May 17 -- SUNDAY BRIEFING

BY SCOTT LAUBER

WASHINGTON -- Morning, all. Wherever you are, whatever you're doing, here's hoping you're enjoying your Sunday.

First, a few bits of news:

1. The Phillies have pushed struggling Jamie Moyer (3-3, 8.15 ERA) back one day. He'll start Wednesday night in Cincinnati, while Cole Hamels, pitching on his usual rest thanks to tomorrow's day off, will start the series-opener Tuesday night against the Reds.

2. J.C. Romero will make his first minor-league appearance tomorrow night at Class AAA Lehigh Valley. Barring any rainouts, he can resume pitching for the Phillies on June 3 in San Diego, once he finishes serving his 50-game suspension.

3. Sergio Escalona has joined the team here. I asked pitching coach Rich Dubee to explain why the Phillies elected to call up Escalona, another lefty reliever, from Class AA Reading instead of bringing up one of their many right-handers with major-league experience (Gary Majewski, Tyler Walker, Mike Koplove) from Lehigh Valley. According to Dubee, it was an issue of minor-league options. It seems Escalona's stay here will be brief, and the Phillies didn't want to burn an option for any of their Class AAA veterans.

4. Upon further review, Andrew Carpenter has been credited with the victory in last night's rain-shortened doubleheader finale. That's significant, considering it's Carpenter's first major-league win. Because the Phillies played only five innings on defense, Carpenter only had to pitch four innings to qualify for the win (he pitched 4-1/3 innings), according to the Elias Sports Bureau. Clay Condrey, initially credited with the win, earned a save instead. So, belated congratulations to Carpenter, who, I'm sure, will celebrate with his teammates in Lehigh Valley today.

5. The Phillies are going for a rare four-game sweep today against the Nats. But they'll have to beat uber-prospect Jordan Zimmermann. Talked to one scout during spring training who absolutely loves Zimmermann and believes he can be an impact pitcher for the Nats. So far, he's 2-1 with a 5.90 ERA. Here's the lineup he'll be facing:

SS Jimmy Rollins (.216/2/12)
2B Chase Utley (.289/10/24)
LF Raul Ibanez (.368/13/35)
1B Ryan Howard (.266/8/28)
RF Jayson Werth (.289/7/23)
CF Shane Victorino (.255/4/21)
3B Pedro Feliz (.302/2/21)
C Carlos Ruiz (.279/0/5)
RHP Chan Ho Park (1-1, 6.00)

***
Recapping yesterday's doubleheader:

-Ibanez had an enormous day, going 5-for-8 with three homers and seven RBIs, making him the focus of the game story in today's News Journal. Here's something that didn't make it into the story: According to the Elias Sports Bureau, Ibanez has more homers (13) than any player who changed teams during the offseason. The Nats' Adam Dunn is second with 10 homers.

-Brad Lidge pitched a scoreless ninth inning in the opener, ending his streak of six consecutive appearances in which he allowed a run.

-Talked to Carlos Ruiz before yesterday's games about the change in his approach at the plate, and it's all here in the notebook. Also, there's word on another solid start for Brett Myers. That's two in a row.

***
In our Sunday MLB notes, we talked to Davey Lopes about the "art" of stealing home, which isn't really an art at all. It's all about luck, Lopes said, which makes it even more impressive that both Jacoby Ellsbury and Jayson Werth executed straight steals during a 17-day span.

***
It's been a long, but memorable, weekend in DC for Philled In. On Friday, we spent a few hours at the White House, checking out the press briefing room (yes, that's me behind press secretary Robert Gibbs' podium) and the South Lawn and the Rose Garden. It was a pretty funny, actually. The baseball folks in attendance were excited to get a glimpse of President Obama, while the political folks were eager to get a glimpse of the Phillies. Regardless, it was a day we'll never forget.

May 17 -- CARPENTER OUT, ESCALONA IN

BY SCOTT LAUBER

WASHINGTON -- So, after a 90-minute rain delay resulted in a game called after only five innings, here was Drew Carpenter's self-assessment of his rather unusual first major-league start.

"Could've been better, could've been worse," he said.

File this under the "could've been better" heading: After the game, Carpenter was optioned to Class AAA Lehigh Valley. The Phillies have recalled lefty reliever Sergio Escalona (pictured) from Class AA Reading.

Why Escalona?

Hard to say. The Phillies have veteran right-handers Mike Koplove (1-2, 0.52 ERA), Tyler Walker (1-0, 0.00 in 11 innings) and Gary Majewski (0-2, 3.72) pitching well at Lehigh Valley, and they already have three lefties (Scott Eyre, Jack Taschner, J.A. Happ) in the bullpen. But Escalona (2.08 ERA in 14 appearances) has done well at Reading. Assistant GM Scott Proefrock is with the team in DC, so I'll make sure to get an explanation for the decision in the morning. Please make sure to check back for that.

***
More on Carpenter: He escaped a bases-loaded, two-out jam in the first inning, a two-on, two-out jam in the third and allowed one run in the fourth inning and three in the fifth before being knocked out of the game two outs shy of qualifying for his first major-league win. Overall, he allowed five runs on eight hits, walked three and struck out four in 4-1/3 innings.

"Good first outing, I guess," he said. "Couple pitches could've went either way. I was getting behind early. I had to get ahead. That's how rookies are, I guess. You kind of get squeezed. Next time I just got to get ahead early in the count, and good things will happen after that.

"I'll be back, so no big deal. It'll be all right."

That's it from here after a LONG day at Nationals Park. Be back in the morning as the Phillies shoot for a rare four-game sweep.

May 17 -- DOUBLE DIPPING (UPDATED)

BY SCOTT LAUBER

WASHINGTON -- So, how do the Phillies stay amused during a long, day-night doubleheader?

They place wagers, of course.

Today's big pregame activity: Most players and some coaches offered their best guess on whether Shane Victorino can hit the water cooler in the bullpen when he throws the ball back after warming up before each inning. So far, nine think he can do it. Nine don't. Brad Lidge thinks it'll be a challenge, especially because Victorino will get only one shot per inning. Lidge had a fairly detailed analysis, actually. Heck, at least it'll give us something amusing to break up the long day/night here at Nationals Park.

***
Chase Utley, stuck in a 0-for-18 (and 3-for-26) slump, is getting a rest in the opener. I expect he'll be in there tonight. Here's your full Game 1 lineup against Nats lefty Scott Olsen.

SS Jimmy Rollins (.199/2/11)
CF Shane Victorino (.253/4/20)
LF Raul Ibanez (.352/10/28)
1B Ryan Howard (.258/7/26)
RF Jayson Werth (.276/6/21)
3B Pedro Feliz (.306/2/21)
C Chris Coste (.220/1/6)
2B Eric Bruntlett (.125/0/3)
RHP Brett Myers (2-2, 4.81 ERA)

Rain the forecast for Game 2. Awesome.

***
DC is one of my favorite food cities. A few recommendations: Martin's Tavern in Georgetown was a favorite spot for John F. Kennedy. You can actually sit in the booth where JFK proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier. Pretty cool, if you ask me. And if you want to hang with some political types, grab lunch or dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill, across from the White House on 15th Street. Great atmosphere and not terribly expensive, given the location. Can't go wrong with the burger at both places, but there's plenty more on the menu for the more adventurous among us.

Back with updates throughout the day and night.

(Updated, 3:05 p.m.): Seven innings in the books. Only 11 more to go. So far, the rain has held off, and the sun is shining. Let's hope it stays that way. Phillies lead 6-2, thanks to two Ibanez homers (he's looking like a lock for the All-Star Game, don't you think?) and a homer by Werth. Myers is pitching well against a Nationals team that had been hitting the ball well. He has allowed only three hits, including solo homers by Ryan Zimmerman and Josh Willingham, through seven.

(Updated, 3:45 p.m.): Brad Lidge's streak is over, and this time, it's a good thing. Lidge allowed a one-out single in the ninth inning, but for the first time in seven appearances, he didn't give up a run. He picked up the save in the Phillies' 8-5 victory, pumping his fist (and probably breathing a sigh of relief) after striking out Elijah Dukes to end the game. So, that does it for Game 1. Be back in a bit with more.

(Updated, 5:13 p.m.): Bad sign. The sun is still out here, but the tarp has been rolled on to the field and the press box windows have been closed. Must be rain on the way? Still almost two hours before game time.

