Streak Ends; Trades Circulate

Well, it's another day in Philadelphia, which means another Phillies game, (resulting in a win 58.3 percent of the time) another trade rumor, and another Mets' shutout. Today, the Phillies failed to turn the trick for the first time in 11 chances- not too shabby, dropping the get away game 10-5 to the Cubs. What is becoming more and more evident, though, is that Jamie Moyer is getting too old to play. Another poor outing, resulted in the Phillies having very poor position in the game, and because of that, in my opinion, Jamie Moyer's starts are numbered.

With Pedro coming into the fold, and almost a guarantee that some pitcher will be acquired, there's just no room for Jamie. A rotation of Hamels, Halladay or whoever is acquired, Blanton, Happ, and Pedro or Rodrigo is more than capable. It's time for Moyer to be used as a long reliever.

Also, the Phillies have been rumored to be looking at Arizona's Chad Qualls, who was acquired by the D-Backs in exchange for Jose Valverde. Acquiring Qualls, would really send a message to Lidge that the Phillies are serious about this year and if he doesn't get it straight, the Phils will move on as him being a set-up guy.

In addition, Washington's Josh Willingham, a power bat from the right side is available and the Phillies are interested... at the right price. He can play first base and the corner outfield positions, so it's not a bad trade at all, if the Phillies can pull it off. Another guy I thought would be a nice fit is Ty Wigginton, former Astro "great" who now plays for Baltimore. He is very similar to that of Willingham, in that he can play outfield, third and first, and also can hit for power. Either way the Phillies will make out well with the rumored additions.

So that's it for now, Phillies remain 5.5 games up on Atlanta and still sit 10 games up on those lowly Mets. Willingham, Qualls, and a certain guy named Roy Halladay are ones that you should keep your eye on as a Phillies fan. Things are looking good for the defending champs right about now.