Stadium.

Phillies' Utley to return by month's end?*

Philadelphia Phillies second baseman Chase Utley has been on the disabled list since March 22 and the team "must make a decision" on him by month's end since his "20-day rehab clock expires" at that point, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. If Utley continues at his current rehab pace, though, the paper notes that no decision will have to be made since Utley may be back in the bigs by then ...

Pujols back at 1B for Cardinals after start at 3B*

R.B. FALLSTROM AP Sports Writer ST. LOUIS A night after making his first start at third base since 2002, Albert Pujols was back at first base. Manager Tony La Russa said before Tuesday night's game against the Philadelphia Phillies that Pujols might make a handful of starts at third the rest of the season. Pujols fielded five chances in a 3-1 victory Monday, starting a double play and going to ...

Philadelphia Phillies shouldn't rush Chase Utley back*

The veteran needs to be completely healthy before coming up to the Phils.

Cardinals get 2-game sweep of Phillies*

Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Ben Francisco cannot reach a ball hit for a ground-rule double by St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols during the fifth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 17, 2011, in St. Louis.

Philadelphia Phillies activate Roy Oswalt from disabled list, send Vance Worley to Triple-A Lehigh Valley*

Oswalt will start Tuesday night against the St. Louis Cardinals.

Talented Phillies pose major challenge for Cardinals*

Those Philadelphia Phillies, who invade Busch Stadium for a two-game series starting tonight, have emerged as the NL's best team the last four years.

Phillies Vs. Braves: Dan Uggla Seals Series Win With Homer As Atlanta Tops Philly, 3-2*

Sunday, May 15 (25-14) Philadelphia Phillies - 3 (23-19) Atlanta Braves - 2 MLB.com Box Score FanGraphs Box Score Another back and forth game? Why not? The Braves used a big home run by Dan Uggla in the eighth inning to push them past the Phillies by the score of 3-2, taking a second straight series from the first-place Philly club. Game Log : The two teams scattered baserunners in the first few ...

Injury slows mound prospect; Brown tees off on Triple-A pitching*

The Philadelphia Phillies minor league system has lost some highly regarded prospects during the last few years with many trades being made to help the parent club.

Some big decisions when Utley, Brown return*

The Philadelphia Phillies soon could be undergoing some significant changes. Second baseman Chase Utley appears closer to the end of his rehabilitation from right knee tendinitis than the beginning.

Ex-Husker Nesseth impresses Phillies*

He hasn't pitched in his first professional game. The Philadelphia Phillies spent a 17th-round draft pick to select him out of the University of Nebraska in 2010 even though his career ERA was 4.72, his mechanics were a mess and,...

Raul Ibanez, Phillies edge Braves, 5-4*

Atlanta Braves starting pitcher Brandon Beachy (37) works against the Philadelphia Phillies during the first inning of a baseball game, Friday, May 13, 2011, in Atlanta.

The Philadelphia Phillies 2008 First Year Player Draft: Where Are They Now?*

For the Philadelphia Philles, 2008 was quite special for the Philadelphia Phillies, as I'm sure you know. But long before the team captured the World Series title in October, the front office and its team of scouts set out to find the next great Phillie in the Rule 4 (or First Year Player) Draft, in the month of June. So by now, I'm sure you're thinking, "What's the relevance for this article ...

Phillies activate Carlos Ruiz from DL*

Phillies catcher Carlos Ruiz has been activated from the 15-day disabled list, the Philadelphia Phillies announced on Friday.

Phillies-Braves Preview*

Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels did not give up a homer in his first 29 2-3 innings this season. The Atlanta Braves hit two out of the park against Hamels on Sunday in Philadelphia. Hamels gets the ball in Friday night's series opener as the NL East-leading Phillies try to win their third in a row in Atlanta.

2011 Philadelphia Phillies: A Bad Team with the Best Record in MLB*

In politics, they say that “perception is reality.” Fortunately, they do not say this in professional sports, because if they did, the Philadelphia Phillies would be in real trouble. Take, for example, a conversation I had with a Philadelphia friend named Josh and a non-Philadelphia friend named Scott while I was in New Orleans for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival last weekend.  Scott ...

WWE and Philadelphia Phillies Four Aces: Comparing and Contrasting*

The Philadelphia Phillies have put together an amazing, if not the best, group of pitchers to ever be on the same team. As I looked at each pitcher I saw resemblances to WWE Superstars. I have compiled a group of four WWE Hall of Famers who embody each of the Philadelphia Phillies Four Aces.  Each Superstar is the perfect match for their counterpart. Both Superstar and Ace have accomplished a ...

