Looking ahead to 2009: Philadelphia Phillies

November 29, 4:24 PMMLB ExaminerAlex Brown

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The Philadelphia Phillies reached the top in 2008, winning their first World Series since 1980.  Most of the players will remain the same, but the team does have a few holes to fill and a few decision to make going into next year.

Catcher Carlos Ruiz proved that he could hold down the position and deliver clutch hits in 2008 and during the World Series run.  He’s backed up by the powerful Chris Coste – though the Phillies would be wise to carry three catchers since Coste is such a valuable pinch hitter.

On the infield, first baseman Ryan Howard, second baseman Chase Utley, and shortstop Jimmy Rollins are MVP candidates – Howard and Rollins winning in the previous two years.  Third baseman Pedro Feliz held down the position with good power at the bottom of the lineup and excellent defense at the hot corner.

In the outfield, Shane Victorino is a catalyst at the top of the lineup and a great defensive centerfielder.  Right fielder Geoff Jenkins is declining but still has good power and baseball instincts.  He will be the starter in right unless a better option is acquired.  Left fielder Pat Burrell is a free agent and is unlikely to return to Philadelphia.  This puts the Phillies in the market for a starting outfielder, and they have been rumored to be after Jeremy Hermida.

World Series MVP Cole Hamels anchors the rotation, with rejuvenated Brett Myers and former Oakland Athletic Joe Blanton filling out the top.  Young lefty J.A. Happ and righty Kyle Kendrick should compete for the 4 and 5 spots, unless a free agent starter is signed.  Jamie Moyer definitely wants to pitch in 2009, and Philadelphia may just have a spot for him – hey, anything’s better than Adam Eaton, right?

Brad Lidge was able to shake his playoff demons in 2008 – he didn’t blow a save in the entire regular season or post season.  He’s set up by lefty J.C. Romero and righty Ryan Madson, who together form the “Bridge to Lidge.”  Middle relief is held down by Chad Durbin and Clay Condrey, and they could face competition from young Andrew Carpenter.  Scott Eyre was recently re-signed to be the lefty specialist.

The Phillies were unlikely champions in 2008 – many predicted that they wouldn’t even win their division.  But that’s how baseball works – sometimes it just comes together at the right time.  For the most part they’ll be the same team in 2009, showing a ton of power and offensive ability while trying to get what they can out of an average starting rotation.  The success of the bullpen will be key for the Phillies if they are to repeat as champions in 2009.