Jan. 28 -- HOWARD: LONG-TERM DEAL "WOULD BE BEAUTIFUL"

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, I was talking with a friend the other day when we both wondered if there has ever been a Super Bowl with less pregame hype than this one. Not much buzz for Cardinals-Steelers, is there? Nevertheless, it is still Super Bowl week, and as you may expect, everyone who's anyone has begun descending on Tampa in advance of The Big Game.

That is where you might find Ryan Howard.

For three weeks, Howard has been training at the Phillies' facility in Clearwater. So, it was easy for him to make the short drive over the Courtney Campbell Causeway to fulfill his responsibilities as a pitchman for Subway (he's a big fan, apparently, of the $5 footlong subs). Anyway, The Big Man gave a brief interview to Comcast SportsNet today during which he said he doesn't know if his arbitration case will go to a hearing but that he would welcome a long-term deal with the Phillies.

"It would be beautiful," Howard said. "That would be something we would want to see happen."

But, as we've been writing in this space and in The News Journal, a long-term deal won't happen as long as Howard continues to seek the Alex Rodriguez-type contract that he's believed to be seeking. It's likely the Phillies would be willing to do a three-year deal in the $60 million neighborhood, a compromise that would give Howard some guaranteed financial security and the Phillies a measure of salary control during his remaining arbitration years. But it's hard to see Howard accepting a deal like that, especially when there's a solid chance he may make more than $60 million if he continues to go through the arbitration process.

Howard also told Comcast SportsNet that he doesn't believe the distractions from last year's arbitration hearing contributed to his poor April. I raised that same idea in a conversation with Ruben Amaro Jr. last week, and without being able to climb into his first baseman's psyche, he pointed to Howard's .313 average, five homers and 12 RBIs in 25 spring-training games as evidence that the hearing didn't have a negative effect. That said, it remains a reasonable hypothesis, considering Howard batted .168 in April. Howard wouldn't be the first player to put additional pressure on himself after getting a big raise, and nobody got a bigger raise in 2008 than Howard, who went from making $900,000 to $10 million.

Two points that have come up through my own reporting over the past few days:

-If the case does go to a hearing, the Phillies can invoke the economic climate, but only as it relates to baseball. For instance, the nation's growing unemployment rate isn't likely to influence a panel of arbitrators. But the fact that more than 100 free agents are still unsigned on Jan. 28, and that only the Yankees have spent big money this winter, may give the panel something to think about.

-Albert Pujols -- and his $16 million salary in 2009 -- can be used as a measure of comparison to determine Howard's worth. However, Pujols salary was determined when he signed a multiyear contract (seven years, $100 million) in 2004, and that deal was backloaded (he made $11 million in 2005, $14 million in 2006, $15 million in 2007, etc.). So, for comparitive purposes, a panel may consider Pujols and Howard as similar as apples and oranges.

Jan. 26 -- HOWARD VS. PHILLIES, TAKE 2

BY SCOTT LAUBER

No football games to watch yesterday. So, with 19 days until Phillies pitchers and catchers begin working out in the Clearwater sun, I started to think more about Ryan Howard's latest arbitration case.

Now, Ruben Amaro Jr. said a few days ago that he remains optimistic that the Phillies can reach an accord with Howard before the case goes to a hearing. But Amaro was optimistic last year, too, and the sides weren't able to agree. Howard is asking for $18 million. The Phillies are offering $14 million. And based on Howard's previous long-term contract demands, it's unlikely the Phillies will be able to sign him to a multiyear deal, making a February date at the arbitration table in Phoenix seem rather inevitable.

So, if the Phillies and Howard have another hearing, who wins?

"It could go either way," said Maury Brown, a sports business analyst and founder of the Business of Sports Network.

Brown specializes in these things. In fact, he tracks arbitration cases on his Web site. We spoke for nearly 45 minutes yesterday, mostly with me picking his brain, and when we were through, the only thing that was certain was that nothing regarding Howard's case is certain.

On one hand, thanks to an epic September, Howard finished with more home runs (48 to 47), RBIs (146 to 136), runs (105 to 94) and hits (105 to 94) in 2008 than he had in 2007. Of course, he also had more at-bats (610 to 529) in '08 because he missed two weeks in May '07 with a strained quad. And Howard experienced a decline in three important areas -- batting average (.251 from .268), on-base/slugging percentage (.882 from .976) and walks (81 from 107). But, generally speaking, he had a better season in '08. Was it better enough, though, to merit an $8 million raise? Or should Howard receive a $4 million raise?

And, perhaps, Howard's production isn't even the issue. We know that Howard has more homers and RBIs than any player in the past three years. We know that he has reached 150 career homers in fewer at-bats than any player. Howard won his $10 million award last year because his agent, Casey Close, swayed the three-person panel of arbitrators by invoking a "special accomplishment" provision. Close will no doubt build another case around Howard's historic numbers.

But, this time, the Phillies are hoping Team Howard has overreached with its salary request. Consider that Albert Pujols, the reigning NL MVP and two months younger than Howard, will make $16 million this year. If the Phillies can prove that Howard is worth any less than $16 million, they'll win the case. If Close can prove that Howard is worth any more than $16 million, Howard will win.

"It's not a matter of performance. It's a matter of money," Brown said. "Is he worth more than the midpoint [$16 million]? That's going to be a difficult case to make on some levels in relation to Pujols. But it's not a slam dunk on either side."

So, who is Brown picking?

"I'm leaning very slightly toward Howard, but in this sense, I think it could go either way," he said. "It's awfully close. I'd die to be a fly on the wall for this one."

Wouldn't we all.

Jan. 24 -- AMARO: EATON WON'T BE NO. 5

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Adam Eaton watched the playoffs, even the World Series, from his couch. He wasn't invited to the Phillies' championship parade. And, now, he isn't even a candidate for the up-for-grabs No. 5 spot in the starting rotation.

"It's a four-man competition, and he's not involved in that," Ruben Amaro Jr. said a few minutes ago at Citizens Bank Park. "Is it possible that Eaton pitches well enough to put himself in the mix? You never know what's going to happen. Right now, we just think those other four guys [Chan Ho Park, J.A. Happ, Kyle Kendrick and Carlos Carrasco] give us a better opportunity to win."

But what about the $8.5 million that Eaton will make in 2009?

Eaton is expected to report to spring training next month, but the Phillies undoubtedly will try to trade him (they've been shopping him all winter). Even then, though, they'll likely have to assume most of his salary. During the winter meetings, one source said the Phillies' asking price for Eaton was merely $1 million of salary relief. If they're unable to find a taker, they'll most likely release Eaton, which will make them responsible for his entire salary less the nearly $400,000 major-league minimum.

***
Other notes from this morning's media availability:

--Chase Utley says it's "very realistic" that he'll be ready for opening day. Utley, who underwent right hip surgery in late November, has been doing a five-day rehab program that includes running on an underwater treadmill. He expects to begin running and swinging a bat in 2-3 weeks in Clearwater. "It's about listening to my body," Utley said. "Right now, we are listening, and it's responding well." Amaro, however, says the Phillies won't rush Utley. If he has to start the season on the disabled list, it's a small sacrifice for keeping him healthy for the bulk of the season.

--Ty Wigginton is the latest free agent to draw interest from the Phillies as a right-handed hitter for the bench. I covered Wigginton in the minor leagues when he was a Mets prospect, and he'd be a decent fit here. He has pop and can play second base, third base, first base and left field. Last season, he had 23 homers and 58 RBIs in 386 at-bats for the Astros. Of course, the Phillies don't necessarily have to spend money on Wigginton, Nomar Garciaparra or Moises Alou. They could just use Chris Coste as a right-handed pinch-hitter and keep Ronny Paulino has the primary backup catcher.

--During the World Series, embattled reliever J.C. Romero confided in Brad Lidge about the arbitration hearings to determine if he'd be suspended for testing positive for a substance banned by Major League Baseball. That's significant because Amaro said most Phillies front-office personnel wasn't aware of the hearing, which is confidential. "I was thinking this is remarkable that he's able to perform at his highest level despite all the crap that was happening to him," Lidge said. Lidge's opinion on Romero's 50-game suspension: "I don't think he should've been suspended at all," he said. "He really wanted to make sure he was doing nothing wrong."

