Happy Opening Day!
The moment we have been waiting for for six months is finally upon us: Opening Day 2007, the first day of what could be the most memorable Philadelphia Phillies season to date. For those of you lucky enough to be in attendance this afternoon at Citizen’s Bank Park, I can guarantee you are in for a great day weather-wise. Last year the rains fell and so did the Phillies by the hands of the World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals by a count of 13-5. This year the sun is shining and the Phils are playing the despised Atlanta Braves. Things will be different.
I’ll have to be honest though, the Phillies have not impressed me much this Spring, Saturday’s game was no different. Although they were not intimidated by Dice-K’s wacky windup, there was still plenty of rust on the hometown nine. But again, that all changes today. A win today would be a huge relief and I’m thinking an infusion of young blood might help them get it. Unlike last year’s Opening Day bench which featured the likes of David Dellucci Alex Gonzalez, and Sal Fasano, the Phils this year have Michael Bourn, Greg Dobbs, Carlos Ruiz, and Jayson Werth. The 2007 bullpen is younger too with Zack Segovia (who may get a few starts) and Matt Smith. The final roster spot, which will be announced any minute now, is likely to go to 24-year old righty Joe Bisenius. I don’t know, maybe these new guys won’t pan out, but I am definitely excited to watch them. And I’m excited about today. Go Phils!
