Nov. 30 -- EATON SIGNS

Finally, it's official. Adam Eaton and the Phillies have agreed on a three-year, $24.51 million contract that includes a mutual option for 2010. Here's how the money breaks down:

$6.875 million in 2007, $7.635 million in 2008, $8.5 million in 2009, $8.5 million mutual option for 2010 or a $500,000 buyout

Also, there are annual performance bonuses: $250,000 for 200 innings and 220 innings

Nov. 30 -- PUJOLS SNUBBED?

Albert Pujols told reporters in the Dominican Republic that he should've been named MVP. He spells out his reasons in this Associated Press story, printed in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

What do you think? Does Pujols have a point, or is he a sore loser?

Nov. 30 -- BOROWSKI UPDATE

My phone calls to Borowski's agents haven't been returned, and the Phillies are mum on the subject. So, for now, there's nothing new on Borowski's seemingly failed physical.

But here's some additional info on his injury history: The Marlins paid Borowski a base salary of $327,000 last season, which is the major-league minimum. The contract was littered with bonuses based on the number of games he pitched, starting at 10 games and maxing out at 60 games. Borowski earned all possible bonuses by early September and made a total of $1.05 million last season.

So, clearly, the Marlins fretted that he was an injury risk when they signed him. In their case, the gamble paid off. But, this year, Borowski is seeking a much more lucrative contract. Would you rather gamble with $327,000 or $8-10 million?

More later.

Nov. 29 -- BOROWSKI?

A report on ESPN.com, posted about 90 minutes ago, indicates the Phils were talking about a multi-year contract with reliever Joe Borowski but were advised by their medical staff to avoid anything more than a one-year deal with him because of concerns about his shoulder. I'm working on getting more details on this story.

I can tell you this: Borowski was hampered by a shoulder strain in 2004 with the Cubs and missed the first six weeks of 2005 after fracturing a bone in his right forearm during spring training. But he saved 36 games last season for the Marlins and was apparently healthy.

The Phillies view Borowski, a 35-year-old right-hander, as a setup man for closer Tom Gordon. But they also like Borowski's ability to close games whenever Gordon needs a rest.

More information as it becomes available to me.

Nov. 29 -- LA STORY

Randy Wolf may not be the only southern California native to bolt the Phillies for the Dodgers.

Before a game at St. Louis last summer, Mike Lieberthal told me he wouldn't mind playing for his hometown Dodgers, if they'd consider offering him the short-term contract he's seeking. And a report in today's Los Angeles Times indicates the Dodgers may be willing to give Lieberthal a one-year, $1 million deal to come home and back up young catcher Russell Martin. Lieberthal, 35, grew up in Westlake Village, just outside LA, and was married last month. The Phillies likely wouldn't stand in Lieberthal's way of playing elsewhere by offering him salary arbitration.

Here's something to watch for: Pat Gillick said last week the Phillies are in the market for a "young backup" catcher, someone who could share time with Carlos Ruiz and presumably start if Ruiz is a flop in the majors. Could that someone be Toby Hall, the Dodgers' backup who wouldn't return to LA if Lieberthal goes there? Hall, 31, made $2.25 million last season and batted .368 in 21 games after being traded to the Dodgers on June 27

Nov. 28 -- WOLF SPEAKS

Randy Wolf just held a conference call with reporters after agreeing to a one-year contract with the Dodgers. He will make $7.5 million next season with a $9 million option for 2008 that kicks in if he reaches 180 innings in 2007. Otherwise, he'll get a $500,000 buyout, bringing the total amount of guaranteed money to $8 million. I'll have a complete story in Wednesday's News Journal.

But, for the Phillies, the bigger fallout may be this: Now that they've signed Wolf, the Dodgers may not pursue Barry Zito. And if the Dodgers drop out of the Zito bidding, does that mean the New York Mets have become the favorite to land the free-agent lefty?

While you chew on that, here are some highlights from Wolf's teleconference.

* Wolf said the Phillies' offer was "competitive with any offer out there." But, ultimately, he wanted to seize the opportunity to pitch for the Dodgers, the team he rooted for as a kid growing up near LA. As I wrote in the comments section of a previous post, it's hard to hold that against him, even if you're a diehard Phillies fan.

* Leaving the Phillies will be difficult, Wolf said, especially because of how well he was treated by the fans. He said he plans to e-mail members of his fan club, the "Wolf Pack," to thank them for their support.