(Updated, 5:40 p.m.): Still no rain, but we have lineups:
SS Rollins
2B Utley
LF Ibanez
1B Howard
RF Matt Stairs
CF Victorino
3B Greg Dobbs
C Carlos Ruiz
RHP Andrew Carpenter

May 16 -- CALL HIM J.A. HAPLESS; CARPENTER STARTS TONIGHT

BY SCOTT LAUBER

WASHINGTON -- J.A. Happ pitched well enough in spring training to win a spot in the Phillies' starting rotation, but he was edged out by Chan Ho Park. He was slated to make a spot start in the second half of today's day-night doubleheader here against the Nats, but because Brad Lidge blew another save, the Phillies needed Happ to pitch in extra innings.

So, instead, it'll be Andrew Carpenter making his first major-league start tonight. Carpenter, who pitched one scoreless inning in his major-league debut for the Phillies last season, is 1-0 with a 4.72 ERA in six starts at Class AAA Lehigh Valley. He has allowed 31 hits and 15 walks in 34-1/3 innings. To make room on the roster, the Phillies designated seldom-used infielder Miguel Cairo for assignment. Cairo was 2-for-17 during his brief Phillies career.

Happ, meanwhile, can't catch a break.

It's a shame, too, because he has pitched superbly out of the bullpen. A starter throughout his minor-league career, Happ has posted a 2.49 ERA in 12 relief appearances, including his two scoreless innings tonight. At least Happ got credit for the victory. That's one thing, I suppose, that couldn't be taken away from him.

May 15 -- PHILLED IN GOES TO WASHINGTON (UPDATED)

BY SCOTT LAUBER

On our way to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for the Phillies' luncheon with President Obama. Not sure if the logistics will allow us to bring you live updates, but regardless, we'll post a recap here just as soon as we can. Meanwhile, you can watch the ceremony at about noon via the White House's live stream.



***
(Updated, 3:30 p.m.): So, there I was, on the South Lawn of the White House, waiting for President Obama to emerge from the Oval Office and thinking, "How cool is this?"

As a journalist, you become desensitized to certain things. You don't mean to. It just happens. Go to enough ballparks, stand in enough clubhouses, talk to enough players, cover enough games, and you just sort of get used to the whole thing. It's not that you're jaded. It's just that grow accustomed to being around athletes. I guess I'm saying it becomes routine. But the feeling that came over me today, looking up at the Truman Balcony and standing about 10 yards from Obama, is something I've rarely felt since 1999 when, less than a year out of college, I lucked into a one-on-one interview with Ted Williams at a hotel in Manchester, N.H.

Needless to say, the White House experience is pretty awesome.

I'm kind of a political nerd, as you may be able to tell. For instance, my favorite all-time TV show is The West Wing. So, for me, having a chance to see the teeny-tiny White House briefing room (I sat in the L.A. Times' chair) was a treat. There were several political dignitiaries in attendance, including Rep. Mike Castle of Delaware and Obama's chief campaign manager David Plouffe, a St. Mark's grad and a huge Phillies fan. And the view from the South Lawn, of the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial, is breathtaking.

We'll have plenty in tomorrow's News Journal about the Phillies' visit, and I'll try to post some cell phone pictures in a bit (I've put some AP photos up here). A few highlights:

--Jimmy Rollins presented the 44th President with a No. 44 Phillies jersey. Obama smiled, posed for a photo with J-Roll and asked, "Can I have your ring, too?"

--Before the Phillies took a team picture with Obama, the Prez said, "Everybody say cheesesteak."

--Obama highlighted several players, including Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Cole Hamels for their charity work off the field. He also noted the role that Howard and Rollins play in attracting more African-American kids to want to play baseball.

--Obama also paid tribute to Harry Kalas and transitioned into the Phillies' World Series championship: "He waited 28 years to call a World Series championship run, and what an unbelievable run it was, filled with come-from-behind wins by an underdog team that proved the prognosticators run. We share something in common there because nobody thought I was going to win either. This was a team that never gave up. You weren't supposed to win your division. You weren't supposed to win postseason series against the Dodgers and the Rays. And even though the stretch between the top and bottom of the sixth inning of Game 5 took two full days of rain, you came out before the toughest fans in sports to win Philadelphia's first major championship since 1983."

For those who are interested, here's the full text of Obama's speech:

Hello, everybody. Please have a seat. Please have a seat. Thank you. Welcome to the White House -- and congratulations to the World Champion Philadelphia Phillies.

We originally planned to do this last month, but postponed it after the loss of the legendary voice so familiar to any sports fan, the hall-of-fame announcer, the great Harry Kalas. And Harry left us as he lived -- in the ballpark, preparing to call another game for his beloved Phillies. And I know a season without the warm comfort of his voice is difficult, but I also know this, that Harry is here with us in spirit today and he is proud of all of you.
He waited 28 years to call another World Series championship run -- and what an unbelievable run it was, full of come-from-behind wins by an underdog team that loved to prove the prognosticators wrong. And so we share something in common there, because nobody thought I was going to win either.

This is a team that never gave up. You weren't supposed to win your division. You weren't supposed to win postseason series against the Dodgers or the Rays. And even though the stretch between the top and the bottom of the sixth inning in Game 5 took two full days of rain -- you came out before the toughest fans in sports to win Philadelphia's first major championship since 1983.

And so this was truly a victory for both young folks, but also the young at heart -- those who waited nearly three decades, and a new generation of fans that had been waiting their entire lives. It also, as I mentioned to the team back here, was not just a victory for the people of Philadelphia -- but for some longtime fans like Joe Biden, and my campaign manager, David Plouffe, who -- I'm not sure whether he cared more about my victory or the Phillies' victory -- but it was a close call -- as well as folks from the entire Delaware Valley.

This is a team made up of guys who don't quit: Cole Hamels, the unbelievable playoff ace. Chase Utley, a throwback who plays hurt, and plays hard and never complains. Brad Lidge, who came to the Philly organization looking for a fresh start and who went a perfect 48 for 48 in save opportunities all season long, and who wiped away 28 years of near-misses and heartbreak with that final strikeout. And guys like our manager here, Charlie Manuel, who lost his mother during the playoffs. And I know how tough that is. I lost my grandmother in the middle of my election. And, Charlie, I admired your perseverance during those trying times. I know how hard that must have been on you.

Also guys like Shane Victorino -- Shane, we don't get that many baseball players from Hawaii in the Majors. Where did Shane go? He was around here somewhere. He was pointing out the Hawaiian flag on the carpet in there, saying "shaka" -- local boy. But that means that there are a lot of folks looking out for you. And then Jimmy Rollins -- who I have to say made some telephone calls on behalf of our campaign before the election, and I couldn't be more grateful to him for that.

You know, I remember giving a campaign speech in Chester, just outside of Philadelphia, one week before the election. And it was the day after rain had suspended the Series game, and it was still raining. And I told my staff, if they can suspend the World Series in the middle of a game, then the least you could do is find an indoor location for my speech. That was the coldest I may have ever been. Do you remember that, Plouffe? I mean, it was cold. But true to form, thousands of Philadelphians showed up to brave the rain and my speech, just like they had shown up to watch their beloved Phillies play. And so like this team, I tried to give them my best.

I also know how it felt for the Phillies to get this weight off their back, because my beloved White Sox finally did it three years ago after nearly 90 years of waiting. So Cubs fans out there, take heart. (Laughter.) Anything is possible.

I also want to point out the example that each and every one of these guys, their wives, and the entire organization set with their time and efforts off the field. Chase works on behalf of pediatric hospitals. Brad supports our wounded warriors. Cole helps those suffering with HIV/AIDS in Africa. Ryan Howard is a national face for the Boys and Girls Clubs, participates in the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and takes an active role in mentoring inner-city students. And on and on.

And just as the number of African American kids taking up baseball is in severe decline, the impact of having role models like Ryan and Jimmy to look up to just can't be measured. You know, Jimmy likes to say that nothing comes easy in Philly. And that's why I think that so many Americans found themselves rooting for this extraordinary team. As Americans, we know a little something about being underdogs. We know a little something about coming together when times are tough. And like this team, we remember a simple truth, which is that we rise and fall together, and no one individual is bigger than the team.

So, Phillies, congratulations not only for a great season but doing it the right way.

May 14 -- OFFENSIVE!

"What is losing?
Losing is a disease... as contagious as polio.
Losing is a disease... as contagious as syphilis.
Losing is a disease... as contagious as bubonic plague...
attacking one... but infecting all.
But curable."

BY SCOTT LAUBER

OK, so who remembers the scene in "The Natural," when the team shrink comes into the clubhouse and talks to Roy Hobbs and the slumping New York Knights about losing?

