Phillies Nation

76 Responses to “Mr. Rocktober is Ryan Howard”

1. Phillin' 'er up! Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 10:58 am

   Ryan Howard is truly a hero. Let’s not forget the amazing efforts by Jimmy, Shane (fielder’s choice) and Utley to get on base to make that hit possible.

   If our lineup keeps producing like this, you’ll see another 4-1 series win over the Dodgers.

2. Nick Stoner Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 11:03 am

   Ryan Howard is great and a future Hall-of-Famer. We are lucky to have him on the Phils.

3. Morris Buttermaker Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 11:12 am

   You have to take the good with the bad. Ok, the guy is going to strike out sometimes. But it is all worth it if he produces in the big moments the way he does. The kid loves to play in August, September and October. Howard is a once in a lifetime type player. He was tied for the lead league for RBI with Prince Fielder. No, not Pujols as is always reported. He 6 had more RBI than Pujols. He hits some beautiful majestic homeruns. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show.

4. Ben Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 11:14 am

   great series, and i have been waiting from something to be brought up about ryan. the guy is as clutch of a player as i have ever seen. for a big man, he is in terrific shape and doesn’t breakdown as the season goes on.

   i’d take him over almost any big masher not named pujols in the majors today because of his ability to come through in big games and big spots.

   also, i’m glad you gave credit to werth (and i’d throw ibanez in there) both guys have found there groove a bit. you can’t pitch around howard and put him on to then pitch to werth and then pitch to ibanez. our line up is filthy when it is on. keep it up boys.

5. Mazinman Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 11:17 am

   Ryan is awesome, no doubt about that but I think what is great about this team is that we win in a truly team effort not just because of one guy. Victorino’s awareness that he missed third, Utley’s patience in getting a walk and hustling every step of the way from first, Werth’s supremely clutch single, and Eyre (who seems to pitch better the more injuries he has) and Lidge shutting down the Rockies all made that 9th inning along with Howard’s clutch hit.

   Ryan’s hit is the most dramatic in the NL post season up to this point. Talk about ripping out a team’s heart. Way to go big guy!

6. Ben Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 11:18 am

   to explain what i mean that i would take him over others. i’m not saying he is the best masher, but its one thing to be good for 162 games, and another to be good in big spots. you need a team to make the playoffs in a 162 game schedule. but you need a few leaders to win in october. granted howard isn’t the only one, but he’s a big part.

   there is a reason the braves only won one. they had a great team for the season, but a marginal team for the playoffs.

7. Manny Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 11:40 am

   Get me to the plate, boys.

8. Bill Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 11:56 am

   I had a friend tell me over and over how Howard never hits in the clutch and that many of his homeruns and hits are meaningless. After last night I told him his argument was over. Howard proved himself as clutch in a huge way!!!

   http://www.phightinphils.com

9. JD Says:
   October 13th, 2009 at 12:01 pm

   I hope to never see the Man in Yankees Pinstripes…We are blessed as a city to have the team we put on the field everynight…I was on the phone with my buddy he called strikeout I called double…the rest is history…get the BEAT LA chants going, I feel this team pulling together at the right moment and last night showed how far they have come!!

10. Adam G Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:04 pm

    A legend was born last night. No doubt he is the leader of this team. Walking around the dugout, pleading with teammates to get on base to bring him up. These are the guys who love the spotlight and the pressure and maybe a “Reggie-Reggie-Reggie” like performance on an October/November night in the bronx is waiting around the corner.
    Go Phils!

11. Ben Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:17 pm

    adam g, i just soiled myself with that last vision.

12. beta sigma shag Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:36 pm

    Ryan is a stud, and maybe struggled a little last year in the post season, but his team picked him up, he returned the favor last night, and for all this series. It was a great come back, and as I watched the bottom of the eighth end down two, all I said to the guy sitting at the table of the place I work, if Ryan gets up he will hit a bomb to retake the lead. I love this team.
    on a side note , who thinks Pedro may start game two in LA LA land, especially if Cole wins game one

13. The Original Chuck P Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:41 pm

    What a game… what a series. The Rockies deserve a lot of credit; that team scrapped and clawed and never gave up.

    But like I’ve said all year, this team is special.

    I literally jumped and hit my head on the ceiling last night… saying I told you so has never felt this good.

