Phillies Notebook: Brett Myers, J.A. Happ, Kris Benson, Trade Winds

- Brett Myers was erratic in the Phillies' 6-3 loss to the Mets Wednesday night, walking five and giving up three runs in five innings of work. Yet after the game, Myers told reporters he felt "10 times better" in his first big-league start in nearly a month. He couldn't quite grasp control of his four-seam fastball, he said, and was also having some trouble locating his breaking pitches. The outing wasn't very good, but there are some things I felt inwardly encouraged about, including the fact Myers managed the game well enough to give the Phillies a chance. At the very least, he didn't allow a home run. Hip-hip hooray!

- J.A. Happ tossed another gem at class-AAA Lehigh Valley Tuesday night. The left-hander, who made two starts with the Phillies in Myers' absence, struck out eight batters over six innings. This performance came one start after tossing 12 strikeouts over seven shutout innings. Happ is rumored to be a part of trade packages this July, but the Phillies' brass should be careful before pulling the trigger. Happ is showing that he can be a legitimate major-league pitcher. And he's showing he can be a strikeout machine, which is a good thing pitching at Citizens Bank Park. I'd imagine if the Phillies do not trade him or deal for another quality starter, Happ could start in September if Myers or Kyle Kendrick falter.

- Kris Benson is hardly making a lasting impression in the minor leagues. The former No. 1 pick signed a minor-league contract in February and has been attempting to come back from major shoulder surgery. Phillies general manager Pat Gillick told the Philadelphia Inqurier this week, regarding whether Benson will see time with the team this year, "At this point, it's fairly doubtful."

- Trade winds continue to swirl in the Phillies clubhouse concerning Shane Victorino, who is linked to a package that includes prospects Carlos Carrasco, Lou Marson and Happ. The Phillies were reportedly in talks with the Colorado Rockies to send those players in exchange for reliever Brian Fuentes and left fielder Matt Holiday. Victorino told the Delaware County Times that he has no "control" over his fate this season. Gillick was mum when asked about the blockbuster trade rumor, which in all seriousness, will probably never materialize.

- While the Phillies are in the hunt for Fuentes, they're also reportedly interested in other left-handed relievers, notably John Grabow and Damaso Marte of the Pittsburgh Pirates.