Charlie's Back

Charlie Manuel got himself a nice 2 year extension with the Phillies, despite questionable game management.

To be sure, despite Manuel's inability to manage a bullpen, and some real questionable decisions in the postseason (Wes Helms STARTING at third base?), the players do seem to love playing for the guy, which ties into the whole statistics versus intangibles debate. One very tangible stat is Mr. Manuel's three winning seasons. However, it's also hard to argue that the Phillies couldn't have waited and at least placed a call to the soon-to-be-canned Joe Torre, who allegedly likes the way the Phillies run their ballclub.

With Manuel locked up early and penciled in as the skipper, the Phils can now look to signing free agents in the hope of bolstering the rotation and bullpen.

J.C. Romero has indicated he'd like to stay in Philly. A non-homegrown guy wants to pitch at Citizen's Bank? Sign this man! After last offseason held a lot of promise (Garcia) only to go bust, it will be interesting to see if the Phillies are making moves at the winter meetings.