    There are a lot of people on here that don’t give Howard his due because of his “flaws.” Why do we focus on his stikeouts? Why do we focus on prior year’s defensive woes? It’s about time that this city woke up and applauded this man… think about it, aside from the awards and the fact that he’s a GREAT ambassador for charity, he is an RBI machine, he has ALWAYS carried us in September, he dropped 20 pounds to be a better defender and he never gets injured. It’s about time that we recognize Howard for what he is… he is the backbone of this team. Without him, we aren’t talking about the WS title defense or the third consecutive NLE title.

14. Ed R. Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:43 pm

    I don’t know about anyone else but my favorite part of the game last night was when they show Victorino coming down the third base line and you wonder if Utley is going to be able to score and then all of the sudden Utley rounds the corner as if he was shot out of a cannon. It was at that moment that I know, the Phillies were going to win and they were going to do it right now.

15. Phlorida Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:44 pm

    JD, same happened here, my buddy called K , I said bomb, and it almost was. Lets all not forget Ben Fransisco’s amazing diving catch, Pete Happys stab to start the double play, and Chooch doing his part calling Cliffs game. I loved the inside-outside-inside-outside-K that he got late in the game(cant remeber the batter, Atkins maybe?) GREAT TEAM EFFORT! Just wait till Hamels gets dialed in, oooohh hooo! Bring on the Doyers…

16. Brooks Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:45 pm

    To speak of the HOF at this point in his career is premature. However, health would be the only issue as Ryan is not going to stop – he will continue to his 40 (+) hrs, have close to or over 140 rbi as long as he stays healthy. Will he hit over .300 again? I say probable since he has shown a propensity and tenacity to work on his weaknesses (the example of shoddy fielding comes to mind).
    As was written earlier, he is one of those once in a lifetime players playing in the best possible situation for him today. The Phils are smacked full of complimentary players, 1-6 in the batting lineup.
    If this team can somehow muster 4 or even 5 visits deep into the playoffs (another ring or 2?) who knows how many of this current squad would also be legit HOF material?
    How often the Phils visit the Post Season is most likely dependent upon how long this core group of guys stays together and we all know the piece to pry that apart is money..
    So, as someone else here said, enjoy the ride! It may not last that much longer.

17. Mark B Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 12:57 pm

    The ride won’t last forever, true, but with Rollins, Utley, Howard, Victorino, and Werth all about 29 or 30 years of age, I think we have good reason to anticipate 4 or 5 more solid years from this team. If they all stay here and stay relatively healthy.

18. GWFightinsFan Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:02 pm

    Should be interesting to see the pitching rotation setup for the Phils against the Dodgers. Hamels goes in Game 1, Game 2? Blanton? Pedro? Happ? Lots of options…obv Lee will be on the mound in Game 3….

19. Ed R. Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:12 pm

    My feeling is that the rotation will be:

    Hamels
    Pedro
    Lee
    Happ
    Hamels

    With game 6 or 7 being decided based on where we are at in the series. Lee will obviously start one of those games with Blanton being another possibility depending on when he is used.

    I think Charlie likes having Blanton out of the pen and if he does not use Pedro this series then he might as well just remove him from the roster all together.

20. CZ Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:13 pm

    I feel like you may see Cliff Lee pitch game 2 on short rest. You want to make sure you get both Hamels and Lee 2 starts in a long series. I would bet on Blanton in game 3 and maybe Pedro in game 4. That allows Happ to stay in the pen as the lefty that we need with Eyre always a game-time decision. Just my two cents.

21. Ben Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:27 pm

    someone should write something up about blanton’s role in the ‘pen. to step up like he has, and just accept the ball is pretty special. he was arguably the most consistent starter for us this year, and then he goes to the pen and just rocks. no snipes in the media or anything, he just wants to compete and win.

    its a hat tip to charlie too. he’s a player’s manager, and there is no way he gets guys to bounce around like they do and excel in those new roles. thats not easy, yet the phils have done it all over in the playoffs so far.

22. joe Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:28 pm

    no way Cliff goes on short rest.

    the dodgers got righties…
    so I think you gotta start Joe in game 2.

    although i think it depends on what cole does game 1…
    if they win, i could see pedro going game 2…

    lee will go game 3 in philly no doubt..

    haap could get a start…i really doubt he lets the butterflies get to him again…and plus it wont be 25 degrees…

    this series all falls on cole though… great game 1… things look good

    and you know who the dodgers will throw game 3 in philly…

    padilla

23. Ben Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:29 pm

    sorry, not to delegate tasks, but there are a lot of admirable things that came out of this series (imo).

