The Phillies have signed LF Raul Ibanez to a three-year contract at $10 million per. With that the Pat Burrell era in Philadelphia comes to an official end. So much too for getting younger and more athletic. Ibanez, a free agent who has played much of his career with the Mariners, will be 37 next June. He is if nothing else a good professional hitter. He is also another lefty in a lefty-leaning lineup. I've barely seen Ibanez play and reading stats is often like reading tea leaves. All I can say so far is that the move seems to be a good sideways shuffle, with a hitting edge for Ibanez. Like Burrell, he is said to be a team player and clubhouse leader. But please, someone, give Charlie a good righthanded bat for Christmas!
Burrell, who was drafted by the Phillies in 1998, debuted in the majors in 2000. Through this season, he was the longest-tenured player on the team. A power slugger, he left his mark in many ways. Despite some real down times, he will be missed by many. In the end, the city loved him and he loved the city back. Like many power hitters, Pat was streaky, and this year his streaks seemed to be more prolonged and frustrating. I understand the Phillies' decision to move on and agree that changes had to be made but am not quite sure why Ibanez at this time in his career.
Thanks, Pat, for all the years and hits and walks and homers and for leaving us with that fabulous image of you and Elvis at the World parade and celebration. It will be truly odd to see you in another uni, in another town. I do hope it's in the AL!
And welcome to Raul Ibanez. Not the hunk that Burrell is but great name. I'd say that Ruben Amaro, Jr., so far is 3 for 3.
