Phillies Notebook: Deadline (In)Activity, Pedro Feliz, J.A. Happ, Brett Myers, Chase Utley

-The trade deadline has come and gone... and the Phillies lived up to general manager Pat Gillick's reputation of "Standing Pat." Hey, at least the Marlins didn't trade for Manny Ramirez, which would have given the Fish the ultimate weapon. And at least the Mets, who sit a half-game behind the Phils, didn't do anything, either.

According to multiple sources, the Phillies were in intense talks with many teams for a left-handed relief pitcher. In the end, the Phillies were not players. Typical of Phillies management to do absolutely nothing to bolster the team heading into the final months of the season.

-It could be a long time before Pedro Feliz returns to the Phillies' lineup. Feliz was diagnosed Thursday with a bulging disk in his back and may not return by Aug. 9, when the third baseman is eligible to return from the disabled list.

- J.A. Happ was recalled earlier this week. Happ, who made two starts in July, will likely fill the role of the left-handed longarm in the Phillies' bullpen. The 25-year-old, who recorded 13 strikeouts in a class-AAA start with Lehigh Valley a few weeks ago, could fill a spot in the starting roation if deemed necessary (i.e. if Brett Myers reverts back to his gawd-awful form).

- And speaking of Myers, I will admit that it was encouraging to see how well he pitched in the Phillies' 2-1 victory over the Nationals Tuesday. Myers gave up only one unearned run and was doing a great job locating his fastball, which, of course, has been his Achilles Heel all season. I know that it doesn't say much when you're dominating the worst-hitting team in the majors, but in Myers' case, any improvement -- no matter how weak the opponent -- is a positive.

- Well, Chase Utley appears he's slowly getting back on the right track after a two-month-long slump. The MVP favorite has, according to Gillick, been playing with a bad hip most of the season and could need surgery in the offseason. Utley belted his 26th and 27th homers of the year in wins over the Nationals this week.

Deadline Passes, Mets Do Nothing

One rumor going into the trade deadline had Manny coming to NY for highly touted Outfield prospect Fernando Martinez and highly touted Pitcher Jonathan Neise. Another rumor had Raul Ibanez coming here for either Martinez, Neise, or two other highly touted prospects, Pitchers Eddie Kuntz and Robert Parnell . Neither happened, as Manny is now a Dodger, and Ibanez was rumored to be going to Toronto as the deadline fast approached.

As much as I wanted them to get an outfielder or some bullpen help, I applaud Minaya for not making a move just for the sake of doing so. As much as Johan has gained even more of my respect for what he's done since coming to NY, we traded away 4 young players to get him. I don't think we should have dipped into the farm again, and traded Martinez, Neise, Parnell. or Kuntz just to get Manny or Ibanez.

As they say, maybe the best move made is the one that wasn't. Let's hope the Mets are right on this one.

Not to Be

At this point in time, we can probably declare the Manny deal dead. There were some interesting iterations between Pittsburgh and Boston, but ultimately a dead just couldn't get done.

In deals that actually got done, but are much less sexy, the Marlins picked up lefty reliever Arthur Rhodes from Seattle. Seattle got minor league pitcher Gaby Hernandez, who was a disaster in Triple-A this year. Gaby is still a decent prospect, so it's a pretty good return for Seattle. Rhodes has been fairly effective this year, with an ERA in the 2's, but in only about 16 innings. He'll be a decent addition to the pen.

Fish are still rumored to be in the market for a catcher, so in the 1.5 hours from now until the deadline, something might get done. Ramon Hernandez seems to be the most likely. Greg Zaun is also likely, but he's not that much of an upgrade. So we'll see what happens. What could have been a blockbuster deadline day will likely be just another snoozefest.

Now back to baseball! After winning a tough 3-game series against the Mets, the Fish welcome the Rockies to town for a 4-game tilt. The Rockies are ridiculously hot right now, so anything can happen. Tonight, Anibal Sanchez, member of the no-hitter club, makes his first start in the Majors since shoulder surgery last year. This is a much-anticipated night and should be a huge boost for the club.

Mets Drop into 2nd after Loss

The Mets need bullpen help badly, and hopefully it'll come with tomorrow's trade deadline. The Mets dropped the rubber game of a three game series tonight against the Marlins, and have moved into second place, one half game behind Philadelphia.

The Mets fell behind big tonight 5-1 after Mike Pelfrey gave up five runs in the bottom of the fourth. The five runs came courtesy of a single by Third Baseman Jorge Cantu that scored Right Fielder Jeremy Hermida who tripled, a triple by Center Fielder Cody Ross that scored Cantu and Left Fielder Josh Willingham who singled, a double by Catcher John Baker that scored Ross, and then a double by the Pitcher Josh Johnson that scored Baker. (The lone Mets run up to that point came courtesy of a David Wright ground out that scored Jose Reyes who singled, and then moved to third on a single by Argenis Reyes.)

The Mets cut the lead to 5-4 after Damion Easley hit a pitch hit three-run homer in the top of the eighth off of Johnson, but in the bottom half, Second Baseman Dan Uggla hit a two run homer for the Marlins off of Mets reliever Joe Smith to put the Marlins up 7-4. The Mets then got the go-ahead run up in the top of the ninth in the person of Jose Reyes, after a Ramon Castro single scored Marlon Anderson who reached on an infield single, but he flied out to left to end the ball game, and give the Marlins a 7-5 victory.

Pedro Martinez makes his return to the mound Friday night against the Astros in Houston, but before that happens, the trade deadline comes at 4 P.M. EST. Since the bullpen lost 2 out of 3 against the Marlins, I hope that they address that situation more than their outfield situation. We'll see if they do that.

Fish Getting Closer to Manny

While I thought this would never happen, multiple sources are confirming intense talks for the Marlins to acquire Manny Ramirez. Jeremy Hermida seems to be the anchor of the trade, with some other names thrown around. Yesterday, former first round draft pick Jeff Allison was mentioned, and today Mike Stanton's name was thrown out. I have no problem giving up Allison, but that ship has probably sailed. Mike Stanton is probably the most exciting player in our system, and certainly the most athletic. Stanton was being recruited by USC to play football, so that gives you an idea of his physicality. He would be a tough loss, but at this point he's just putting up huge numbers in low A ball. I think Manny is worth it.

Most recently, it has been reported that the talks have turned to three teams, with the Marlins getting Manny, the Pirates getting Hermida, and the BoSox getting Jason Bay.

More updates as they come in.

