Morning Phil Up – 2/20/2014 – Jimmy Rollins, Jonathan Papelbon, the Bullpen, and a Possum

Aug 7, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins (11) makes a catch during the seventh inning against the Chicago Cubs at Citizens Bank Park. The Cubs defeated the Phillies 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

First off, in case she’s reading this, I’d like to wish my mother a very happy birthday! To celebrate the occasion, here are some Phillies links from around the web:

CSN Philly – Rollins: “Sometimes You Have to Re-Establish Yourself”

Jimmy Rollins spoke to reporters on Monday. He said he thought new manager Ryne Sandberg brought a new energy and positive spirit to the team. He also said that teammate Ryan Howard is looking very good. “The Big Piece is looking like he’s back,” Rollins said. “He looks fantastic. The first thing you notice is he looks hard. His chest has come back. His arms are looking like guns again. We’re doing running drills and the dude’s not limping anymore.”

Rant Sports – How Phillies Can Revolutionize Modern-Day Bullpen

If the Phillies found a way to trade closer Jonathan Papelbon, they might be able to enact a new type of bullpen system where pitchers aren’t forced into defined roles like “closer” or “setup man.” Instead, the pitchers would be used based on favorable matchups. Most managers do not favor this approach, but Ryne Sandberg’s relative youth might make him more receptive to the idea.

The Good Phight – The Spectator

There have been a few big stories in Phillies camp so far: The arrival of A.J. Burnett and the injuries concerns surrounding Cole Hamels and Jonathan Pettibone have been talked about at length. But perhaps the biggest story of all has been the presence of a possum at practice.

Delaware Online – Jonathan Papelbon Says a Lot of Things

Jonathan Papelbon wants to be more positive this season. He wants to prove that he’s not a bad teammate like some people (everyone?) painted him as last season. He thinks that the managerial change from Charlie Manuel to Ryne Sandberg can only help, as the environment doesn’t seem as set as it once had.

Tweet of Importance