24. joe Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:30 pm

    ps…
    anyone else notice that when yorvit hit that double to put the rockies up the TBS guy went NUTS… i mean NUTS

    but when Howard hit his double…the guy pretty much sounded depressed like the world was going to end

25. Manny Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:54 pm

    For Game 2, you might wanna go with Heavy B and his 1.50 ERA at Dodger Stadium this season (6 IP, 1ER, 5Ks)…

26. Amazinsux Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 1:56 pm

    Yeah, Joe those guys were horrible. The play by play clown was the Brewers regular announcer and Joe Simpson is a “never was” ex-player who does color for the (gag) Braves. So, I guess, it’s expected that they were both biased against the Phils. All the more reason to enjoy it more!

27. joe Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

    Cole gave up 1 run in 16 innings against the Dodgers this year…
    including that 97 pitch shutout..

    although he did own the Rockies too this year…

    but I give him a pass with his wife in labor

28. bob Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:02 pm

    Game 1: Hamels
    Game 2: Blanton
    Game 3: Lee
    Game 4: Happ

    Games 5-7, TBD depending on our standing in this series. I think you will see Chan Ho Park on the NLCS roster. Certainly a good time to get our bullpen healthy and props to them for stepping up big time!

    Thank you Brad Lidge for being a true professional and taking this change in stride. Scott Eyre, what a gamer. Ryan Madson, Mr. Dependable, despite his struggle last night. I think he made a great pitch to Giambi, who dinked it. Joe Blanton, as mentioned, for taking the ball in the bullpen and not stirring up controvesy. Ditto to Pedro, for being bumped out of Game 3.

    The list goes on and on, but our supposed disadvantage to Colorado came up big and allowed another trip to the NLCS. That pen was crapped on by alot of people and national media, saying that would be our downfall. Well not yet.

29. Don M Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:08 pm

    My best guess…. I think

    1. Thursday – Hamels (full rest)
    2. Friday – Pedro (full rest)

    3. Sunday – Lee (5 day rest)
    4. Monday – Blanton (full rest)
    5. Wednesday – Hamels (5 days rest)

    6. Friday – Lee (regular rest)
    7. Saturday- Pedro starts.. (everyone but Lee available from the pen)

    Happ in the bullpen since Eyre can’t be the only LHP, and they are afraid to use Bastardo in pressure situations

30. Chuck Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:19 pm

    Yes…..”Get me to the plate, boys.” AWESOME STUFF!!!

    I like Blanton as #2. You can’t pitch Lee on short rest. Full rest puts him game 3 on Sunday night at home.. That’s fine.

    I REFUSE to listen to the TBS or Fox guys. I’m telling you, turn the sound down and put on the radio if you can. Last night 1210 was almost perfectly in sync with the TV. It’s MUCH better listening to Franske, L.A., Wheeler and TMac than those losers on national TV. Larry Anderson is an excellent analyst and Franske’s play-by-play is very good and very emotional.

31. JOn Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:27 pm

    Chuck, did it sync up well when watching in HD? If so, I will do that. I will probably try anyway…I am just curious.

32. Scotty Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:33 pm

    “Get me to the plate, boys” is definitely a cheese steak tee. Print ‘em up!

    I’ll say another thing that’s impressed me with Ryan is his performance on the base paths. He steals! He stretches it into two! He barrels into home! It’s gotten to be that I know he’ll score from second on a routine single and that’s huge when you’re surrounded with wheels like Ut and Werth.

33. oaklandphilsphan Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:54 pm

    Hamels
    Pedro
    off day
    Blanton
    Lee
    off day
    Hamels
    off day
    Lee (3 days rest)
    Pedro

    Utilizes your four best starters, Pedro pitches twice in a pitcher’s park, gives Lee an extra day of rest. What do you think?

34. oaklandphilsphan Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:55 pm

    Also, gives the bullpen a second lefty in Happ and uses the three best starters at home for 3,4 and 5.

35. oaklandphilsphan Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 2:57 pm

    or switch Pedro and Lee in 6 & 7 depending on the series

    If Phils up 3-2, Pedro then Lee

    If Phils down 3-2, Lee then Pedro in 7 with Blanton for back-up a.l.a. game 3 of the NLDS

36. Chuck Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:02 pm

    Yeah…I had TBS on HD and 1210 on the radio. It was about a second apart. The night before 1210 was about 6-7 seconds behind and another station, 1490, was a few seconds ahead….so I’d hear the call and then watch it. But last night 1210 was more in sync. Give it a try.

