Steve Smith canned: Third base coach Steve Smith will no longer be killing Phillie rallies. Smith made a number of bad calls in sending runners that were out by several steps. While Smith has improved over the 2 years he has been coaching, apparently he has been in Charlie Manuel's doghouse, so that means it was time to go.
Taguchi released: The Phillies released little-used outfielder So Taguchi. The club didn't pick up his option and then released him, making him a free agent. He was clearly not what the team thought he would be when they signed him last off-season to be a pinch-hitter, he didn't contribute anything at the plate.
Walrond to the Blue Jays: Les Walrond and his 6.10 ERA will no longer be toiling in Lehigh Valley or making the occasional appearance with the big club. Walrond was claimed by the Toronto Blue Jays, who must really be desperate for pitching help.
That's it for now, no word yet on Pat Burrell or Jamie Moyer.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The offseason begins for the Champs: Coach fired, 2 players move on
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Seanez to the DL
Two days ago I called out Rudy Seanez and how bad he has pitched this month and now it looks like we won't be seeing him for a while. The Phillies placed Seanez on the 15 day disabled list with a shoulder inflammation. Supposedly Seanez hurt himself while making a tag in Thursday's game, but this could also just be a phantom injury to get him off the roster.
The Phillies called up Les Walrond from Triple A to replace Seanez. Walrond isn't a prospect at 31 years old, but he did strike out 17 batters in a start for Lehigh Valley in early July. Walrond previously pitched for the Royals and Cubs, going 25 total innings and putting up an ERA of 7.46.
There has been no word on Flash Gordon, who has been eligible to come off the DL for several days now, but he doesn't appear close to coming back.
