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.'