37. Jeff Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:04 pm

    Why Ryan Howard does not get Love from the city of brotherly love. First, he plays with a guy named Chase. Chase can do no wrong in Philly. When he slumps nobody get on him. The reason is Chase plays the game at a very high level and is a ball player. Then there is Albert who everyone compares Ryan too. There is no player like Albert in baseball. He is so special. Then there is Ryan. Yes, he does strike out alot and looks silly at times at the plate. He does not have alot of disipline at times. Lets look at the big picture shall we. Look at the numbers Ryan has put up in the past season. They are amazing. Ryan carries us at the end of season. He won that braves game by himself. Last night in maybe his biggest at bat he came through. BIG TIME. Howard has a Rookie of the Year award, MVP award, World Series title, 3 division titles, and will be up for another MVP this year. He has a million dollar smile and is very very huble. A guy you cant help but love. Compared to some of these athletes. When he is retired and ready to make his way into the hall of fame then we will look back and say wow he played for our team. Thank you Ryan…..

38. Don M Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:11 pm

    Howard had such a better year than Chase Utley its not even funny…

    Howard = .279 avg, 45 HomeRuns, 141 RBI, 105 Runs, 8 Stolen Bases, 14 errors

    Utley = .282 avg, 31 HomeRuns, 93 RBI, 112 Runs, 23 Stolen Bases, 12 errors

    He’s one of the Top 5 offensive players in all of baseball.. yet many don’t even consider him the best on the Phillies

    on the flip-side .. if I had my life on the line, and had to pick one player on the Phillies to get a hit. Chase Utley would be my pick .. weird

39. Manny Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:18 pm

    Cause Utley is our best HITTER.. and Howard is our best POWER guy…

40. SDO Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:23 pm

    Did anyone else get tired of the over-use of the phrase “punch out” by those annoying TBS commentators?

41. bob Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:24 pm

    I have always said that if our season is on the line that CHASE UTLEY is my guy that I want up at the plate. Howard clutch double doesnt happen without Utley tremendous at bat.

    With that said, I don’t see why anyone would argue about this now or ever. They are both GREAT players and without one or the other we are not WFC’s going for a 2nd WFC.

42. Manny Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:25 pm

    Yup… you need both to win it all!

43. bob Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:26 pm

    And it’s certainly hard to not appreciate a man (Howard) who is GUARANTEED to knock at least 40 Hr’s and drive in 120 RBI’s over a season.

    That is ridiculous production. And production that may ultimately lead to him wearing a Yankee or Red Sox uniform.

    Enjoy Howard, Utley and crew while we have them!!!

44. Chuck Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:27 pm

    Don M….so you’ve been suckered into that whole Chase Utley “thing” (whatever that fascination is that fans have with him). That’s not meant as a criticism….just an interesting observation. And I understand it. Chase is that kind of player. Yet, for me, if I have to get up from watching a game I’ll wait to see Howard bat just about every time even if the Phillies are losing 11-1 and his at-bat is kind of meaningless. That’s just me.

45. joe Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:32 pm

    no way Pedro goes a game 7 if there is one… no way

    he wont pitch game 2 either…he hasnt pitched in like a month…

    it’ll be Blanton..
    he pitched sunday only 2.2 innings…

    he has monday. tues. wed. thurs. to rest…

    every 5th day..he’ll go game 2

46. Don M Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:35 pm

    Chuck.. im probably the last person in Philadelphia to be on any kind of Utley bandwagon ..

    He’s a good player..

    Howard is a GREAT player …

    not just the HR’s.. but his overall offensive numbers are on a historic pace.. he’s got a Rookie of the Year, MVP, and WS Ring … he would be in the Hall of Fame if he retired today ..

    ….
    I’ll be shocked if they choose Joe Blanton.. over Pedro Martinez in Game #2 … Pedro is one of the best pitchers in the history of the game.. and has been dominant at time even this season ..

47. Jeff Dowder Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:39 pm

    WFAN is now discussing what kind of reception Torre & Mattingly will get when they return to Yankee Stadium for the World Series. WTF?

48. Chuck Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:43 pm

    I know that, Don….maybe “fascination” was the wrong word (it DOES imply bandwagon). It’s just interesting to understand where people’s heads (and hearts) are at with certain players.

    The thing with Utley is that he does things that nobody else does…..that play on Sunday night in the 9th when the ball CLEARLY hit him is a good example. Not many players would be able to fake that like he did. When answering reporters he said he wasn’t sure if it hit him becasue it was so cold. I think he knew it did and played it as if the umpires would buy it…..and they did. THAT’S a smart baseball player.