More on this, and other Phillies-related stuff, in Sunday's News Journal.

Jan. 22 -- JAYSON'S WORTH?

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, Jayson Werth passed his physical today, and a few hours ago, he met with some reporters at the Bank. You already know that it's a two-year, $10 million deal ($2 million in 2009, $7 million in 2010, $1 million signing bonus) that covers his final year of arbitration and his first year of free agency.

But seeing Werth today gave me the chance to ask if the economy played a role in his willingness to do a multiyear deal. Spring training is only about 20 days away, and still, Manny Ramirez, Bobby Abreu and Adam Dunn are looking for work. Werth doesn't have to look far to see that Pat Burrell, another outfielder with an accomplished resume, got only a two-year, $16 million contract from the Rays. So, you could understand why Werth, who has never gotten more than 418 at-bats in a season because of injuries, would want the security of $7 million in 2010, which would've been his first year of free agency.

"It's definitely a different year this year," Werth said. "It's a little scary because of the market and the state of the economy. Those guys have a lot of numbers. They're high-talent guys. I don't think it made a lot of sense for either side to sign longer than two years, but to me, it seemed like kind of an obvious settlement."

More from Werth, and GM Ruben Amaro Jr., here and in tomorrow's News Journal.

Jan. 21 -- ARBITRATION ANALYSIS

BY SCOTT LAUBER

On Dec. 4, Ruben Amaro Jr. and Scott Proefrock sat side-by-side in a Center City restaurant and talked about the Phillies' daunting list of 10 arbitration-eligible players.

"I can't remember ever having any more than [10 eligible players], that's for sure," Proefrock said with a smile.

Less than two months later, the Phils have reached settlements with all but Ryan Howard. They struck multiyear deals with Greg Dobbs, Cole Hamels, Ryan Madson and Jayson Werth and reached one-year accords with Eric Bruntlett, Clay Condrey, Shane Victorino, Joe Blanton and Chad Durbin. After those deals, their 2009 payroll stands at approximately $109 million (not including a $3 million payout to Jim Thome), a club record. And once Howard signs, they'll have at least $123 million, and possibly $127 million, committed to their players. That puts the Phillies in the company of the Boston Red Sox ($133 million payroll last season) and even the New York Mets, whose opening-day payroll in 2008 was $137.8 million.

Let's analyze each arbitration deal, in order of when they were completed.

Condrey (one year, $650,000 on Dec. 13): It was pretty simple, really. Condrey, 33, posted a 3.26 ERA in a career-high 56 appearances last season, so the Phillies rewarded him with a nice raise from his 2008 salary of $420,000.

Bruntlett (one year, $800,000 on Dec. 13): This one wasn't difficult either. Bruntlett, 30, batted only .217 last season, but years from now, when we talk about the 2008 World Series, we'll remember that he scored the winning run in Games 3 and 5. He filled in admirably for shortstop Jimmy Rollins in April and was a solid late-inning defensive replacement for left fielder Pat Burrell. Thus, he got a $200,000 raise.

Dobbs (two years, $2.5 million on Jan. 16): In his first arbitration go-around, the majors' top pinch-hitter got a two-year deal. That's notable because, with Pedro Feliz's contract expiring after the 2009 season, Dobbs, 30, could be a relatively inexpensive third-base solution in 2010.

Hamels (three years, $20.5 million on Jan. 17): A win-win for both sides. The Phils get cost control on their ace. Hamels, 25, gets financial security without compromising his final arbitration year or giving up free agency. He'll make $4.35 million in 2009, $6.65 million in 2010 and $9.5 million in 2011, modest enough numbers that it may allow the Phillies to retain more of their core players and make a run at another World Series before tough-to-sign Howard becomes a free agent after 2011. And if Hamels continues to be among the NL's top pitchers, the Phillies can always rip up this contract in 2011 and re-negotiate a longer-term deal.

Madson (three years, $12 million on Jan. 19): One year from free agency, agent Scott Boras advised Madson that a solid 2009 season could spark interest next winter from teams that may be looking for a closer. That would've brought a bigger payday, but Madson, 28, wanted the financial security of a multiyear deal, especially after a shoulder strain in 2007 made him realize how capricious a major-league career can be.

Victorino (one year, $3.125 million on Jan. 20): Victorino, 28, led Phillies regulars with a .293 average in the regular season, and his grand slam against CC Sabathia and two-run shot in NLCS Game 4 against the Dodgers were two of the biggest homers in the club's postseason history. But Victorino was arbitration-eligible for the first time, so he didn't have much leverage to negotiate a multiyear deal. The Phillies didn't have great urgency to get it done either, but they did reward him with a handsome raise from his $480,000 salary in 2008.

Blanton (one year, $5.475 million on Jan. 20): Here's what we know: Blanton, 28, is a durable, 200-inning workhorse. But after trading for him midway through last season, the Phillies don't know enough yet about Blanton to commit to a multiyear deal. They have time to find out. Blanton can't become a free agent until after the 2010 season.

Werth (two years, $10 million on Jan. 21): When the Phils decided not to retain Burrell, Werth, 29, became the top right-handed power threat in a decidedly lefty lineup. He established career-highs with 24 homers, 67 RBIs and 20 stolen bases in 418 at-bats in 2008, and given more than 500 at-bats, the Phillies believe he can be a 30-30 player. Werth was looking for $4 million in 2009. He'll make only $3 million, including a $1 million signing bonus. But, for giving up his right to become a free agent after the season, the Phils will pay him $7 million in 2010. If he'd been allowed to go out on the open market, would he have made more than that?

Durbin (one year, $1.635 million on Jan. 21): He made $900,000 last year and had his career-best season, posting a 2.87 ERA and leading NL relievers with 87-2/3 innings pitched. Durbin, 31, asked for $1.95 million in 2009; the Phillies offered $1.65 million. So, the sides met in the middle. Easy, right?

Jan. 21 -- DURBIN DEAL DONE

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Ryan Howard is the Phils' lone remaining salary arbitration-eligible player now that Chad Durbin has agreed to a one-year, $1.635 million contract. The deal represents a comprise between Durbin's salary request ($1.95 million) and the Phillies' offer ($1.35 million). He made $900,000 in 2008.

Durbin, 31, moved to the bullpen last season and had the best season of his career. He went 5-4 with a 2.87 ERA in a career-high 71 appearances and led all NL relievers with 87-2/3 innings.

"We're very pleased with how it all played out and definitely didn't want to go to arbitration," Durbin (photo at right by Getty Images) said in a statement. "Both sides are happy to be where we ended up."

Howard filed a positively ginormous, $18 million salary request yesterday. The Phillies made a $14 million offer. And while the sides will continue to negotiate, they seem to be headed for another arbitration hearing in February.

Jan. 21 -- WERTH SIGNS 2-YEAR, $10 MILLION DEAL (UPDATED)

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Ruben Amaro Jr. said last night that he hoped to reach a contract settlement with Jayson Werth within 48 hours.

Sure enough, Werth has agreed today to a multiyear deal.

Terms have not been made available, although we're hearing that it could be for two years, in the $8 million range. We'll update this post as soon as we get numbers confirmed. An announcement isn't expected until after Werth goes through the formality of taking a physical. Werth, who batted .273 with a career-high 24 homers and 67 RBIs in 418 at-bats last season, met yesterday's arbitration deadline by filing a $4 million annual salary request. The Phillies countered with a $3 million offer.

(Updated, 2:37 p.m.): According to a source with knowledge of the negotiations, Werth's deal is for two years and $10 million, pending the physical. Werth (photo at left by Getty Images) will receive $2 million in 2009, $7 million in 2010 and a $1 million signing bonus. It seems the Phillies and Werth have compromised here. Werth will make less money in '09 than he wanted, but in exchange, he'll get a sizable raise in '10, which would've been his first year of free agency.

