Long-time leadoff hitter Jimmy Rollins batted in the top third of the Phillies’ lineup in every game he started last year. Citing not only his decline, but strategic purposes as well, it’s time to consider moving him down. Next season’s projected batting order features five left-handed hitters out of eight regulars — six if you include switch-hitting Rollins against righties. Ryne Sandberg is in the unenviable position of trying to…

He’s made three All-Star teams and won the World Series MVP, but there’s a lot that Cole Hamels hasn’t done and must do in order to live up to his contract. Happy birthday to Cole Hamels, who turns 30 today. He’ll be one of possibly 13 players to make the Phillies’ 25-man roster next season at 30 years old or older. The Phillies’ best homegrown starter since Robin Roberts, Hamels…

In conversation, in comments sections and in the industry itself, it’s hard to find anyone who genuinely likes the offseason the Phillies are having. Which leads us to this hypothetical: Would signing Masahiro Tanaka change your whole offseason outlook? Let’s be clear: The Phils are probably not a player for Tanaka, who was finally posted by the Rakuten Golden Eagles on Christmas morning after weeks of defiance from the team…

With all the hoopla going on about the Eagles beating the Cowboys in Dallas to win the NFC East title and make a trip to the playoffs we wanted to take a step back and take a winter look at the Fightin Phils. Spring Training is right around the corner! Many feel that it’s time to rebuild the Phillies from the ground up, however, that doesn’t seem to be the…

Amaro has acknowledged that his resources might be tapped out and any improvements will likely come in the form of the minor league contract variety.  The thought makes me sick to my stomach looking at the current projected roster, but at least he made some smart minor league signings today. Seaon O’Sullivan adds depth to the pitching staff as he could start or relieve.  The 26 year old right-hander has…