Things we do and don't know about the Eagles and Phillies now that November 23rd has passed:
What we do know...
...The "class quotient" in Philadelphia sports remained exactly the same. While we lost Big Gentleman Jim Thome, we also rid ourselves for good of The Wide Receiver Who Will Remain Nameless. Basically a push. What is unfortunate is that we won't get to see either of these players achieve the types of things fans fantasized about -- championships and all-time records. In the case of Thome, it unraveled by the course of random events, whereas in the case of TWRWWRN, it unraveled because he is a greatly troubled jerk.
...The Phillies greatly upgraded their outfield defense by acquiring Aaron Rowand in the Jim Thome trade. In 2005, the Phillies centerfield platoon of Jason Michaels and Kenny Lofton accumulated 7.8 fielding win shares combined, while Rowand on his own accumulated 7.6. In terms of zone ratings, Rowand came in at .939 [which means that he fielded almost 94% of the batted balls in his zone of responsibility] while Lofton and Michaels came in at .876 and .882, respectively. Make no mistake, this could have a huge effect on the pitching staff, not only in terms of defensive support, but also the confidence boost it will give Phillies hurlers to know there is a player behind them that can run down nearly anything.
...The Phillies avoided a major headache in the spring. Can you imagine the position the Phils would be in if -- just by the natural vagaries of the game of baseball -- Jim Thome came to Clearwater and played great in March while Ryan Howard struggled?
...Evangeline Lilly playing golf is truly something we should all give thanks for today.
What we don't know...
...Is it possible that the Eagles could trade TWRWWRN? He is under contract with the team for several more years, and there must be some team that would take him for at least a sixth round pick in 2008. Isn't it better to get at least something back for him, rather than just releasing him?
...It is possible that Phillies general manager Pat Gillick is not finished yet. There were reports for some time that the Yankees were interested in Aaron Rowand, so it's possible that Gillick could flip Rowand for some pitching help. There are also reports out of New York that the Phillies and Yankees have discussed a deal that would send Jason Michaels to the Big Apple. And hey, where does this leave Shane "The Hawaiian Punch" Victorino?
...Which Aaron Rowand are the Phillies getting, the 2004 version or the 2005 version? In 2004, Rowand had an OPS+ of 126 while in 2005 it dipped to 93. Which year is closer to his real ability? Only time will tell, but even if 2005 proves to be more his norm at the plate -- in other words, slightly below league average -- he will still be a very valuable player to the Phillies due to his defense. Again, the pitchers and the Phillies "you better get your uniform dirty or we'll boo you" fans will love him.
...Even if Gillick is finished, it is nearly impossible to judge this trade today, because the net result hinges on how well the prospects the Phillies acquired in the deal -- two very young left-handed pitching prospects -- develop in the future. Daniel Haigwood and Giovany Gonzalez are each several years away from the majors, but so far in the low minors, they have been striking out batters at more than one per inning. Time will tell.
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By the way, I know you have a lot on your plate today [literally], but have you voted for Whitey today?
