Keep the Change: Tales from the Aisles

We are one week away from Major League Baseball’s July 31st trade deadline. With seven days to go, the big name still fluttering around the rumor mill is Roy Halladay. On top of that, it was recently heard that Ruben Amaro has pulled the tag “untouchable” off of Kyle Drabek’s nameplate…what does this mean?

I’m not sure. However, I do think there are other areas of need: Specifically a right-handed bat off the bench, maybe a utility infielder and the always needed bullpen help.

Chad Durbin and J.C. Romero to the DL

Personally, I didn’t mind these two going on the disabled list too much. When Durbin is in and it is a big spot, it seems like it is only because the guys you want in there can’t go. And as for Romero, he simply couldn’t throw strikes.

In his 15.2 innings pitched since coming back from his suspension, Romero has walked 13 batters and only struck out 12. On top of that, the former left-handed specialist saw lefties hitting him at a .292 clip. Last year, left-handed bats hit a paltry .108 against him.

Hopefully two weeks away from the scene can fix any arm problems he might have, and J.C. can get back to the form that helped lock down the end of ball games last year.

Patchwork

While the two relievers mend their injuries, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Phillies made a move that flew a bit under the giving up the farm radar. With names like George Sherrill, Danys Baez and Chad Qualls floating around the news tap, there are many arms to be had.

Last year, the Phillies struck gold with Scott Eyre after the deadline had passed. Look for a similar type deal to go down shortly, one that doesn’t give up a top prospect for a player who will fill a role that will probably be unappreciated until its time to look back at the deals that made the biggest difference.

Takin’ to the seats

Over the past week, I polled 100 random fans I served beer to with two different questions. What would your response be?

What is the biggest reason for the Phillies latest hot streak?

1. Jimmy Rollins turnaround – 55%
2. Quality starting pitching – 31%
3. Return of Raul Ibanez – 8%
4. No reason at all – 6%

Guess it’s the old saying, as Rollins goes, so do the Phillies.

Would you give up Kyle Drabek, J.A. Happ and Michael Taylor for Roy Halladay?

1. Yes – 71%
2. No – 29%

Seven out of ten people pull the trigger…I’m still not sure if I do. One way or another, I won’t be upset. But that doesn’t mean I won’t be looking into the rumor mills on an hourly basis.