Check Wednesday's News Journal and www.delawareonline.com for a more complete story.

Nov. 28 -- CORNERING THE MARKET

While the Phils await the results of Adam Eaton's seemingly routine physical (well, as routine as it can be considering how often Eaton has been injured the past two seasons), they still need to find at least two relievers to bolster their bullpen. In many senses, that's been their biggest off-season need, and so far, they've come up empty.

Meanwhile, the Orioles are stockpiling relievers. Wisely or not, they've already signed lefty Jamie Walker (three years, $12 million) and right-hander Danys Baez (three years, $19 million), who will be the primary setup man for closer Chris Ray. Today, they signed side-arming right-hander Chad Bradford (three years, $10.5 million), and reports have them interested in veteran right-hander Scott Williamson. Who's next? Arthur Rhodes. Just kidding, O's fans.

The Phils are interested in Joe Borowski, but he's holding out for a closer job somewhere. That would leave David Weathers and possibly Miguel Batista , who could also be insurance as a starter if the need arises.

Nov. 28 -- MINOR LEAGUE STAFFS

We'll take this momentary break from the hot-stove craziness to address some Phillies housekeeping issues.

First, deposed third-base coach Bill Dancy will serve as the minor-league field coordinator. Also this morning, the team announced it has filled its coaching staffs for its minor league teams.

Ottawa (AAA): Manager-- John Russell; Hitting coach-- Sal Rende; Pitching coach-- Rod Nichols
Reading (AA): Manager-- P.J. Forbes; Hitting coach-- Greg Gross; Pitching coach-- Tom Filer
Clearwater (A): Manager-- Dave Huppert; Hitting coach-- Brad Komminsk; Pitching coach-- Steve Shrenk
Lakewood (low-A): Manager-- Steve Roadcap; Hitting coach-- Kevin Jordan; Coach-- Joe Alvarez; Pitching coach-- Ed Hodge
Williamsport (short-season A): Manager-- Greg Legg; Hitting coach-- Ken Dominguez; Pitching coach-- Bill Bliss
Gulf Coast (R): Manager-- Roly deArmas; Hitting coach-- Luis Melendez; Pitching coach-- Carlos Arroyo

Nov. 27 -- DELLUCCI TO TRIBE

As expected, OF David Dellucci won't be back with the Phillies in 2007.

Dellucci never felt comfortable in Philadelphia after being traded here two days before the season-opener, and tonight, he has agreed to a three-year, $11.5 million deal with the Cleveland Indians. He was looking for more playing time, and with the Indians, he figures to get it. He likely will be the Indians' starting left fielder.

As a part-time player with the Phillies last season, Dellucci batted .292 with 13 home runs and 39 RBIs in 264 at-bats. But when the Phillies gave him more playing time after Bobby Abreu was traded to the Yankees, Dellucci batted only .267 with six homers and 18 RBIs in August and September.

Jeff Conine probably will take Dellucci's spot as the Phillies' fourth outfielder.

Nov. 27 -- EATON TO PHILS

I've talked to three Phillies officials so far today, including GM Pat Gillick, and none would confirm the ESPN.com report that the team has reached an agreement with right-hander Adam Eaton on a three-year contract worth more than $24 million.

But that hardly means it won't happen.

It's been the Phillies' policy to not comment on contract signings or negotiations until after the player passes a physical exam. Eaton could take his physical later this week, and a formal announcement will be forthcoming at that time.

Keep this in mind about Eaton: He has pitched only 193 innings over the past two seasons because of a torn tendon in his right middle finger. He had back-to-back 11-win seasons in 2004 and 2005 for San Diego and went 7-4 with a 5.12 ERA in 13 starts last season for Texas.

I'll have more on this in Tuesday's News Journal and throughout the week, as the story unfolds.

Nov. 27 -- NEW THIRD-BASE COACH

The Phillies have hired Steve Smith to be their new third-base coach, rounding out manager Charlie Manuel's staff. Smith, 54, worked for the Texas Rangers for the past three seasons as a third-base/infield coach.

Makes you wonder if Smith is "compensation" for Art Howe leaving the Phils to become the bench coach in Texas.

We'll have more today at www.delawareonline.com and in Tuesday's print editions of the News Journal.

Nov. 27 -- BAEZ TO O'S; WOLF TO LA?

RHP Danys Baez, one of the relievers who had drawn interest from the Phillies, has agreed to a three-year, $19 million contract with the Orioles, pending a physical Monday.