Marlins Trade Targets

With the trade deadline looming, here's a quick look at some of the players the Marlins have been targeting for acquisition:

Catchers:

-Gerald Laird, TEX: Decent bat, above-average defensively. Having a very good year offensively, but above career averages. Texas has four catchers in-house, so you have to expect them to move at least one. They're rumored to want two good pitching prospects. Several teams inquiring. Odds of happening: 5-1

-Ramon Hernandez, BAL: Had a pretty terrible year at the plate but has gotten hot recently. Big contract that Baltimore would have to eat part of. Not very much chatter about this one, but Baltimore would want a few good arms in return. Odds: 6-1

-Bengie Molina, SF: Average bat, slightly below average defense, decent arm. Slow. Probably a moderate asking price, as Brian Sabean is not the sharpest of GMs. Another big contract though. He'd be a moderate upgrade. Odds: 5-1

-Ryan Doumit, PIT: Very solid hitter, below-average defense. He's young and under team control for a while, so it's very doubtful that Pittsburgh would let him go. They would have to be bowled over by an offer, and the Marlins have made it clear they won't give up much. Odds: 10-1

-Pudge Rodriguez, DET: Trade to Yankees puts this longshot rumor to rest. Contract would have been cost-prohibitive. Odds (before NYY trade): 15-1

-Miguel Olivo, Gregg Zaun, Josh Bard, Paul Lo Duca: No, no, no, and no. Please God no. None are upgrades. Just don't do it. Odds: 20-1

Lefty Relievers:

-Arthur Rhodes, SEA: Fish were rumored to be very close to a deal on Rhodes, but apparently the teams aren't close. Rhodes is an old, old journeyman who's been around since '91, but he's having a decent year. Nice upgrade for later inning use. Definitely the most likely of the deals for a lefty. Odds: 3-1

-Brian Fuentes, COL: Marlins are out of the running for this one. Price just too high. Odds: 25-1

-George Sherrill, BAL: See Fuentes, Brian. Odds: 25-1

-Eddie Guardado, TEX: Could be part of a deal with Texas for Laird. Former closer, having a pretty good season by Texas standards. He'd be a nice setup man. Odds: 5-1

-Jack Taschner, Will Ohman, John Grabow: All would be average pickups. Odds: 6-1

The Longest of Longshots:

-Manny Ramirez, BOS: Marlins were in talks with Boston about moving Jeremy Hermida and pitching prospect Jeff Allison for Manny. It's actually a decent trade for both sides, especially since Boston would pick up most of Manny's salary. He'd be a rental for the rest of the season for sure, but boy would he be a good one. As far as Hermida goes, it's time to fish or cut bait with him, and I'd be ready to move him. He just hasn't shown the potential he was supposed to. Ultimately, there's no way Boston moves Manny this season. His bat and .933 OPS is simply irreplaceable in the middle of that lineup. But it's fun to talk about. Odds: 50-1

John Maine Injury Update

John Maine was diagnosed Tuesday with a mild strain in his right rotator cuff, and it's uncertain whether he will make his next scheduled start. Maine came out of Monday night's game at Florida after 4 1/3 innings because of pain in the back of his pitching shoulder. He returned to New York for an MRI exam, and he'll rejoin the Mets when they arrive in Houston for a series that begins Friday. Maine's next scheduled start is Sunday against the Astros.

TRADE UPDATE

It is being announced by multiple sources that the Braves have reached a deal with the Los Angeles Angels.

Braves get: 1B Casey Kotchman and AA RP Steve Marek

Angels get: 1B Mark Teixeira

Kotchman is solid; I can't say I know anything about Marek save his MiLB.com player page(http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Stephen%20Marek&pos=P&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=447821) but the Braves scouts must really like the guy to pull him out of the blue like that (he does have a good strikeout rate). How good this deal ends up being for the Braves mostly depends on how Kotchman develops. He's a third year player and a very good defensive first basemen, but a lot of people think he hasn't finished developing as a hitter, especially regarding his batting average (.325 in the minors).

Atlanta's not done. It's only a matter of time before the Braves make another deal.

Searching for a Silver Lining

Braves nation is reeling one day after the Braves officially removed themselves from the NL East race. On top of the suspected Chipper Jones trip to the DL and Frank Wren putting the "for sale" sign on Mark Teixeira, the Bravos also took another major hit to their starting rotation when it was announced that ace, Tim Hudson will go on the DL. Sadly, The Hudson related bad news didn't end there as Braves officials announced during last night's game that the righthander's MRI revealed damage to the infamous Ulnar Collateral Ligament, meaning that Tommy John Surgery is a possibility.

Is this a mess or what? Braves must not know whether to scream, cry, or laugh at the latest injury news. It's like one kick to the stomach after another right now. Fitting, I'd say, that it's pouring rain in Metro Atlanta as I write this. Can anything go right for this year's Braves? The answer is, of course,... yes.

While it's hard to stomach all the injuries, and gut wrenching losses, and the stretches of dreadful hitting followed seamlessly by stretches of dreadful pitching; all is not lost. Sure, there will be no October baseball, but there could be GOOD news to talk about this week.

There is little doubt that Teixeira and LHP, Will Ohman, will be wearing different uniforms this weekend. While both have been beacons of consistency and production on a team with very little of either, both are highly sought after and will get some nice pieces in return, thus helping the Braves put things back together for next year.

For Teixeira, Atlanta is looking for a ML 1B and a top pitching prospect or one of the two plus a couple other prospects. The two most likely suitors at this point are the Angels and the D-backs.

A package from the Angels might include: 1B Casey Kotchman, P (prospect) Nick Adenhart, and/or 3B (prospect) Brandon Wood.

From Arizona: 1B/3B Chad Tracy, P Micah Owings, and/or P (prospect) Jarrod Parker

The Braves may be smart to try and package Tex and Ohman (similar to what the Rangers did last year with Tex and Ron Mahay) in order to get a maximum return. Of course, things change quickly as the deadline gets closer so it's any body's guess as to who the Braves will end up dealing with.

Also on the block is CF Mark Kotsay, who won't command quite as much in return but will probably get a lot of interest from teams looking for OF depth. I'd much rather be a buyer at the deadline, however, being a seller has it's fair share of excitement as well, but the Braves were nearly both. According to online sources, Atlanta nearly got a deal done with Pittsburgh that would have brought Jason Bay to Turner Field in return for Brent Lillibridge, Brandon Jones, and a couple of lesser prospects. Pittsburgh's owners nixed the deal but talks were said to be on-going. The price tag for Bay will only go down as he has fewer and fewer games to play for his new suitor (Bay is a FA after next year). It might be wise for the Braves to wait until the offseason to grab him.

The deadline deals are fun to talk about, but even more fun could be had this offseason when the Braves have over $50 million coming off the payroll and only a couple players eligible for arbitration. With all that money to spend, this supposed "rebuilding" that so many Braves fans say is necessary could be a very short process. So, to all those Braves fans that feel like their dog just died after all this season's bad news, remember that the sun will come out tomorrow (and it will be really humid) and there is indeed, "always next year."

Maine Hurt in Loss

The Mets came into the 8th with a 3-2 lead against Florida last night, and lost 7-3 after giving up 5 runs in the bottom of the eighth. This is starting to be a cause for concern, as it is the third time that it has happened in the past week. It all started last Wednesday when the Mets and Johan Santana had a 5-2 lead going into the ninth against Philly. They lost the game 8-6. Over the weekend against St. Louis on Saturday, they had a 5-4 lead heading into the 6th, and gave up 4 runs in the inning en route to a 10-8 loss in 14 innings.

Last night, the pen imploded again. It all started when John Maine left the game after 4 1/3 innings because of stiffness in his right shoulder. He'll return to New York for tests. The right-hander, who departed after throwing 75 pitches, said he had felt pain in the back of his shoulder since his last start.


He took a 2-0 lead into the fifth inning, but when he fell behind leadoff batter Catcher John Baker 2-0, the trainer and manager Jerry Manuel went to the mound. Maine stayed in the game, and Baker homered on the next pitch. After Maine retired the next batter, Manuel removed him.


"I'm frustrated because I want to go out there and pitch, but I understand where they're coming from," Maine said. "It was the right decision." Maine allowed four hits, struck out six and walked one. It's uncertain whether he'll miss any starts ."I told him if there's any pain, you will miss a start," Manuel said.

