Phast Phive… Down to Two

John Stolnis

With editor Justin Klugh away doing non-Phillies related blog type stuff, the Phast Phive is down to just two. Which means, these links we’re about to share with you better kick some serious tail.

You want to know how bad a year it’s been for Lee? Check out this incredible stat. Cliff Lee is approaching the one year anniversary of his last win at Citizens Bank Park. It was on September 5, 2011 when Lee pitched a complete game shutout over the Atlanta Braves 9-0. Since then, including the playoffs, Lee has gone winless at home. What a bizarre calendar year it’s been for the $25 million left-hander.

Down on the farm, the Phils’ #11 prospect Jonathan Pettibone has taken to AAA LeHigh Valley pretty darn well, winning his last four starts. That includes his latest outing, a complete game, three-hit shutout against the Toledo Mud Hens. Pettibone isn’t seen as anything more than a #4 or 5 starter in the big leagues, but he’s done quite well at LeHigh so far, and will probably at least get a long look in spring training next year.

In honor of ’90s retro night at Citizens Bank Park, the guys over at Macho Row put together a list of the Top 10 moments of Phillies baseball in the 1990s. Dudes, it’s a pretty friggin’ depressing, and accurate, list.

And finally, Craig Calcaterra of HardballTalk is a guy who loves trolling Phillies fans. In his article about Phils’ retail sales dropping 60% this year, he manages to take a nice, gentle shot at Phils fans for not continuing to snap up merchandise during a year in which the team is struggling mightily. It should be noted that the Phillies are still second in overall merchandise sales to the Yankees. So, eat it Calcaterra!

Ethan Seidel

I think the marketing department should consult with Ruben Amaro before any future give away. Last night was Hunter Pence bobble head night at the ballpark. Yes, THE Hunter Pence, who was recently shipped off to San Francisco. Granted, no one expected Pence to get traded when they made these dolls in China, but it’s a painful reminder to fans that the season is in the final stages of being flushed down the toilet.

My solution: Paint the back of bobble jerseys to Eric Kratz. Afterall, these bobble heads all look alike.

Reading Ebrici Campitteli’s game preview at the 700 level reminded me why I’m so excited to see the Reds. Have a guess? It’s not Aroldis Chapman’s 100mph fastball…but the return of Wilson Valdez! There has never been a bench player more beloved than Valdez in Philly. Yes, Jeremy Horst has pitched nicely out of the pen, but it was way more fun watching Valdez come in from the bullpen. He can’t be much worse than what Charlie throws out there nowadays.