Also, reports indicate LHP Randy Wolf may be close to agreeing on a contract with the Dodgers, bringing to a close his eight-year career with the Phillies. The deal isn't official yet but could be formally announced later today.

Nov. 26 -- ESTRADA TO BREWERS

Disgruntled catcher Johnny Estrada has been traded to the Brewers in a six-player deal that sends talented left-hander Doug Davis to the Diamondbacks. Estrada, a former Phillies prospect, said late in the season that he wouldn't mind returning to Philadelphia, but the Phillies weren't about to part with a pitcher like Davis.

Here are details on the trade courtesy of Tom Haudricourt in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

Nov. 24 -- LEE GOES TO HOUSTON

Carlos Lee has agreed to terms of a six-year, $100 million contract with the Astros. More details can be found here in the Houston Chronicle.

So, now the Phillies will need to fill their need for a right-handed power hitter by making a trade. Or else, sticking with Pat Burrell and crossing their fingers.

Your thoughts?

Nov. 22 -- COURTING CARLOS

Indications are that Carlos Lee is being pursued by three teams -- the Phillies, Orioles and Astros -- and may make a decision by this weekend.

None of my phone calls to the slugging left fielder's Los Angeles-based agent, Adam Katz, have been returned over the past two days. But it's believed the Astros met with Katz on Wednesday and presented a deal in the five-year, $73 million range. The Phillies likely will do better than that after watching their top choice, Alfonso Soriano, sign with the Cubs. Lee's price may climb closer to $100 million.

During their pursuit of Soriano, the Phillies seemed to dismiss Lee. They feared his size (6-foot-2, 235 pounds) and below-average defensive ability make him better suited to be a DH in the American League. But earlier this week, Pat Gillick remarked that Lee is a better athlete than he gets credit for and cited Lee's 19 stolen bases last season as evidence.

Lee, 30, also doesn't strike out much, just 65 times in 624 at-bats in 2006. That's significant since the Phils ranked fourth in the majors with 1,204 strikeouts, led by Ryan Howard (181), Chase Utley (132) and Pat Burrell (131). And, with an average of 32 homers and 110 RBIs over the past four seasons, Lee would fit the Phils' need for a right-handed power threat.

But you don't have to stretch your imagination to think Lee may be the next Mo Vaughn, a hefty slugger who signs a big contract and lets himself get woefully out of shape. In two years, will Lee weigh 235 pounds or 265? That's the concern here.

Here's more statistical information on Lee, courtesy of baseball-reference.com.

So, what does everyone think? Should the Phillies sign Lee and put him in the No. 5 spot behind Ryan Howard?

Happy Thanksgiving!

Nov. 21 -- MORE FROM MR. MVP

A few notes that didn't make their way into my stories on Ryan Howard in Tuesday's paper.

* Jimmy Rollins got the biggest laugh at the Citizens Bank Park press conference -- and he wasn't even there. J-Roll, in a taped message to his former roommate, told Howard, "With all the awards and the big paychecks, can I get some rent money, man?" But Howard won't get rich yet. He made $335,000 last season and isn't eligible for salary arbitration until at least after next year.

* During the national teleconference with members of the Baseball Writers Association of America, Howard was asked what element of his MVP season -- the 58 home runs, the 149 RBIs, the .313 batting average -- he's most proud of. Howard responded, "The walks. I don't think I've ever had that many walks in one season before." In fact, Howard's 108 walks (including a majors-leading 37 intentional passes) eclipsed his previous career-high of 72 set between Class AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and the Phillies in 2005.

* As expected, the MVP came down to Howard vs. Albert Pujols. That was notable since Howard is a St. Louis-area native and Pujols plays for the Cardinals. Howard, who recently bought a house near St. Louis, was asked if the locals were rooting for him or Pujols to bring home the award, and gave an answer that made us wonder if he has a future in Missouri politics. "They're great baseball fans there, and they love the Cardinals," he said. "But I think it was a win-win situation for them."

* Turns out, Howard and Pujols work out at the same facility in St. Louis during the off-season. Howard revealed that, a few years ago, some Cardinals players invited him to train there. "I would watch Albert taking batting practice in the cage, look at his technique and try to learn from him," Howard said. "Any time I'd have a question, he'd give me an answer or some advice."