Well, Raul Ibanez put his own twist on that philosophy today.

Ibanez has only been with the Phillies for a few months, but he already has raved about the offense, which, generally speaking, had been rolling along until about a week ago. But after today's 5-3 loss to the Dodgers, the numbers have gotten downright ugly. Over the past five games, the Phillies are 27-for-153 (.176) and have scored only 14 runs. Jimmy Rollins is 4-for-25. Shane Victorino is 1-for-27. Chase Utley and Ryan Howard are both 3-for-23.

So, I asked Ibanez how an entire lineup, especially one as potent as the Phillies', can go into a funk at the same time. It was a problem that plagued the Phils last summer when they went into a 10-week, team-wide offensive malaise.

"It's like a yawn," Ibanez said. "One person yawns in a room, and all of a sudden, everyone starts yawning. I'm not smart enough to explain that. I don't know why it happens. But it's a gifted group of hitters. It's inevitable this team will hit."

Losing is a disease ...

***
Charlie Manuel made an interesting -- and, I'm sure, intentional -- observation after the game when he said, "I know what our guys can do. We can talk about it. We talked about how we played last year, and we talked about bringing it every day. We've got to get back in that pattern, and guys have to start getting after it."

A manager doesn't merely drop phrases like "bringing it every day" and "getting after it." I think Manuel has some concerns about the Phillies resting on their laurels early in the season. Keep in mind: They have rallied to win the NL East in each of the past two years. Howard, Jayson Werth and others often have talked about how the Phillies play their best late in the season. But Manuel knows late-season rallies can't be counted on. If you don't play well enough in April and May, September can be a lost cause.

***
On the bright side, Cole Hamels finally is looking more like Cole Hamels.

***
Talk to y'all tomorrow from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Any messages you want me to deliver to President Obama?

May 14 -- LINEUP BACK TO NORMAL

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Charlie Manuel's luck ran out.

After the Phillies scored five runs with a re-jiggered lineup Tuesday night (slumping Jimmy Rollins in the No. 5 spot, Jayson Werth batting third, Shane Victorino leading off), Manuel said he'd likely stick with his "winning lottery ticket" here last night. He did, and the Phillies' offense fell flat, mustering only five hits against Randy Wolf and a few relievers.

So, for today's series finale, Manuel has gone back to his usual lineup:

SS Rollins
CF Victorino
2B Chase Utley
1B Ryan Howard
RF Werth
LF Raul Ibanez
3B Pedro Feliz
C Carlos Ruiz
LHP Cole Hamels

Otherwise, it's a quiet morning here at the Bank. Talked to J.A. Happ, who said he isn't sure how many pitches he'll be able to throw Saturday. Truth is, Happ hasn't even been told he's definitely pitching. I suppose Manuel and Rich Dubee want to be sure they don't have to use Happ today.

More later and after the game.

May 13 -- MOYER'S MISERY (UPDATED)

BY SCOTT LAUBER

In a little while, we will hear from Jamie Moyer, who had another miserable start here tonight. After cruising through three innings, he surrendered five runs in the fourth and two in the fifth, and just like that, his night was done.

Moyer's line: 4.1 IP, 8 H, 7 R/ER, 1 BB, 1 K

This comes only six days after he allowed seven runs on seven hits, walked two and struck out one in only 2-1/3 innings against the Mets. So, in his last two starts, Moyer has allowed 14 runs on 15 hits in only 6-2/3 innings for an 18.90 ERA. In his last three starts, he's 0-2 with a 13.86 ERA. It's his worst three-start stretch since May 6-18, 2005 when, against the Red Sox and Yankees, he allowed 17 earned runs on in only 10 innings for a 18.30 ERA.

Should be interesting to hear from Moyer.

(Updated, 11:58 p.m.): OK, so Charlie Manuel said J.A. Happ will start the second game of Saturday's doubleheader, but don't go thinking he's going to replace Moyer in the rotation. "I don't see how [Moyer] can get right by sitting," Manuel said. "I don't think that can get him right. You can sit him down, but what's that going to do?"

And this is from Moyer: "I'm not making the pitches I'd like to be making. Every mistake I've made has gotten hit hard. That's more or less how I'm feeling. The mistakes I'm making I'm being punished for. It's got to be mistake-free."

That's a tough way to pitch. And after Moyer led the Phillies with 16 wins last season, it's reasonable to wonder if, at his age, he can still be as effective.

"If I start to doubt, then it's time for me to go home," Moyer said. "I've done this over 500 times. So, you know what, I don't really worry about what's behind me."

***
Wasn't able to squeeze this into the paper, but Manuel had this to say today about first-base coach Davey Lopes' influence on the Phillies' running game, specifically Jayson Werth's four-steal game last night that included a steal of home.

"Basically, we run when Davey gives indications or signs or kind of tells guys when to go," Manuel said. "If I don't want them to run, I can stop them. But that's the only [role] I play. When I turned the baserunning over to him, I kind of committed to him. I not only trust him, but I believe he has shown me how good he can be. He's that good. We're very fortunate to thave a guy like that."

May 13 -- ROMERO'S SCHEDULE; LINEUP

BY SCOTT LAUBER

J.C. Romero returned to the Phillies' clubhouse today. Pretty soon, he'll return to the bullpen, too.

Barring any rainouts, Romero's 50-game suspension will end June 3 in San Diego. According to Ruben Amaro Jr., he will begin a minor-league rehab assignment Monday (May 18). He will remain in the minors until his suspension ends, and he'll pitch for either Lehigh Valley, Reading or Lakewood, whichever is home when he needs to pitch.

***
Joe Torre has been asked to be an All-Star coach by Charlie Manuel. Manuel was an All-Star coach for Torre in 2002.

***
Tonight's lineup, same as last night's. Hey, why change what's working?
CF Shane Victorino
2B Chase Utley
RF Jayson Werth
1B Ryan Howard
SS Jimmy Rollins
LF Raul Ibanez
3B Pedro Feliz
C Carlos Ruiz
LHP Jamie Moyer (going for career victory No. 250)

May 13 -- CHAT WRAP

May 12 -- ROLLINS BATTING FIFTH

Martin Frank filling in for Scott Lauber tonight at Citizens Bank Park. After nearly two days of deliberating about what to do with struggling Jimmy Rollins (.195 average, .231 OBP), Charlie Manuel has come up with this lineup for tonight's series-opener against the Dodgers:

CF Shane Victorino
2B Chase Utley
RF Jayson Werth
1B Ryan Howard
SS Jimmy Rollins
LF Raul Ibanez
3B Pedro Feliz
C Carlos Ruiz
RHP Chan Ho Park

Like it? Hate it? What do you think?

May 12 -- TAKING THE STAIRS

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, the day I met Matt Stairs, last Aug. 30 at Wrigley Field, he admitted he tries to hit a home run each time he goes to the plate. I laughed. Nobody tries to hit home runs, I thought. In fact, since I started covering baseball, I've probably heard more hitters say that home runs are "mistakes" and that if you think about hitting a ball out of the park, you'll never actually be able to do it.

Then, about a week later, I was working in the press box at Citizens Bank Park a few hours before a Saturday night game when I saw Stairs take a tee and a fungo bat to home plate. He set a ball on the tee, stood in the batter's box and took a healthy cut, launching the ball into the right-field seats. It was a hilarious sight.

That's when it occurred to me. If Stairs wasn't among the top pinch-hitters in the majors, he would probably be on a slow-pitch softball team somewhere. Seriously. We've all played with a guy like Stairs, a stocky, balding, beer-guzzling, wise-cracking guy with a grip-it-and-rip-it philosophy on hitting. The difference, of course, is that Stairs has belted 256 homers in a 17-year career with 11 teams, production that has made him a fan favorite from Oakland to Toronto to Philadelphia. With the Phillies, he has five homers in only 40 at-bats, including the postseason when he hit arguably the most memorable homer in franchise history, the eighth-inning, two-run blast that landed on the right-field pavilion at Dodger Stadium and won Game 4 of the NLCS.

But, at least in Philly, I think y'all are drawn to Stairs because he comes as close to being one of you as any millionaire baseball player possibly can. And with the Dodgers coming to town, I thought it was an appropriate time to look at the slugger who calls himself an "Average Joe."

"Let's face it," Stairs said Sunday. "I'm not 6-foot-2 and trim. I'm 5-foot-9, and I don't really care."