Jan. 20 -- HOWARD'S BIG NUMBER

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Earlier tonight, I asked Ruben Amaro Jr. for his reaction to Ryan Howard's $18 million arbitration request.

"It's a very high number," Amaro said.

Ya think?

But, really, did we expect anything less?

It's a year later, and nothing has changed. Howard's camp -- led by his father -- believes The Big Man is a historic slugger who should make historic money. Want to sign Howard to a multiyear deal? Prepare to cough up A-Rod dollars. Want to go year-to-year in arbitration? OK, that'll cost you, too. Howard took his arbitration case to a hearing last February and won a record $10 million judgment. If he returns to the arbitration table, Camp Howard is confident it will win again. The Phillies, meanwhile, are clinging to the hope that Howard overreached this time. After all, Howard's batting average and OPS (on-base/slugging percentage) have declined over the past two years.

Regular readers of The Blog know how I feel about all this. Yeah, I know Howard has hit 58, 47 and 48 homers and collected 149, 136 and 146 RBIs over the past three seasons. I know that no player, not even Babe Ruth, reached 150 homers in fewer games. And I know that few have Howard's ability to alter the outcome of a game with one swing. But I also know that Howard is 29 years old and will be 32 when he's eligible for free agency after the 2012 season. And I know that he's a defensive liability at first base and has flirted with 200 strikeouts for the past two seasons. And I look at Mo Vaughn broke down after his 30th birthday and wonder if Howard, who has a similar body type, will do the same.

So, I think the Phillies ought to pay the arbitration freight, even if it's $18 million, and take another run at the World Series. If Howard's salary demands don't come down, they may have to consider trading him in 2010. Or maybe, with Cole Hamels and Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins and Brad Lidge locked up through at least 2010, they go through this whole thing with Howard again next year, too.

By then, maybe the asking price will be $20 million.

***
Amaro said the Phillies are hopeful of reaching agreements with Jayson Werth and Chad Durbin "within the next 48 hours." They aren't far apart with either. Werth is asking for $4 million; the Phillies have offered $3 million. Durbin wants $1.95 million; the Phillies have offered $1.35 million. Odds are, they'll meet in the middle.

***
Payroll watch: A few days ago, after Hamels signed his three-year deal, we told you the Phillies had committed more than $93 million to 17 players for 2009. Factor in today's trio of arbitration-avoiding signings -- Ryan Madson ($3 million in 2009), Joe Blanton ($5.475 million) and Shane Victorino ($3.125 million) -- and their payroll commitment increases to nearly $106 million. Assuming Werth gets about $3.5 million and Durbin gets about $1.6, the payroll rises above $111 million. After Howard reaches a settlement, it'll be between $126 million and $129 million, and with the not-yet-arbitration-eligible players (Carlos Ruiz, Ronny Paulino, J.A. Happ, Kyle Kendrick, etc.), it'll top $130 million, by far a franchise record.

So, don't expect the Phillies to go get Ben Sheets, as one out-of-town newspaper suggested they may consider. In fact, Amaro told me tonight that, if anything, he'd like to add another reliever and possibly a right-handed bat for the bench. Neither, though, would be "big-ticket" players. Amaro said Nomar Garciaparra remains a possibility, although the Phillies aren't sure Garciaparra wants to play in 2009.

***
Tomorrow (Wednesday) we'll analyze each of the Phils' arbitration settlements (I talked about some of them tonight with Mike Gill of ESPN 1450, and if you click this link and scroll down, you can listen). Meanwhile, I'll leave you with this: I'm kind of a politics junkie, so I've been glued to my TV, watching coverage of Barack Obama. More than a million people gathered today on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., an inaugural record. But consider this: At least that many folks jammed Broad Street for the Phillies' championship parade. Pretty amazing, isn't it?

(Thanks to Finger Food for the photo illustration.)

Jan. 20 -- VICTORINO, BLANTON SIGN; HOWARD NOT QUITE

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Doing double-duty here today, so as I sit courtside at the Daskalakis Center at Drexel (very disappointed to learn that it was NOT named after former Boston University hockey goalie Cleon Daskalakis), we've received confirmation from the Phils on two last-minute arbitration settlements. Shane Victorino has agreed to a one-year, $3.125 million deal, and Joe Blanton has agreed on a one-year, $5.475 contract.

That leaves three arbitration-eligible players -- Ryan Howard, Jayson Werth and Chad Durbin -- and Howard's salary demand, exchanged today with the Phillies, leaves us gasping for breath. Howard, who won a $10 million arbitration award last year, is asking for $18 million this year. Let's say that again: $18 million. According to the Associated Press, it's third-highest figure submitted since the process began in 1974. The Phillies, by the way, are offering a mere $14 million.

Bet on this one going to another arbitration hearing.

More on this, and notes from today's media luncheon, after Delaware-Drexel hoops.

(Updated, 11:30 p.m.): OK, Drexel beat Delaware, 79-69. So, there's that, and here are a few of Ryan Madson's thoughts from today's luncheon:

--Madson backed embattled reliever J.C. Romero's claim that the Players' Association advised that any over-the-counter supplement purchased at a U.S. retail store wouldn't result in a positive drug test. The union has disputed that claim. Madson also said he's unaware of the 800 hotline that MLB and the union have said they advise players to call with questions regarding supplements. Then again, Madson said he isn't a "supplement guy," so he may not have been listening too closely during the spring-training meeting when the hotline allegedly is discussed.

--On whether he'll be able to maintain his increased velocity (he hit 97 mph during the playoffs): "We'll see. I think the 97, 98 was a lot to do with the atmosphere, what was going on, and the fact that tomorrow you might not be playing. You could leave it all out there. In April, it's a little bit different. In October, it's literally everything you have.

--On his relationship with agent Scott Boras, who typically steers his clients toward free agency: "Scott gave me all the information and let me make my decision. He understands that $12 million is a lot of money. He just said, 'If you're comfortable with doing it, so am I, and I'll go get it for you.' He gives you every possibility. He said, 'There are teams that are going to want you after what you did last year.' He said, 'This is what we have. This is what we could have. But, ultimately, it's your choice.' He's a guy that truly believes in his players. But he always said, 'I understand that you and your family want security.'

Jan. 20 -- MADSON DEAL IS OFFICIAL

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Good morning, all. Happy Inauguration Day!

The Phillies have made it official: Ryan Madson has signed a three-year, $12 million contract. Madson, who passed a physical last night, will be available for comment in two hours at a media luncheon at the Bank. Stay tuned for more details later this afternoon.

Jan. 19 -- ROLLINS, VICTORINO, HAMELS ON U.S. ROSTER

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino and Cole Hamels have been included on the provisional, 45-man roster for the U.S. team that will compete in the World Baseball Classic in March.

Rollins committed to Team USA last month and will split time at shortstop with Derek Jeter. Victorino will have to be selected from a list of outfielders that includes Grady Sizemore, Ryan Braun, Brad Hawpe, Carlos Quentin, Vernon Wells, Ryan Ludwick and Curtis Granderson. Hamels is one of 10 starters on the provisional roster. The others are right-handers John Lackey, Roy Oswalt, Jake Peavy, Justin Verlander and Jeremy Guthrie and lefties Scott Kazmir, Ted Lilly, Joe Saunders and Jon Danks.

J.C. Romero is on Puerto Rico's roster (he will be allowed to compete in the World Baseball Classic despite his 50-game suspension). Matt Stairs is on Canada's roster, and Carlos Ruiz is on Panama's roster. Infield prospect Brad Harman is on Australia's roster.

(Updated, 11:08 p.m.): Hamels will not participate in the World Baseball Classic, as expected. Ryan Howard and Brad Lidge weren't included on the provisional rosters because they declined their invitation several weeks ago.

Jan. 19 -- PHILLIES, MADSON REACH ACCORD (UPDATED)

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Working to pin down a report that surfaced within the last 30 minutes: Team officials are mum because Ryan Madson still must take a physical, but the Phillies and Madson are on the verge of finalizing a three-year, $12 million contract extension. The deal would cover Madson's last arbitration season and two free-agent years, and it's identical to the length and value of the contract the Phils gave J.C. Romero before last season.

