From bad to worse: Ibanez to the DL

For a team that has been in first place for most of the year, the Phillies haven't exactly been full of good news this season, especially when it comes to injuries. First, the Phillies lost Brett Myers for the season, then Brad Lidge and Scott Eyre were sent to the disabled list. Now, their hottest hitter, Raul Ibanez, will join them.

Ibanez was placed on the 15 day DL today with a strained left groin. He is going to have an MRI on the strain to see if there is any extensive damage, and early word from Ruben Amaro is that Ibanez could be out for more than two weeks. Replacing Ibanez on the roster is John Mayberry, who swung the bat pretty well for the Phillies when he was up last month.

Obviously, losing Ibanez, who was on pace for 60 homers this season, is a big blow to the Phillies, who have already been swinging cold bats lately. We can only hope that the MRI will not turn up even more bad news. Hurry back, Raaauuuulll!