49. Chuck Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:54 pm

    Torre coming back IS a pretty big story…… But it’s a little early to discuss that.

50. Don M Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:56 pm

    Utley is a smart baseball player.. has a real feel for the game.. works pitchers, gets on base .. and makes things happen ..

    I’m really glad he’s on the Phillies because he definitely knows how to win …

    I just think people have gone overboard with him, earlier this season people were saying he will go down as the best second baseman ever, and possibly the great Phillie of all-time .. so I pointed out that he’s not great on defense, and hits for a career .295 average (Good, Very Good .. but not GREAT …. yet)

51. bfo_33 Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 3:59 pm

    The four best teams made it. I like our chances over the Dodgers, think the Angels-Yanks is a pick-em series. One thing about this Phils team that beats all other teams – they are a likable bunch who play hard – top to bottom including pitchers. If there is a “me-first” guy, he keeps it to himself (maybe Hamels has a little of that, but not too much). Too often in the past 35+ years, I’ve followed colors. Last year was the first time since 93 that I cheered for the guys on the Phils, and it continued (even more so if possible) into this year. Thanks so far, looking for more big things.

52. Ryan Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 4:12 pm

    The dodgers better watch out because it seems that our whole lineup is on fire right now. We had 6 starters hit over .300 in the nlds, 4 of whom hit over .350. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come.

53. Brooks Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 4:20 pm

    Ryan, if the offense can keep plugging, especially with Jimmy and Vic getting on base, the league does not stand a chance. Howard has yet to unleash the kickass and the Phils still won yet another series only losing 1 game.
    Amazing -

54. bob Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 4:32 pm

    Again I think the point is moot on “Howard vs. Utley”. If one is missing, this team is not a championship caliber team over these last 2 seasons.

    Utley just does everything the right way-hustles, blue collar. Howard is plenty popular and it is great what he has done to improve his defense.

    Why do I think Utley is the more popular player? Because of the work ethic and that he will seemingly be here longer than Howard. I am one of those people that think that Howard and Hamels will bolt for the bigger paycheck from the Yanks, Sox, Dodgers, etc. This doesnt mean I dont love what those 2 bring to the table and what they will for the rest of their time here.

    It seems that Utley is the one that will be here the longest, ala Rollins and Burrell’s tenures with the clubs. That equals more popularity.

    THink of it like this: If you are teaching your son or daughter how to play the game of baseball (hitting, running, all the fundamentals of the game) who’s tape are you popping in? For me it is Chase Utley’s, no questions asked. Utley makes contact, he is the smartest baserunner. Not the greatest defender, but very smart. Yesterday’s flip and Game 5 throw in the World Series come to mind. If he were a Yankee, you would see that throw and his baserunning played all the time on ESPN, just like Derek Jeter.

55. The Original Chuck P Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 5:31 pm

    If Howard/Hamels leave for a bigger paycheck, that’s not their fault… it’s the Phillies. This team is making those owners oodles of cash and they deserve to be paid. Howard deserves to be paid like one of the best players in the game because, quite frankly, he is the second best player in the game.

    The Phillies website has Phillies/Dodgers “Options” listed as (in order):

    Hamels / Wolf
    Happ / Kershaw
    Lee / Kuroda
    ??? / Padillla

    I think that’s what we’ll see… Blanton pitches game 4 unless he pitches in relief prior to that. Pedro is the starter for game 4 if and only if necessary…

56. Chuck Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 5:35 pm

    One of my favorite players of all time is Cal Ripken. Utley is kind of like him. Plays hard. Plays smart. Will probably be a career Phillie just like Cal was a career Oriole. Ripken is the better player but they exemplify what fundamental baseball is all about.

57. Brooks Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 5:57 pm

    Chuck – one of my all time favorite players was Cal Ripken too – however, to say that Ripken is (was) a better player is out of line.
    Ripken had many more seasons where he struggled with hitting .250.. He hit more than 30 hrs only 1 time, had more than 100 rbi 4 times in his 20 year plus career and wound up with a lifetime batting average of .276.
    I certainly don’t want to take anything away from the Iron Man but, Chase Utley has a lifetime batting average of nearly .300. He has hit over 30 hrs in 3 out of his first 5 full seasons, he has 4 100 rbi years. Chase Utley to most of us in the nation, is a viable candidate at some point to win the MVP in the NL. And teamed with one of the leagues greatest sluggers, one of the best SS (maybe the best) – this team will probably win Philadelphia hopefully a few more crowns.