After Center Fielder Cody Ross singled off of Pedro Feliciano to tie the score at 2 in the bottom of the 6th, the Mets took a 3-2 in the top of the 8th on a Fernando Tatis fielder's choice that scored David Wright, but that didn't last long.

It didn't last long because in their half of the 8th, the Marlins scored 5. It all got started when Second Baseman Dan Uggla singled off of Joe Smith to tie the score at 3. Then, Cody Ross singled in Uggla to give the Marlins a 4-3 lead. After that, Pitch Hitter Wes Helms scored on a wild pitch by Scott Schoeneweis. Finally, Pitch Hitter Robert Andino doubled to left center to score Ross and Baker to make the score its final at 7-3 Marlins.

Thursday is the trading deadline, and it seems like the Mets are focusing on making a move to shore up the outfield, which is the right move considering all of the injuries that they've had out there this season. However, they should really make a push for a reliever because the implosions cannot continue if they want to stay afloat in the NL East race. We'll see what happens.

Phillies Insider: Utley Denies Injury; Eaton Optioned

Chase Utley denied general manager Pat Gillick's claim that the All-Star second baseman has been playing with a hip injury most of the season.

According to Phillies.com, Utley told reporters the following:

"That's a good question, because I don't know anything about that. I understand why you'd ask the question, because I'd ask the same question."

The question was raised after Gillick told reporters that, "(Utley's) having some trouble with his right hip."

Of course, Utley isn't going to admit that he's hurt. He's a gamer and doesn't want to draw attention to himself. But it sure would explain his sub-par season, not including April & May.

Utley began the season on a tear, but is batting .234 since June 3 . He batted .362 with 13 home runs and 26 RBIs through the first 33 games...

Utley's struggles, which include an 0-for-24 slump in June, are a direct result of this alleged injury. It was just too hard to believe Utley's woes were a result of his pure talent and/or mechanics. He's too good of a player to be batting .288 right now. That batting average is very un-Utley-like.

Hopefully, Utley will continue on a solid pace this year without landing on the disabled list. If he's really hurt (and I certainly believe he is) he could need surgery in the offseason.

---

In other news, Phillies fans can rejoice...finally!

Adam Eaton has been optioned to the minor leagues.

Eaton, who started 19 games, accepted the assignment on Monday. It appears the Phillies will re-call J.A. Happ, who's been dominating at the class-AAA level.

Eaton was moved to the bullpen after the Phillies acquired Joe Blanton from the Oakland A's. In two relief appearances, Eaton was typically awful. He allowed back-to-back home runs against the Braves in two innings of work on Sunday.

Here's hoping Adam Eaton will never show his face again. Good riddance.

Phillies Live: Five-Run Deficit? No Problem

Just thought I'd do something new here at TheNLEastBlog.com with live in-game updates of the Phillies-Braves series finale...

-Phillies-Braves was delayed, oh, about 2 1/2 hours. Joe Blanton started and allowed two first-inning runs. The Phillies kicked up a fuss in the bottom of the first, but Chase Utley was gunned down trying to hustle from first to home on a single to the gap by Ryan Howard.

- When the game resumed, the Phillies had the base loaded with two outs in the second inning. Jimmy Rollins struck out looking at a breaking ball that was right down the chute.

- So, Adam Eaton comes out for the third inning. Painless three outs. In the top of the fourth, Eaton the Destroyer rears his ugly head. He surrendered back-to-back home runs to Kelly Johnson and Omar Infante and nearly a third to 0-for-19 Jo-Jo Reyes. Luckily, Eaton got Gregor Blaco to ground into an inning-ending double play.

-Words cannot describe how bad Adam Eaton is. I know I'm hyperbolizing (but am I???), Eaton has to be the worst pitcher in franchise history. Yes, I know Eaton has some stiff competition here, but I can't think of a guy who has infuriated a fanbase more often than Eaton. He has absolutely no business on a big-league roster. No business!

-Somehow, the Phillies rake Braves pitching... all the time. It's unreal, man. If this were like the Red Sox or Cubs, I'd figure the Phillies would be dead in the water down 5-0 in the fourth. But, as they did yesterday, the Phillies came right back and scored five runs quick. Chris Coste blasted a two-run homer and Shane Victorino hit a three-run bomb to tie the game.

-Pat Burrell greeted Julian Tavarez with a solo shot in the fifth inning to put the Phils ahead 6-5. Pretty amazing to see a struggling offense produce big innings in back-to-back games. Maybe it's only because they're up against the Braves... who are having the worst of times against the Phillies this season (2-9 in 11 games). Hopefully, the Phillies' bat are finally starting to click...

-Oh, Clay Condrey just finished his second straight scoreless inning. Do us a favor, Chuck. When you're in need of a long reliever, go with Condrey... and not Adam Eaton.

-Hey, a Carlos Ruiz sighting! The struggling catcher leads off the sixth inning with a double...

- Shane Victorino ropes a single to center field, scoring Ruiz. 7-5 Phils!

-Oh man. Victorino leveled Brian McCann at the plate and McCann is down and out. Ryan Howard poked a single to right field to score Rollins and Victorino. McCann couldn't quite position himself and Victorino went in with his helmet. It looked like Victorino popped McCann right on the chin. OK, after a brief wow-this-could-be-bad moment, McCann is back on his feet. He'll leave the game. I love McCann. I'd die to have on the Phillies. I was fortunate to interview him in 2006 and he's great to talk to. Very well-liked guy, too.

-So, I'll back tonight with some more notes and commentary from this goofy game (thank you Chris Wheeler). The Phillies really, really need a series win

Santana Pitches Complete Game for Mets Latest Win

Coming into today's series finale and rubber game against the Cardinals, Johan Santana knew he had to pitch a complete game for two reasons. First, the bullpen was absolutely spent after losing last night 10-8 in 14 innings. Second, he had to try and put last Wednesday behind him.

To refresh your memory, Santana had a 5-2 leading going into the 9th against Philly. Jerry Manuel decided to pull him after he threw 105 pitches through eight innings. The Mets went on to lose the game 8-6.

Today, Santana got a chance to start the ninth, and in fact went all the way in the Mets 9-1 victory. Santana pitched brilliantly giving up just an Albert Pujols home run in the top of the 5th inning, which was one of six hits he surrendered, while striking out five, and only walking one which was the first batter of the game, Cardinal Second Baseman Brendan Ryan.

The two-time Cy Young Award winner pitched the seventh complete game of his career, his first since throwing a shutout against the Mets at Shea while a member of the Twins on June 19, 2007. It was the first Mets complete game since Oliver Perez beat the Braves 8-0 on September 6, 2006.

Fernando Tatis and Ramon Castro hit two-run homers to power the offense as NY pounded St. Louis Starter Kyle Lohse. The Mets got their other five runs thanks to a Carlos Delgado sacrifice fly in the 3rd, a Carlos Beltran single also in the 3rd, a David Wright homer in the 5th, a Wright single in the 6th, and a single in the 7th by the man of the hour Johan Santana.

Today's win for Santana was just his second win since June 1, a maddening stretch during which he was tagged with four losses and four no-decisions. The Mets went 4-2 on the home stand just concluded against contenders Philadelphia and St. Louis. They now go on a six game trip to Florida and Houston, winners of 15 of the last 19 games overall. The Florida series gets started tomorrow night as John Maine faces off against Ricky Nolasco and the third place Marlins.

