Spring Training Gameday: Split Squad Madness!

There are TWO games today. Most of the starters are staying home to play the Braves featuring a start by Joe Blanton and an appearance by Dontrelle Willis. David Hale speculates that this could be Willis’ last appearance in red pinstripes if the outing does not go well. Willis has been plagued by arm fatigue and soreness and part of his contract becomes guaranteed on Saturday. With Jake Diekman (3.0 IP, 7 Ks) and Joe Savery (3.1 IP, 4 Ks) having strong Springs thus far, Willis may become expendable if he does not start to deliver.

The second game matches the Phils up with the Rays. Some intriguing pitching in that game for the Fightins as Joel Pineiro will take the hill to start, Phillippe Aumont looks to build on a solid outing, and Scott Elarton continues his improbable quest back to the Majors. The folks in the Rays game just may be your 2012 Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, barring any surprises. Of note: Bert Clevlen makes his first start of the Spring in that game.

Atlanta Braves vs. Philadelphia Phillies

Time: 1:05 pm, Brighthouse Field – Clearwater, FL
Weather: Sunny, 81
TV: The Comcast Network
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Phillies Lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS
2. Placido Polanco, 3B
3. Shane Victorino, CF
4. Jim Thome, DH
5. Hunter Pence, RF
6. John Mayberry Jr., 1B
7. Scott Podsednik, LF
8. Carlos Ruiz, C
9. Freddy Galvis, 2B

Phillies Pitchers:

RHP Joe Blanton
LHP Antonio Bastardo
RHP David Herndon
RHP Chad Qualls
LHP Dontrelle Willis

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Philadelphia Phillies

Time: 1:05 pm, Port Charlotte, FL
Weather: 20% Chance of Rain, 84
TV: MLB.tv
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Phillies Lineup:

1.  Juan Pierre, CF
2. Kevin Frandsen, SS
3. Ty Wigginton, 3B
4. Domonic Brown, DH
5. Lou Montanez, RF
6. Pete Orr, 2B
7. Hector Luna, 1B
8. Tuffy Gosewisch, C
9. Brett Cleven, LF

Phillies Pitchers:

RHP Joel Pineiro
RHP Scott Elarton
LHP David Purcey
LHP Phillippe Aumont

GO PHILLIES!