* Howard and manager Charlie Manuel formed a good comedy tandem during the press conference at Citizens Bank Park. Howard said he could've swiped some bases last season if Manuel had only given him the steal sign. Manuel retorted, "We've got Davey Lopes in here now. He can help you with that."

* Sweet music to any Phillies fans' ears: Howard insists he isn't about to become complacent while staring at his MVP trophy. Asked what he needs to work on to get even better, Howard said, "Offense, defense, speed, agility. I'm always working on everything, to get as close to perfect as possible. I'll be working on that forever."

* Quote of the day: "He'll take all the credit, but I was the one who got him rolling in Pittsburgh." -- Phillies bullpen coach Ramon Henderson, who pitched to Howard during the All-Star Home Run Derby.

Nov. 20 -- HOWARD IS MVP

Ryan Howard has been named MVP by the Baseball Writers Association of America. He received 20 of the 32 first-place votes and received a second-place vote on the other 12 ballots. Albert Pujols of the Cardinals finished second.

Here's complete breakdown of the voting. Check www.delawareonline.com right now for a story about Howard, and Tuesday's News Journal for more complete coverage.

Nov. 19 -- WHO'S THE MANNY?

Now that Aramis Ramirez (re-signed by the Cubs), Gary Sheffield (traded to the Tigers) and Alfonso Soriano (signed by the Cubs, pending a physical) are off the market, it's going to become harder for the Phillies to find a middle-of-the-order, right-handed power threat.

The best free-agent option is Carlos Lee, but it doesn't appear the Phillies are interested. They could keep the status quo and hope Pat Burrell recaptures his 2005 form when he batted .281 (.313 with runners in scoring position) with 32 home runs and 117 RBIs and finished 7th in the MVP voting. Re-signing David Dellucci may also be a more attractive option now.

Of course, the Phillies also could made a trade. I was in Boston last week, and according to some people I spoke to, Manny Ramirez may be on the block once again. At this point, six seasons into his eight-year contract, Manny is relatively affordable, too. He's owed $38 million over the next two seasons, and his team holds an option for 2009 and 2010.

Last week, upon being asked if trading for Ramirez was a possibility, Phils GM Pat Gillick said, "I don't know if he's a headache we want to deal with." Reminded that Manny is comfortable with manager Charlie Manuel, who was Ramirez's hitting coach with the Indians, Gillick replied, "I don't want to put that kind of pressure on Charlie, because if it didn't work out, the public would think Charlie assured us he could handle the guy."

But that was when Soriano was still on the market. And, if Manny hits 40 home runs and drives in 130, something tells me the Phillies would tolerate his zany behavior.

Nov. 19 -- SORIANO TO CUBS

OK, so I was wrong. Alfonso Soriano didn't waste any time making up his mind (or at least having it made up for him by his agents). Pending a physical, Soriano will sign with the Cubs for, get this, EIGHT years and $136 million.

Eight years!

The Cubs have considered playing Soriano in center field instead of re-signing Juan Pierre. When Soriano was with the Yankees, there was always talk that he'd one day replace Bernie Williams as the center fielder in the Bronx.

Nov. 18 -- HELMS SIGNS ... WHAT'S NEXT?

Presumably, Pat Gillick is already trying to answer that question.

Gillick (left) didn't attend Friday night's press conference for Wes Helms, so either he was getting an early start on his Thanskgiving holiday or talking to agents.

Knowing Gillick, bet the latter.

With Helms agreeing to a two-year, $5.45 million contract with a team option for 2009, the third-base position is filled. Helms and Abraham Nunez will split time there, with Helms adding some offense and Nunez bringing a silky-smooth glove.

But the following needs remain on the Phillies' shopping list ...

a) A right-handed power bat to protect Ryan Howard in the middle of the lineup.

b) Another starting pitcher.

c) At least two more relievers.

And, indications are the Phillies will address the catching position, where manager Charlie Manuel favors using incumbents Chris Coste and Carlos Ruiz. Manuel is in the minority, though. Many others in the organization believe the Phillies need to upgrade.

One final note on Alfonso Soriano: Don't expect him to make a decision quickly. By now, he likely has received offers from the Phillies, Angels and Astros. The Cubs and Dodgers are also interested, and they'll weigh in with their offers next week. Once that happens, Soriano will begin eliminating teams from the competition.

I can't tell you the Phillies are the favorite, but know this: If Soriano really wants to stay on the East Coast, and if he doesn't mind staying in the National League and playing the outfield, the Phillies have as good a shot as any of those other teams.