Phillies offence cool entering another Lee start*

Any support from the Philadelphia Phillies offence would be a welcome change for Cliff Lee, who will try to end his winless stretch when he takes the mound opposite Florida's Ricky Nolasco in the series finale Wednesday at 7:10 p.m. ET.

Philadelphia Phillies: The 10 Worst Teams in Franchise History*

The Pittsburgh Pirates have 18 consecutive losing seasons, an all-time mark. As unbearable and agonizing as this is for Pirates fans, the Philadelphia Phillies had a 31-year stretch from 1918-1948 that defied logic. In those 31 years the Phillies had just one winning season (1932). And even that year they finished just 78-76. Just think about that for a second...31 YEARS OF CONSISTENT AWFULNESS ...

Blanton, Phillies drop Marlins in series opener*

The Philadelphia Phillies turned four double plays behind Joe Blanton, who came off the disabled list to pitch five innings and earn his first victory of the season by helping to beat the Florida Marlins 6-4 on Monday night.

Phils turn 4 DPs for Blanton to beat Marlins 6-4*

The Philadelphia Phillies turned four double plays behind Joe Blanton, while the Florida Marlins had trouble catching the ball.

Fish get by Halladay, Phillies*

Chris Coghlan plated the go-ahead run with a single in the eighth inning, as the Florida Marlins snuck past the Philadelphia Phillies, 2-1, in the second test of a three-game series.

Halladay, Phillies lose to Marlins 2-1*

The Philadelphia Phillies already led when they loaded the bases with none out in the second inning against Josh Johnson.

Halladay to face Marlins' JJ*

When Josh Johnson arrived at the All-Star Game last year, he immediately encountered the ace for the Philadelphia Phillies. "As soon as I walked in, he said hi. And I was like, `Whoa, THE Roy Halladay,"' Johnson said Monday, the eve of their latest matchup. Johnson's a big fan of the reigning NL Cy Young Award winner, despite being on the losing end when Halladay pitched his...

Roy Oswalt To Throw Rehab Start Thursday*

Philadelphia Phillies right-hander Roy Oswalt hasn't pitched since April 26, first leaving to help with tornado cleanup efforts in Mississippi, and then suffering a tweak to his back that landed him on the disabled list. Kyle Kendrick took his turn in the rotation last time, but there's hope that the Phillies will get Oswalt back soon. From David Hale of the Wilmington News Journal : Oswalt will ...

Philadelphia Phillies beat Atlanta Braves' first-time starter Julio Teheran*

Kyle Kendrick and four relievers combined on a five-hitter, Ryan Howard homered and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves 3-0 Saturday night.

Philles Vs Braves: Cole Hamels Takes The Mount For Rubber Game On ESPN Sunday Night Baseball*

The Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves will face off in the rubber game of their three game set tonight at Citizens Bank Park. Each team has dealt the other a shutout loss to start the series and both will be sending out starters capable of blanking the opposition again. For Atlanta, Jair Jurrjens takes the hill and has yet to lose this season with a 3-0 record and 1.52 ERA in four starts ...

Phillies put catcher Ruiz on DL with sore back*

The Philadelphia Phillies have placed catcher Carlos Ruiz on the disabled list because of inflammation in his back.

Philadelphia Phillies fall to Atlanta despite 16 strikeouts from Cliff Lee*

The right-hander then came out of the game with an apparent leg or foot injury. Lowe (3-3) appeared to hurt himself in the top of the seventh after singling and going to second on Chipper Jones' single.

Lenny Dykstra indicted in bankruptcy fraud case*

Former New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Lenny Dykstra has been indicted by a Los Angeles federal grand jury in a bankruptcy fraud case.

Philadelphia Phillies' top of the lineup sparking improved offense*

Charlie Manuel was seeking to shake up a stagnant Philadelphia Phillies offense when he moved Jimmy Rollins from the No. 3 spot to leadoff Tuesday night in the opening game of the three-game set against the Washington Nationals at Citizens Bank Park.

Braves-Phillies Preview*

A strong stretch of pitching has keyed the Atlanta Braves' longest winning streak of the season, but extending it against the NL-best Philadelphia Phillies will be a challenge. The Braves look to win their sixth straight when they open a three-game series in Philadelphia on Friday night. After a slow start, Atlanta (18-15) has won 10 of 13 and five straight to stay within 4 1/2 games of...