58. joe Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 6:02 pm

    Kuroda isn’t even on the roster.

    he’s done

    so don’t pay attention to that

59. VictorinoPhan 8 Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 6:14 pm

    I have 2 issues to comment on. First, like I wrote on Twitted the other night, the TBS announcers have a lot to be desired! I know one can hold a candle to Harry the K, but T Mac and Wheels are soooooo much better then what we heard on TBS the division playoffs, not to mention so one sided
    Secondly, the start times just down right suck! Come on, 10o’clock eastern time and 2:30 pm. What gives? You know we would like a normal start time for once. I know it all boils down to which teams will bring in the better ratings but try to make it somewhat fair. Every teams fans deserve a prime time start time!

60. Chuck Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 6:21 pm

    Chase Utley needs many more years (5 or more) before he’s a consideration for the HOF.

    Ripken lifetime stats…

    Hits…3184

    HR….431 (thats mostly as a shortstop)

    BA….276

    19 All Star Games

    2 MVPs

    1 Rookie of the Year

    1 WS

    I’m not even mentioning the streak…..which nobody will break again anytime soon.

61. Brian of CO Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 6:21 pm

    Well I notice Andrew isnt on here yet spewing how HORRIBLE Howard and Werth are in the clutch? I wonder what he thinks now. There really isnt a bigger clutch situation. Obviously NLCS or World Series is a bigger clutch situation, but last night spoke VOLUMES about this team, and their resolve. People who had their doubts about NLCS and even taking both games in Colorado had very valid arguements. The Phillies were playing like crap, and the Rockies were playing pretty well, and had the 2nd best Home record in the NL. They did have the advantage going back to Colorado, but the Phillies have shown up! It probably would have been a sweep if Cole Hamels would have been able to concentrate! Between his VERY PUBLIC outspokenness about pitching during the day, and his wife going into labor, he was doomed. Still I guess didnt pitch too bad considering, however IMO still should not have pitched, and even with all of that, deserves the Jeltz. But yesterdays win was HUGE! Not because it was the for the NLDS, but because of the grit of this team and the comeback nature of the win. Towards the end of the regular season, this team at some points did have a roll over and die type of mentality but not last night. The Dodgers are a much better team than the Rockies though! Lets go get em. This will be a tougher challenge, hopefully Hamels can concentrate, and hopefully he pitches IN LA and NOT in Philly against the Dodgers. Hollywood Hamels loves Hollywood! Oh and “many of his homeruns and hits are meaningless.” Honeslty, no offense but your friend is a moron. True some Home Runs may not be “clutch” but there are not many homers that are “meaningless”. I mean if you are up by 15 runs (like against the Reds) and hit a homer, ok, maybe that is meanginless, but even if you are winning, a Home Run is NOT meaningless. I have had many arguments about Howard this season, I really like having Howard in Philly. True, he strikes out ALOT, but you take the good with the bad. Come on, those of you who want him traded, think about it. Howard does suck doesnt he, I mean how dare he that he only had 45 home runs (3rd in NL) and 141 RBI’s (tied for 1st in the NL).

62. ed Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 7:21 pm

    Howard is definitely the best player on this roster by far that’s why he bats in the clean up role (the most productive slot in the line up) but he needs people that are great around him to be great. With that said the reason that Philly loves chase utley so much is because he identifies with the city better than anyone else on his team besides being the best 2nd baseman in the game. He plays hurt, never complains, hustles all the time like there is no tomorrow, isn’t here for the pay check, and is so smart in the game of baseball. He also does all of the little things the best example is the play in the world series when he faked the throw to first and then got the got out at home. He is so Jeteresk in that regard and I know F%^& the Yankees.

63. Philly Texan Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 9:18 pm

    Howard had a great year. Cut down on his strikeouts and raised his average 30 points.

    Sure, he still strikes out a lot, but I’ll live with that to get those 45 homers and 140 RBI every year.

    By the way, this was his 4th straight year of 45 homers and 140 RBI.

    I think only Babe Ruth and Sammy Sosa have ever done that (and we now know how Sammy did it.)

    So you could argue that Babe Ruth and Ryan Howard are the only two players in major league history to accomplish this cleanly.

    We’re watching a great player on a great team. And I’m enjoying it.

    Once-in-a-generation player.