At the same time, Gillick won't break the bank for any one player, not even Soriano, whom he's been enamored of for several years. So if the price gets too high, the Phillies will gracefully bow out.

Nov. 16 -- WE'VE GOT RUMORS

A few Phillies-related hot-stove rumors while we wait for the Wes Helms deal to become official (more on that below -- and later in this post) ...

* GM Pat Gillick will meet with Alfonso Soriano's agent Thursday in Naples, Fla., before returning home from the GM meetings. With Gary Sheffield and Aramis Ramirez off the market, the price for Soriano (left) will be sky high. Gillick has been interested in Soriano for a long time, so don't be surprised if the Phillies' first offer is a good one (five years, $80 million, perhaps?). But if the Phillies' first offer is their last, they won't get Soriano. There's going to be stiff competition from the Angels, Cubs, Mets and Dodgers to land the biggest prize of this year's free-agent class, and the wooing will probably continue well into December.

* Think the free-agent pitching market is thin? Rangers RHP Adam Eaton reportedly has drawn interest from 18 teams. 18! That's Adam Eaton, who went 7-4 with a 5.12 ERA in only 13 starts last season and is 54-45 with a 4.40 ERA in his career.

* Because of the inflationary nature of the market, the Phillies will need to spend more money than they thought to re-sign LHP Randy Wolf. It may take $20 million over three or four years to get a deal done. If that's too rich for the Phillies, don't be surprised if they turn their attention to Eaton, Miguel Batista or Jeff Suppan.

* OF David Dellucci said his agent has been contacted by 11 teams, including the Texas Rangers, who traded him to the Phillies two days before the season-opener. Dellucci is looking for two things, playing time and a multi-year contract, neither of which the Phillies are likely to offer. The guess here is that he'll wind up back in Texas, a team he never wanted to leave in the first place. If that doesn't work out, look for Dellucci to sign with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays and move to first base.

* Just because manager Charlie Manuel thinks the Phillies are set at the catching position doesn't mean Gillick does. So don't pencil in Chris Coste and Carlos Ruiz on your mock 2007 roster just yet. There's a good chance to Phillies will look to upgrade at catcher, and a trade for Johnny Estrada still may be a possibility.

* The signing of Helms could become official today. Once a top prospect with the Atlanta Braves, Helms was effective in a part-time role last season. Marlins manager Joe Girardi started him at first base over rookie Mike Jacobs against left-handed pitchers. Helms is looking for more playing time, which he should get from the Phillies. He'll likely platoon with Abraham Nunez, with Nunez starting occasionally and entering for defensive purposes in the late innings.

Nov. 15 -- HELMS ON HIS WAY?

He's not Alfonso Soriano, but it seems the Phils are close to signing IF Wes Helms.

Here's a preview of the story I'm filing for Thursday's paper. As usual, I'm curious to get your thoughts. Is this a good move or not?

By SCOTT LAUBER
The News Journal
Before he left this week for the annual GM meetings, Pat Gillick said the Phillies need "more depth" at third base.
Gillick may be about to add just that.
Multiple reports Wednesday night indicated the Phillies were on the verge of signing infielder Wes Helms to a two-year, $5.5 million contract. The Phillies and Helms' agent were discussing an option for a third year that could hike the contract to about $8 million.
Phillies officials wouldn't confirm that a deal had been reached, but indications are it may be finalized by today.
The Phillies opted not to bid on Japanese third baseman Akinori Iwamura. They were interested in signing Mark DeRosa, but the former University of Pennsylvania quarterback instead signed a three-year, $13 million deal with the Chicago Cubs this week.
Aramis Ramirez, the best third baseman on the free-agent market, re-signed with the Cubs for five years and $75 million. The Phillies aren't interested in San Francisco Giants free-agent third baseman Pedro Feliz.
Helms, 30, batted .329 with 10 home runs and 47 RBIs in only 240 at-bats last season for the Florida Marlins. He played first base in 88 of 140 games, mostly in place of rookie Mike Jacobs against left-handed pitchers, but has previous experience as a third baseman for the Atlanta Braves and Milwaukee Brewers.
The Phillies would split third base between Helms and defensive standout Abraham Nunez, who batted just .211 last season.
Nunez, who manager Charlie Manuel said "made a believer out of me" with his defense, batted .259 after becoming an everyday player once David Bell was traded July 28. Nunez has one year remaining on a two-year, $3.35 million contract.
Helms, a .268 hitter since breaking into the majors with Atlanta in 1998, batted .371 with four doubles, one home run and four RBIs in 35 at-bats against the Phillies last season. He notched a career-high 23 home runs and 67 RBIs with Milwaukee in 2003.

