Phillies drop Spring Training Opener

Thank goodness it was a completely meaningless game, otherwise we would all be worried that the Phillies lost to the Pirates 8-2. Jamie Moyer started for the Phils and pitched two scoreless innings, but two pitchers not likely to be on the major league club this year, Joe Bisenius and Scott Nestor, gave up 7 of the runs.

The batters didn't fare much better, accumulating only 7 hits. New Phillie Raul Ibanez had an RBI single in the third inning, providing the only highlight for any every day player. Outfielder Jeremy Slaydon was the only Phillie with two hits.

While the outcome wasn't great, the fact that baseball is starting up again is what matters. As we all know, you can't take anything from these early Spring Traning games, especially considering the 11-6 loss the Phils had last season to kick off Spring Training against these same Pirates. And we all know how last season turned out!

The World Champs are back on the field

In case you haven't been paying attention amongst all the Eagles rumors, the World Champion Phillies are down in Florida getting ready to defend their title. They take the field for their first Spring Training game today against the Pirates at 1:05.

Here is the lineup the Phils will be using:

1. Jimmy Rollins SS
2. Shane Victorino CF
3. Raul Ibanez LF
4. Ryan Howard 1B
5. Geoff Jenkins RF
6. Matt Stairs DH
7. Jason Donald 2B
8. Eric Bruntlett 3B
9. Chris Coste C

Notice how lefty-heavy that lineup is? The Phils should murder right handed pitching this year.

Pitching for the Phillies will be Jamie Moyer and Joe Blanton. While most won't be watching this game, it is still going to be exciting to have some baseball to follow. I can't wait to see if the World Champs can do it again.