64. Brian of CO Says:
    October 13th, 2009 at 9:35 pm

    It depends on how you define cleanly Philly Texan. LOL. Babe didnt have steroids, but he was a complete drunk. LOL.

65. Bret Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 12:11 am

    Where’s Brian Micheal ripping Ryan Howard now??? Im surprised he let this post make it on the site. He was still ripping him even early this year.

66. Manny Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 9:39 am

    Talking about Big Brown: Has anyone realized that he was THIRD in batting average this season (after Shane and Chase)? That’s very, very impressive… who would’ve thought!

67. Don M Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 11:04 am

    What does it mean that Utley “Isn’t here for the paycheck” … he makes like $13 M a season average on this contract

    I really, really don’t want to start a race-debate or anything like that.. but the simple fact is that Utley is white… most Philadelphia baseball fans are white.. and there you have your superstar

    even more so than the Gold Glove, MVP, and longest tenured Jimmy Rollins
    or your Rookie of the Year, Home Run Champ, MVP Ryan Howard ..

    …
    I used to have a favorite player named Bobby Abreu.. who was the most clutch player in a long-time.. Since he departed I really don’t have one “favorite” player on the team anymore … I love what they all do to help the team

    I love Rollins’ for his defense and ability to make things happen

    Utley because he’s the best PURE hitter on the team, and he really does leave it all out on the field

    Howard because we’ve never had a legit Power threat like him in our history.

    Werth because he’s above average at every single aspect of the game (really might be the most complete player on the roster…)

    Feliz because he’s got a great glove, and has timely hits..

    Ruiz because he works well with the pitchers, and can really battle in late-game at-bats against hard throwing pitchers.. he steadily pokes balls to Right and Right-Center when we need hits..

    I’ve never been a huge Victorino fan.. love his defense, but I feel like he slaps at the ball too much, and doesn’t use his speed enough (BUT.. he comes up big when Rollins doesn’t ..and when the two of them are both on, our team is nearly unstoppable)

    anyway.. this team is awesome at life

68. Brian of CO Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 4:38 pm

    I dont know Don M, I completely disagree. I dont agree that “most Philadelphia baseball fans are white”. I think that is impossible to actually quantify. By saying that Utley is one of the favorites in Philly (everyone has their favorites, Vic is one of mine) is to say that ?most Philadelphia” phans cant see past the color of someone skin to evaluate likes or dislikes. Maybe I am wierd, but My favorites are Howard, Vic, Utley and Moyer, and Im white. But the only true “white’s” are Moyer and Utley. Vic is Hawaiin, and we know Howard. I just dont think you give enough credit to some of the phans on this site. No disrespect meant to you, but I dont think you are giving some of us enough credit to not be racist.

69. Don M Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 4:43 pm

    Brian, have you ever been to a Phillies game ???

    I’d say that the crowd is AT LEAST 75% white

    …
    What other explanations could you give for people loving Utley that much more than say Rollins or Howard .. who both have achieved higher personal goals thus far in their careers .. and who are both way more “friendly and outgoing” than the warm, and fuzzy Chase Utley

70. Don M Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 4:49 pm

    I’m really not trying to start a debate of any sort.. but I feel like Howard should be a much, much, much bigger SuperStar in the game of baseball, and in our city.

    Utley’s numbers don’t come anywhere near the production of Howard.. Utley dives around more, maybe he is able to hustle so much because he’s not the one carrying the team on his back every September.. Ryan Howard is

