For Game 4 of the 2009 World Series, Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel had a dilemma. Should he start ace Cliff Lee on short rest or should he go with Joe Blanton? As it turns out, Manuel has decided to go with Blanton.
Lee has been very good in the postseason but he has no professional experience starting on only three days rest. Apparently, Manuel didn’t want to see whether or not Lee can be effective on short rest. Instead, Lee will get the baseball to start Game 5.
Going with Blanton isn’t without risk. Against the New York Yankees in four …read more

The Philadelphia Phillies had a major need for a starting pitcher. The Oakland A’s seem to be rebuilding once again. When those two opposing forces met, it resulted in the A’s trading starting pitcher Joe Blanton to the Phillies for three minor leaguers.
Blanton came into this season with big expectations but he has struggled. So far in 2008, Blanton has a 5-12 record with an ERA of 4.96. Despite his struggles, he should strengthen the Phillies’ starting rotation.
In return, the A’s received Adrian Cardenas, Josh Outman and Matthew Spencer. Earlier in the month, Oakland traded …read more