Knight to Start Saturday vs. Cards

With Pedro Martinez back in the Dominican Republic, grieving the loss of his father, the Mets will start 32 year old rookie Brandon Knight against the Cardinals Saturday night.


His statistics justify the choice. Since joining the Zephyrs, Knight is 5-1 with a 1.60 ERA. He has fanned 49 batters and walked 10 in 39 1/3 innings, earning Pacific Coast League Pitcher of the Week honors after striking out 12 in six scoreless innings last Saturday. Only months after considering retirement, Knight has enjoyed something of a renaissance in the Minor Leagues, even earning a roster spot on Team USA for the Beijing Olympics. He began this season with the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League, before the Mets took notice and offered him a Minor League contract in May.


"My wife, Brooke, convinced me to go for it and in my heart, I felt I needed to give myself one more chance," Knight told MLB.com last week. Knight's brief Major League career with the Yankees included 11 relief appearances over two seasons, in which he produced a 10.71 ERA. He has not pitched in the big leagues since 2002.

On the injury front, it was announced that Ryan Church can begin light conditioning, and Angel Pagan is out for the season after a decision has been made to undergo season-ending surgery on his shoulder. Pagan injured the shoulder in Los Angeles in May after diving over the wall and into the left field corner seats.

Chipper Out for Tonight (At Least)

As the Braves prepare for yet another "biggest series of the season", they will have to do so without their all-star 3B, according to braves.com.

The severity of Chipper's injury is not yet known, and no decision has been made on whether or not he will go on the DL, but he will not be available for Bobby Cox tonight. Expect the (relatively) hot-hitting Martin Prado to take Jones' place at the hot corner.

Dempster Dazzles Fish with Happy Hands

This is the image Marlin hitters were greeted with when they looked out at the mound today:



Ryan Dempster did his best Napoleon Dynamite impression, waggling his glove in one of the more fanciful windups in the Major Leagues. Apparently, while quite beautiful, this move diminishes his control, as he walked six batters on the day. Nevertheless, he only allowed one run in five innings and was able to pitch out of several jams.

Early on, Marlin hitters continued to struggle, as Uggla extended his hitless streak to his last 19 at-bats. Uggla did take a hit-by-pitch and scored on a Willingham RBI double. Hanley Ramirez went 2-5 on the day with a steal and a run scored on a scorched double by Jorge Can-do. It's definitely good to see Hanley and Cantu staying effective, as they've really carried the offense as of late.

The real star of the day was Josh Johnson, who held a tough Cubs lineup to just two runs in six innings, while striking out eight. Joe Nelson, Renyel Pinto, and Justin Miller came out of the bullpen to hold off the Cubs into the 9th. The game was tied 2-2 at that point, when Jeremy Hermida, every Marlin fan's favorite punchline, hit a pinch-hit solo homer to put the Fish ahead. Kevin Gregg came out in the bottom of the ninth and worked a quick 1-2-3 inning, which is not very typical of Old Gregg.

The four-game series is split 1-1 and the Fish will continue to do their best to wake up the offense.

In Brian Fuentes Sweepstakes news, the Marlins have apparently offered whipping boy Taylor Tankersley, but the Rockies have their sights on Ryan Tucker, recently demoted from the bigs to Double-A, according to Jayson Stark. I still do not think Fuentes is worth it.

Phillies Insider: Rollins' Actions Are Alarming

There is an image I remember from a Phillies game. I think it was from the 2006 season.

The Phillies had just wrapped up a win against who-knows-who. As the players convened to the field, Rollins walked out of the dugout with Charlie Manuel, playfully slapping and pushing one another.

It was an image that I remember thinking encapsulated the at-ease relationship Rollins and Manuel shared.

Those good times are few and far between nowadays.

This season, Manuel has benched Rollins for violating the manager's only two rules - hustle and show up on time.

Rollins was scratched from the starting lineup against the Mets Thursday afternoon because the reigning MVP was stuck in Flushing, Queens traffic on his way to the ballpark. Manuel told reporters that Rollins, who arrived to Shea Stadium approximately one hour before the game, let him know of his situation ahead of time.

Manuel quickly defused reporters' request to talk about the incident, saying in an all too familiar fashion that he and Rollins handled the matter "in-house."

Manuel said similar words back on June 5, when Rollins was removed from a game against the Cincinnati Reds for failing to hustle out of the batter's boxafter hitting a pop fly that was dropped.

Rollins told reporters after Thursday's game that he didn't agree with Manuel's decision... and added this:

"It's the same thing I do all the time -- leave 10 minutes after the (team) bus when I drive myself. You can't change the lights."

Here's the problem: Rollins shouldn't be driving alone to any road game that requires a team shuttle, let alone a rivalry game against the Mets, where huge ramifications (first place in the division) are at stake. What makes him so special? Rollins is the emotional leader. He's the energizer. He's the sparkplug. He's the heart and soul... and he should have been on that bus.

Rollins' actions are becoming a growing concern. Not only is he arriving late, he's also not doing the little things that earned him MVP honors last season.

The game against the Reds was the first red flag. Rollins owned up to the mistake and agreed that Manuel was right in pulling him.

Last week, Rollins was chastised for not hustling around the bases on a first-to-third against the Marlins. He might have been able to score. Instead, he was stranded on third base and the Phillies lost by a run.

Rollins hasn't been the same player this season. It goes beyond the numbers. And it goes beyond the apparent riff in his relationship with Manuel.

Jimmy Rollins is simply not into it anymore. Having already declared MVP status, Rollins is resting on his laurels.

The me-first attitude is costing Rollins playing time. And it's crumbling the team.

The Inaugural Juan Pierre Post

The following will become an annual tradition every time the Marlins head to Wrigleyville to face the Cubs. I give you Juan Pierre freestyle rapping after the Marlins' 2003 World Series Championship. Please to enjoy:


"We went to Wrigley Field, I got that wiggly feel..."

Reports: Rollins Arrives Late To Shea, Scratched From Lineup

Jimmy Rollins was missing in action Thursday morning at Shea Stadium. As a result, he was scratched from the lineup.

Rollins, according to Phillies.com, arrived to the ballpark about 30 minutes after the team bus. He was taken out of the lineup about 15 minutes before game time.

This isn't the first time Rollins has been benched this season. In a game against the Cincinnati Reds, Rollins was removed from the game after failing to hustle out of the batter's box. Rollins hit a routine popup that was dropped by the shortstop.

More on this story as it develops. I'll have reaction and much more later tonight.

Delgado's hit puts Mets alone in 1st

A while back, I wrote a post about how Carlos Delgado might find himself in a platoon situation with Andy Phillips if he didn't start to hit soon. Well, here we are on the 24th day of July, and the Mets are alone in first place for the first time since April 19th, thanks to a big two-run double by Carlos that gave the Mets a 3-1 victory over Philly this afternoon.

Delgado came to the plate in the bottom of the eighth with the scored tied at one. The Mets got their run to that point in the bottom of the 3rd thanks to a David Wright single that scored Jose Reyes who walked and stole second earlier in the inning. The Phillies got their run to that point in the top of the 7th thanks to a home run by Right Fielder Jayson Werth to center field.

Delgado hit a two-strike pitch from J.C. Romero with two outs into the left-field corner to drive in Pinch Hitter Robinson Cancel, who singled and David Wright, who was intentionally walked earlier in the inning. Left-handed hitters were 5-for-68 (.074) against Romero this season before Delgado's clutch hit, which made the slugger 3-for-18 lifetime against the Phillies' reliever.

