Eaton Demoted To Bullpen; Happ’s Status

Getting to news from yesterday, Adam Eaton was demoted to the bullpen before last night’s game against the Marlins. The move was made after the Phillies traded three prospects for pitcher Joe Blanton.

Eaton said he has to take the demotion in stride:

“I’d like to be a starter, don’t me wrong. … But I’m on one of the best teams in the big leagues, and that’s the key. We’re going to win this thing, and I want to be on the team that’s doing it”

Finally he’s not blaming anything. Well, it’s good to see Eaton wants to contribute positively to the cause. How would Eaton fit? I’d say he becomes the long-innings man to start, since Clay Condrey has been getting more time in middle relief because of Tom Gordon’s injury.

Lest we forget JA Happ, who was specatcular in a no-hit performance against Scranton Wilkes-Barre two nights ago. Charlie Manuel said the team is watching him closely.

“I know where Happ’s at. Happ has done very good. I saw how good he pitched yesterday. He’s still in our book.”

It’s probably wise to keep Happ in AAA, and ready him for once one of the starters gets injured or slips up again.