***
Stairs also had one of the funniest postgame quotes ever after he hit that famous homer against the Dodgers.


***
You're invited to our weekly Phillies live chat Wednesday at noon at www.delawareonline.com. Be there!

***
Thanks to everyone who weighed in yesterday about where struggling Jimmy Rollins should bat in the Phillies' lineup. Personally, I like James' suggestion to put Rollins in the No. 7 spot, at least until he regains his stroke. It's not too late to make your suggestion. Please scroll down or click here and give us your two cents.

***
Also in today's News Journal, Chan Ho Park prepares to face his old team, and reliever Jack Taschner talks about how Manny Ramirez changed the NL West race last season. And, on that note, here's your primer for the Phillies' big three-game series against the Manny-less Dodgers.

DODGERS (22-11) at PHILLIES (15-14)
Tonight, 7:05: LHP Clayton Kershaw (1-2, 4.91) vs. RHP Chan Ho Park (0-1, 6.67)
Tomorrow, 7:05: LHP Randy Wolf (1-1, 2.95) vs. LHP Jamie Moyer (3-2, 7.26)
Thursday, 1:05: RHP Chad Billingsley (5-1, 2.45) vs. LHP Cole Hamels (1-2, 6.17)
Hot: Dodgers 2B Orlando Hudson has hit safely in 11 of his last 12 games, going 16-for-47 (.340); Dodgers C Russell Martin has reached base in 14 of his last 19 plate appearances, going 8-for-13 (.615) with six walks; Phillies RF Jayson Werth is 9-for-21 (.429) with four homers and 10 RBIs in his last seven games; 3B Pedro Feliz is 16-for-46 (.348) after an 0-for-15 skid.
Not: Dodgers RF Andre Ethier is 2-for-22 (.091) in his last five games, dropping his average to .286 from .327; Dodgers 1B James Loney has gone eight straight games without an extra-base hit; Phillies SS Jimmy Rollins is in a 1-for-18 slump that has lowered his average to .195; Phillies CF Shane Victorino is 0-for-13 in the last three games after a career-high 16-game hitting streak.

May 11 -- WHAT TO DO ABOUT J-ROLL

BY SCOTT LAUBER

A few days ago, when the Phillies were in New York, I caught up with Jimmy Rollins, who had begun to swing the bat a little better. Actually, he was swinging it a lot better. During an eight-game stretch, from April 27 to May 6, J-Roll batted .306 (11-for-36) with a .342 on-base percentage, not a torrid streak but certainly an improvement over his woeful .162 average and .207 on-base percentage in his first 16 games. Nobody seemed to notice, though, because we were all focused on the Phillies' starting pitching problems.

Anyway, Rollins admitted that he struggled with a World Baseball Classic hangover. After playing high-energy games for three weeks with Team USA (and batting a team-leading .417), he said he returned to spring training and felt lethargic. "It was a big thing to go there," said Rollins, sitting at his locker at Citi Field. "You were focused right away. Everything counted. It was the importance of it all, and it helps playing in a team like that. You're playing with some of the best players in baseball. But when we got back, even with Shane [Victorino], the first couple games were like, what am I doing? It was rough. Your skills and effort don't change. It was just hard to get up."

And while that feeling may have carried into April, Rollins assured that things were back to normal. He said he felt "refreshed," like he had gotten "the air back in that balloon." Likewise, he said he'd found his swing. "My body is remembering what it's supposed to do now," Rollins said. "I'm putting myself in position to hit and hit the ball strong."

Well, not quite.

Rollins went 1-for-5 that night in New York and 1-for-5 again the following night against the Braves. He went 0-for-4 on Saturday and 0-for-5 yesterday, dropping his average back to .195 and his on-base percentage to .231. As colleague Martin Frank wrote in today's News Journal, those are hardly the numbers expected from a leadoff hitter. (Rollins also zoomed past reporters -- he hasn't moved that quickly all year -- and declined to answer questions, not the behavior you'd expect from a team leader. But that's a subject for another day.)

So, the question was raised yesterday to Charlie Manuel: How much longer can an unproductive J-Roll possibly bat in the leadoff spot?

"You tell me where he can go," Manuel said. "Believe me, I go over that every night. Tell me where we've got a leadoff hitter who can go up there and have an on-base percentage and everything."

And that's the problem. The only other leadoff option, Shane Victorino -- suddenly in a rut, by the way, going 0-for-13 after singling in his last at-bat Thursday night to extend his career-high hitting streak to 16 games -- is not a good situational hitter. Witness the ninth inning yesterday when he swung at the first pitch from Rafael Soriano and made the game's final out (Rollins swung at a first pitch, too). But even if Manuel put Victorino in the leadoff spot, where would Rollins bat? The Phillies' lineup is stacked with lefties, and Manuel is in love with Chase Utley in the No. 3 spot and Ryan Howard in the cleanup spot. So, if Rollins moves down in the lineup, Jayson Werth likely would have to go to the No. 2 spot, leaving three straight lefties (Utley, Howard, Raul Ibanez) in the middle of the lineup. That doesn't work either, for reasons detailed (again) within the notebook. To me, if Rollins moved, Utley and possibly Howard would have to move, too.

Spent some time thinking about this yesterday. To achieve a balanced lineup and move Rollins, it seems this is one of the only solutions, and I'm not sure this is much better:

1. Victorino
2. Utley
3. Werth
4. Howard
5. Feliz
6. Ibanez
7. Rollins
8. Ruiz

So, I'd like to hear from you. How would you structure the lineup? Would you leave Rollins in the leadoff spot and hope he turns things around, or would you shuffle the deck? If so, how?

***
A few programming notes: Please don't forget to join our weekly live Phillies chat Wednesday at noon at www.delawareonline.com. Also, please don't forget to follow Philled in on Twitter and Facebook.

May 10 -- GAME 29 WRAP: MISSING ROMERO

BY SCOTT LAUBER

If you'd like, you can pin today's 4-2 loss in the series finale against the Braves on Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino, and surely, they deserve it. Rollins went 0-for-5, Victorino went 0-for-4, and in the ninth inning, they made the final two outs by swinging at first pitches from Braves closer-for-the-day Rafael Soriano.

That's no way for table-setting, top-of-the-lineup hitters to behave.

But I'm choosing to focus on a different aspect of the game because, as I saw it, the Phillies had the Braves right where they wanted them in the seventh inning. They had just taken a one-run lead on Matt Stairs' RBI double, and with Brett Myers' pitch count having reached 92, Charlie Manuel was poised to turn to his bullpen.

One problem: He couldn't call on J.C. Romero.

After the game, Manuel admitted this would've been an ideal situation for Romero. But, as you know, the high-strung lefty is still serving a 50-game suspension for violating MLB's drug policy. So, instead, Manuel brought in lefty Jack Taschner, who had good numbers against most of the Braves' hitters (Chipper Jones, for instance, was 0-for-7 with four strikeouts against him). Taschner gave up two fairly soft singles to Yunel Escobar and Garret Anderson before issuing a two-out walk to Brian McCann. That walk proved to be a killer because Casey Kotchman, previously 0-for-3 against Taschner, stroked a single up the middle, scoring Escobar and Anderson to give the Braves a 3-2 lead.

"I'm the one to blame for this one," Taschner said later.

Somewhere, thought, Romero must've felt responsible, too.

"Jack has pitched well for us this year, but there's no question you're going to take a hit when you lose J.C. because he's such a great pitcher in these situations," Brad Lidge told me. "You don't remember him giving up a lot of anything. He carves up lefties. Scott and Jack have done a pretty good job, all things considered. But we do miss J.C."

Much more on this -- and Martin Frank's can't-miss column on Rollins -- in tomorrow's News Journal.

May 10 -- AS THE ROTATION TURNS

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Quick turnaround today with a 12:35 p.m. first pitch for the rubber game against the Braves, so we'll make this quick: The Phillies lost yesterday, and while the offense was a big reason (four hits against Javier Vazquez), Joe Blanton once again failed to provide them with a quality start and gave up two more homers. So, for those of you who have lost track, here's a look at the eyesore numbers of the Phillies' starters through 28 games:

Cole Hamels: 1-2, 6.17 ERA, 5 HR
Brett Myers: 2-2, 5.35 ERA, 10 HR
Jamie Moyer: 3-2, 7.26 ERA, 10 HR
Joe Blanton: 1-3, 6.82 ERA, 8 HR
Chan Ho Park: 0-1, 6.67 ERA, 5 HR

Blanton thought he pitched far better than his line yesterday. He also said the Phillies starters aren't overly concerned about their worst-in-the-majors 6.47 ERA. "I don't think anybody's worried," Blanton said. "I think you can ask all four other guys. I wouldn't say we don't care, but we know it's a long season. We know what we can do. What was it, my sixth start? That's not very many. There' a lot more."

