Myers Blanks Yanks to Continue His Strong Spring; Benson Staying

Converted closer Brett Myers seems to be enjoying his return to being a starter. In Grapefruit League play today, Myers pitched 5 shutout innings, giving up only 2 hits and striking out 3, to lead the Phillies over the Yankees, 4-0. Drew Carpenter, a second round pick by the Phillies back in 2006, completed the shutout by pitching 4 scoreless innings, striking out 6 batters. Jimmy Rollins led the offense for the Phils with 2 RBI's.

Myers, with an ERA of 1.13, has been by far the best Phillies pitcher this spring, proving he was the right choice to be the Opening Day starter. Despite giving up 13 runs Monday to the Yankees, the Phillies pitching has turned things around lately. The only starter that seems to still be struggling is Kyle Kendrick, who gave up 5 runs in 5 innings in his last start.

In other pitching news, Kris Benson has decided to remain with the team despite the fact the Phillies decided not to add him to their 40 man roster. Benson had a short window when he could have opted out of his contract and tried to join another team, but instead he chose to stay, citing his comfort level with his manager and pitching coach. Benson remains several weeks away from returning, but he will be a nice insurance option whenever he finally gets healthy.