Phillies Should be Proud for Another Strong Season

Well, the Phillies fell two wins short of reaching their ultimate goal. They would have set all kinds of franchise records, became a legitimate NL dynasty, and further etched their way into the hearts of Philadelphians. Unfortunately, the magic flamed out against the powerhouse Yankees team that took advantage of every opportunity.

Looking back, it is amazing that the Phillies were even able to get this far, given the struggles of 2008 playoff heroes Cole Hamels and Brad Lidge. Those two pitches basically won the World Series themselves last year, but can be held responsible for at least two of the losses in the ‘09 Series. That tells you something about this team, a cohesive unit that fights for all 27 outs. Think how different the Phillies would be if Lidge was the lights-out variety of ‘08, and Hamels was pitching like last October?

Much different, obviously. But we all know how tough it is to stay on top of your game in this sport. Ryan Howard is a prime example. He tore apart the Rockies and Dodgers only to set the record for most strikeouts  in a World Series. On the other side, Carlos Ruiz stepped up his game to a whole new level once again. The guy can’t hit the back side of a barn during the regular season, but turns into Derek Jeter in the playoffs. That’s the funny thing about baseball.

The Phillies were dealing with a piecework bullpen, a weak bench, and a big question mark as their No. 2 starter. Somehow they managed to push the New York Yankees to six games, and forcing the city that never sleeps to hold their breath until the last out was recorded. The Yankees leaned on wily veterans Hideki Matsui, Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte, and Derek Jeter to get past the defending champs. They played well and deserved to win, even without contributions from their prized free agent acquisition Mark Teixiera. I would not at all be surprised to see these two teams back at it next October.

As Philadelphia recovers from this tough loss, there remains enormous optimism for the future. The core of this team will remain mostly intact as an attempt for a third straight NL Championship will begin in just five short months. While the agony of defeat is shared between the coaches, players, and fans, we have to be proud to be part of the magical October ride we all went on again in 2009. These players became an integral part of the city and all its fans, winning us over with consistent effort and brilliantly played baseball. It is hard to see the season end without a ring, but there is no reason to hang your head. This team will be back next year, and so will the fans.

In the days, weeks, and months to come, Philly Phanatic will evaluate the 2009 season as well as look forward to to 2010. There are some key questions to be answered, like should the the Phillies extend Cliff Lee (who is under team control for $9 million next year), and will they bring back Pedro Feliz or Pedro Martinez? Do we need to add extra arms in the  bullpen, given Lidge’s struggles this year. Will Hamels return to form, or should the Phillies go after another quality starter?

All that and more is what to expect here… so keep coming back.

Tags: Brad Lidge, Carlos Ruiz, Cole Hamels, MLB, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, Ryan Howard, World Series