We interrupt your comments about Adam Eaton and J.D. Drew (please keep 'em coming, by the way) to update you on Kris Benson's long-awaited, much-anticipated first minor-league start last night for Class A Clearwater.Benson, attempting to return from shoulder surgery in March 2007, allowed five runs on three hits and two walks in two innings (52 pitches) against the Blue Jays' Class A club. More important, though, will be how he feels today. Benson has had three setbacks since signing a minor-league contract with the Phillies in February, and if he's going to contribute at all to their rotation this season, he needs to put together consecutive starts and prove that his arm is finally healthy.
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Also, the Phillies have signed Zach Collier, their compensatory-round pick in the June 5 first-year player draft. Collier, a 17-year-old outfielder from Chino Hills (Calif.) High and the 34th overall pick, will report to the Phillies' rookie-level Gulf Coast League affiliate in Clearwater next week. As a high school senior, he batted .450 with seven home runs and 27 RBIs in 80 at-bats. He's a left-handed hitter, and after selecting him between the first and second rounds, Phillies scouting director Marti Wolever compared him to veteran Angels outfielder Garrett Anderson.So, there's that. Now, back to your regularly scheduled discussion about Eaton.
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