Myers will go to the mound today. We examined his struggles a few days ago. It'll be interesting to monitor his velocity, but, of course, the big thing for Myers will be keeping the ball in the park.

***
Happy Mother's Day to every mom out there, especially mine in New Jersey.

May 9 -- CASE CLOSED

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Brad Lidge hasn't pitched in a save situation since April 25, which is a good thing because it has allowed him to fix his flawed mechanics and sharpen his command without having to worry about blowing a lead. But it's also a bad thing because, without a game on the line, he has lacked his usual focus.

That's how Lidge explained what happened last night.

In the ninth inning, he gave up a leadoff walk and a double before Casey Kotchman belted a three-run homer to slice a 10-3 lead to 10-6. But he retired the next three batters, two by strikeout.

"I went in and threw nine fastballs, and on the ninth one, [Kotchman] hit it out," Lidge said earlier today. "I didn't have my location, but sometimes, when you have a big lead, you think, 'Just throw fastballs.' With me, I get a lot more strikes with my slider. So, after that, we started throwing sliders and the inning went well."

But it hasn't been one isolated game, either. Lidge already has allowed 11 runs in only 12 appearances (11-2/3 innings) for an 8.49 ERA. He yielded only 15 runs all of last season and didn't give up his 11th run until July 25. He also has surrendered five homers after allowing only two a year ago when he finished 48-for-48 in save opportunities, including the postseason.

The good news: Lidge said his balky right knee is feeling fine after resting it for six days late last month. He believes his slider is sharp, and when his fastball command improves, he said he will be at full strength.

Meanwhile, he will try to trick his mind into thinking every situation is a save situation.

"Being two weeks since my last save opportunity, I've almost got to tell myself, 'It's a one-run lead. Pitch like it,'" Lidge said. "Obviously, I haven't thrown the ball well. It's embarrassing, to be honest, to give up this many home runs. That being said, I feel fine. I'm encouraged.

"The good thing is that I've been able to work on what I've needed to work on since I've hurt my knee, and I've had the luxury of pitching in some games where I haven't had ties or one-run leads. So, that's what I'm taking out of it. I feel pretty good with where I am right now."

May 8 -- VISITING THE OBAMAS

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Finally back home after a four-game road trip that felt like 40 games. Made a stop in New Jersey this evening to celebrate Mother's Day, so colleague Geoff Mosher took care of things at the Bank. Meanwhile, I'm here to pass along news that the Phillies' visit to the White House has been rescheduled for next Friday. They'll hang with President Barack Obama from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. before heading over to Nationals Park for a 7 p.m. game. Details are forthcoming, but I'm sure the Phils will get a peek at the Oval Office, the Rose Garden, maybe even the Lincoln Bedroom. And hey, if they're so inclined, perhaps they can check out the Obamas china, too.

Should be an interesting visit. A few weeks ago, I wrote about the close friendship between Obama and Phillies broadcaster Gary "Sarge" Matthews. They met several years ago in Chicago when their daughters enrolled in the same dance class. Obama is a big baseball fan, so he bonded with Sarge immediately. As many of you know, I co-wrote a book with Sarge that was released in February (check it out here), and when I asked if he'd given a copy to Obama, he said he's not sure the Prez would read a baseball book that isn't about his beloved White Sox. Personally, I just think it would be cool to have my book on a shelf somewhere in the White House.

***
So, the other day in St. Louis, Cole Hamels boldly tempted fate. Talking about the line drive off his left shoulder and sprained left ankle that derailed him in his last two starts, he said, "I'd rather have these sort of freak injuries than take one off the face or blow your arm out or your knee out and be on the DL for about 60 days."

Well, Hamels survived his start tonight.

If you missed it, Hamels allowed two runs on three hits and two walks in six innings against the Braves at the Bank. He struck out seven, retired the first 11 batters he faced, and most importantly, didn't incur any bodily harm. That's the best news the Phillies' rotation could possibly receive. If Hamels can pitch like the ace he is, perhaps it will set a tone for the rest of the starters to follow.

Please make sure to check Saturday's News Journal for full details on Hamels' start. And don't forget to check out Philled In on Twitter and Facebook.

May 7 -- MANUEL "SAD" FOR MANNY

BY SCOTT LAUBER

NEW YORK -- Charlie Manuel was Manny Ramirez's hitting coach for six seasons and his manager in 2000 with the Indians. He thinks Ramirez is one of the greatest hitters in baseball history. So, he wasn't sure how to react Wednesday upon hearing the news today that Ramirez failed a drug test and received a 50-game suspension from Major League Baseball.

"When he was young, I definitely don't think he was on steroids," Manuel said. "But there again, I don't know. I'm kind of sad for him. He's a good player. When I had him as a player, I used to work with him. I know how good he was. I know his talent. I know he's a good player."

But Manuel also knows that players have to be responsible for what they put in their body.

"Major League Baseball, in those [spring-training] meetings that we have, I think they're pretty specific," he said. "I think if you don't know the rules, you better have somebody explain them to you. The material they send out and the meetings they have, they warn you and tell you what you can do and what you can't do. You're supposed to follow those rules."

Ramirez will be suspended for all seven games between the Phillies and Dodgers, including next week's three-game series at Citizens Bank Park.

More on Manny in tomorrow's News Journal.

May 7 -- REMEMBERING DANNY OZARK

BY SCOTT LAUBER

From the Phillies ...

Bill Giles: "Danny was a great human being. He was first class and a fine gentleman who really cared deeply about his players and his friends. His patience with some of the Phillies young players in 1973-75, particularly with Mike Schmidt, really paid off as the Phillies got to the postseason in 1976, 1977, and 1978 and eventually won the World Series in 1980 after he left. I do believe Danny had a big impact in Schmidt's career by staying with Mike during his struggling rookie season."

David Montgomery: "He not only was a solid baseball man but a truly fine gentleman. The contributions Danny made as a manager in the 1970s are immeasurable. He taught the players how to play baseball. The entire Phillies family sends its deepest sympathy to the Ozark family. We have lost a very dear friend, someone who loved the Phillies."

Ruly Carpenter: "Our family is deeply saddened by the news that Danny passed away. Danny was more than a baseball manager, he was a genuine human being. We would not have had the success in the '70s if it wasn't for him. He taught those guys how to play the game."

Mike Schmidt: "I was saddened by the news of Danny's passing. He was a good friend, my first major league manager, played a major role in early years my career, and was instrumental in building us into prominence in the mid-1970's. He brought a wealth of baseball experience from his years with the Dodgers to Philadelphia and we were fortunate to have him as our leader throughout that time. My wife and I extend our deepest sympathy to Ginny and the Ozark family."

Bob Boone: "Danny was the guy that took us from last to first. He was the perfect manager for the Phillies in the 70's. He had the patience of Job and helped all of us grow up as men and players. He was a wonderful man. He will be missed but his legacy will live on."

Greg Luzinksi: "It is sad to see another fraternity brother from baseball pass. He brought and taught us a lot of good baseball in the 70’s. He ended up being the calm before the storm. Our condolences to Ginny and the entire Ozark family."

Chris Wheeler: "He was the perfect manager for that team of evolving stars in the 70's and he never seemed to let anything bother him. When he was replaced by Dallas Green in 1979, he handled his dismissal with dignity and went home to play golf and spend the rest of his years with Ginny. He was a friend and will be missed."

May 7 -- WHAT'S WRONG WITH MYERS?

BY SCOTT LAUBER

NEW YORK -- In the past 48 hours, I've been to three airports, ridden two subways and taken three cab rides. I feel like Steve Martin (without the wacky sidekick) in "Planes, Trains and Automobiles." But each time I've slowed down and checked my e-mail, I've received queries from many of you who are wondering the same thing.

What's wrong with Brett Myers?

So, before yesterday's game, I asked Rich Dubee. His answers, buried within the notebook in today's News Journal, are simple. Location, location, location. Dubee isn't worried about Myers' possible dip in velocity. Everyone agrees that Myers wasn't throwing 93 mph Tuesday night in St. Louis. But everyone also agrees that the radar gun at Busch Stadium is notoriously screwy. So, nobody is quite sure how hard/soft Myers' fastball really was. Clearly, though, Myers is making too many mistakes in the middle of the plate, and they're getting hit for home runs. But here's a little stat I dug up that should be cause for concern:

Myers' first six starts last year: 2-2, 5.11 ERA
Myers' first six starts this year: 2-2, 5.35 ERA

And we all know how things went last year for Myers. Things got so bad that, by July, he was in the minors. Dubee told me he's not nearly as worried about Myers this year, primarily because he thinks Myers has a better understanding of what's wrong.

