Where is the Panic Button? Has Anyone Seen the Panic Button?

Boys of Summer has put together a preview of the Phillies 2008 season, and has them finishing 84-78, out of the playoffs. I have only one problem with this. It's entirely too plausable.

I remain mystified that the local fans have such a laid-back attitude when it comes to the Phils this year. The National League East title is very much up for grabs, despite whatever character flaws we feel the Mets have. I enjoyed their historic choke as much as anyone, but the Phillies are a team that had career years from many offensive players last year and won only 89 games.

The problem is, as always, pitching. Myers has been named opening day starter not because of his talent, but because he's a headcase. Hamels hasn't pitched a full season in the Phillies organization. Kendrick last year pitched well, but most teams had never seen him before. Moyer will be 45 years old this year. Adam Eaton is a terrible pitcher, and most likely a terrible human being--but we're paying him the next two years, so he's going to be on the team in some capacity. The Durbin's aren't fit for much other than long relief.

As for the bullpen, Lidge just had knee surgery, Gordon is pitching with a torn labrum in his shoulder, Madson is coming off a mysterious shoulder "strain" that shut him down for the second half of the season, and JC Romero, well, he was actually pretty good last year. So was Geoff Geary for one year before we gave him a 3 year deal. I'm not convinced.

The Phils' pitching staff is not good enough for them to return to the playoffs again this year. Last year, we had a tremendous confluence of great offense, mediocre pitching, and the greatest choke job in the history of professional sports (non-postseason) which allowed us to get to the playoffs. Two of those three things won't happen again.

What the 2008 Philadelphia Phillies are, dear fans, is the greatest beer league softball team ever assembled. When you go to games this summer, make sure you get outfield seats. They'll be plenty of balls hit there, by both teams.