Pheelin the Phillies?

The Phillies have been red hot of late; there is no doubt about that. This has been one of the most surprising stories in Philadelphia sports in a long time. We all knew that the Phillies would eventually have a turn around. They had the pieces in the farm, and a good strong stable core. This was the true basis of the 2008 Phillies. The young pieces on this team have come together for a surprise, a total shocker. 

What do you ask is going right for this team? Let us start with the key, fundamentals. This was something that was pushed as a key when Pete Mackanin was manager. He wanted each and every player to be solid all around. Well this team is finally doing that, they are playing small ball. Each player knows their job, and they move their teammates around the bases. Though their fielding needs to be improved substantially. This has been their biggest struggle; the Phillies are currently in the bottom for errors. The team has proven that they can score runs, and do the right things on the field. 

Another key for the Phillies so far have been their future star Maikel Franco. Franco struggled greatly last season, he was only showing power. Franco could not manufacture runs besides the use of the homerun. This season he his getting on base leading the team with a .279 avg. This has been key for the Phillies, paired with the power and RBIs of Hoskins the Phillies have been on a roll with the bats. 

The final key for the success has been the team’s strong pitching performances. This has especially come from superstar Aaron Nola. Nola has basically carried the Phillies through the use of his arm. Though many thought Jake Arrietta would be the skill that would pitch them into the playoffs. Jake has definitely been a key to help the younger players, however it has become apparent he is not the same power pitcher he once was. But, the biggest key has been the relief pitchers. The Phillies starters are keeping them in the games, and the relievers are doing what they’re supposed to do. They are keeping things under wraps, holding the lead late into the game. The Phillies have missed strong relievers for many years. They finally have the pitching to take them into the playoffs. 

Do I personally think we are looking at late run playoff team? No I do not, however I believe that we may be looking at a playoff team. A young team like the 2007 Phillies, a team that has the pieces. However, they don’t have the experience at this moment in time. I believe we are looking similar to this year with the Sixers. This Phillies team will compete, and they will be a playoff contender very soon!

Player Spotlight – Dallas Goedert – The Dallas, We Will Love

The Philadelphia Eagles first draft pick of the 2018 draft, Dallas Goedert could be Carson Wentz’s favorite target. The rookie tight end played in a pro style offense at South Dakota State so he should have experience blocking which would help him to stay on the field. It seemed as if the Eagles offense lined up with two tight ends for about a quarter of the plays, which would also help him to get more playing time. With Doug Pederson’s creative play calling, we will probably see number 88 lined up in the slot receiver.

For a backup rookie tight end, Goedert will get plenty of snaps. With Alshon Jeffery and Zach Ertz, the red zone is already stacked with talent. Being 6’4” Goedert will be another red zone weapon. 

The tight end position was shaken up during the offseason; Brent Celek was released and Trey Burton was a free agent. Burton is now with Chicago and I think every Eagles fan dreams that the Eagles sign Celek to a veteran minimum. Rodgers might have reliable hands, but I don’t see him being an improvement over an aging Celek.Without Celek and Burton, Goedert will be relied on to fill the roles of both players.

Player Spotlight – Corey Clement – Poised for Greatness

Even though Corey Clement scored a touchdown and had the most receiving yards in the Superbowl, he is considered an unsung hero. The football community does not praise him enough. He is way more than “the backup that caught the snap during the Philly Special”!

Number 30 is ideal player to play alongside Jay Ajayi and Darren Sproles. With his ability to catch the ball in the flat and down the field, he can play sideline to sideline. With Wisconsin being a run heavy offense, Clement did not get a chance to showcase his catching ability. With a catching percentage of 77%, his best skill is his reliable hands.

Clement is a local Philadelphia talent that will be lighting it up in his second season in the NFL. Throughout his first year, he averaged 4.4 yards per carry and 13 yards per reception. Clement excelled at whatever he was asked to do. He is developing into another offensive weapon for the already stacked lineup. Like many young running backs, pass blocking is their weakest point. Once Clement becomes adept at pass blocking, he could be the starting running back. To start the 2018 season, he will be a serviceable 3rd down running back. 

From being an undrafted rookie to playing a pivotal role in the Superbowl, Corey Clement could be the future star running back in Philadelphia. Every Eagles fan should be eagerly anticipating the creative plays that Doug Pederson will be drawing up that involve Corey Clement.

- Pants

Flashback!

Flashback! To when Matt Kata provided us an amazing interview! He spoke to us about his career, and the struggles to be a Major Leaguer. He explained the mental struggle of the ups and downs of a MLB season! 

Throwback!

Throwback to when we interviewed former Astros GM Tim Purpura, who provided us an interesting perspective on the world of baseball. Tim told us about his time with the Astros, and how he built a very successful team. Tim also informed us about the day to day operations of a GM.

Tim Purpura - Former Astros GM - S5E4 52 9.18.15 #49