"If he's not throwing 93, he has to be better with his location," Dubee said. "He's making mistakes in the middle of the plate, and they've been getting hit."

Simple as that.

May 7 -- GAME 25 WRAP: DON'T MESS WITH THE JOHAN

BY SCOTT LAUBER

NEW YORK -- So, as Jimmy Rollins walked through the clubhouse after last night's game, he spotted a few Phillies beat writers among a group of reporters from New York.

"Was that game as fun to watch as it was to play?" J-Roll said with a smile.

Personally, I love games like last night's. Home runs are great, but there's nothing like an old-fashioned pitchers' duel. Chan Ho Park was superb, for a change. Johan Santana was awesome, as usual. Between them, they allowed three hits, and if the game hadn't been decided by an unfortunate throwing error by Pedro Feliz, it would've been an instant classic. Chad Durbin probably summed it up best when he said, "[Park] threw the ball so well. It's something to build on for him. In a 1-0 game, he gave Santana a run for his money."

Here, then, are a few random thoughts, some of which made it into today's News Journal and others that didn't.

1. It occurred to me that Park has been at his best when his spot in the rotation hasn't been assured. He had to win the fifth-starter spot in spring training, and he was excellent. Then, after four largely dismal starts, I think Park knew he needed to pitch well last night to guarantee he'd get another start. Lo and behold, look what happened. Earlier this week, Park talked about lacking "focus" during his start against the Mets last Friday night. He had plenty of focus here last night. Asked after the game if he ever thought his rotation spot was in jeopardy, Park said flatly, "No." I'll take him at his word, but it sure seems like he "focuses" more when he has something to prove.

2. If there's a better pitcher in the National League than Santana, I haven't seen him. Cole Hamels has a great changeup, and when he's on, a good fastball. But Santana's slider is probably better than Hamels' curveball. Add that to Santana's wicked changeup and nasty fastball, and he can be virtually unhittable. "That's probably the best I've seen him," said Jayson Werth, who struck out three times last night.

3. Pedro Feliz bolted from the clubhouse without talking to reporters last night, so we may never know what he was thinking when he charged and barehanded Fernando Tatis' broken-bat roller and threw it wide of first base. It was an uncharacteristic miscue by Feliz, one of the NL's best defensive third basemen. Come to think of it, you won't see the Phillies lose many games because of defense. Entering last night, they had the best overall fielding percentage (.994) in the NL.

4. Citi Field is underwhelming. Perhaps my expectations were too high, but to me, there's nothing particularly special about it, at least not these days, when new ballparks are cropping up every year. I'm impressed by the selection of food. I like the look of the Jackie Robinson rotunda. But with the tall scoreboards in center field and right-center and the towering third deck in left field, it almost feels like the ballpark is enclosed. Of course, it's a tremendous upgrade over Shea Stadium, which has been reduced to rubble (sniff, sniff).

5. Just when I thought I'd heard everything about last year's World Series run, Charlie Manuel told an interesting story yesterday. After the Phillies lost Game 2 in Tampa, Manuel said he had a team meeting. Evidently, he believed some players were more concerned with talking to the large numbers of reporters and cameras at the World Series than with preparing for the games. "I had a meeting about people looking for attention in different areas and wanting to get interviewed after the game and standing around," Manuel said. "We forgot what our purpose was for being there. So, I had a meeting. That was probably one of the best meetings I ever had, if you want to know the truth. We worked all year to get there, and it was about our team. It was not about one individual. When I walk about the clubhouse and I see people looking for attention, looking for the media, interviews on TV, I got pissed off. It wasn't what got us there. That wasn't what we were about."

May 6 -- RETHINKING PARK'S PLACE

BY SCOTT LAUBER

NEW YORK -- From the moment he signed with the Phillies in December, Chan Ho Park made his intentions crystal clear.

He wanted to be a starting pitcher.

And Park wasn't shy about his motivation either. You see, Park was the first South Korean to play in the majors, and when he was winning games and pitching well for the Dodgers from 1997 through 2001, his success was a great source of pride in his country. Fans would wake up in the middle of the night to watch him pitch on live television. He was a national hero. But over the past few years, with Park struggling to stay in the majors and then pitching in the Dodgers' bullpen last season, it has been harder for Koreans to follow him. Believing he can still be an effective starter, Park was determined to win the final spot in the Phillies' rotation, and during spring training, he edged out J.A. Happ.

So, after four largely dreadful performances, the significance of tonight's game isn't lost on Park. If he pitches well against the Mets, he'll earn himself another start. If he doesn't, it's entirely possible that Charlie Manuel and Rich Dubee will decide to go with Happ when Park's spot in the rotation comes around again. Neither Manuel nor Dubee will stay that publicly, but they've dropped not-so-subtle hints that their patience with Park is wearing thin.

"There comes a time when he has to pitch better, and there also comes a time when we have to evaluate our pitching and determine where we go from there," Manuel said yesterday. "I'm not saying it's a life-or-death thing, but I think it's important for him to start pitching better than he has been."

From the start, my perception of this situation was that Manuel and Dubee preferred Park in the bullpen as a multi-inning reliever who could help bridge the gap to Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge and take some burden off Chad Durbin and Clay Condrey. But Ruben Amaro Jr. promised Park the chance to compete for the No. 5 starter job, and wouldn't you know it, Park won it. The Phillies couldn't exactly go back on that promise.

Things are different now, though. Park admittedly is pitching without much confidence. He has lost his aggressiveness. He isn't throwing inside, and when he leaves the ball over the plate, hitters are teeing off. Last Friday, he gave up seven runs on eight hits and six walks against the Mets. He has permitted 39 base runners (28 hits, 11 walks) in 21 innings and has a woeful 8.75 ERA. Happ, meanwhile, has pitched well in a long relief role that he viewed as a disappointing consolation prize for not being named the No. 5 starter. He has started throughout his minor-league career and pitched well in two September starts against the Braves last season.

So, clearly, Park needs to pitch well tonight, for the Phillies and for himself.

"I've got to be confident," Park told me the other day in St. Louis. "When you have confidence, you trust yourself and don't give hitters too much credit. That's the kind of thing that's going to make you pitch positive. You have to be positive and be aggressive."

Think he can do it?

May 6 -- CHAT WRAP

May 6 -- GAME 24 WRAP: VICTORINO HOT, MYERS NOT

BY SCOTT LAUBER

ST. LOUIS -- Good morning, all. We're sitting at Gate A15 in Lambert International Airport, still several hours before sunrise, awaiting the boarding of a US Airways flight to Pittsburgh, where we'll hop a connecting flight to New York.

Ah, the joys of travel.

Anyway, here at the mobile office of Philled In, I'm still thinking about the game that was played here just a few hours ago, a 10-7 Phillies win that completed an impressive (albeit brief) two-game sweep of the Cardinals. I say it's impressive because of how well the Cardinals had been playing. When the Phillies blew into Baseball Heaven on Monday, Albert Pujols and Co. were 17-8 and had the best record in the National League. But, thanks mostly to their offense, the Phils cooled off the Cards and moved into first place, a half-game ahead of the up-and-down Marlins. It would've been easy, I think, for the Phillies to overlook this series in St. Louis. It was sandwiched between two series against their big rival from the Big Apple, and we know how (over-)hyped those Phillies-Mets battles can be. For Ryan Howard, though, games in St. Louis trump anything else. He grew up here, and he had another superb series in his old stomping grounds, smackinga grand slam Monday night before reaching base three times again last night.

That said, Howard is hardly the hottest Phillies hitter. That would be Shane Victorino, who went 4-for-4 last night, extending his hitting streak to 14 games and hiking his average to .311. Victorino, suddenly superstitious, doesn't want to jinx himself by discussing the hitting streak, especially with the prospect of having to keep it alive tonight against Johan Santana. But Charlie Manuel hasn't been shy about heaping praise upon his sparkplug center fielder. "Victorino is a high-talent player," Manuel said. "He gets into a streak, and he hits as good as anybody in the game. He's an electrifying player."

