World Champs Taking Care Of Business Before Holidays

Unlike the Yankees and Mets, who are making blockbuster moves go out of style, the Phillies are taking care of business in a more subtle way before the holidays. A few weeks ago the Phillies signed Raul Ibanez to replace Pat Burrell and be their everyday left fielder. The deal was finalized today. This deal is an intriguing one, and whether it's a good or bad move cannot be properly determined until we have numbers to compare between the two players and the teams each respectively are with next season. Personally I feel Burrell should have been retained, if only for his right-handed power bat, for at least one more season. Although Ibanez does hit for a better average and has much better defensive prowess. At this time I'd consider Ibanez an upgrade; however, the lineup is more unbalanced to the left side from this move. Within this past week the Phillies have re-signed veteran Jamie Moyer and also tendered a contract to Chan Ho Park. Retaining Moyer was a serious need to Philadelphia fans. ... (link)