Over the past three years, I've come to know a few things about Madson. One, he likes Philadelphia. He resides in South Jersey year-round with his wife, Sarah, and their three children (their daughter, Ella Marie, is 3, and twin boys, Luke and Ryan, just turned 2). I've also talked to Madson a little bit about financial security. Over the past few years, he has dealt with arm injuries, which have made him realize how capricious a major-league career can be. After allowing one run in 14-1/3 innings over his last 14 appearances as the setup man in the NL's best bullpen, Madson's value has never been higher. So, although Boras has a reputation for steering his clients into free agency, it's hardly surprising that Madson would authorize him to strike now and get a multiyear deal.

More on this throughout the day.

(Updated, 3:13 p.m.): Team officials still aren't talking, but one source has confirmed for us that Madson's three-year contract extension will be announced as soon as he takes his physical. That may be as soon as this evening.

(Updated, 4:06 p.m.): According to another source, the Phillies won't have any official announcements, regarding Madson or anything else, today. But Madson will be attending a media luncheon tomorrow at Citizens Bank Park, so the deal likely will be made official at that time.

That said, we'll have full coverage in Tuesday's News Journal and at www.delawareonline.com/phillies.

Jan. 18 -- HAMELS SPEAKS

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Cheer up, Eagles fans.

Pitchers and catchers report in 26 days.

Cole Hamels seemingly can't wait. He met the media today to discuss his three-year, $20.5 million contract extension and expressed relief that he won't have to wade through the distracting, sometimes divisive, arbitration process. After watching Ryan Howard's case reach a hearing last February, Hamels said he wanted no part of that. His nickname may be Hollywood, but Hamels dreads drama.

"I knew it had to be stressful just because of the media attention [Howard] was generating," Hamels said. "I don't want that pressure. I really don't. I don't want it to take away from what we go to spring training for, and that's to get ready for the season. I just knew that's not what I want to do. I don't need the extra added stresses of that process.

"Any time you try to put the business aspect in sports, it's very confusing and complicated and stressful. Now, knowing that this is done, I can really go out and focus and help this team win. It's stress that just disappears."

A few other Hamels-related notes:

--The Phillies prefer not to dole out contracts longer than three years to starting pitchers. They're willing to make exceptions, of course, but that wasn't an issue here. The Hamels side didn't want to go longer than three years. I asked Hamels' agent, John Boggs, if it was considered, and he said Hamels wanted to retain his last arbitration year and his free agency rights.

--Hamels will be eligible for free agency after the 2012 season, but he sounds like someone who wants to stay with the Phillies beyond that. "I grew up admiring Tony Gwynn," he said. "He was with the Padres his whole career, and that was something that really shows how someone can make an impact on a city. The city also made an impact on him. Getting drafted by the Phillies in my situation, with having an unstable arm and everybody was fearing I might break it, they had the faith that I would get through it. The organization is showing they want me to stay. That really inspires me even more."

--By now, you know that Hamels sets lofty goals. He'd like to throw one no-hitter per year and win multiple Cy Young awards. But, in 2008, his biggest goal was staying healthy. Hamels hadn't been healthy for a full season since his sophomore year of high school, but last year, he made 33 starts and finished second in the NL with 227-1/3 innings, before throwing 35 more in the postseason. The next goal? Doing it again. "I look at Tom Glavine," he said. "Unfortunately, he was injured for the very first time last year. But if the next time I ever get injured I'm 40, I'll be so happy and I think everyone will be happy. The injuries I had were so frustrating. I want to be accountable for what I have to do. Being a guy that doesn't get injured, you're able to really fulfill your end of the bargain."

--Hamels would love to see Howard sign a multiyear deal. Of course, that won't happen unless Howard's contract demands come down. Way down. But Hamels knows how valuable Howard is to the Phillies. "With the home runs that he hits and the games he helps us pull through, you've got to have a guy like that," Hamels said. "You've got to have a guy with that bat in the lineup to really scare the opposing team. That's what he does. He's perfect for this field and perfect for this city. I'd love to be him. I'd love to hit a home run 500 feet."

--About that new three-bedroom, 2,700-square foot condo that Hamels and his wife, Heidi, just bought in Two Liberty Place: No view of the ballpark, but "I can see over William Penn's head and the river," he said. "I think that's kind of cool." We concur. Hamels said he's keeping his place in West Chester, too.

Oh, and for the film buffs, the Hamelses recommend "Valkyrie," starring Tom Cruise. They were at the movies Friday night when Boggs called to say that the deal was done. No, Hamels didn't answer his phone in the theater. He returned Boggs' call after the movie was over.

(Hamels photo by the Associated Press)

Jan. 18 -- ANALYSIS: THE PRICE OF COLE (UPDATED)

BY SCOTT LAUBER

In a few hours, presumably before the Eagles and Cardinals kick off in the desert, we expect to hear from Cole Hamels, who agreed yesterday to a three-year, $20.5 million contract extension. Pending the results of a physical, Hamels will hold a press conference at the Bank, and obviously, we'll bring you the details. While we wait, though, let's analyze the deal, which can be looked at in two ways, depending on your point of view:

a) A shrewd move by both Hamels and the Phils.

OR

b) A Band-Aid to cover an issue that will rise again.

To me, it was a shrewd move -- by both sides. Sure, the contract buys only three of Hamels' arbitration years. He still will be facing arbitration after the 2011 season, and he still can become a free agent after 2012. At that point, he'll be only 28, and barring injury, still one of the NL's top pitchers. Ultimately, if the Phillies want to keep Hamels long-term, they'll have to pay up, and if Hamels wins a Cy Young Award or two in the next three years, they'll have to pay big. The Phillies rarely dole out contracts longer than three years for pitchers, but with Hamels, they eventually may have to make an exception. This contract, though, gives them three years to decide. And I think everyone wants to see Hamels string together a few more 200-inning seasons before they slap the "workhorse" label over his previously "injury-prone" reputation.

Plus, the Phillies have other financial issues, like Ryan Howard and Ryan Madson and Jayson Werth. If they hadn't made this deal with Hamels, it's possible he could've earned more than $20.5 million over the next three years through arbitration. By getting cost control on Hamels, the Phillies may have more payroll flexibility in 2009, '10 and '11 to keep more of their core players and make another run at the World Series before Howard, the toughest to sign of those players, becomes a free agent.

Hamels, meanwhile, is guaranteed to make $20.5 million, regardless of injury. And, last season not withstanding, he hasn't always been the healthiest pitcher. For that security, he may sacrifice some dollars. But unlike Chase Utley, who opted for security over maximum value when he signed a seven-year, $85 million contract before the '07 season, Hamels still will be able to take advantage of his maximum earning power during his final arbitration season and his free-agent years.

Regardless, it's clear that Hamels harbors no ill will after last March, when he wasn't pleased that the Phils renewed his contract for $500,000 instead of giving him a multiyear deal. But then that was obvious in the clubhouse after Game 5 of the World Series when Hamels said he wanted to be part of a Phillies dynasty that could rival the Braves and Yankees.

But enough of what I think. What say you? Good deal for the Phils? For Hamels?

***
An '09 payroll update: The Phillies have committed more than $93 million to 17 players -- Brett Myers ($12 million), Brad Lidge ($11.5 million), Chase Utley ($11 million), Adam Eaton ($8.5 million), Raul Ibanez ($8.5 million), Jimmy Rollins ($7.5 million), Geoff Jenkins ($6.75 million), Jamie Moyer ($6.5 million), Pedro Feliz ($5 million), Cole Hamels ($4.35 million), J.C. Romero ($4 million), Chan Ho Park ($2.5 million), Scott Eyre ($2 million), Greg Dobbs ($1.15 million), Matt Stairs ($1 million), Eric Bruntlett ($800,000), Clay Condrey ($650,000).