Nov. 13 -- SORIANO PRICE RISING?

The news that Aramis Ramirez has re-signed with the Cubs (for five years and $73 million) likely means that the Phillies' price tag for Alfonso Soriano is rising. With Ramirez and Gary Sheffield (traded to the Tigers last week) off the market, Soriano is the biggest and best right-handed power hitter still available.

So, how much should the Phillies offer, keeping in mind that their starting offer may be in the neighborhood of five years, $80 million?

Nov. 13 -- GO ... IRONPIGS?

The Phillies' new Class AAA affiliate will be known as the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (yes, one word with a capital 'P'). You can't make this stuff up.

OK, fans: Fire away.

Nov. 10 -- SILVER SLUGGERS

Ryan Howard and Chase Utley have Silver Slugger Awards today. Here's the press release from the Phillies.

Friday, November 10, 200
HOWARD, UTLEY WIN SILVER SLUGGER AWARDS
First baseman Ryan Howard and second baseman Chase Utley were voted as the 2006 Louisville Slugger Silver Sluggers at their respective positions. They became the eighth and ninth Phillies in team history to win the award and it marked the first time since 1981 that the Phillies had multiple winners.

Howard, 26, is the second first baseman in Phillies history to win the award, joining Pete Rose, who won the award in 1981. Utley, 27, is the third second baseman in team history and first since Juan Samuel in 1987. Manny Trillo was the other (1980-81).

Utley, who hit .309 with 32 home runs and 102 RBI, led all National League second basemen in hits (198), home runs (31), RBI (100), doubles (39), extra-base hits (74), total bases (338) and runs scored (128). (Note: statistics reflect when player appeared that position).

For the first time since 1991, the Phillies had a team triple crown winner as Howard led the club with a .313 batting average, 58 home runs and 149 RBI, leading all major league players in the last two categories.

The Silver Slugger is the seventh award bestowed upon Howard this off-season. The others:

Japan All-Star Series MVP
Hank Aaron Award
The Sporting News Player of the Year
Players Choice Player of the Year, as voted by major league players
Players Choice National League Outstanding Player, as voted by major league players
Mike Schmidt Team MVP, presented by the Philadelphia chapter of the BBWAA

Other Phillies to win Silver Slugger awards were Bobby Abreu (2004), Lenny Dykstra (1993), Darren Daulton (1992) and Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt (1980-84, 1986).

Nov. 8 -- HOWARD IS MVP ... IN JAPAN

After hitting four homers and collecting eight RBIs in the MLB All-Stars' five-game sweep in Japan, Ryan Howard was named MVP of the series.

No surprise there.

But Howard, who hit 58 homers for the Phillies this past season, may also be named National League MVP. That award, expected to be a two-man race between Howard and Cardinals 1B Albert Pujols, will be announced Nov. 20.

"Had to go there, didn't you?" Howard joked with reporters in Japan who asked if another MVP award was in his future.

But seriously ...

Regardless of whether he's deemed the best player in the NL in 2006, he was the best player on the MLB team that traveled to the Far East. Howard batted .558 with eight runs, three doubles, four home runs and eight RBIs, including a 2-for-4 performance in a Game 5 won by Mets SS Jose Reyes' walk-off homer.

"Baseball transcends just where we are, it's global," Howard told MLB.com. "For people to cheering for Jose and anybody and everybody on the team is a good feeling."

Nov. 7 -- SAYONARA ...

... and we don't mean what Japanese broadcasters are saying after every Ryan Howard home run.

A few non-Alfonso Soriano-related notes to pass along from a day at Citizens Bank Park ...

* GM Pat Gillick said the Phillies didn't bid on Japanese 3B Akinori Iwamura and won't bid on P Daisuke Matsuzaka either.

* Don't expect the Phillies to go after any high-priced third basemen. Instead, it's looking more like Penn alum Mark DeRosa is a possibility to share time at third with Abraham Nunez (left). Charlie Manuel said Nunez "made a believer out of me" with his defense last season and is an advocate of giving Nunez plenty of playing time despite his lack of offensive production.