71. Brian of CO Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 5:06 pm

    Actually yes Don M, Ive been quite a few Phillies Games. I would agree that maybe 60-70% may be white, but are the people who go to games the ONLY Phillies fans? I honestly know just as many black fans as white fans, but honestly saying that most fans are white because thats who show up to games is missing a large percentage of games. For those fans who do NOT or have not gone to a game, does it make them not a fan? No, it could mean many other things. Cant afford it, family matter, only one person of the family is a fan, the others dont want to go, Lower income. Some things like that. As much as I dont like the “race debate” it is proven (an BS that it happens) that women and blacks make less money than white males. Have you even been to a game? I would black/white aside 60-70% are male. Does that mean that women dont like the Phillies? I just think it is impossible to quantify that unless you can actually identify EVERY SINGLE fan, and not base it on only those fans who either choose, or more importantly can afford to go to a game. Do I agree that SOME people can NOT see past the color of a persons skin…Without a doubt there are some that are too ignorrant to see past, but I do NOT agree that MOST fans can not see past a persons skin. I just find it hard to believe that MOST fans like Utley ONLY because he is white, and dislike Howard and Rollins because they are black. Some, yes…Most? I completely disagree. Maybe I completely disagree because I dont see it that way, and my friends I surround myself dont see it that way, but I really HIGHLY doubt, you are one of those “some” people, and I doubt that your friends are that way either. I have seen your posts on here before, and you do not strike me that way, as a racist. You seem a little more open minded than that. As for explanation. When Schmidt was playing he was definately NOT a popular sports figure in Philly. Many people couldnt stand him…He is white, and Schmidt and Howard have two things in common…Home Runs and Strikeouts. Schmidt was a far better fielder than Howard and he was still NOT popular. For Rollins, I know some people dont like Rollins because of how extremely OUTSPOKEN he is. His hustle has been questioned in the past (benched last season because of it) and he was benched two years ago for being late. Some people take that to heart. To me? He is human, he makes mistakes, he did it, he got benched, he learned from it. One reason I Live J-Roll as a person is his community service he does TONS of it. As a player defensively, AWESOME. As a hitter, WOW did he turn it on, but he was atrocious at the beginning of the season, hitting about .206. Some people are weery of him, and his swing at first pitch mentality a little to much. Honestly, thats the only thing that gets me, his swing at first pitch.

72. Don M Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 5:39 pm

    MOST Philadelphia baseball fans are males ..

    also, I never said that MOST fans are racist

    … and I never said that MOST fans like Utley ONLY because he is white ..

    But if the majority of baseball fans in this city are white.. and Utley, who isn’t as friendly & out-going OFF THE FIELD ..and isn’t as productive ON THE FIELD as Ryan Howard .. It’s really not a stretch at all to say that race plays a factor as to why he seems to be the fan favorite

73. Don M Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 5:43 pm

    I generally agree with what you say.. but I can’t think of a more realistic reason for Ryan Howard not to be our most popular player ?

    It’s a nice problem to have… which All-Star, MVP caliber player should be the fan favorite.. and why …

    we haven’t had questions like that in Philadelphia for a long, long time.. so its kinda cool

74. Brian of CO Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 6:11 pm

    Now I 100% with the state of this being a good problem to have! I understand the question of what the reasons are. I guess I just disagree to even go down that route at all. Thankfully in the last few seasons, we have had quite a few “nice problem[s] to have” in Philadelphia. We have questioned 1. why the hell would would we sign Moyer to a 2 year contract. To me, intangeables, such as leadership and teaching. 2. Why would we sign a “washed up old fart” like Pedro Martinez. I questioned it, however none of us saw what the Phillies scouts saw, which is a rested, motivated former cy you winner with something to prove, and a little something left in his tank to be a 4th or 5th starter. 3. Why Let Pat the Bat go and get Ibanez? Ibanez has cooled off a quite a bit from his horrifically awesome start, but I still think he was a great pick up. 4. Why did we pick up Cliff Lee instead of sell the farm for Halladay? I think Lee (excluding 3 of his starts) has spoken for himself with performance. And Francisco has helped alot as well. GREAT problems to have!

75. Brian of CO Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 7:38 pm

    Don M, I thought about this discussion a little more, and I have a thought of why Howard doesnt get the same amount of love in Philly as maybe Utley. First, I dont wuite agree that Utley doesnt put up numbers which would draw people to him. He isnt a power hitter, and doesnt hit clean up so usually he would have the same amount of homers and RBI’s as Howard. Utley is there to hit and get on base. Howard hits Utley in quite often meaning both do their job quite well. But really, why doesnt he get the love. I would say who they are compared to. Howard is compared to or often thought of in the same sentance as other 1st basemen. Pujols, Gonzalez, and Fielder come to mind. Why sometimes will Hoard not get the respect? He is often in the top 3 of the HR’s and RBI’s, BUT he is often in the top 5 (ish) of strikeouts, and not in the top 5 for Avg. Too many people will question why he can hit power and RBI’s like Pujols for instance, and not hit for avg as well. Just my thought. As for Utley. Many people argue he is one of if not THE best 2nd basemen in the NL today. That could be an explanation. Thoughts on that?

76. Brian of CO Says:
    October 14th, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    Not to mention, Philly fans often like a foul mouth. And we all know what Chase has said which set phan in a phrenzy. (Boo? F^&* YOU, and (World PHucking Champions) That said, I find it very difficult to name 1 single favorite player. There really isnt a player I dont like, just some I think have underperformed to their own caliber.

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