Stairs gets milestone hit in Nats' loss to Philly*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA Jason Marquis remained stuck at 99 while Matt Stairs reached 100. Marquis got roughed up in his first try for his 100th win, Stairs singled for his 100th career pinch hit and the Washington Nationals lost 7-4 to the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday night. Danny Espinosa hit a three-run shot off Danys Baez with two outs in the ninth, one of the few ...

Worley, Ibanez lead Phillies past Nationals 7-4*

The Philadelphia Phillies may have found a fifth ace.

Jayson Werth deserves the boos from Philadelphia Phillies fans*

The often unfocused outfielder left town for the money.

Halladay hopes to continue mastery of Nats*

(Sports Network) - Philadelphia Phillies ace Roy Halladay has already recorded two complete games this season, one of which was against the Washington Nationals back on April 13 in DC.

Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Vance Worley making case to stay in big leagues*

The right-hander has breezed through two starts since being called up from Triple A.

Philadelphia Phillies: Is Jayson "Werth" Fans' Praise or Derision?*

To boo, or not to boo, that is the question Whether 'tis nobler in the park to cheer A player who left for such outrageous fortune Or to vent lungs against a former hero To boo, or perchance to applaud—ay, there's the rub When Jayson Werth steps into the batter's box this evening—in his first appearance at Citizens Bank Park in a Washington Nationals uniform—what will the reaction be? Will there ...

Philadelphia Phillies dispose of Washington Nationals in Jayson Werth's return*

Hamels (4-1) tossed a five-hitter on 108 pitches with six strikeouts and just one walk. The only blotch on Hamels' night came on a one-out home run by Nationals' left fielder Michael Morse in the seventh.

Jayson Werth Returns to Philadelphia: To Boo or Not to Boo?*

Notorious former- Philadelphia Phillies J.D. Drew and Scott Rolen are already on par with Benedict Arnold in this city, and Jayson Werth is the most likely candidate to join that list. Drew and Rolen are reminded of their betrayal by 45,000 boos every time they take the field in Philadelphia, but does Werth deserve the same stadium-wide onslaught of displeasure when he steps into Citizenss Bank ...

Mets Beat Phillies 2-1 In 14 Innings*

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Phillies couldn't get a win on a night their fans were cheering some historic news.

Paulino leads Mets past Phillies in 14*

Matt Slocum Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cliff Lee fields a ground out by New York Mets' Justin Turner in the fifth inning Sunday in Philadelphia. New York won 2-1 in 14 innings.

Phillies fall short, lose 2-1 to Mets in 14*

The Philadelphia Phillies couldn't get a win on a night their fans were cheering some historic news.

Philadelphia Phillies: Ranking the Phillies' Organizational Depth By Position*

The Phillies are in the midst of the greatest era of baseball in their entire 121 year history; a history that includes more losses than any other team in major league history. Phillies fans have sold out over 140 consecutive games at Citizens Bank Park and they are more then deserving to finally have a consistent winner. The Philly faithful had to watch slop like the Robert Persons and Omar ...

Carlos Ruiz Back Injury Will Not Send Phillies Catcher To DL*

Finally, some good injury news for Philadelphia Phillies fans. Starting catcher Carlos Ruiz was pulled from Wednesday's game with back tightness, and there was some worry that the injury might send him to the disabled list. As David Murphy writes : Ruiz felt a sharp pain shoot from his lower back down through his right leg after flying out to leftfield in the top of the first inning. Ruiz went ...

Hobbled Phillies welcome rival Mets to Philly*

(Sports Network) - Injuries are starting to pile up for the heavily-favored Philadelphia Phillies and their pitching staff has been hit the hardest.

Philadelphia Phillies: Ranking the 10 Greatest Teams in Franchise History*

In more ways than one, waiting for the 2011 regular season to begin was especially taxing for guys like myself. After the Philadelphia Phillies nabbed Cliff Lee from the clutches of the Texas Rangers and New York Yankees, the flurry of headlines began to develop. That echoed throughout the offseason, and Lee joined a rotation filled with Cy Young winners, backed by a lineup filled with All-Stars ...

Ryan Roberts, Daniel Hudson lead Arizona Diamondbacks over Philadelphia Phillies*

Ryan Roberts went 2 for 4 with two RBIs to help the Diamondbacks defeat the Philadelphia Phillies 7-5 and take the series.

Arizona Diamondbacks fall to Philadelphia Phillies*

Diamondbacks starter Joe Saunders pitcher failed to reach the seventh inning for the fifth time this season, allowing six earned r