It's not all positive in Manuel's universe, though. He has some concern, though not much, over Chase Utley's bruised right foot, which is detailed within the notebook in today's News Journal. I'm not a gambling man, but if I had to wager, I'd say Utley will be in the lineup tonight against The Johan. Of far greater concern to the Phillies is their starting pitching. After Joe Blanton gave them a rare quality start Monday night, Brett Myers nearly coughed up a pair of four-run leads last night and gave up two more homers, bringing his majors-leading total to 10 in only 37 innings. Manuel noted that Myers' velocity was down last night, topping out at about 88 mph on the Busch Stadium radar gun. Myers countered by saying the radar gun was inaccurate (it may well have been, according to people who watch games here all the time). He also said he felt ill during the fifth and sixth innings. Nevertheless, considering Myers' first-half struggles last year landed him in the minors for three weeks in July, there has to be some concern over his 5.35 ERA through five starts.

So, Brett, what gives?

"I'm just trying to get to the point where I can repeat my pitches," Myers said after the game. "Right now, I'm making three good ones, and then I make three bad ones."

That's true of all the starters. The Phillies are 14-10 despite a rotation that has a major-league-worst 6.54 ERA. That's fairly amazing, and of course, it can't last. Cole Hamels is set to return to the mound Friday night against the Braves, so that should help, but I'll ask you this: What's your level of concern about the pitching? Are you comforted by the strong track records of Myers, Jamie Moyer, Blanton and Hamels? Or are you writing letters to Ruben Amaro Jr., telling him to make some upgrades?

***
With any luck, I'll be in New York by 11:30 a.m., ready and able to host our weekly live Phillies chat at delawareonline.com at noon. So, please stop by and join me. Also, I'll throw together a post on Chan Ho Park's big start tonight and my impressions of Citi Field (a.k.a., the New Shea) once I get there.

***
In case you're wondering, here's how Phillies hitters have fared in their careers against Santana:
Ryan Howard: .429, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 14 AB
Carlos Ruiz: .429, 7 AB
Raul Ibanez: .353, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 34 AB
Jayson Werth: .313, 1 HR, 2 RBI, 16 AB
Matt Stairs: .267, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 15 AB
Miguel Cairo: .250, 12 AB
Eric Bruntlett: .250, 4 AB
Chase Utley: .167, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 18 AB
Pedro Feliz: .158, 1 RBI, 19 AB
Shane Victorino: .083, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 12 AB
Jimmy Rollins: .059, 17 AB
Chris Coste: .000, 8 AB

***
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May 5 -- HAMELS OK; UTLEY NOT OK

BY SCOTT LAUBER

ST. LOUIS -- So, Cole Hamels will start Friday night against the Braves at the Bank. But Chase Utley won't start tonight here against the Cardinals.

First, the news on Hamels: He threw about 55 pitches in the bullpen today and felt fine. Then, he did several fielding drills, simulating fielding bunts, covering first base, etc., and felt fine. So, Hamels will make his next start. Talked with him a few minutes ago, and he said he will tape his sprained left ankle Friday night. But he also said he isn't concerned enough that his ankle will take away from his focus.

"I'm very happy with the way that I feel," Hamels said. "This bullpen felt a lot better than the last one [Saturday]. I'm comfortable on the mound again. I'm not really thinking of the injury. Running, doing the cuts, I didn't think about it. The tape around the ankle, it just secures all the movements so that I won't hurt it any other way or put it in a bad tweak situation."

Now, the news on Utley: He was hit on the right foot in the first inning last Friday night by Mets starter Mike Pelfrey. The bruised swelled up, and he didn't play last Saturday. He returned to the lineup last night and went 1-for-2 in the Phillies' 6-1 victory. But Charlie Manuel decided to hold him out of the lineup today when the bruise flared again.

Manuel said Utley may play tomorrow night in New York, but his status won't be determined until he gets to the ballpark. Utley hasn't undergone an MRI or any other diagnostic tests, and Ruben Amaro Jr. said the Phillies will administer those tests only if the injury worsens.

More on both Hamels and Utley in tomorrow's News Journal. Meanwhile, here's the lineup for tonight against RHP Adam Wainwright:

SS Jimmy Rollins
CF Shane Victorino
LF Raul Ibanez
1B Ryan Howard
RF Jayson Werth
3B Pedro Feliz
2B Miguel Cairo
C Carlos Ruiz
RHP Brett Myers

May 5 -- GAME 23 WRAP: NO AVERAGE JOE

BY SCOTT LAUBER

ST. LOUIS -- So, if you hadn't already noticed, Ryan Howard is kind of a big deal around here.

Howard grew up in St. Louis back in the days when Ozzie Smith and Whitey Herzog were synonymous with the Cardinals, and he often talks about going to games at old Busch Stadium with his dad and his brothers. Howard's family still lives here, and in the offseason, he does, too. A few years ago, before he signed his three-year, $54 million contract extension, Howard built a home in a nearby suburb. And, clearly, he enjoys playing in The Loo. In 16 career games at new Busch, he's batting .383 (23-for-60) with seven home runs and 28 RBIs.

Those numbers include his grand slam against Kyle Lohse in last night's 6-1 victory. With that homer, Howard tied Mike Schmidt's franchise record of seven career grand slams. The difference: It took Schmidty 8,352 at-bats to hit seven slams. Howard has done it in only 2,164. Because of that -- and Howard's fairly candid pregame comments about wanting to be known as an all-around player (just like Albert Pujols) -- I focused the game story in today's News Journal around Big No. 6.

But I could've just as easily written about Joe Blanton.

Finally, in his fifth start of the season, Blanton (AP photo) gave the Phillies exactly what they've been craving: A quality start. Entering last night's game, the Phillies' starters had combined for a 6.71 ERA, worst in the majors. But Blanton allowed only one run and four hits in six innings. He worked out of jams -- a two-on, two-out situation in the fifth; a bases-loaded, one-out mess in the sixth -- against a strong Cards lineup (Pujols, Chris Duncan, Ryan Ludwick and Rick Ankiel are a formidable 3-4-5-6). And for those who like their irony, Blanton, last year's big trade-deadline acquisition, defeated Lohse, the Phillies' top midseason pitching addition in 2007. If the Phillies had been able to re-sign Lohse before last season, they may have never traded for Blanton, who, you may recall, pitched pretty well in the postseason. Anyway, after the game, Blanton said a minor mechanical adjustment helped him throw a more effective sinker. Mostly, though, he said the Phillies' starters have confidence that things are going to get better.

"We know we can pitch," Blanton said. "We know what we did at the end of last season, and we know we can do that again. It's just a matter of us putting a few good runs together. We're not going to go through the season with 7.00 or 9.00 or 12.00 ERAs."

You'll find more from Blanton, along with a few quotes from struggling Chan Ho Park and a few details on Ankiel's frightening headfirst crash into the outfield wall, in the Phillies' notebook in today's paper. And I'll try to get you a longer, more detailed, post about Park later today or tomorrow, certainly before he faces the Mets tomorrow night at Citi Field.

***
On tap for today: Cole Hamels will throw a bullpen session, and if he believes his sprained left ankle has healed enough for him to field his position, he'll start Friday night against the Braves at the Bank. Check back here later today to get the latest on Hamels.

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Programming note: Please join me at noon tomorrow for our weekly Phillies chat at www.delawareonline.com. I'll be live from La Guardia Airport in New York. (My flight is scheduled to land at 11:30 a.m., so if I'm late, blame US Airways!) We've gotten some great questions over the past few weeks, so please join the discussion.

Also, don't forget that Philled In is now on Twitter and Facebook.

***
Oh, almost forgot: Happy Cinco de Mayo, everyone!

More in a bit from Busch.

May 4 -- MAKE YOUR PITCH

BY SCOTT LAUBER

ST. LOUIS -- Good afternoon, and welcome to St. Louis. We're a few blocks from the famous Gateway Arch and the new Busch Stadium, where the Phillies will open a brief two-game series tonight against the red-hot Cardinals (more on them in a moment). Couple of bits of St. Louis trivia: Did you know that Harry Kalas' voice can be heard on the self-guided tour of the Arch? Also, did you know the Anheiser-Busch brewery is here, and at the end of the brewery tour, you can consume two free adult beverages? It's been several years since I took the tour, although whenever I come to town, it's tempting.