Howard, Madson, Werth, Shane Victorino, Joe Blanton and Chad Durbin are still in line for arbitration. If they don't reach settlements by noon Tuesday, they will swap salary figures with the Phillies. Negotiations could continue until a February hearing, and as assistant GM Scott Proefrock said in our Sunday MLB notes, sometimes agreements actually are easier to reach after the numbers have been exchanged. Between them, the six players made $18.33 million last season. It's possible their combined salaries could double in 2009, leaving the Phillies' payroll at about $125 million. And that's before the Phils renew the contracts of non-yet-arbitration-eligible players like Carlos Ruiz, Ronny Paulino, Chris Coste, J.A. Happ and Kyle Kendrick, none of whom figure to make more than $500,000.

(Updated, 9:22 a.m.): Upon completion of Hamels' physical, Ruben Amaro Jr. has now confirmed the signing. Press conference at Citizens Bank Park at 1 p.m. More after that.

(Hamels photo by Getty Images.)

Jan. 17 -- HAMELS TO SIGN 3-YEAR, $20.5 MILLION DEAL

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Woke up this morning and took a drive down to the Wilmington train station to see Barack Obama, and upon my return, I saw this report from the New York Post: Cole Hamels is on the verge of signing a three-year, $20.5 million contract with the Phillies that would buy away three of his arbitration years.

So, naturally, I phoned Ruben Amaro Jr., who said he can "neither confirm nor deny" the report. But we've talked to one baseball source, who desired anonymity because the deal isn't signed, who said that a contract is imminent and could be announced before the end of the weekend.

What does this mean?

Well, mostly, it's about cost control for the Phillies. Hamels can't become a free agent until the 2012 season anyway, but by avoiding the arbitration process with him for three seasons, the Phillies lock him up at a fairly reasonable rate and prevent his salary from escalating too severely while they struggle to figure out how the heck they're going to sign Ryan Howard. According to the report, Hamels will make $4.35 million in 2009, $6.65 million in 2010 and $9.5 million in 2011. For the past few weeks, we had heard rumors that Hamels would ask for at least $5 million in arbitration this year. So, clearly, Hamels will still be relatively inexpensive for the next three years.

More as we get it.

(Updated, 2:30 p.m.): Just spoke with another source. Hamels will take a physical today, and a press conference likely will be held tomorrow, presumably before the Eagles game. If you're counting, that leaves six more arbitration-eligible players (Ryan Howard, Ryan Madson, Jayson Werth, Shane Victorino, Joe Blanton, Chad Durbin).

(Updated, 5 p.m.): Hamels' agent, John Boggs, hasn't returned my call yet. But he told ESPN.com, "We're very pleased with the fact that Cole has had an opportunity to be rewarded for his accomplishments in the past. The contract gives Cole a degree of financial security, and it didn't compromise his last year of arbitration or touch any free agent years, which was our goal."

Keep it here for more updates throughout the day.

Jan. 16 -- DOBBS SIGNS 2-YEAR DEAL

BY SCOTT LAUBER

This just in ...

Greg Dobbs has signed a two-year, $2.5 million contract extension with the Phillies, avoiding his first two years of salary arbitration. Dobbs, 30, will make $1.15 million in 2009, $1.35 million in 2010, which isn't a bad raise from his $440,000 salary in 2008.

Dobbs batted .301 with nine home runs and 40 RBIs in 128 games last season, but he did most of his damage as a pinch-hitter, batting .355 with two homers and 16 RBIs. He led the majors in pinch hits (22) and finished second in pinch RBIs. Dobbs' 22 pinch hits set a Phillies single-season record. During the past two seasons with the Phillies, Dobbs has batted .327 as a pinch hitter with four home runs and 34 RBIs.

"Over the past two seasons, Greg has been one of the best pinch-hitters in the game and has also contributed significantly as a third baseman," assistant GM Scott Proefrock said in a statement.

Also, according to a FoxSports.com report, Ryan Madson has turned down a three-year, $12 million offer from the Phillies. Madson's agent is Scott Boras. We're working on getting a confirmation on this.

More in a bit.

Jan. 15 -- HOWARD, HAMELS FILE FOR ARBITRATION

BY SCOTT LAUBER

It was a largely procedural -- and fully expected -- move, but Ryan Howard, Cole Hamels filed for salary arbitration today.

They were joined by 109 other players, including Prince Fielder, Jonathan Papelbon, Dan Uggla, Kevin Youkilis and Bobby Jenks. Other Phillies players who were expected to file by today included Jayson Werth, Ryan Madson, Joe Blanton, Shane Victorino, Chad Durbin and Greg Dobbs.

So, what next?

Well, 2009 contract negotiations between the Phillies and their arbitration-eligible players will continue over the next few days. If settlements aren't reached by Monday, players will submit their desired salary, and the Phillies will make their best offer. Each player will be assigned a date for an arbitration hearing (the hearings take place from Feb. 1-21), and negotiations will continue until the hearing date. In most cases, players and teams reach a compromise before the hearing. Last year, only eight of 110 players went to hearings.

Howard, of course, was among them. To recap: He asked for $10 million, the Phillies offered $7 million. Unable to make a deal, the sides attended a Feb. 20 hearing at the posh Renaissance Vinoy in St. Pete. A three-person panel ruled in Howard's favor, awarding him a $10 million salary in 2008. And after he led the majors with 48 homers and 146 RBIs last season, it's entirely likely that his salary could rise to at least $15 million, either through a settlement with the Phillies or another arbitration hearing. Hamels also is due a big raise. He made $500,000 last season, but his price tag skyrocketed after being named MVP of the NLCS and World Series.

OK, pretend you're Howard's agent, Casey Close. Or Hamels' agent, John Boggs. How much money would you ask for? Now, pretend you're the Phillies. How much money would you offer?

Jan. 15 -- OZUNA SIGNED, INVITED TO SPRING TRAINING

BY SCOTT LAUBER

In another sign that the Phillies are bracing for a possible April without Chase Utley, they have agreed to a minor-league contract with veteran infielder Pablo Ozuna, who will come to spring training as a non-roster invitee.

Ozuna, 34, batted .260 with one homer and nine RBIs in 68 games between the White Sox and Dodgers last season. He has been a utility infielder throughout his career, batting .282 in 309 games with the Marlins (2000, 2002), Rockies (2003), White Sox (2005-08) and Dodgers (2008). He got a career-high 203 at-bats for the White Sox in '05 and batted a career-high .328 for Chicago in '06. Short-term, he figures to join incumbent utility man Eric Bruntlett, non-roster veteran Marcus Giles and top prospect Jason Donald as potential options at second base if Utley (hip surgery in November) is unable to start the season on time. Long-term, Ozuna figures to play at triple-A Lehigh Valley and could push Bruntlett. Both Bruntlett and Ozuna have some experience in the outfield.

Also invited to spring training today: infielders Anthony Hewitt and Jorge Velandia and left-hander Jacob Woods. Hewitt, 19, was the Phillies' first-round pick last June, but batted only .197 with seven doubles, one homer and nine RBIs in the rookie-level Gulf Coast League. It has been the Phillies' policy over the past few years to invite their most recent first-round pick to major-league camp. Kyle Drabek was in camp in '07. Joe Savery was there last year. Like Ozuna, Velandia has major-league experience, 174 games worth with the Padres (1997), Athletics (1998-2000), Mets (2000-01, 2003), Rays (2007) and Indians (2008).

That brings the list of non-roster invitees to 23. Want to see a rundown of the previous 19? Click here.

Jan. 14 -- J-ROLL BEING RICKEY

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Like me, Jimmy Rollins grew up idolizing Rickey Henderson. Unlike me, J-Roll plays like him. And, as he showed everyone on the MLB Network this week, he does a spot-on impression of Rickey, too.

Jan. 13 -- PARK WON'T PITCH IN WBC

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Chan Ho Park is a big deal in South Korea. A really big deal.

When he makes a start in the majors, the game is televised in his homeland. When he agreed to a one-year, $2.5 million contract with the Phillies in December, he held a press conference with the Korean media, even though he wouldn't be taking his physical or making the deal official for another month. And yesterday in Seoul, he cried when he announced that he won't be pitching for South Korea in the World Baseball Classic.

