Philadelphia Phillies: Top 10 Prospects

by Marc Hulet - January 27, 2010 - Share this Article

General Manager: Ruben Amaro Jr.
Farm Director: Steve Noworyta
Scouting Director: Marti Wolever

FanGraphs’ Top 10 Prospects:
(2009 Draft Picks/International Signees Not Included)

This organization definitely has a different feel after the Roy Halladay/Cliff Lee trades. The loss of prospects Kyle Drabek, Michael Taylor and Travis D’Arnaud to the Blue Jays (Taylor later got flipped to Oakland) hurts the overall depth of the Top 10 list, and the players that came back from Seattle were not of an equal value. Beyond Brown there are a lot of question marks.

1. Domonic Brown, OF, Double-A
DOB: September 1987 Bats: L Throws: L
Signed: 2006 20th round – Georgia HS
MLB ETA: Mid-2010 40-Man Roster: No Options: 3

The club is lucky to still have Brown, aka the player Toronto really wanted in the Roy Halladay trade. The 2010 season could be the year that Brown vaults into elite prospect status, if he’s not already there for most people. The outfielder is a speed/power threat with two straight seasons of 20-plus steals and an ISO of .214 at high-A in ‘09 (His .177 ISO in double-A wasn’t bad, either). Overall, he hit .298/.376/.494 on the season. One minor knock on Brown to this point has been his durability. Injuries have kept him from appearing in more than 114 games over the past three seasons. Of concern, as well, is the jump in strikeout rate last season (20.2 in high-A, 25.2% in double-A) but that is to be somewhat expected with a jump in his power output. His walk rate remained solid (12.1 in high-A, 8.6% in double-A).

2. Phillippe Aumont, RHP, Double-A
DOB: January 1989 Bats: L Throws: R
Signed: 2007 1st round – Quebec HS (Seattle)
MLB ETA: Mid-2011 40-Man Roster: No Options: 3
Repertoire: 89-95 mph fastball, slider, change-up

The top player acquired in the surprising Cliff Lee trade with Seattle, Aumont is armed with a big-time fastball but his secondary pitches leave something to be desired. Despite that fact (and a history of injury problems), his new organization is planning to stick him back in the starting rotation. Drafted in the first round as a raw Canadian prep pitcher, Aumont quickly reached double-A in less than two seasons (in part due to Seattle’s aggressive approach). The 21-year-old pitcher’s ‘09 season was solid. He began the year in high-A – in a very good hitter’s league – and posted a 3.53 FIP while allowing 24 hits in 33.1 innings of work (thanks in part to a .264 BABIP). He showed OK control with a walk rate of 3.24 BB/9 and a solid strikeout rate of 9.45 K/9. That whiff rate jumped to 12.23 K/9 upon his promotion to double-A, but his walk rate also rose to 5.60 BB/9. His BABIP-allowed jumped to .436 and his LOB% plummeted to an unlucky 59.5%. Aumont will be a pitcher to watch closely in 2010, as he is one of the most volatile prospects in the game.

3. Trevor May, RHP, Low-A
DOB: September 1989 Bats: R Throws: R
Signed: 2008 4th round – Washington HS
MLB ETA: Mid-2013 40-Man Roster: No Options: 3
Repertoire: 89-94 mph fastball, curveball, change-up

May had an excellent season, but caution must be used due to his limited sample size. In 15 low-A starts, the right-hander posted a strikeout rate of 11.06 K/9 and allowed just 58 hits in 77.1 innings of work. He had control issues and had a walk rate of 5.00 BB/9 but a HR/9 rate of 0.35 helped to keep the damage to a minimum. May also benefited from luck with a LOB% of 80.0%. He needs to try and get his ground-ball rate up above 40%. The youngster could begin 2010 back in low-A or the organization could be aggressive and move him up to high-A. Either way, he needs to get 25 starts this year so we can see what his potential is with a larger workload.

4. Juan Ramirez, RHP, High-A
DOB: August 1986 Bats: R Throws: R
Signed: 2005 non-drafted international free agent (Nicaragua)
MLB ETA: Mid-2012 40-Man Roster: No Options: 3
Repertoire: 90-95 mph fastball, curveball, change-up

Another piece obtained in the Lee deal with Seattle, Ramirez has a nice fastball but he is still trying to put all the pieces together. The right-handed prospect had a rough time playing in a good hitter’s park in high-A in ‘09. He posted a 4.76 FIP and allowed 153 hits in 142.1 innings. His strikeout rate also dropped below 8.20 K/9 for the first time in three years to 7.02 K/9. His walk rate, though, remained respectable at 3.35 BB/9 and he kept his line-drive rate to 12%. Despite a 42% ground-ball rate (which is OK, not great), Ramirez allowed quite a few homers (1.14 HR/9) so he’ll need to improve that for 2010. At worst, he should develop into back-of-the-rotation starter, with the potential to be a No. 3. A set-up role in the bullpen would not be out of the question.

5. Sebastian Valle, C, Low-A
DOB: July 1990 Bats: L Throws: R
Signed: 2006 non-drafted international free agent (Mexico)
MLB ETA: Mid-2013 40-Man Roster: No Options: 3

Valle has the makings of a solid offensive-minded catcher, although his wOBA plummeted to .301 in his first taste of full-season ball in ‘09. At low-A ball, the catcher hit just .223/.313/.331 in 157 at-bats. In short-season ball, though, the left-handed hitter posted a .390 wOBA and a triple-slash line of .307/.335/.531 in 192 at-bats. Valle showed a better walk rate at low-A (8.9%) than in short-season ball (4.9%) and his +20% strikeout rate is a tad high, although his ISO rate was .224 at the junior level. He needs to improve against southpaws, as his OPS was .659 against them, compared to .815 against right-handers. Defensively, the Mexico native is a work-in-progress and he threw out just 18% of base runners in ‘09.

6. Tyson Gillies, OF, High-A
DOB: October 1988 Bats: L Throws: R
Signed: 2006 25th round – Iowa Western CC (Seattle)
MLB ETA: Mid-2012 40-Man Roster: No Options: 3

The is reason to be excited about Gillies, but the outfielder was playing in one of the best hitter’s leagues in all of baseball. His .411 wOBA is nice, as is his triple-slash line of .341/.430/.486, but his BABIP was .395. There are two things about his game that he cannot luck into, though: his walk rate of 10.1% and his 44 steals (although he was caught 19 times). The 2010 season will be a telling one for Gillies, who will be moving to a more neutral league. To have success, he just needs to keep doing what he’s doing: Hitting a lot of ground balls (61% in ‘09) and using his speed to get on base (and then into scoring position).

7. Anthony Gose, OF, Low-A
DOB: August 1990 Bats: L Throws: L
Signed: 2008 2nd round – California HS
MLB ETA: Mid-2013 40-Man Roster: No Options: 3

In some regards, Gose is similar to Gillies – only more raw. Gose had a respectable first full season in the minors and hit .259/.323/.353 in 510 at-bats. His speed was on full display as he stole 76 bases in 96 attempts. To fully take advantage of his speed to its full extent, though, he needs to improve his .323 OBP and 6.1% walk rate. The strikeout rate is also far too high (21.6%) for someone with an .094 ISO rate. Like Gillies, Gose does a nice job of keeping the ball on the ground (64 GB%). Oddly, the left-handed hitter fared much better against southpaws than right-handers in ‘09 (.824 vs .638 OPS).

8. Antonio Bastardo, LHP, Majors
DOB: September 1985 Bats: L Throws: L
Signed: 2005 non-drafted international free agent (Dominican Republic)
MLB ETA: Now 40-Man Roster: Yes Options: 2
Repertoire: 87-92 mph fastball, plus change-up, slider

It was a busy year for Bastardo, who pitched at five different levels, spent time on the DL and made his MLB debut. In six Major League appearances, the lefty posted a 5.08 FIP but showed solid control with a walk rate of 3.42. He spent the majority of the season in double-A, where he posted a 2.03 FIP and allowed 22 hits in 36.0 innings. His strikeout rate was an eye-popping 10.25 K/9 and his control was spot-on at 1.75 BB/9. A starter in the minors, Bastardo could make the Phillies bullpen in 2010, as he possesses a slightly-above average heater for a lefty and good slider. His change-up was a well-below-average pitch in his brief MLB debut.

9. John Mayberry, OF, Majors
DOB: December 1983 Bats: R Throws: R
Signed: 2005 1st round – Stanford University (Texas)
MLB ETA: Now 40-Man Roster: Yes Options: 1

A former two-time No. 1 draft pick (out of high school and college), Mayberry’s dad (of the same name) was also a pretty good hitter in his day. The younger Mayberry has massive power potential but he has yet to show an ability to hit for a high average in pro ball, which drags down his overall numbers – especially considering his OBP is relatively low, as well. The prospect showed his power potential by mashing the ball (.263 ISO) in a 39-game MLB trial in ‘09. He spent the majority of the year in triple-A where he hit .256/.332/.456 with an ISO of .199 in 316 at-bats. Despite his size (6′6”, 230 lbs), Mayberry also possesses the ability to steal 10 bases with regular playing time. Already 26, the outfielder (who can also play first base) is big-league ready but there is no spot for him. If he makes the 2010 opening day roster, it will be as a part-time player – or due to an injury to Ryan Howard, Raul Ibanez or Jayson Werth.

10. Scott Mathieson, RHP, Double-A
DOB: February 1984 Bats: R Throws: R
Signed: 2002 17th round – British Columbia HS
MLB ETA: Mid-2010 40-Man Roster: Yes Options: 1
Repertoire: 91-97 mph fastball, slider, change-up

Mathieson is a great story and he gets the nod over some other players like Jarred Cosart and Domingo Santana, both of whom played in the Gulf Coast League (rookie ball) this past season. He had a lot of success in the bullpen in ‘09 while recovering from his second Tommy John surgery (interesting fellow Canadian hurler Shawn Hill, now with the Jays, also underwent a second procedure last June and is on the comeback trail). In 33.0 combined innings in ‘09, the right-hander allowed 22 hits (.188 AVG), a walk rate of 3.27 BB/9 and a strikeout rate of 8.45 K/9. He also gave up just one homer (0.27 HR/9) despite a low ground-ball rate (39.4%). If his elbow holds up, Mathieson could eventually see time as a closer. He will turn 26 by the time the season begins and he will likely receive some more fine-tuning in triple-A before he trusted with a big-league bullpen role. If he can continue to show good control and a blazing fastball, Mathieson could be contributing at the MLB level by mid-season.

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Marc Hulet is the manager of Fangraphs' fantasy coverage at Rotographs. He provides written material, focusing on prospects, for both Rotographs and Fangraphs. He was recently named by Sun Media - Canada's largest media outlet - as one of the 100 most influential Canadians in Baseball. He can be reached via email at: marchulet@yahoo.com.

Strikeforce Media Day

Two-time NFL Pro Bowler and former Heisman trophy winner Herschel Walker signed autographs and took in a Florida Panthers hockey game Tuesday night. Walker will make his MMA Strikeforce debut against Greg Nagy.

Undefeated MMA heavyweight Bobby Lashley faces Wes Sims Saturday at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla., live on SHOWTIME (10 p.m. ET/PT delayed on the Wes Coast).

"Ruthless" Robbie Lawler took part in a media workout on Wednesday at the American Top Team (ATT) gym in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Lawler meets Melvin "Mo Mercy" Manhoef on Saturday night.

  Marloes Coenen showed the media some moves on Wednesday during a workout. The public is invited to Friday's weigh-in at the Chairman's Club at the BankAtlantic Center in Sunrise, Fla., starting at 5:30 p.m. ET.

Coenen shares a lighter moment with SHOWTIME announcer and MMA legend Frank Shamrock. Coenen
battles Cris Cyborg for the Strikeforce Women's World Lightweight championship.

Herschel Walker is interviewed by young reporter Joey Brander from a local CBS affiliate. The 6-foot 1-inch, 220 pound Walker holds a fifth degree black belt in Tae Kwon Do and has experience in the combat disciplines of Muay Thai and Kenpo.

Photo credit: Esther Lin / Strikeforce

You can skip Thursday night; here are your All-Star reserves

By John McMullen

Philadelphia, PA - We already know the starters for the Feb. 14 NBA All-Star Game in Arlington, TX, and we will soon know the identities of the reserves.

The league's coaches make the decisions and have to take two guards, two forwards and one center, along with a pair of so-called wild cards that can play any position. The results will be unveiled Thursday night at 7 p.m. (et) on TNT, before the Celtics-Magic contest.

With that in mind, let's play Carnac and reveal who should make the trip to Jerry Jones' opulent Palace just outside of Dallas, along with a few deserving players that just missed the cut...

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Guards

Joe Johnson, Atlanta Hawks - The Hawks have officially joined the Eastern Conference's elite, and Johnson is a lock to make his fourth straight All-Star appearance. One of the NBA's best pure scorers, Johnson can give even the best defensive teams fits with a vast array of offensive skills. He can score from anywhere on the floor and can break down even the best defenders off the dribble. Few teams have a better option down the stretch of a game than Atlanta, and Johnson is also an underrated defender.

Rajon Rondo, Boston Celtics - Rondo leads the NBA in steals and is third in assists behind Chris Paul and Steve Nash. On a team filled with big-name talent, the former University of Kentucky star may be the most deserving All- Star. Rondo's Achilles' heel, the jumper, is still a problem (he's shooting just 7-of-40 from beyond the arc) but his lightning-quick first step has enabled him to amass a 53.4 shooting percentage from the floor, an unbelievable mark for a guard.

Joe Johnson is a lock to make his fourth straight All-Star appearance.

Forwards

Paul Pierce, Boston Celtics - I admit that when Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen arrived in Boston, I thought Paul Pierce was the one who would have trouble fitting in. "The Truth" had always struck me as a scorer that needed his touches or he would sulk, affecting his play on both ends of the floor. Well, I was wrong. Pierce's numbers have certainly gone down with all the talent assembled around him but the vaunted skills are still there in spades, and an eighth All-Star appearance is virtually assured. A superlative offensive player, Pierce is the man of 1,000 moves, who uses his brilliant body control to abuse defenders and parade to the free throw line at will. He's also an underrated defender when motivated.

Chris Bosh, Toronto Raptors - This is certainly going to be Bosh's swan song north of the border, since he will be one of the prized free agents in the vaunted 2010 class and he's not re-signing. In fact, Bosh could be moved by the Feb. 18 trade deadline. Either way, he is going out in style as one of the best offensive power forwards in the game, averaging 23.9 ppg and 11.1 rpg.

Gerald Wallace, Charlotte Bobcats - Wallace may be the most underrated all- around player in the Eastern Conference, averaging a double-double of 18.6 ppg and 11.0 rpg. An extremely athletic wing man, Wallace has always been more of a slasher and a scorer than shooter, but he's taken the next step and helped turn Larry Brown's latest club into a legit playoff contender.

Centers

Joakim Noah, Chicago Bulls - Offensively-challenged guys usually aren't regarded as All-Stars but Noah has turned into one of the most improved players in the NBA, averaging a double-double of 11.3 ppg and 12.1 rpg. Noah has always played with great energy and his wingspan along with his athletic ability enable him to wreak havoc on the defensive end.

David Lee, New York Knicks - Lee is a double-double machine and I can't figure out why New York wouldn't want a guy like this around for the long-term. He may not awe anyone with his physical skills but he's consistently productive for an overachieving team.

ON THE OUTSIDE, LOOKING IN

Derrick Rose, Chicago Bulls - Rose has overcome a slow start due to an ankle injury and the Bulls, who underachieved early, may be ready to take off behind him. One of the quickest players in the game and an excellent ball-handler, Rose can get to the front of the rim at will.

Josh Smith, Atlanta Hawks - Smith remains on the verge of stardom but still relies a little too much on his extraordinary athleticism and must improve his fundamentals to get to the next level.

Andre Iguodala, Philadelphia 76ers - Iguodala is one of the game's most underrated players. An athletic marvel, Iguodala can stuff the stat sheet like few others and covets the big moment. However, he has only been an All-Star- level performer at the three spot, and has been a consistent disappointment playing the two thanks to a minus jumper.

Brook Lopez, New Jersey Nets - Lopez is obviously on a horrible team but in a league virtually devoid of solid big men, he's a star in the making. A daily, double-double threat, the former Stanford stalwart has great hands and a nice touch around the rim.

Rodney Stuckey, Detroit Pistons - These are certainly not your father's Pistons, or even your big brother's but on a team that still sports Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince, it's amazing that Stuckey is the closest thing they have to an All-Star. He's no Chauncey Billups but Stuckey is an emerging player at the point with a solid defensive presence.

Brandon Jennings, Milwaukee Bucks - The rookie has impressive baseline-to- baseline speed but, like most young players, lacks the consistent jumper right now. A year or two down the line and Jennings may be unstoppable.

WESTERN CONFERENCE RESERVES

Guards

Chris Paul, New Orleans Hornets - The Hornets have had a bit of a down season thus far but Paul remains the game's best pure point guard, averaging 20.0 points and a league-high 11.2 assists. Paul has an almost innate sense on the floor and always understands what his team needs, whether it's scoring when necessary or distributing to the right spots when his teammates have it going on.

Deron Williams, Utah Jazz - It's hard to believe Williams has never made an All-Star team since he's probably the best point guard in the NBA not named Chris Paul. The Illinois product takes like a duck to water in Jerry Sloan's pick-and-roll heavy offense. He's incredibly strong, knows where his teammates are at all times and can knock down the jumper when you need it. Williams also runs the break like few others.

Brandon Roy, Portland Trail Blazers - The Blazers remain relevant despite a ton of injuries thanks, in large part, to Roy and his smooth stroke. He plays in relative anonymity in the Pacific Northwest but Roy may be the game's best closer other than Kobe Bryant.

Forwards

Dirk Nowitzki, Dallas Mavericks - I'm not sure a superstar can be underrated but I'm starting to consider it with Nowitzki. The German star has overcome a rough offseason to turn in one of his most complete performances thus far. The bread and butter of Nowitzki's game is being able to use his 7-foot, 245-pound frame to overmatch defenders and he is putting up another monster year with free agency on the horizon.

Kevin Durant, Oklahoma City Thunder - Durant and his Thunder have turned the corner and this will be the first of annual All-Star berths for the slim, high-scoring forward. The silky smooth Durant is battling LeBron James, Carmelo Anthony and Kobe Bryant for the scoring title. That's impressive company.

Zach Randolph, Memphis Grizzlies - Randolph has always been one of the few NBA players to be a daily 20-10 threat but he has put it together off the floor this season, becoming a team leader for the very young and very talented Grizzlies.

Center

Chris Kaman, Los Angeles Clippers - Kaman should actually be the starting center in the West, averaging over 20 points and 9.0 rebounds while shooting 51 percent from the floor.

ON THE OUTSIDE, LOOKING IN

Monta Ellis, Golden State Warriors - When healthy Ellis is a threat to play 48 minutes a night and is averaging over 26 ppg. Only the incredible depth in the West keeps him out of the All-Star game.

Rudy Gay, Memphis Grizzlies - Gay is part of the big three in Memphis along with Randolph and O.J. Mayo. An athletic forward, averring 20.5 ppg, Gay is still hounded by questions about his desire and intensity on a daily basis.

Carlos Boozer, Utah Jazz - Everyone knows Boozer can play when healthy and the former Duke star has been able to stay on the floor this season. Williams and Boozer isn't quite Stockton and Malone but it's a reasonable facsimile. Like Malone, Boozer has great movement skills, can run the floor and finish like few others.

Aaron Brooks, Houston Rockets - Brooks has proven last year's coming out party in the postseason was no fluke. The Rockets' leading scorer (18.7) and assist man (5.0), Brooks has a first step that can torture any defender in the league.

Tyreke Evans, Sacramento Kings - The presumptive Rookie of the Year has made the Kings much more competitive this season although they have slumped badly recently. That said, Evans is stuffing the stat sheet on a nightly basis, averaging 20.8 points, 4.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists per night.

O.J. Mayo, Memphis Grizzlies - Yep, the Memphis Grizzlies have three players worthy of All-Star consideration. Randolph is the only one getting in this season but the Grizz are really making noise, already matching last season's win total and currently occupying the seventh seed in the very competitive West. The fact that Mayo is a third option for Lionel Hollins explains all you need to know.

Carl Landry, Houston Rockets - Without Yao Ming, someone had to step up in the Houston frontcourt. Who knew it would be Carl Landry? A leading candidate for the NBA's Sixth Man Award, Landry comes off Rick Adelman's bench to change games with his incredible energy.

Akers named to NFL All-Decade Team

The Philadelphia Eagles announced that kicker David Akers was named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team today. Akers led the NFL in scoring during this past decade with 1,169 points and earned four Pro Bowl berths. Along the way, Akers became the franchise’s all-time leader in many categories, including points scored, field goals and extra points. With 30 field goals made during the playoffs this decade, Akers ranks 3^rd on the NFL’s all-time list behind Adam Vinatieri (42) and Gary Anderson (32).

"It is obviously a huge honor just to play that length of time in the NFL. To be able to be looked at in that high regard is surreal to me," Akers said. "I couldn't have done it without the Mike Bartrums, the Koy Detmers, the Jon Dorenboses, the Sav Roccas and great offensive lines and coaches helping me along the way. The Eagles have always believed in me and I am truly grateful for that.

“A lot of it goes to the consistency of the team, and of the team having confidence in me, from Mr. Lurie and Andy Reid on down. It keeps your confidence up. I have worked extremely hard over the years and I will continue to do so. I would like to play many more years with the Eagles. That would be a great, great thing."

Ex-Eagle safety Brian Dawkins also made the team.

Eagles name Rubin strength and conditioning coach

The Philadelphia Eagles today announced they have named Barry Rubin head strength and conditioning coach and Ken Croner assistant strength and conditioning coach.

The 52-year-old Rubin spent the last two seasons as the Eagles strength and conditioning assistant and has 13 years of NFL experience on his resume. Rubin served as the head strength and conditioning coach of the Green Bay Packers from 1999-2005. From 1995-98, he worked as an assistant strength coach with the Packers. In 2003, Rubin was inducted into the USA Strength and Conditioning Coaches Hall of Fame for his contributions to the field. Rubin worked as a strength coach at Northeast Louisiana (1981-83, 1987-90, and 1994) and LSU (1984-85). He played tight end and punter at Northwestern (LA) State from 1978-80 and running back and punter at LSU from 1976-77.

Croner joins the Eagles from Athletes Performance based in Phoenix, AZ, where he worked primarily with NFL athletes during their offseason training regimen. He also trained players preparing for the NFL Combine. A native of Munster, IN, the 46-year-old Croner served as an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Notre Dame from 1999-2003 and worked as an intern under Rubin during the Packers offseason training program in 2003. Croner played two seasons as a guard on the Butler basketball team before graduating in 1986.

Villanova's LB Osunde is CAA Student Athlete of the Year

Villanova linebacker Osayi Osunde, the 2009 CAA Football Student-Athlete of the Year, headlines a list of
106 CAA Football Academic All-Conference honorees for the 2009 season.

Osunde, who maintains a 3.959 grade point average and is working towards his Master's Degree in Human Resource Development, helped lead the Wildcats to their first NCAA Division I Football National Championship in 2009.  The Bloomsburg, Pa., native was a 2009 Second Team All-CAA Football selection at linebacker and earned recognition from the Philadelphia Inquirer as an Academic All-Area Team member.  Now a three-time Academic All-CAA Football honoree, Osunde earned ESPN The Magazine/CoSIDA First Team Academic All-District honors during the 2009 season and was the Villanova Athletic Department's Senior Student-Athlete of the Year in 2009.

Osunde finished his career as a three-time All-CAA Football selection, including First Team honors following the 2008 season.  Serving as one of Villanova's three captains during the 2009 season, Osunde led a
defensive unit which ranked  No. 3 in the country against the run and was among the Top-10 nationally in scoring defense.  Osunde finished the 2009 season was a career-high 82 total tackles and a career-best 7.5
tackles for loss.  In his four-year career the linebacker tallied 242 total tackles and made 18.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage, including five sacks.  The three-time Philadelphia Inquirer Academic All-Area Team member was also awarded his second-straight Philadelphia Inquirer Academic All-Area Performer of the Year honor following the 2009 NCAA Championship season for Villanova.

Phils make it official with Ruiz

The Phillies officially announced a three-year, $8.85 million contract extension for catcher Carlos Ruiz on Tuesday.

The pact takes Ruiz through the 2012 season and includes a club option for a fourth year, earlier reported to be for $5 million with a $500,000 buyout.

Ruiz batted .255 with nine homers and 43 runs batted in during the 2009 regular season. He thrived in the postseason, hitting .341 with a pair of homers, nine RBI and 12 walks for the reigning National League champions.

Ring of Honor to crown TV Champion in Philadelphia

Ring of Honor wrestling will introduce the ROH World Television Title at the next round of “ROH on HDNet” National TV tapings at The Arena in South Philadelphia on Feb. 5 and 6.


“We’ve been talking about adding a secondary championship for some time,” said ROH President Cary Silkin. “Not only will this give the athletes of Ring of Honor another tremendous goal to work towards, it will also give our great partner, HDNet, a championship that is sure to be defended on the television program. We’re happy to publicly give thanks to HDNet for giving us the chance to add this title to the television show, and to All Star Championship Belts for bringing the actual belt to life.” .

Previously announced for the eight-man single elimination tournament are the following seeds: (8) Rhett Titus, (7) El Generico, (6) Eddie Edwards and (5) Delirious.

ROH officials have now finalized the seeding for the remaining four competitors, with the first and second seeds being given to competitors ranked in the “Pick 6 Contenders Standings”. Holding the Number 2 spot in the “Pick 6”, Kevin Steen has been named the #1 seed in the tournament while Number 4 in the “Pick 6”, Kenny King, has been named the #2 seed. Rounding out the bracket, seeded #3 and #4 respectively in the tournament are Colt Cabana and Davey Richards. 

With five former ROH World Tag Team Champions in the tournament, many of the men have tasted titles in the past, but one man will emerge from this tournament with, not only his first singles title in ROH, but as the historic first Television Champion in Ring of Honor history. Current partners and former friends alike could meet over the course of these two nights in February, but only one wrestler will be called champion. There are many subplots among the eight men in the field, and lots of uncertainty, but the one thing we do know is that one of these 8 men will make history:

1) Kevin Steen
2) Kenny King
3) Colt Cabana
4) Davey Richards
5) Delirious
6) Eddie Edwards
7) El Generico
8) Rhett Titus

Tickets are available right here at www.rohwrestling.com for Friday night, February 5th and Saturday night, February 6^th. Be there as Ring of Honor and HDNet crowns the first World Television Champion in Philadelphia.

Phillies calim inf Bocock off waivers

The Phillies have claimed infielder Brian Bocock off waivers from the Blue Jays.

Sixers pitching Iguodala

YAHOO!'s Adrian Wojnarowski says the Cavs have been listening intently to the Sixers' pitch of Andre Iguodala for several days. It's unclear what Philly wants back, according to Wojnarowski.

It's becoming increasingly clear that Iguodala will be moved soon. The Sixers can't move Brand or Dalembert so Iggy has to go to create cap space. Cleveland doesn't seem like a good fit, however. The Cavs need a shooter to take advantage of all the extra attention LeBron James gets and Iguodala is certainly not that.

Freedoms move to Villanova

After two seasons outdoors at the King of Prussia Mall, the Freedoms are moving their seven home World Team Tennis matches to the Pavilion at Villanova.

"Villanova, a long-time home to pro tennis in the Philadelphia-area, is a terrific site for the Freedoms," Freedoms owner Billie Jean King said. "The Pavilion enables us to increase our seating capacity and provide indoor, air-conditioned comfort for our fans, while still maintaining the intimate, close-to-the-action atmosphere of World Team Tennis."

Before playing the previous two seasons at the King of Prussia Mall, the Freedoms played several years on the campus of Cabrini College.

"We had great events at the King of Prussia Mall," said Freedoms General Manager Barbara Perry. "Even though we are moving our games to Villanova's campus, the King of Prussia Mall will continue to support us
as a key partner in many of our community initiatives."

"We are thrilled to welcome the Philadelphia Freedoms to Villanova," added Villanova Director of Athletics Vince Nicastro.  This is a wonderful opportunity for our community to experience a terrific family
event featuring some of the world's best players."

The Freedoms are scheduled to announce their top players and put tickets on sale Feb. 3. The team is already accepting reservations at 610-896-2890 or philadelphiafreedoms.com.

“Snooki" at Wing Bowl

WIP has announced Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi of MTV's "Jersey Shore" will attend the Wing Bowl on Feb. 5 at the Wachovia Center. Polizzi joins HBO's Sex Tips host Katie Morgan as the "big name" guests.

Eagles' Stewart leaves for University of Houston

Eagles defensive assistant Brian Stewart is leaving the team to become the defensive coordinator at the University of Houston.

Delaware's Muir named to USA Basketball Board of Directors

University of Delaware Director of Athletics and Recreation Services Bernard Muir has been appointed by the NCAA to the USA Basketball Board of Directors.

Muir, who will serve on the board through 2012, replaces former NCAA appointee Gene Smith, The Ohio State University Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics, who stepped down.

"I'm excited and honored to be joining the Board of Directors of such a prestigious organization," said Muir.  "I've certainly had a passion for the game of basketball my entire life and I'm looking forward to serving with the other members of the USA Basketball Board to help promote and advance the sport throughout our country and the world."

Currently in his first year at the head of the Blue Hens athletic department, Muir served four years (2005-09) as the Director of Athletics at Georgetown University. Prior to Georgetown, Muir spent five years at the University of Notre Dame first as Associate Athletic Director for Student Welfare and Development (2000-03), then as Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student Welfare and Development (2003-04) and in his final year (2004-05) Muir was Notre Dame's Deputy Director of Athletics/Administration and Facilities.

The Gainesville, Fla., native began his career in college athletics as a four-year letter winner on the men's basketball team at Brown University, graduating in 1990 with a bachelor's degree in organizational behavior and management. In 1992 he earned a master's degree in sports administration from Ohio University. He spent one year (1990-91) as an athletics administrative assistant at Butler University and worked for the NCAA Division I men's basketball championship as an Assistant Director (1992-98) and Director of Operations (1998-2000).

McNabb, Mikell added to Pro Bowl

Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb and safety Quintin Mikell were added to the NFC Pro Bowl roster today.

McNabb replaces Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who is out of the game after the Saints advanced to the Super Bowl with a win over the Minnesota Vikings. Mikell replaces the Saints' Darren Sharper.

Nine Eagles players are slated to play in this year's game. Wideout DeSean Jackson, fullback Leonard Weaver, tackle Jason Peters, kicker David Akers, long snapper Jon Dorenbos, defensive end Trent Cole and cornerback Asante Samuel were already named to the NFC squad.

Philadelphia Sports Writers to honor '60 Eagles

The Philadelphia Sports Writers Association will honor the Eagles last championship team at the organization’s 106th annual Awards Dinner on Feb. 1, at the Crowne Plaza in Cherry Hill, N.J.

The PSWA welcomes four members of that cherished team to the dais: Pete Retzlaff, Pro Football Hall-of-Famers Chuck Bednarik and Tommy McDonald, and tigh tend Dick Lukas.

Retzlaff will accept the award and speak on behalf of his teammates. 

The Philly sports writers’ dinner, the longest-running banquet of its kind in the country, will include the presentation of more than a dozen major awards.

The Philadelphia Phillies will be honored as Team of the Year, and Villanova University’s NCAA-champion basketball team of 1985 will be feted.

Andrew Bailey, a South Jersey native and American League baseball Rookie of the Year, will receive the PSWA’s Native Son award. Bailey, a graduate of Paul VI high school in Haddonfield, took over the closer role in the Oakland Athletics bullpen last summer.

The Philadelphia Sports Writers Association dinner is open to the public. Some tickets are still available. To learn more about the dinner or to purchase tickets, visit www.PSWA.org.

For information, contact ticket chairman Robbie Kenney are pswadinner@yahoo.com, or call (609) 702-7473.

Video: A.P. out in New Orleans last night

If the Vikings lose the NFC Championship Game and Adrian Peterson has something to do with it, get ready for the s@%& storm...

Flyers' Parent to have surgery Monday

Flyers defenseman Ryan Parent will undergo back surgery on Monday to remove a disc fragment from his lumbar spine.

The surgery will be performed by Dr. Scott Rushton at Lankenau Hospital in Wynnewood, PA.  

"After running the gamut with Ryan in terms of different things we have tried to relieve the discomfort he was having, we felt this was the way to go for Ryan's overall health," Flyers GM Paul Holmgren said. "The surgery is minimally invasive and will keep Ryan out for approximately six weeks."

Parent, 22, has missed the last 14 games due to injury. So far this season, he has registered two assists and 14 penalty minutes in 28 appearances with the Flyers.

Holmgren

Vick connected to convicted steroid dealer

The Dallas Morning News is reporting that convicted steroids dealer David Jacobs, who committed suicide while Michael Vick was in prison on federal dogfighting charges, was the quarterback's steroid supplier while he was with the Atlanta Falcons.


The News kept the information confidential because authorities declined to confirm that Vick was part of the investigation but has now opted to publish the allegation based on recently-released documents from the DEA connecting Vick to steroids.

T-Mac, the NBA All-Star Game and Jersey Shore

By John McMullen

Philadelphia, PA -  Last time I looked, David Stern wasn't Bud Selig, and the NBA All-Star Game doesn't count for anything, save the entertainment of the fans who enjoy watching the game's best players in a
free-wheeling environment.

Yet, some insist the NBA office in New York let out a collective sigh of
relief when the Suns' Steve Nash overtook Houston's Tracy McGrady in fan
voting Thursday to earn a starting spot on the Western Conference All-Star
team.

The thought process went something like this: McGrady has been banished by the
Rockets after playing just 45 minutes all season, a number Golden State's
Monta Ellis usually beats on a nightly basis. So, having the former scoring
champion show up in Dallas with the "real" All-Stars would be a black eye to
the league.

Really?

I'm not denying the NBA is thrilled McGrady won't be in north Texas, but I'm
also not sure why the league, or anyone else for that matter, cares.

Have I missed some underlying importance attached to the All-Star game?

If the fans want to see Tracy McGrady play, so be it. Same for Philadelphia's
Allen Iverson, who was able to hold off Orlando's Vince Carter to secure a
spot on the Eastern Conference team despite playing just 19 games for a woeful
76ers team.

Granted, players take the honor, if not the game, seriously and if Iverson
appears, that means one legitimate All-Star won't be in Arlington, Tex. come
Feb. 14.

That's a shame but no one is saying that Iverson is a better player at this
point or more deserving of an All-Star berth than guys like Rajon Rondo, Ray
Allen and Joe Johnson. Same goes for McGrady and players like Chris Paul,
Chauncey Billups, Tony Parker and Brandon Roy.

That said, it's the fans that will be shelling out $75 bucks just to park at
Jerry Jones' palace in Dallas. Shouldn't they have the right to watch the
players they want, even if we all know there are better alternatives?

In the West, Dirk Nowitzki or Kevin Durant should be starting over Tim Duncan,
and Paul is a better option opposite Kobe Bryant than Nash. You could even
argue the Los Angeles Clippers' Chris Kaman, who wasn't among the top 10 vote-
getters at center, is a better option in the pivot than Phoenix's Amar'e
Stoudemire.

In the East, perennial All-Star Kevin Garnett has been sidelined for the last
10 games while Toronto's Chris Bosh keeps putting up double-doubles.

Fans vote for who they want to see and more often than not, it's sizzle over
substance, it's reputation over production. And, there is nothing wrong with
that.

I really enjoy 30 Rock, the brilliant NBC comedy that has won the Emmy for
Outstanding Comedy Series in 2007, 2008 and 2009. But, sometimes I want to
kick back and watch Jersey Shore, a train wreck of a show that may be one of
the seven signs of the Apocalypse.

If you asked me to list the best 100 shows on television today, Jersey Shore
isn't making the list, but that doesn't mean I'm not stopping the clicker when
I see "Snookie" and "The Situation" on the screen.

Moral of the story?

Sometimes the best option isn't the most entertaining option -- sometimes it
is. Either way, you are paying the bills and you make the decisions.

That should never change.