* The Phillies aren't going after a catcher, either. Manuel said he's content with Carlos Ruiz and Chris Coste splitting time behind the plate.

* Gillick said he's "hopeful, not optimistic" that LHP Randy Wolf will re-sign with the Phillies. Regardless, Wolf is going to test the open market as a free agent. "This is the first opportunity he's had for free agency," Gillick said. "He probably wants to kick the tires and see what's out there. It's only natural for a player to want to see if the grass is greener on the other side of the fence." It's expected that Wolf will attract considerable interest in a thin free-agent market for pitching.

* OF David Dellucci probably will be playing elsewhere in 2007. "We'd like to have him back," Gillick said, "but I think David is looking for some more playing time than we can give him."

* Oh, and Ryan Howard homered again Tuesday morning for the MLB All-Stars in Japan. In case you've lost track, that's four homers in four games, not including one he hit in an exhibition last week. Manuel, a fan favorite during his playing days in Japan, is guessing Howard has surpassed his popularity in the Far East. "When he hit that one the other day over the double-decker screen they've got out there, that's when he might've wiped me out," Manuel joked.

Nov. 7 -- WORK OF ART

It's official: Three weeks after being named the Phillies' new third-base coach, Art Howe already is the Phillies' former third-base coach.

Here's how it unfolded:

On Oct. 16, when Howe agreed to a one-year contract with the Phillies, he didn't expect his good friend, Ron Washington, to be named manager of the Texas Rangers. But that's exactly what happened Monday. Washington, at his introductory news conference, said he planned to name Howe as his bench coach, and the Phillies agreed to give the Rangers a 24-hour window to speak with Howe.

After that, all that was left for Howe to join the Rangers was signing a contract. And, according to the team's web site, that happened earlier tonight.

And so, the Phillies are left to find another third-base coach. Pat Gillick said today they have identified some candidates, so I'd expect this to be taken care of within the next few days.

My guess? The Phillies will promote Triple-A manager John Russell, who guided an overachieving Scranton/Wilkes-Barre team to the playoffs last season.

Nov. 5 -- HOWARD HOMERS AGAIN

That's four homers in four games for Ryan Howard, if you count the one he hit in the exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants. Howard also doubled and singled in the MLB All-Stars' 11-4 rout of Japan on Sunday morning, making him 7-for-10 in the series.

"[The World Baseball Classic] definitely opened up a lot of people's eyes," Howard told reporters, referring to Japan's victory in that tournament in March. "I think maybe the Dominican or the US team was probably one of the favorites to win the whole thing. They opened a lot of eyes. We know they were going to be riding high on that. We wanted to come out here and put on a good show. We wanted to win and take it back home, so to speak."

Phillies second baseman Chase Utley started and went 1-for-3 with two runs.

Nov. 4 -- TWO HOMERS FOR HOWARD

It's Japanese custom that, when a player hits a home run, children present him with flowers after he crosses the plate and before he arrives at the dugout.

Ryan Howard could practically plant a garden Saturday.

After a day of sightseeing in Tokyo with his mother and sister, Howard got back to business, belting back-to-back home runs in the MLB All-Stars' 8-6 victory over their Japanese counterparts.

“When I hit my first home run I got a little flower, so I thought I might get a bouquet if I hit another one,” Howard joked with reporters.

According to reports, the second homer traveled an estimated 450 feet and had the Tokyo Dome buzzing. Also, fans booed when Howard was issued a four-pitch walk in his third at-bat.

I guess they don't see power like Howard's very often in the Far East.

Here are some other quotes and pictures, courtesy of the Associated Press and MLB.com.

"This whole trip for me has been fun," said Howard. "The whole team is just having a great time. It's been easy to just come out and relax and play. To go out and do what we did and have the game we did today was a lot of fun.

"When I first got here and was doing interviews, the first question was 'How many home runs are you going to hit?' The fans here, they do have high expectations. I also play in Philadelphia, so I'm used to it. For me, it does feel good. Any time you can hit a home run and help your team get runs, it definitely feels good. The fans are excited, and they're satisfied as well so it's good all around."

"We got a chance to see one of the great young talents in the game," MLB manager Bruce Bochy said. "A guy like Ryan Howard doesn't come along very often, and fans are getting a chance to see a very talented young player that's going to have a tremendous career."

