Clearwater Notes: Halladay & Snakes, Qualls in Camp

DOC IN THE AMAZON

The tall tale was just that. While in the Amazon over the winter, Roy Halladay and friends (including Chris Carpenter and B.J. Ryan) came across a local man whose boat had been overturned by a large snake – the mighty anaconda, to be specific.

But the legend of Halladay wrestling the snake in the muddy waters of the rainforest was false. In fact, Halladay said he hates snakes. Here’s Roy’s version of the story (from David Hale of the Wilmington News Journal):

CONTRERAS THROWS OFF MOUND

Jose Contreras threw off a mound this morning with no issues. This is a big step for The Big Truck. He threw his repertoire of pitches, and looked good in the process, according to reports. If the 40-year old is 100 percent healthy going into the season, the bullpen is better for it. They could be stocked with the additions of Jonathan Papelbon, Dontrelle Willis and Chad Qualls, plus a rejuvenated Contreras.

BROWN WANTS LF

Dom didn’t come here to mess around. According to Ryan Lawrence of the Delco Times, he wants the left field job and will give it his all in Spring Training to make it happen.

“Im coming to win a job. Im fighting to win a job. Thats the big goal. But if I start at Triple-A, then I start at Triple-A. Its that simple,” said Brown. You’ve got to love that fighting spirit. The fact is, many people are down on Brown and want a reason to believe in the top prospect once again. Whether or not he makes the team, a strong showing can make everyone forget about the awful end to the 2011 season. I’m looking forward to watching Brown make that comeback.

VICTORINO A STAR

Ever hear of Shaun Victorino? Well, he’s apparently the guy you saw on Hawaii Five-O on Monday night. Check out this HILARIOUS photo of Jimmy Rollins decorating Shane Victorino’s locker at Bright House Field:

Jimmy Rollins on WhoSay

QUALLS IN CAMP

Chad Qualls made it to camp after missing the first few days due to personal reasons. He’ll wear #50 this season. Again, Qualls teaming up with all those arms out there in the ‘pen will be a fascinating story that could be overlooked this spring. Especially with the Hamels contract situation, Howard’s injury, Utley’s knee, and the fifth outfielder spot.

Pat Gallen

Pat joined Phillies Nation in July 2009, coming over from Examiner.com. As a previous employee of both Comcast SportsNet and the National Basketball Association, Pat prides himself on being a well-rounded individual when it comes to sports. However, the Phillies are first on the list. You’ll usually find Pat chiming in on the Phillies Nation Facebook or Twitter account, weekdays on 97.3 ESPN radio or hosting Phillies Nation TV. He’s also a Senior Writer for the site, and in his free time is a music enthusiast and Will Ferrell movie-follower. His favorite beer: Philly’s own Yards. In 2015, Pat moved on from Phillies Nation as a sports anchor and reporter for CBS-3 in Philadelphia.