BY SCOTT LAUBERSo, here's the problem with covering the Phillies right now: It's too early in the season to draw many conclusions.
The season-opener was 17 nights ago. During that time, the Phillies have played 12 games. They've had two rainouts and three days off. They've played games after lengthy ceremonies for a) raising the World Series banner; b) receiving their World Series rings; c) general opening-day hoopla in Colorado and Washington. They also played a game in Washington less than two hours after Harry Kalas passed away, and last Saturday, they faced the Padres a few hours after loading Kalas' coffin into a hearse at the end of an emotional memorial service. Through it all, the Phillies haven't played more than four games in a row, so there hasn't been any rhythm or flow to the season.
Point is, until they get into a consistent routine, it's tough to look at a hitter (or even a pitcher) and figure out if they're hot or if they're struggling. Clearly, though, Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino have had slow starts. Charlie Manuel talked about Victorino before yesterday's game, and after he got two hits in last night's 11-4 victory, he was the focus of my game story in today's News Journal. Does that mean Victorino is out of his early-season funk? Check back with me after tonight's game -- or even after tomorrow's.
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Within the notebook, we look at the underrated Raul Ibanez. Also, there's word on Carlos Ruiz's progress. It seems he could make a minor-league rehab assignment this weekend and come off the disabled list next week.
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Thanks to everyone who joined our Phillies chat today. If we didn't get to your question, don't despair. Just ask it again next week. I'll be doing an online chat every Wednesday, from noon to 1 p.m.