With the score 3-1 Billy Wagner came in and recorded his 26th save of the season. With the win, New York improved to 9-4 against the Phillies this year, after going 6-12 against them last season, losing the final eight meetings.

Not to be lost in this discussion is today's performance by Oliver Perez. Since Dan Warthen took over as pitching coach, Ollie has been lights out. Today was no different. Even though Aaron Heilman got the win, Perez shined. He struck out 12 in seven and two-thirds innings, while only giving up the Werth home run, which was one of six hits he surrendered while walking only one. Before the Werth home run, Ollie had a 24 and 1/3 inning scoreless streak against Philadelphia. The Werth home run was just the fourth earned run allowed by Perez in his last four starts.

Oh yeah, I almost forgot. As for Andy Phillips, he's back with the Reds; the place where the Mets got him from. I don't think Delgado has to worry about platooning anymore.

The Marlins are Alive and So Am I

After a short hiatus due to an extremely busy stretch, I'm back posting about the Marlins. I'll start here with a look at some post-All-Star thoughts and what we can expect in the weeks ahead.

The return of Josh Johnson and the rising of Chris Volstad has already been a major boost for the team in a number of ways. First, the concept of having a capable rotation from top to bottom does spades for the team's confidence. It gives more flexibility and depth in the bullpen, which is definitely needed by this team. Most importantly, JJ and Vol-stud have both been nails so far, and could really anchor the team for the rest of the year.

Unfortunately, about the same time the pitching came back, the bats went away. Hanley and Uggla are both locked in slumps right now, and Willingham hasn't been hitting since he came back from the DL. Can-do Cantu and Toy Cannon Cody Ross have been picking up the slack, but this team will need a balanced lineup if they want to get into the playoffs this year. I look for Hanley and Uggla to get back on track in Wrigley this weekend and send a few balls over the ivy.

The last thing I'll touch on is the trade deadline. About a month ago, the Marlins were looking for a centerfielder, catcher and bullpen help. At this point, the team is happy with Cody Ross in center, as he's become much more consistent at the dish, and the team will stand pat with Matt Treanor and John Baker behind the plate, as there simply aren't any catching upgrades in the trade market.

That leaves us with the bullpen. The front office has been aggressively pursuing Brian Fuentes as a setup man, but about 5 other teams are as well. The asking price is quite steep, usually 2-3 high-level prospects. We may see some of the same that happened with the Johan Santana sweepstakes, with several teams dropping out due to the price, which will lower the cost for another team. There's a good chance the Marlins may end up with Fuentes, as the team has a trade history with Colorado and they usually get their man. There's a lot of pitching depth in the minors, which might get the deal done.

I'm not a huge fan of getting Fuentes if it costs an arm and a leg, and I wouldn't be upset if somebody else made the deal. The Rockies have been asking for guys like Clay Buchholz, Ian Kennedy, and Wade Davis, so the Marlins would be mortgaging the future for 60 games of a lefty setup man. I think we're better off standing pat, especially with Anibal Sanchez only about a week away from being up in the Majors.

One last note: How exciting has the past week been? It's like every night the division lead is on the line! This kind of competition is what you expect to see in September, not July. Good stuff.

Pelfrey to Take Pedro's Spot in Rotation

It was announced after the game last night by Mets Manager Jerry Manuel that Mike Pelfrey would take Pedro Martinez's spot in the rotation on Friday night against the Cardinals. Pedro left the team in the seventh inning of Wednesday night's game against the Phillies to take a charter flight back to the Dominican Republic.

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.

Wagner Returns, Mets Win

Coming off the massive meltdown of last night, the Mets had to come out tonight, and show that they are able to put a loss behind them, and focus on the game at hand. They did exactly that, as they defeated Philly by a score of 6-3 to move back into a first place tie, with the series finale pitting Ollie Perez versus Jamie Moyer tomorrow afternoon.

Jose Reyes made amends tonight for his brain freeze that occurred last night when he failed to get a double play on a ground out by Catcher Carlos Ruiz that opened the door for the Phillies en route to their 8-6 victory. He made amends by hitting a three-run homer tonight that snapped a sixth-inning 3-3 tie. John Maine pitched seven effective innings and New York took advantage of a wild Brett Myers in his return from the minors.

Scott Schoeneweis and Joe Smith combined for a scoreless eighth, and Billy Wagner put an end to the bullpen by committee by making his return from a shoulder spasm to pick up his 25th save of the season after declaring himself available after testing the shoulder before the game by playing long toss from about 250 feet and throwing off a bullpen mound.

Can't wait for tomorrow's series finale.

On a sad side note, even though Pedro is slated to start Friday night against St. Louis after skipping a turn in the rotation because of a groin injury, he will not, due to the death of his father. A decision has not yet been made as to who will pitch is his place.

Phillies Insider: Biggest Start Of Myers' Career

Brett Myers, in the worst of ways, needs a quality outing tonight against the Mets.

Myers will be making his first start with the Phillies since being shipped to the minor leagues in early July. Overall, he threw well on the farm, but didn't exactly convince anyone that he's back to his old form.

For the Phillies to succeed in the second half, Myers, who is 3-9 with a 5.84 ERA, needs to rise to the occassion. He doesn't need to be perfect, but he has to be pretty darn good.

Myers must avoid early-inning trouble. This year, the burly right-hander has allowed more runs in the first inning than any qualified starting pitcher in baseball.

Myers' turnaround must start tonight at Shea Stadium. The Phillies need another statement game after last night's thriller.

Brett Myers, this is the biggest start of your life.

I Don't Know What to Say

Last night's game can be summed up in one word, and it was by my colleague Matt Smith. That one word is wow. The Mets threw a boatload of money at Johan Santana ($137 million) for situations in which the Mets need to beat whoever is at the top of the NL East if they're not. Last night was a clash of the top two teams in the NL East, and it looked like the Mets were going to climb into first placed by themselves after Santana was doing what he was supposed to do when he was brought in; beat the Phillies.

However, baseball is a team game, and there's only so much one man can do. After Philly jumped out to a 1-0, the Mets pounded on newly acquired Joe Blanton, and took a 5-2 lead heading into the ninth behind home runs by Carlos Delgado and Ramon Castro, and a double by David Wright. (The Phillies got their runs heading into the 9th on a single to center by Right Fielder Jayson Werth, and a home run by Center Fielder Shane Victorino.)

Santana pitched brilliantly through eight giving up just 2 runs on eight hits while striking out four, and walking nobody. You're tied for first against the team you're playing. You have a 5-2 leading going into the 9th, and you've only thrown 105 pitches. Shouldn't that warrant a try for the complete game, especially since you're closer is unavailable due to a shoulder spasm?

Not in today's brand of baseball. The complete game is almost non-existent. With the being said, Manager Jerry Manuel took Santana out after eight, and handed the ball to Duaner Sanchez who hasn't saved a game since 2005 when he was with the Dodgers. Sanchez came in and loaded the bases. He was charged with giving up 3 runs in the comeback. Next in, Joe Smith. He was charged with giving up a run. After that, in came Pedro Feliciano, who in his last appearance got lit up for four runs against Cincy. Last night against Philly was more of the same. He didn't give up four, but was charged with giving up 2, which were as equally damaging to give the Phillies an 8-5 lead.