But you came here to talk baseball, right? So, since we're an hour behind y'all on the East Coast, I'll leave you with this topic to discuss while you wait for the Phillies -- and your humble scribe at Philled In -- to arrive at Busch Stadium in a few hours:

Charlie Manuel loves offense, but he understands that it was pitching, namely the work of the starting rotation, that won the World Series for the Phillies last year. And this season, the pitching, namely the work of the starting rotation, has been horrendous, as colleague Martin Frank wrote in today's News Journal. The Phillies' starters have the worst collective ERA of any rotation in the majors (6.71). It's nearly a full run worse than the next-worst team, the Red Sox (5.75). Think about that for a minute: The Phillies' starting rotation has given up nearly a full run more per game than any team in the American League, where there's a designated hitter. That's amazing.

So, I'll ask you this: How much confidence do you have in the Phillies' starting rotation?

Obviously, it'll help to have Cole Hamels on the mound for a full start, and the Phillies are hoping Hamels' sprained left ankle will allow him to pitch Friday night at home against the Braves. But what about the other starters? What about Brett Myers (1-2, 4.83) and Jamie Moyer (3-1, 5.65) and tonight's starter, Joe Blanton (0-2, 8.41)? What's your confidence-level in those guys being able to bounce back from shaky starts? And what should the Phillies do about the No. 5 starter? Should they stick with Chan Ho Park (0-1, 8.75) and hope he can recover his spring-training form, or should they turn to J.A. Happ or even Kyle Kendrick, Carlos Carrasco, Rodrigo Lopez or Drew Carpenter at triple-A Lehigh Valley?

OK, you have the floor. Go ahead, discuss. I'll be back in a bit from Busch Stadium.

May 3 -- RAINOUT PUSHES HAMELS TO FRIDAY

BY SCOTT LAUBER

Cole Hamels won't have to pitch until Friday.

For that, Hamels and the Phillies can thank Mother Nature. Today's game, a series finale against the New York Mets at Citizens Bank Park, has been rained out. No makeup date has been scheduled.

Anyway, the Phillies would've needed Hamels (or someone else) to pitch Tuesday in St. Louis. Hamels threw well in the bullpen yesterday, but he felt soreness in his sprained left ankle. And because the Phillies had concerns about whether he'd be able to field his position, they hadn't decided if he'd be ready to pitch by Tuesday.

Of course, that's moot now.

Anyway, here's the rotation, according to pitching coach Rich Dubee:

Monday at St. Louis: Joe Blanton
Tuesday at St. Louis: Brett Myers
Wednesday at New York: Chan Ho Park
Thursday at New York: Jamie Moyer
Friday at Philadelphia: Hamels

Hamels will throw a bullpen session Tuesday in St. Louis, Dubee said. After that, the Phillies will have a better idea of whether he'll be ready to pitch Friday. Of course, the rainout today helps.

May 2 -- AMARO: HAMELS "VERY POSSIBLY" WILL MISS START

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, Cole Hamels threw a bullpen session today, and it was your classic good-news/bad-news scenario.

First, the good news: Ruben Amaro Jr. said Hamels felt some mild -- but expected -- soreness in his sprained left ankle when he dragged his foot in his follow-through. Otherwise, he threw well, Amaro said.

Now, the bad news: Hamels likely won't be ready to pitch by Tuesday night.

"He could probably pitch if he stood on the mound and didn't do anything but pitch, but that's not how it works," Amaro said. "We've got to see him do some other things, coming off the mound, fielding and doing some other things. We don't want to put him in a position where he could reinjure it by fielding or other things."

If the Phillies don't have to use J.A. Happ in relief over the next two games, it's possible he could start Tuesday night in Hamels' place. But if Happ has to pitch out of the bullpen, Amaro said it's possible the Phillies could call up a pitcher from triple-A Lehigh Valley.

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Also, Charlie Manuel said Chan Ho Park "most likely" will make his next start, scheduled for Wednesday night against the Mets at Citi Field. Would that be different if Happ wasn't going to be needed Tuesday night? Perhaps, although, at this point, I just don't think the Phillies are ready to pull the plug on Park.

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Day off for Chase Utley, who has a bruised foot after being hit a pitch last night. The Phillies are saying it's nothing serious. Sans Utley, Manuel got creative with the lineup against Mets lefty Oliver Perez. Here goes:

CF Shane Victorino
LF Raul Ibanez
RF Jayson Werth
1B Ryan Howard
SS Jimmy Rollins
3B Pedro Feliz
2B Eric Bruntlett
C Carlos Ruiz
LHP Jamie Moyer

And, as you can tell from that lineup, Ruiz has been activated from the disabled list. Lou Marson is on his way back to Lehigh Valley. He should be hitting the Pennsylvania Turnpike right about now, in fact.

More in a bit.

May 1 -- MADSON: PHILS AND METS = 'OIL AND WATER'

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, Ryan Madson was sitting in the bullpen the other night when he told his fellow relievers how much he is looking forward to this weekend. There is just something about when the Phillies and Mets get together, he said, that brings out the best in him. Madson mentioned the same thing to me before batting practice Wednesday, so I figured I would ask him a little about the ever-growing rivalry in the NL East, which, I'd argue, has been baseball's most entertaining rivalry since 2007. That was when he made the following observation, one that I think reveals a lot about why the Phils have gotten the better of the Mets over the past two years:

"Some of the guys on their team just wouldn't fit in our clubhouse, and some of the guys here just wouldn't fit with their guys," Madson said. "That's just how it is."

I asked him to elaborate.

"It's one of those things where it's like two totally different mentalities, two different attitudes, everything," he said. "We just don't believe in the same things. Our two teams, it's like oil and water."

Madson didn't come right out and say it, but the implication was clear. There is just something about the makeup of this Phillies team -- call it "heart," call it "mental toughness," call it whatever you want -- that the Mets simply don't seem to have. It's the ingredient that has allowed the Phillies to go 5-6 when trailing after six innings this season, while the Mets are 1-10. It's the intangible that explains why the Phillies are 34-19 over the past two Septembers, while the Mets are 27-26. It's the hard-to-quantify characteristic that's most responsible for the Phillies winning back-to-back division titles and the Mets being playoff outsiders since 2006.

Ever since January 2007, when Jimmy Rollins pronounced the Phils -- not the defending NL East-champion Mets -- were the "team to beat," the Phillies have played with a cool poise that the Mets have seemed to lack. When Carlos Beltran mimicked the "team to beat" line last spring, the Phillies laughed it off. When Cole Hamels was baited into calling the Mets "choke artists" in November, the Big Apple was in an uproar. Last season, the Phillies lost 11 of 18 games to the Mets, yet they still seemed to have the upper hand on their chief rival.

So, the grudge match resumes tonight at the Bank in the opener of a three-game series, the first of 2009 between the clubs. Neither is playing as well as it would like. The Phillies have won five of their last six games but closed April only 11-9, while the Mets (9-12) have dropped seven of 10. Brad Lidge may be available to pitch. Then again, maybe not. It all depends on his bullpen session today. Regardless, Madson will be ready.

"It's always a fun series," he said. "It always does bring out the best in each player. We respect each other's talents, but we both want to be that team on top. We know they're the guys we need to beat, and we enjoy it."

***
We will bring you the very latest on both Lidge (right knee inflammation) and Cole Hamels (sprained left ankle) after they throw in the 'pen, so make sure to check back for that. Meanwhile, here's your Phillies-Mets primer, and please don't forget to follow me -- and Philled In -- on Twitter and Facebook.

METS (9-12) at PHILLIES (11-9)
Tonight, 7:05: RHP Mike Pelfrey (2-0, 6.32) vs. RHP Chan Ho Park (0-0, 7.16)
Tomorrow, 3:40: LHP Oliver Perez (1-2, 9.31) vs. LHP Jamie Moyer (3-1, 5.09)
Sunday, 1:35: RHP John Maine (1-2, 5.40) vs. RHP Joe Blanton (0-2, 8.41)
Hot: Mets CF Carlos Beltran is batting .426 (20-for-47) during a 12-game hitting streak and leads the league with a .388 average; Mets LF Daniel Murphy has 10 hits in his last 26 at-bats (.385); Phillies CF Shane Victorino is batting .349 (15-for-43) with two homers and 11 RBIs during a 10-game hitting streak; Phillies LF Raul Ibanez is batting .397 (25-for-63) with six homers and 14 RBIs in his last 16 games.
Not: Mets 3B David Wright is 5-for-24 (.208) with 10 strikeouts in his last six games; Mets SS Jose Reyes is in a 4-for-24 slump; Phillies RF Jayson Werth is 4-for-24 (.167) with eight strikeouts in his last seven games; Phillies C Chris Coste is in a 1-for-14 slump with six strikeouts.