But Park badly wants to earn the No. 5 spot in the Phillies' starting rotation. So badly, in fact, that he's willing to pass on pitching for his country, a country that he cares so deeply for, to spend more time in camp during spring training and enhance his chances of competing with J.A. Happ, Kyle Kendrick and Carlos Carrasco. Park may well win that job, depending on his performance in the Grapefruit League, and he'd surely bring more experience to the back of the rotation behind Cole Hamels, Brett Myers, Joe Blanton and Jamie Moyer.

But here's something to keep in mind: He has been in the majors for 15 years, nine of which have been spent with the Dodgers. Park's career numbers in L.A.: 84-58, 3.77 ERA. His numbers in Texas, San Diego and New York (with the Mets): 33-34, 5.63 ERA.

So, who do you want to see as the Phillies' No. 5 starter?

(Associated Press photo)

Jan. 13 -- REPORT: LOWE TO BRAVES

BY SCOTT LAUBER

According to this morning's Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Braves are on the verge of signing free-agent right-hander Derek Lowe to a four-year, $60 million contract. Lowe, 35, had also drawn interest from the Mets, and earlier this offseason, from the Phillies. But the Phils re-signed Jamie Moyer, and the Mets may have to turn to their Plan B and re-sign erratic lefty Oliver Perez. Lowe, meanwhile, will step in and become the Braves' ace.

So, assuming the Mets re-sign Perez, who has the best rotation in the NL East?

Phillies: Cole Hamels, Brett Myers, Joe Blanton, Jamie Moyer, Chan Ho Park/J.A. Happ/Kyle Kendrick/Carlos Carrasco.

Mets: Johan Santana, Mike Pelfrey, John Maine, Oliver Perez, Tim Redding/Jon Niese .

Braves: Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens, Javier Vazquez, Kenshin Kawakami, Jo-Jo Reyes/Jorge Campillo.

Marlins: Ricky Nolasco, Josh Johnson, Chris Volstad, Anibal Sanchez, Andrew Miller.

Jan. 10 -- RICKEY BEING RICKEY

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, have you heard the one about Rickey Henderson and John Olerud?

Well, it goes something like this: After signing with the Mariners in 2000, Rickey approached Olerud, who had once suffered a brain aneurysm, and asked why he wears a helmet in the field.

"I used to play with a dude in New York who did the same thing," Rickey said.

"Uh, that was me," replied Olerud, Rickey's teammate with the Mets and Blue Jays.

Funny stuff.

Completely untrue, too.

Sadly, that Rickey-Olerud exchange is an urban myth, concocted, apparently, as a clubhouse joke by a visiting player. It's believable, however, in large measure because of Rickey's reputation as self-indulgent and, well, not particularly bright, a characterization that the 10-year-old in me hopes is false. You see, for 4-1/2 years, from 1985 through early 1989, Rickey was my baseball idol. Back then, he was the Yankees' center fielder and leadoff hitter, and to me, nothing was more exciting than watching him take a lead from first base. He drove pitchers crazy and made catchers jittery. Everyone in the ballpark knew he was going to run, and inevitably, he'd still slide safely (and always headfirst) into second base. Rickey was a one-man rally. Walk. Steal second. Steal third. Score on a sacrifice fly.

Nobody was more electrifying.

Or stylish. Long before Manny began being Manny, Rickey was being Rickey. He played with a look-at-me flare that, if he was on your side, was positively alluring. Opponents, naturally, found it maddening. Rickey often referred to himself in the third person ("This is Rickey calling on behalf of Rickey," he famously said after dialing Padres GM Kevin Towers), circled the bases in a pronounced trot after hitting home runs, and talked both to himself and his bat while he stood at the plate. As a Little Leaguer, I'd hike up my stirrup socks, Rickey-style, and infuriate my coaches by emulating his patented "Snatch catch" when I settled under a fly ball. And, in June 1989, I was crushed when the Yanks traded Rickey back to Oakland (for Luis Polonia, Eric Plunk and Greg Cadaret? C'mon. Any 12-year-old could tell they got fleeced).

But it wasn't until years later that I truly realized Rickey's greatness. He played in the majors for an amazing 25 seasons, a quarter-century, and holds the all-time records for stolen bases (1,406) and runs scored (2,295). Think about that for a moment. Base-stealing is a lost art (ask Phillies coach Davey Lopes), and Rickey is the standard bearer. That record won't fall for a long time. And the object of the game is to outscore the opponent, so is there a more meaningful achievement in baseball than scoring more runs than any other player?

But how about this Rickey stat? He drew 796 walks to lead off an inning. 796. Now, before Barry Bonds came along and started swatting home runs, there was nothing that scared pitchers more than putting Rickey on base. Yet, somehow, they walked him nearly 800 times to start an inning. Incredible.

On Monday, Rickey will be elected to the Hall of Fame. Unlike Jim Rice and Bert Blyleven and Andre Dawson, great players who will once again sweat out the results of the annual vote of 10-year members of the Baseball Writers Association of America, the only question about Rickey is how close he'll come to being a unanimous selection. Anyone who doesn't vote for him, well, they'll have some 'splainin' to do.

Me? I just can't wait to hear Rickey's induction speech in July. Like the man himself, it should be one of a kind.

(Photo by Getty Images).

Jan. 9 -- WINTER TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, I know the Eagles are playing a big game Sunday, but can you believe there are only 35 more days until Phillies pitchers and catchers must report to Clearwater? Yeah, only 35 days. Crazy, right?

Anyway, the Phillies have announced the dates for their annual winter tour. This year, it appears the star of the show will be the World Series trophy, which will make nearly 30 public appearances. Closest to home, at least to our News Journal home, will be the Delaware Sportswriters and Broadcasters Association banquet on Sunday, Jan. 25 at Cavaliers Country Club in Wilmington. The trophy will be accompanied by Harry Kalas and new assistant GM Scott Proefrock. Tickets are available for $50. For information, call 302-656-9797, email bbtix@aol.com or visit delsports.org.

The following night, Jan. 26, the trophy will head to Cherry Hill, N.J., for the annual Philadelphia Sportswriters Banquet at the Crowne Plaza Hotel on Route 70. Ruben Amaro Jr., Charlie Manuel and Brad Lidge will also be in attendance. For info, call 609-702-7473, email pswadinner@yahoo.com or visit www.pswa.org.

Here's a full list of the trophy's travel schedule for events that are open to the public.

Monday: Heritage Hills Golf Resort & Conference Center, York, Pa., 12-1:30 p.m.
Tuesday: BlueClaws banquet, Lakewood, N.J., 7 p.m. (pitcher J.A. Happ also will attend)
Wednesday: Peter J. McGovern Little League Museum, Williampsort, Pa., 1:30-3 p.m.
Wednesday: Crosscutters banquet, Williamsport, Pa., 7 p.m. (Happ, Kalas will attend)
Thursday: Chickie's & Pete's, Egg Harbor Twp., N.J., 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 17: Montgomery Mall, North Wales, Pa., 12-1:30 p.m.
Jan. 19: Liacouras Center at Temple University, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Jan. 21: Starters Riverport, Bethlehem, Pa.: 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 21: IronPigs banquet, Allentown, 6:45 p.m. (Ryan Madson, Scott Eyre, Amaro will attend)
Jan. 22: VF Outlet Center, Reading, Pa., 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 22: Reading Phillies banquet, Wyomissing, Pa., 7 p.m. (Madson, Eyre and Manuel will attend)
Jan. 23: Alvina Krause Theatre, Bloomsburg, Pa., 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 23: Maroons Sports Bar & Grill, Pottsville, Pa., 6-7:30 p.m.
Jan. 24: Sixers game, 7 p.m. (Cole Hamels, Shane Victorino and Madson will attend)
Jan. 27: Prescott Banquet Hall, Lebanon, Pa., 1-2:30 p.m.
Jan. 30: Philadelphia Auto Show Preview Gala, 12th & Arch St., Philadelphia
Jan. 31: Moorestown Mall, Moorestown, N.J., 12-1:30 p.m.