With their souls ripped out of their bodies, the Mets tried to rally against Brad Lidge. They were able to score one to close the gap to 8-6 with 2 out. However, Lidge then got Carlos Delgado to ground out to end the ball game.

Yes, it was a heart-breaking loss, but no, it's not the end of the season. The Mets just have to get back on the horse, and try to win tonight's game in order to move back into a first place tie. I hope last night's loss didn't mark the return of the inconsistent team for which I've been rooting for 22 years. Only time will tell.

Game Reax: Phillies Rally To Upend Mets

Wow.

Showing no signs of life through eight innings Tuesday night, the Phillies rallied for six runs in a thrilling ninth inning to beat the Mets, 8-6.

The Phillies were trailing 5-2 through eight. Johan Santana was absolutely brilliant, outside of giving up three hits and one run in the first inning. I was drowning in my own self-loathing, wondering why the hell the Phillies' offense can't get jumpstarted.

I looked to Jimmy Rollins, who gave frustrating at-bat after frustrating at-bat, getting way out in front of Santana's filthy change-ups.

I saw Chase Utley, who despite making a stellar diving catch to prevent a few runs, looking helpless in four plate appearances. I can't help but cringe everytime he makes an out because I'm just waiting for him to erupt and get his average over .300 again.

I analyzed the new fat guy on the team, Joe Blanton, who apparently doesn't no how to a) record strikeouts, and b) stop throwing hanging sliders.

I conceded this game to the Mets, who were looking comfy and were about to take sole possession of first place.

While the Phillies have rallied before against the Mets (no duh, right?), I doubted it would happen on this night. No way. After all, what would indicate the Phillies and their bumbling offense to score at least three runs against Santana in the ninth?

Oh, wait a second. No Santana? OK, you're telling me that Jerry Manuel isn't going to lean on the best pitcher in baseball to get the biggest three outs of the season? You're saying that Santana, paid some $160 million, isn't going to be put in the position to make a huge statement by pitching a complete game against the Phillies?

Well, then. Thank goodness, Phillies fans. Thank goodness that Santana, who was mowing down the Phillies one by one, is out of the game.

So, who pitches the ninth?

Billy Wagner? Nope. He's got a sore shoulder.

Duaner Sanchez? Ahh-ha!

So, Sanchez proceeds to prove to the world that saving games is one of the toughest things in sports to do if you're not used to the role. First batter, Jayson Werth. Single. Second hitter, Greg Dobbs. Another pinch-hit single. Third to the plate, Shane Victorino. SINGLE! Bases juiced, nobody out.

Out comes a clearly flustered Sanchez and in is side-wheeling right-hander Joe Smith.

Smith's first challenge is Carlos Ruiz, who had a surprising two hits versus Santana. The first thing I say to my wife-to-be and my little pup Chase is this: "Carlos, for the love of God, do not swing first-pitch and do not hit into a double play."

A sports-writing colleague of mine wrote in a column recently that Ruiz could hit into a double play with no men on base. So true.

Ruiz works the count in his advantage before hitting a dribbler to Jose Reyes. My initial reaction is "too slow to turn two." Reyes, though, acts like he is taking a pre-game stroll around the field. He gobbles up the grounder and gingerly approaches second base to get the force out on Victorino... but the Flyin' Hawaiian gets there first! Reyes misses the bag!! 5-3 game, bases bombed and STILL nobody out!

In comes Pedro Feliciano to face...ugh... ohhh noo....it's So Taguchi.

Taguchi, who likely has appeared on the back of milk cartons across the country this season, strolls to the plate 0-for-17 in pinch-hit situations. There's absolutely no way he'll come through here, right??

Hey, he's working the count and fouling off pitches. Nice job there, So. Just don't strikeout!

Feliciano, though, is pitching in a pattern. Fastball. Fastball. Slider. Fastball. Fastball. Slider.

Finally, Taguchi belts one over Endy Chavez's head in right field. Dobbs, come on down! Victorino, come on down! Second-and-third, nobody out and the game is tied, 5-5. Thank you, So Taguchi! Your ineptness in every facet of the game this season is erased.

Rollins is up to bat. Of course, he falls behind 0-2. Fouls a few pitches before slamming a slider beyond the reach of a diving David Wright. Phillies score two and take the lead, 7-5!!

Phillies tack on another run and Brad Lidge allows one meaningless run in the ninth, but records his 22nd save in as many attempts.

Awesome, awesome, awesome win.

Shattering loss for the Mets? We'll see. It's only one game. Wednesday's game is even bigger!

Braves Tread Water in Division Race

For the past couple of months, every road trip and home stand the Braves have entered has been touted by the local media (and, on occasion, by this blogger) as "the biggest one of the year." Yet, after all the build-up, Atlanta has played below .500 and still is at the same 6 game deficit that they faced after being swept by Philly in early June.

This stagnancy has not only made it incredibly hard to find sufficient blogging material, but more importantly, it has made it incredibly hard for anyone--possibly including the the front office--to guess what the Braves might do regarding the upcoming trading deadline. Last week I outlined what the Braves could do, but there's still no telling what they should do. Atlanta is seemingly right on the "push line" for whether they should be buyers or sellers.

I think that there's something to be said that the Braves are still on the fringe of the race. There have been multiple stretches where it seemed like this team was about to fold, only to re-stoke the embers of hope. Jorge Campillo was the latest catalyst in staying in the race, throwing 7 nearly perfect innings in Miami last night for his 5th win.

Considering injury problems and the inability to beat the best team (as well as the worst team) in the division, the Braves are sticking around when many teams would have thrown in the towel for less.

What's obvious to anyone that's followed the team is that its leaders, to their credit, still have the pride to think that they're still in the race. While the media and most baseball fans only see a three-way race in the National League East, The Atlanta Braves see it differently. There's no time like the present to make do on that vision, but then again, we've been saying that for two months.

Wagner's Injury Not Serious

Fear not, Mets fans. An injury to closer Billy Wagner's shoulder apparently is nothing more than a "muscle spasm" according to a report posted on espn.com. Team public relations direction Jay Horwitz said Tuesday that an MRI on the Wagner's shoulder at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York showed "no structural damage" and that a spasm was diagnosed around Wagner's pitching shoulder.

The New York Times reported that Wagner is considered day to day. Whether he will be available for Tuesday's game against the Phillies has not been determined. Wagner will throw before the game and then let manager Jerry Manuel know whether he can pitch.

Phillies Notebook: Cole Hamels' Work Schedule, Woeful Lineup, Matt Holliday Rumors, Carlos The Catastrophic Catcher

- Cole Hamels was robbed again of his 10th win Sunday afternoon. Hamels was brilliant en route to another no decision. The young left-hander threw a solid eight innings, scattering two runs and five hits. He made only two mistakes, allowing solo home runs in the fourth and eighth innings (by the way, do the Marlins have any clue how to score runs when they're not hitting homers?). Hamels is 9-6 this season, but can easily be 13-3. In fact, he's had six starts this season in which he's pitched seven innings and allowed two or fewer runs. The Phillies need to start giving their ace some run support

-Speaking of Hamels, he had no business pitching at all on Sunday. I understand the Marlins are semi-for real this season, and Sunday's game could be constituted as a "big game," but with the Mets on the horizon, there's no excuse to not start him the first game of the Phillies' critical three-game set at Shea Stadium beginning Tuesday night. Obviously, the blame should be placed on Charlie Manuel, who hasn't done the best job of managing the team over the last month or so. I don't care if the Marlins entered Sunday 1 1/2 game behind the Phillies. Hamels needed to be saved for the Mets series. I overlooked the fact that he didn't start in either of the four games at Citizens Bank Park earlier this year. But twice in one month against your biggest rival? Shame on you, Charlie Manuel.