Nov. 3 -- PHILLIES FREE AGENTS

Quick update: Through Friday morning, seven Phillies have filed for free agency -- LHP Randy Wolf, C Mike Lieberthal, LHP Aaron Fultz, RHP Rick White, LHP Arthur Rhodes, IF Jose Hernandez and OF David Dellucci. That leaves only 1B Randall Simon to still file.

Also, stay tuned later today for the announcement of the NL Gold Glove winners.

Nov. 3 -- MLB 3, JAPAN 2

No homers for Ryan Howard in the opener of the five-game series against Japan. Just a "routine" 2-for-3 (double, single) with a run and a walk. Chase Utley went 1-for-3 with an RBI groundout in the second inning that scored Howard.

By the way, MLB's starting infield is Howard, Utley, Jose Reyes and David Wright. Not bad, right?

Nov. 2 -- HOWARD HOMERS ... IN JAPAN

Upon arriving in Tokyo, Ryan Howard picked up exactly where he left off in Philadelphia.

Howard crushed a home run to right-center field in the sixth inning to help bring the MLB All-Stars back from a four-run deficit in a 7-7 tie in an exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants. The MLB All-Stars open a five-game series against a team of Japanese All-Stars on Friday at 4 a.m. Eastern Time.

David Wright of the New York Mets belted a two-out, two-run homer in the ninth inning to account for the stalemate before an announced crowd of 31,329. But it was Howard who impressed the hosts.

"Amazing power he's got," Yomiuri catcher Shinnosuke Abe told MLB.com. "No wonder he hit 58 homers."

Interestingly, neither right-hander Daisuke Matsuzaka nor third baseman Akinori Iwamura will be playing for the Japanese All-Stars. Both are going to be sought-after free agents by MLB teams this winter. According to the web site JapanBall.com, Matsuzaka went 17-5 with a 2.13 ERA in 25 starts for the Seibu Lions of the Pacific League, while Iwamura batted .311 with 32 home runs, 77 RBIs and a .389 on-base percentage for Yakult of the Central League.

Mark your calendar

Howard and Albert Pujols are the frontrunners for the NL MVP award, which will be announced Nov. 20.

Nov. 1 -- FILLING THE 'PEN

OK, today we begin our weekly examination of a position the Phillies must strengthen before next season. This week, our spotlight shines on the bullpen. As always, your thoughts/opinions are encouraged.

For most of the season, the Phillies' bullpen ERA was among the best in the majors, but that statistic proved to be a mirage. After the All-Star break, 38-year-old closer Tom Gordon's shoulder broke down, causing him to miss most of August. Left-hander Arthur Rhodes, ineffective as the setup man, had less success as a closer. The Phillies erred by yo-yoing Ryan Madson between the rotation and the bullpen, and he wasn't consistent in either role. Rick White didn't pitch poorly after being claimed off waivers in June, but he never quite earned manager Charlie Manuel's faith in big spots. And, by season's end, rookie Matt Smith , who was acquired from the Yankees in the Bobby Abreu trade had supplanted struggling Aaron Fultz as the primary lefty reliever.

There were some surprises, too. Geoff Geary had a breakout season, emerging as a trustworthy late-inning reliever. And 20-year-old lefty Fabio Castro, the yield in a minor trade in June with the Texas Rangers, pitched well in limited duty. Castro, a Rule 5 draft pick, had to remain on the roster or risk being returned to his former team. He likely will start 2007 where he should've spent 2006 -- in the minors.

So, where does that leave the Phillies?

Coming back: Gordon ($7 million), Geary, Madson (arbitration eligible), Smith
See ya later: Rhodes (free agent)
Other free agents: Fultz, White
Needs: Primarily, the Phillies need a setup man to lock down the eighth inning and, now and then, spell Gordon in the ninth. If Gordon's workload is reduced early in the season, he'll be fresher down the stretch. Between Geary and Madson, the sixth and seventh innings should be covered. Madson, if he's used exclusively as a reliever, should return to his 2004-05 form. Also, if Fultz isn't re-signed, the Phils need a veteran left-hander to complement Smith.
Top potential additions: RHP Joe Borowski (age 35, made $1.05 million as the Marlins closer in '06); RHP Miguel Batista (age 35, made $4.75 million in '06, can be a starter or reliever and once closed games for Toronto); RHP Danys Baez (age 29, made $4 million in '06, has until Nov. 13 to file for free agency or honor the Dodgers' option for '07).
Stay away from: RHP Guillermo Mota. He might've been lights-out for the Mets after being acquired in August, but he just received a 50-game suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs.