So we were brainstorming the potential lineup for next season, here’s what we got:
1. Rollins
2. Utley
3. Abreu
4. Burrell
5. Howard
6. Rowand
7. Bell/Nunez
8. Lieberthal
More importantly we’ve decided that no matter the order, the Phillies offense will hinge on Pat Burrell’s productivity. It all depends on which Pat Burrell shows up in 2006. I think most people are counting on a repeat of last season’s performance and not the Pat Burrell of 2003-2004. But what if Burrell does not have a 30 HR/100 RBI season? Then the lineup does not look so good.
Besides that, the Phils are relying on Howard and Utley to avoid a sophomore slump. They also expect JRoll to have another career year. On the flip side, some people feel that David Bell will improve on last season’s dismal performance and contribute his worth. Still that won’t be enough if any of the guys at the top of the lineup have an off year.