The other thing about everyone in the league having trouble hitting is that last year the Phils were second in the NL in runs scored and the year before that they were first. So far this year they’re eighth. So if you don’t know the offense is worse, you should.

I don’t believe Amaro that there won’t be a big move.

SIDE COMMENT: If the TV commentators say one more time how everyone in the league is having trouble with their hitting, as a way of minimizing the Phillies’ difficulties, I will scream. If they think that is supposed to explain or justify the Phillies’ offense, or lack thereof, it does not. Unless, of course, the Phillies want to think of themselves as being just like all of the rest of the teams in baseball. If they do, I would suggest that their payroll is a tad too high. And a couple of starters might just not be too danged happy at the thought either.

I still think the pitching is so good they will win a ton of games in the regular season. So it matters a lot more who’s hitting for the team when the playoffs roll around than who’s hitting for them now.

Still, I cannot imagine that Ruben can stand pat this year. And the only way he can make a move, it seems, is to move someone shocking.

Two innings. 5 walks. Nothing to show for it. Off a rookie who was throwing pretty much only fastballs. Not only ugly, it is inexplicable using the old tried and tired reasons we have been using to make ourselves feel hopeful for the last year or so.