Jan. 7 -- TOP 10 PROSPECTS

BY SCOTT LAUBER

For better or worse (usually better), Baseball America is widely considered the authority on the minor leagues. Each year, in fact, the publication ranks the top prospects for each team, and in this week's issue, they examine each NL East team, including the Phillies.

Their pick as the Phils' No. 1 prospect: Dominic Brown.

Brown, 20, is a left-handed-hitting outfielder who was drafted in the 20th round in 2006. He had committed to play wide receiver at the University of Miami, but the Phils were able to sign him for $200,000 because, at least in part, he didn't have the test scores to play at Miami. Brown has drawn comparisons to Darryl Strawberry, but in typical Phillies fashion, he has moved slowly through the farm system, reaching only low-A Lakewood last season. He got 444 at-bats for the BlueClaws, batting .291 with nine homers, 54 RBIs, 22 stolen bases, 64 walks (only 72 strikeouts), a .382 on-base percentage and a .417 slugging percentage. He's 6-foot-5 and 205 pounds, and the Phillies believe (hope?) that he'll grow into a power threat.

Rounding out the top 10, plus a quote from Baseball America ...

2. Carlos Carrasco, RHP: "For all his stuff, Carrasco lacks the consistency and killer instinct. Opposing managers and scouts use words such as "fold up" or "soft" to describe him, and he's prone to the big inning."

3. Lou Marson, C: "Once he's ready in terms of game-calling and other nuances of catching, he'll become the regular in Philadelphia, perhaps as soon as the second half of 2009."

4. Jason Donald, INF: "He should be average at second base and has enough arm for third, though he needs more work there. ... He doesn't fit the classic third-base profile and may fit better as a super utility player."

5. Kyle Drabek, RHP: "Knocked for his immaturity prior to the 2006 draft, he's still no choirboy. One scout said he has baseball makeup with great competitiveness, but not 'take home your daughter' makeup."

6. Michael Taylor, OF: "He profiles as the kind of right-handed hitting corner outfielder the Phillies need and will be a step closer in 2009 at Double-A."

7. Travis D'Arnaud, C: "He's on the fast track already and could become trade fodder if he continues to develop offensively."

8. Zach Collier, OF: "He's similar to Dominic Brown with more polish and less athleticism and should move quickly."

9. J.A. Happ, LHP: "He lacks a standout pitch and doesn't figure to get all those strikeouts on fastballs as easily in the majors as he did in Triple-A."

10. Jason Knapp, RHP: "The Phillies will keep him in the rotation for now, most likely close to his home at Lakewood in 2009, but scouts already are talking about him as a future power bullpen arm, potentially as a closer."

***
Also, tickets for Phillies' home spring-training games will go on sale tomorrow (Thursday) at 9 a.m. The Phillies have 18 games at Bright House Field, including World Baseball Classic exhibitions against Canada (March 4) and the U.S. (March 5). Other opponents include the Blue Jays, Yankees, Red Sox, Astros, Twins, Nationals, Reds, Pirates, Braves and Tigers.

Tickets are available by calling 215-463-1000 or by going to the box offices at the first-base gate to Citizens Bank Park. For group tickets, call 727-467-4457.

Jan. 7 -- NON-ROSTER INVITEES

BY SCOTT LAUBER

At last, a bit of news that doesn't involve J.C. Romero:

The Phillies have invited nine more non-40-man roster players to spring training, bringing the total to 19. No surprises on the list, which includes top infield prospect Jason Donald (right) and veteran second baseman Marcus Giles, who signed a minor-league contract with the Phils yesterday. You'll also note the inclusion of Jason Ellison, a right-handed-hitting outfielder who is a .251 hitter in 344 major-league games with the Giants, Mariners, Reds and Rangers and should provide depth. If you're a follower of the Lehigh Valley IronPigs, most of these players will be there. On paper, at least, it figures to be a stronger team than last season.

Here's the full non-roster group, with their '08 stats:

Antonio Bastardo, LHP: 4-5, 2.95 ERA at Clearwater/Reading
Yorman Bazardo, RHP: 4-13, 6.72 ERA at Toledo (triple-A Tigers)
Dave Borkowski, RHP: 0-2, 7.50 ERA for Houston Astros
Mike Cervenak, INF: .311, 10 HR, 66 RBI at Lehigh Valley
Ozzie Chavez, SS: .223, 3 HR, 29 RBI at Nashville (triple-A Brewers)
Jason Donald, INF: .307, 14 HR, 54 RBI at Reading
Jason Ellison, OF: .239, 2 HR, 45 RBI at Oklahoma (triple-A Rangers)
J.J. Furmaniak, INF: .292, 15 HR, 51 RBI at Scottsdale (triple-A Athletics)
Marcus Giles, INF: Did not play
Tuffy Gosewisch, C: .218, 3 HR, 34 RBI at Clearwater
Paul Hoover, C: .251, 6 HR, 19 RBI at Alburquerque (triple-A Marlins)
Mike Koplove, RHP: 2-1, 3.46 ERA at Las Vegas (triple-A Dodgers)
Justin Lehr, RHP: 6-2, 2.10 ERA at Louisville (triple-A Reds)
Gary Majewski, RHP: 1-0, 6.53 ERA with Cincinnati Reds
Blaine Neal, RHP: 1-0, 1.21, 21 SVS at Toledo (triple-A Tigers)
Jeremy Slayden, OF: .298, 17 HR, 81 RBI at Reading
Terry Tiffee, 3B: .378, 9 HR, 69 RBI at Las Vegas (triple-A Dodgers)
Andy Tracy, 1B: .288, 22 HR, 85 RBI at Lehigh Valley
Chris Walker, OF: .257, 1 HR, 27 RBI at Salt Lake (triple-A Angels)

(In case you're wondering, top pitching prospect Carlos Carrasco and blue-chip catcher Lou Marson already are on the 40-man roster, and thus, already invited to spring training. Minor-league pitchers Joe Bisenius, Drew Carpenter, Sergio Escalona, Robert Mosebach, Drew Naylor, Scott Nestor and Mike Zagurski, catcher Joel Naughton, infielder Brad Harman and outfielder John Mayberry also are on the 40-man.)

Now, without further ado, please continue your discussion of Romero's suspension.

(Associated Press photo)

Jan. 7 -- MLB: ROMERO SHOULD'VE CALLED HOTLINE

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Two days into it, and there is still so much we don't know, so much we may never know, about this whole J.C. Romero mess.

For starters, we don't know why Romero chose to purchase 6-OXO Extreme, a drug that enhances testosterone production in ways very similar to anabolic steroids and is produced by a company (ErgoPharm) that is owned by a guy (Patrick Arnold) who served jail time for his involvement with BALCO. We don't know why Romero's bottle of 6-OXO Extreme didn't contain a label warning him that the supplement could cause a positive test (most bottles do have such a label). And we're still unsure if, as Romero contends, the MLB Players' Association advised its members that any over-the-counter supplement bought in the U.S. would not cause a positive test. The union strongly denies ever making such a suggestion, even though it strongly disagrees with MLB's decision to suspend Romero for "negligence."

But there is one thing we're certain about. If Romero had called the toll-free hotline provided jointly by MLB and the Players' Association, he would've been warned about the consequences of taking 6-OXO Extreme.

That's a guarantee.

I spoke by phone yesterday to Rob Manfred, MLB's executive vice president for labor and human resources. Manfred said MLB and the union meet annually with each team during spring training and show a DVD that details the risks of using supplements. Manfred said a list of approved supplements is available in every clubhouse. If players have questions, they are advised to call the toll-free hotline.

"If he had called, he would've been told this product was a problem," Manfred said. "Mr. Romero testified [in an Oct. 22-23 arbitration hearing] he didn't call."

Bet he regrets that now.

"Is this an unfortunate situation? Yes," Manfred said. "We don't like disciplining players. We try to help our athletes deal with the issue of nutritional supplements. But the fact of the matter is, the athlete has to be responsible for what he puts in his body. It didn't happen in this case."