- The Phillies' offense continues to struggle. They scored a grand total of 11 runs in their three-game series with the Marlins and haven't scored six or more runs since a 10-9 loss to the Mets on July 7. Perhaps more surprising is the fact the Phillies haven't scored in double-digits since they demolished the Cardinals, 20-2, back on June 13. Since that win, the Phillies are 12-18.

- I fear the Phillies' lineup isn't easily fixable at this point. There are one too many holes and it starts at the top. Jimmy Rollins is having a rough year and guys like Geoff Jenkins and Pedro Feliz contribute to the Phillies problem, which is lack of contact. Moreover, the biggest issue with the team is its inability to produce runs. On paper, the Phillies have a very potent lineup, but look beneath the surface and you'll find the truth. I don't know if the Phillies will get a bat before the trade deadline, but it'll definitely be worth the try.

- The rumors about a Matt Holiday-to-Phillies trade were true. Reportedly, the Rockies wanted Shane Victorino, J.A. Happ, Carlos Carrasco and Lou Marson for Holliday and Brian Fuentes. Carrasco, a pitcher, and Marson, a catcher, are the Phillies' top prospects.

Personally, I would not have made this trade. I'll trade Carrasco, but not with Happ and Marson in the same deal. If I were general manager, I'd offer Victorino, Carrasco and perhaps Jason Donald (minor league infielder with good upside) for Holliday and Fuentes.

I'd be able to live with that trade, even though there are a few red flags worth waving. Victorino, while not a top-tier outfielder by any means, is very valuable because of his defense and killer speed. Outside of Rollins, Victorino is the only the player on the 25-man roster with good-to-great speed. Jayson Werth would have had to become the starting center fielder, and while I'm not comfortable with that idea, I'd be able to get by for the rest of the season.

Also, where do you put Holliday, who is a left fielder? It would appear that Holliday would play right field, and while there isn't much difference between the two spots, you'd have two very below average fielders manning the corner outfield positions. Holliday, though, would be a tremendous run producer at Citizens Bank Park (I don't want to hear about his struggles on the road. He'd hit 40-plus home runs at CBP if he were a Phillie).

Just for fun, let's see what the Phillies lineup would look like if Holliday were on the team:

SS Jimmy Rollins
2B Chase Utley
RF Matt Holliday
1B Ryan Howard
LF Pat Burrell
CF Jayson Werth
3B Pedro Feliz
C Carlos Ruiz/Chris Coste

Looks good, huh? I know, I know -- this trade ISN'T going to happen... but it's still fun to play. Oh, I put Utley in the two-hole because I still think he'd be a better player if he were hitting in that spot.

As for Fuentes, you'd have to worry about re-signing him in the offseason, which probably wouldn't happen anyway. Still, he'd be an extremely effective set-up man (bye-bye, Tom Gordon) and would bridge the gap nicely to Brad Lidge.

-The Phillies should look to trade for a catcher. Carlos Ruiz has been atrocious and Chris Coste is finally starting to show why it took him 15 years to make the big leagues. There are a few interesting players at this position reportedly available, including Pudge Rodriguez and Ramon Hernandez. The Phillies have two back-up catchers right now. They need a positional upgrade, a stop-gap solution, and hopefully Marson will be ready next season.

Update To Wagner Story

Billy Wagner reportedly won't need an MRI on his left shoulder, after all. Mets vice president of media relations Jay Horwitz told Newsday on Monday that contrary to reports, Wagner will not have an MRI on his left shoulder. According to Newsday, the Mets' closer felt better on the team flight back to New York from Cincinnati on Sunday night. According to the newspaper, Wagner will only see a doctor on Monday if he feels tightness in his shoulder again when he wakes up Monday.

Wagner Has Shoulder Issue

The following story about Mets Closer Billy Wager has been taken and re posted from mlb.com. Billy Wagner will have his left throwing shoulder examined on Monday after he felt tightness while saving Sunday's 7-5 win over the Cincinnati Reds. The New York Daily News reported that he will have an MRI. "I'm old; I'm supposed to hurt," Wagner said, according to MLB.com.

As was said in my previous post, the Mets tied the Phillies for first place in the NL East on Sunday, and the two teams begin a three-game set on Tuesday in New York. Wagner, who has 24 saves and a 2.20 ERA on the season, has converted 11 of his last 12 save opportunities, and the Mets have won 11 of 13 games overall.

Despite his success, Wagner has complained of discomfort in his left trapezius muscle of late. "We want to know what was keeping him tight," Mets manager Jerry Manuel said, according to MLB.com. "It was 120 degrees, I was loose."

Mets Split in Cincy

The New York Mets have stopped their losing streak at two, and have moved into a first place tie heading into Tuesday's crucial series with the Phillies starting Tuesday at Shea.

Cincinnati Third Baseman Edwin Encarnacion hit one three homers for the Reds (Adam Dunn and Brandon Phillips had the other two) off of Mets Starter Mike Pelfrey, then made a throwing error in the 10th inning that helped the Mets rally for a 7-5 victory Sunday and a split of their four-game series.

Pitch Hitter Robinson Cancel opened the 10th with a double for the Mets off of Reds Reliever Bill Bray, his first extra-base hit in the majors since 1999 with Milwaukee. Jose Reyes then bunted for a single, his fourth hit of the game. Reyes' four-hit day included a triple, his 63rd with the Mets, moving one ahead of Mookie Wilson for the franchise record.

Mets Second Baseman Argenis Reyes then grounded to Encarnacion, who looked Cancel back to third and then tried to start a double play. Instead, he threw the ball into center field, letting in the go-ahead run. Carlos Delgado finished the rally with a sacrifice fly. Delgado also had three hits and a walk.

Duaner Sanchez got the victory with two innings in relief of Pelfrey. Billy Wagner got the last three outs for his 24th save in 30 chances. The Mets now head home to Shea, and look to move ahead of Philadelphia beginning with the series that starts on Tuesday night. Right now, the starters are Johan Santana for the Mets, and newly acquired Joe Blanton for the Phillies. It should be a great match up to open up a great series.

Are They Reverting Back To Their Old Ways?

After winning 10 in a row, the Mets have lost their last two. Last night's 5-2 lead can be chalked up to one of those losses, but tonight's game got away from the Mets. During the 5th, 6th, and 7th innings, the Mets left 8 runners on base. In the top of the 7th inning, David Wright and Carlos Beltran both struck out looking with the bases loaded. In the bottom of the seventh, Pedro Feliciano and Aaron Heilman both got rocked, giving up four runs when the game was in reach for the Mets at 3-2 Cincinnati. All four runs were charged to Feliciano.

The only good thing that came from tonight's 7-2 loss was that Philadelphia also lost. They lost to Florida. 9-5, which means that the Mets are still within grasp of the NL lead heading into the series finale tomorrow afternoon. However, a win won't come easy as Mike Pelfrey faces off against Edinson Volquez who is 12-3 with a 2.29 E.R.A. Tomorrow's game is a must win in my opinion before heading into a series against Philly starting Tuesday at Shea. Hopefully, the Mets can right the ship before that crucial series.

