Friday 7 November 2008

Pair of champion Phillies file for free agency

Patt Burrell and Jamie Moyer to test the market

Two key members of the Phillies team that won the World Series just over a week ago, have asked to join the free agent list.

Left fielder Burrell and starting pitcher Moyer both played key roles in a Phillies season that ended with their first championship since 1980.

Burrell may have only hit .250 during the season, his lowest batting average in 5 years, but he still smashed 33 home runs, got 86 RBIs and ranked third in the league with 102 walks.

His worth was proven at times in the post-season, coming up with some crucial hits against the Brewers and hitting .333 in the NLCS against the Dodgers.

However one of his famed problems is his streaky nature and in the World Series he was cold, going only 1-14. He also has some defensive issues.

Depending on price, the Phillies may well choose not to resign him and go in a different direction.

If they do, new GM Ruben Amaro Jr. will have to find someone to replace a guy who has averaged 31 homers and 99 RBIs the past four years- no easy task!

Moyer on the other hand, had a great regular season, notching up 16 wins with a 3.71 ERA.

The lefty had a poor postseason, with all three of the Phillies playoff loses coming on the back of his starts, but as the oldest active player in the majors (turning 46 later this month), he can be forgiven for looking jaded.

Despite his age the Phillies seem willing to keep faith with Moyer, who has suggested he wants to pitch until he is 50.

Depending on the deal he desires, both parties seem happy for the southpaw to return to Philadelphia.

Burrell's future however is more uncertain.

Unfortunately for the Phillies, they are about to find out that keeping together a championship winning team is a very expensive business!

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