***
OK, so the Phillies will be without Romero until June 1. How might they replace him?

Well, as Ruben Amaro Jr. said yesterday, they could turn to an in-house candidate. Perhaps Romero's spot will be a consolation prize for Chan Ho Park, J.A. Happ or Kyle Kendrick, each of whom will compete (with top prospect Carlos Carrasco) for the No. 5 starter job. Or maybe it will be won by veterans Blaine Neal, Gary Majewski, Dave Borkowski or Univ. of Delaware product Mike Koplove, each of whom have signed minor-league contracts with the Phillies.

Amaro said the Phils remain interested in several free-agent relievers, but it's likely that the top lefties on the market (Joe Beimel, Dennys Reyes, Will Ohman and Brian Shouse) are seeking contracts similar to the ones that Romero (three years, $12 million) and Kansas City's Ron Mahay (two years, $8 million) signed before last season. And with eight arbitration-eligible players due to receive raises that will push the payroll towards $125 million, the Phillies don't have much money to play with. Just for the heck of it, though, here's a look at how the free-agent lefties did last season:

BEIMEL (31 years old): 5-1, 2.02 ERA, 50 H, 21 BB, 49 IP in 71 G for Dodgers
OHMAN (30 years old): 4-1, 3.68 ERA, 51 H, 22 BB, 58.2 IP in 83 G for Braves
REYES (31 years old): 3-0, 2.33 ERA, 40 H, 15 BB, 46.1 IP in 75 G for Twins
SHOUSE (39 years old): 5-1, 2.81 ERA, 46 H, 14 BB, 51.1 IP in 69 games for Brewers

(Associated Press photo.)

Jan. 6 -- PHILS SIGN GILES TO MINOR-LEAGUE DEAL

BY SCOTT LAUBER

This won't get much play in The Paper tomorrow (it got one paragraph, in fact), but I wanted to pass along that the Phillies have signed veteran second baseman Marcus Giles to a minor-league contract.

Quick primer on Giles: He's 30, the younger brother of Brian Giles, and best known for his years with the Atlanta Braves. In 2003, he batted .316 with 21 homers and 69 RBIs (his best offensive season, by far) and played in the All-Star Game. Giles spent '07 with the San Diego Padres, batting only .229 with four homers and 39 RBIs, and didn't play last season after being released by the Colorado Rockies in spring training.

Giles will have a chance to make the team this spring. Clearly, the Phillies believe he can provide some veteran insurance for Chase Utley, who likely won't be ready to start the season after undergoing hip surgery in November.

Jan. 6 -- ROMERO SPEAKS; LINK TO BALCO (UPDATED)

BY SCOTT LAUBER

J.C. Romero is traveling today, and thus, unable to respond to The News Journal's (and other media outlets', I'm sure) attempts to reach him. But he has issued this statement, through representatives at Outside Eyes, a California-based public-relations firm that he has enlisted to help with his case.

"Basically, I am being punished for not having a chemistry lab in my house to test everything I put in my body, because reading the ingredients on a label is no longer good enough. I am all for catching the guys that cheat and punishing them. But I feel like I'm the victim of system where a player like me is punished because other players before me have blatantly broken the rules."

Apparently, though, the supplement used by Romero, 6-OXO, was manufactured by ErgoPharm, whose lead chemist, Patrick Arnold, pleaded guilty in 2006 to conspiring to distribute performance-enhancing drugs while working for the Bay Area Laboratory Co-operative (known to me and you as "BALCO"). So, there's that.

Meanwhile, still trying to reach some live bodies at the MLB Players' Association. Less than an hour ago, MLBPA general counsel Michael Weiner issued a second statement that indicated the union never advised players that the supplement taken by Romero was safe. That would conflict with what Romero said in ESPN.com's initial report last night. So, we're trying to find out exactly what the MLBPA advised players about over-the-counter supplements purchased at U.S. retail stores. Thus far, though, our calls to the MLBPA have gone unreturned.

More later, hopefully.

***
Also, right-hander Chan Ho Park has passed a physical, so the Phillies have finalized his one-year, $2.5 million contract. Park will compete in spring training to be the No. 5 starter. If he doesn't secure that role, he'll pitch out of the bullpen. Park pitched primarily out of the bullpen last season with the Dodgers, although he prefers to start. He said he received offers from five teams, but the Phillies were the only one that gave him the option of being a starter. Park may even consider not pitching for Korea in the World Baseball Classic to maximize his starts for the Phillies during spring training.

"Starting is better and more fun," he said. " Every five days people in Korea plan on watching the game. That's a big part of the game at this point in my career. My goal is to be a starter. That's how I am going to compete. Hopefully, I can make it."

Jan. 6 -- UNION: DECISION WAS 'UNFAIR'

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Here's a statement from MLB Players Association general counsel Michael Weiner on the 50-game suspensions for J.C. Romero and Sergio Mitre:

"We strongly disagree with the commissioner's discipline and with the arbitrator's decision. Mitre and Romero both legally purchased nutritional supplements from national chain stores in the United States. Nothing on the labels of those supplements indicated that they contained a trace amount of a substance prohibited under Major League Baseball's Joint Drug Prevention and Treatment Program. Neither player intentionally ingested this prohibited substance, but the arbitrator nevertheless found, wrongly in our view, that the players' conduct violated the Program's "no fault or negligence" standard.

"The union respects the arbitration process and treats the decision as final. In our view, though, the resulting discipline imposed upon Mitre and Romero is unfair. These players should not be suspended. Their unknowing actions plainly are distinguishable from those of a person who intentionally used an illegal performance-enhancing substance.

"The association and the commissioner's Office must now act to prevent future similar occurrences within baseball. The association remains committed to a strong Joint Drug Program, but will continue to advocate forcefully for fair treatment of our members."

Jan. 6 -- AMARO ON ROMERO

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Notes from a just-completed conference call with Ruben Amaro Jr. and assistant GM Scott Proefrock, regarding J.C. Romero's 50-game suspension handed down this morning by MLB:

--Amaro wouldn't discuss specifics of Romero's case but said repeatedly that the Phillies "staunchly support Major League Baseball's drug policy." He called the situation "unfortunate" and said "a mistake was made," but later, he refused to acknowledge which parties (Romero, the Phillies, the players' association, MLB) made the mistake.

--Amaro defended Dong Lien, the Phillies' strength and conditioning coach who reportedly told Romero to seek a second opinion before using the over-the-counter supplement that he purchased from GNC. "He comported himself in exactly the manner that he should have," Amaro said of Lien. "I'm completely supportive of what he did."

--Proefrock said Romero will be allowed to attend spring training and pitch in Grapefruit League games. Once the season starts, he can participate in extended spring games in Clearwater, and as the suspension nears its conclusion, he can go on a 16-day minor-league assignment. So, Romero is expected to be ready to pitch by Game No. 51, on June 1 against the Atlanta Braves at Citizens Bank Park.

--It's still unclear whether Romero will be allowed to pitch for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. Amaro said that's being discussed between MLB and the players' association.

--Amaro said the Phillies have interest in several free-agent relievers, lefties and right-handers. The Phillies aren't dead set on replacing Romero with a left-hander. In-house candidates for the spot include J.A. Happ, Kyle Kendrick and Drew Carpenter, although Happ and Kendrick will still be competing primarily for the No. 5 starter spot. The loser may get the spoils of a relief job, assuming he earns it.

--The Phillies were unaware that Romero attended arbitration hearings in Tampa Bay before Games 1 and 2 of the World Series, Amaro said. Proefrock said that isn't unusual. In most cases, players and trainers who are asked to testify in such cases are "sworn to secrecy." That is, they are told to keep details of the case confidential.

--MLB and the players' union meet with players from each team during spring training to go over which supplements are legal within baseball's drug policy. Proefrock said players are given an 800 number to call if they have questions and wallet cards with additional printed information. Romero, according to reports, asked Lien and two personal nutritionists if the supplement was OK. He also received a notice from the players' association that said all supplements purchased over the counter in U.S. retail stores were kosher. Three months after his positive test, on Nov. 21, the players' association sent out a statement alerting players that three supplements, including the one that Romero used, would cause a drug test to be positive.

More in a bit.