Manuel: Eaton Not A Lock For Fifth Starter

The pitching situation didn't exactly sort itself out down in Clearwater this spring.  Those invited to camp appear to have left more questions than answers.  As many have pointed out, after Myers and Hamels, it's pretty much a crap shoot.  Apart from having a shaky fourth and fifth starter, the pen seems to be a few men short as well.

Adam Eaton got *roughed* up yesterday in his final spring tune up.  Charlie "Washee Washee" Manuel didn't seem certain of Eaton's status as the starter in the fifth game of the season, "I don't know.  We'll see when we get there. We've got plenty of time. [Next] Saturday's a long way off. Hell, I might be dead by then."

Dear Charlie, please don't die by Saturday.  Thanks.

The lack of quality arms remains the ultimate concern if the Phils are serious about defending their division crown.  My best guess would be Pat Gillick bringing in some veterans who got released from another club for some reason or another.  Bargain basement 2008!

One guy who seems could take over Eaton's spot instantly would be former Brewer Claudio Vargas who was released this week.  Mentioning Vargas is purely wishful thinking, as he will prob command more dollars than the Phils will want to spend, but the prospect of Gillick adding a few external arms is much higher.

Comments

[Tony]

i still like JA Happ, I don't why he was sent down with the 1st cut. Last spring he was the hot prospect, then got hurt. I wouldn't be surprised to see him do well with the pigs and contribute this season.

[BrettMyersIn2008]

Make Chad Durbin the #5 for now. Either him or bring back Danny Jackson or Ben Rivera until midseason when Carlos Carasco is ready. No really Carasco better be a starter by the beginning of the second half.

[SID]

has a manager ever died during the season?

[Kulp]

I think he is seriously considering a 4-man rotation... or perhaps he will platoon the fifth spot.