It Had To End Some Time

The winning streak has been stopped at 10. For the first time since July 4th against the Phillies, the Mets have lost a ball game. Tonight, the Mets ran into a buzz saw in Reds Pitcher Bronson Arroyo, and lost 5-2.

Arroyo pitched a gem, as he held the Mets to two runs on four hits, while walking one, and striking out four. The Reds scored four times in the fifth off John Maine, despite getting only two balls out of the infield. Right Fielder Ken Griffey Jr. drew a bases-loaded walk; Second Baseman Brandon Phillips lofted a two-run single into shallow right field, and Third Baseman Edwin Encarnacion got hit by a pitch with the bases loaded. Center Fielder Jay Bruce also got into the scoring act as he hit a solo homer in the bottom of the 3rd off Maine, who has failed to last five innings in three of his last four starts. The Bruce homer to center gave the Reds an early 1-0 lead.

The Mets got their two runs in the top of the 4th, thanks to a Carlos Beltran double that scored Marlon Anderson who hit a ground rule double, and a Damion Easley ground out that scored David Wright, who walked, moved to third on Beltran's double, and then scored on the Easley ground out.

The Mets run ended one win shy of the franchise record, and the loss has dropped the Mets a game out of first. Tomorrow night, the Mets look to start another winning streak, and move back into first place as Oliver Perez faces Josh Fogg.

Phillies Insider: Grading The First Half - Part 2

The Starting Rotation

Cole Hamels, LHP, (A): Despite the modest 9-6 record, Hamels is the ace of the staff and one of the best young pitchers in the game. With a 3.15 ERA and a pair of complete-game shutouts, the 24-year-old should have been an All-Star, but the extra rest should help. The great thing about Hamels is he's progressing. He's on pace to throw 200-plus innings and perhaps record 200-plus strikeouts. The only concern is his health. While he hasn't been injured this season, Hamels has a history of landing on the disabled list at some point.

Brett Myers, RHP, (F): Myers has been working on his mechanics at class-AAA Lehigh Valley and is expected to return to the team July 23 to face the Mets. Myers has been absolutely atrocious this season, compiling a 3-9 record and a 5.96 ERA while leading the league in home runs allowed. Needless to say, the Phillies desperately need Myers to get his head straight and pitch -- at the very least - above average in the second half. In many ways, Myers is the key to the team's pitching success going forward.

Jamie Moyer, LHP, (A-): Moyer continues to baffle hitters with his variety of offspeed pitches. The 45-year-old posted an 8-6 record with a 3.95 ERA in the first half. Moyer's done a great job of working six or seven innings every start and keeping the Phillies in the game. While age is always a concern, Moyer is typically much stronger down the stretch. Last year, he won some big games for the Phillies. I expect similar results this season.

Kyle Kendrick, RHP, (B+): Kendrick is 8-3 this season with a 4.47 ERA. Kendrick, 23, is a groundball pitcher throwing in a hitter-friendly ballpark. He benefits from great run support. While Kendrick doesn't exactly have amazing stuff, he does a great job of working out of trouble, utilizing his good sinker. There was concern that Kendrick would endure the "sophomore slump" in 2008. Instead, he's been just as productive as last season, when he won 10 games as a mid-season replacement for Freddy Garcia.

Adam Eaton, RHP, (F): Eaton is perhaps the worst pitcher in all of baseball... And no, that isn't an overreaction. In his two seasons with the Phillies, Eaton has the worst ERA among qualified starters(6.06), according to an article by Jayson Stark on ESPN.com. He is 3-8 with a 5.71 ERA in 19 starts this season, including 18 earned runs allowed his last two outings. How bad is Eaton? He gave up a bases-loaded double to Randy Johnson after about a 10 pitch at-bat. HE COULDN'T STRIKE OUT RANDY FREAKIN' JOHNSON!! With the acquisition of Joe Blanton, Eaton is likely finished in the rotation. The scary thing is the Phillies will probably move him to the bullpen.

The Others

Joe Blanton, RHP, (NG): Blanton was 5-12 with a 4.96 ERA with the Oakland A's this season. His record is bad, but Blanton is a proven innings-eater and won 16 and 14 games in 2007 and 2006, respectively. Blanton isn't a savior, but he's sure better than Eaton. Then again, who the hell isn't?

J.A. Happ, LHP, (B): Phillies fans have this love affair with Happ. He isn't going to lead the team to the World Series nor will he be the next Cole Hamels. Sure, he's pitched well in two major-league starts, but his control is an issue. Happ, who struck out 12 in his most recent class-AAA start, might get one or two more starts with the big league team. Happ's best bet is to finish the year in the minors, come back in February and try to win a spot in the starting rotation.

The Bullpen

Clay Condrey, RHP, (B+): Condrey played the role of Mr. Mop Up admirably in two seasons with the Phillies. Lately, however, Condrey has been thrust into more difficult situations and has done a good job. He recorded a save last week when Brad Lidge needed a rest and has a 3.66 ERA in 30 appearances. Not bad for a guy who posted a 5.04 ERA in 50 innings last year. I like Condrey, but he's a mid-relief guy at best... but certainly worth keeping (and trusting) the rest of the way. Hopefully, the Phillies won't option or demote him in favor of Eaton.

Rudy Seanez, RHP, (B+): The 39-year-old was retired when the Phillies gave him a call at the start of the season. Seanez, a mixed martial arts expert, has been a pleasant surprise in the middle of the pen. While he has been limited due to a back injury in recent weeks, Seanez is well worth the low-risk, high-reward investment. He possesses a 2.40 ERA in 26 outings.

Ryan Madson, RHP, (A-): Hmm, how could I best liken Ryan Madson at the start of the season? Madson has great potential, but at times is very frustrating to watch (I guess Mets fans can relate with Aaron Heilman). After a rough start to the season, Madson has shined in late-inning relief. He has a 2-0 record, six holds and a 2.77 ERA. Still, I have the sense that Phillies fans are just waiting for him to implode.

J.C. Romero, LHP. (B+): Romero earned a contract extension in the offseason after pitching extremely well for the Phillies down the stretch last year. Since being claimed off waivers from the Boston Red Sox, Romero has been a left-handed force in the bullpen. He's dangerous in the sense that his command is borderline terrible, but the Phillies have certainly taken the good with the bad. He starts to struggle when he pitches three or four straight days, evident by his recent problems. Still, it's hard to complain about a 2.17 ERA in 45 appearances.

Chad Durbin, RHP, (A): Durbin has been spectacular for the Phillies, who signed the 30-year-old in the offseason. Durbin has played just about every role to perfection -- set-up guy, mop-up guy, middle-relief guy, long-reliever guy. He has a minuscule 1.89 ERA with four holds in 36 appearances. He's as valuable as any pitcher on the staff.

Tom Gordon, RHP, (D-): As the team's set-up man, Gordon has been a major problem this season. He has a 5.16 ERA in 34 appearances and is currently on the disabled list with a shoulder injury. Gordon will likely return to the bullpen, but the Phillies should find a different role for the 40-year-old. This will likely be Gordon's final season.

Brad Lidge, RHP, (A+): Lidge has lived up to his "Lights Out" moniker, posting a 1.13 ERA with 20 saves in as many tries. It's only a matter of time before he blows a save, so it'll be interesting to see how he responds. Nevertheless, he's very deserving of the three-year contract extension he received earlier this month.