phrustrated philly phan

The Phillies have played well this season but their remains holes in this team. This team needs a third basemen, corner outfielder, starting pitching, and bullpen help, but most important the Phils need a right handed bat. I have heard some names tossed around such as maybe Benji Molina, Johhny Estrada, among others, but I believe I have discovered someone who would take this offense to the next level. While watching the NY Mets face the LA Dodgers last night the announcers mentioned that Nomar Garciaparra is signed to a one year contract. He came relatively cheap last off-season to the Dodgers and will be more expensive this year. He may want to remain out on the west coast which would inhibit the Phils, but Nomar has played in the pressure cooker that is known as Boston and thrived. He understands the pressure to perform and win. This year Nomar is putting up numbers like he did in Boston. He is hitting .309 with 16 HR and 76 RBIs. He has only 24 strikeouts. He has had a few injuries this year, but has been healthy most of year as evidenced by his 404 ABs. Of course, he has played first base for the Dodgers, but he could easily switch back to third next year and replace Nunez. Imagine a lineup with Nomar hitting behind Howard and Utley. The next question is of course, how much would he cost? I would think he could be had for 3 years and between 7-9 million per year. I may be wrong on those numbers though depending which teams get involved in the bidding. Now some fans may say they should invest in pitching. I tend to agree with Pat Gillick that good pitching needs to be developed from within and not bought through free agency. For 3 years/7-9 million, the Phillies would be able to sign a pitcher of Ted Lilly stature, an average pitcher who would be the Phillies number 4 or 5. I think that Nomar would have a bigger impact than Lilly. Also if the Phillies can re-sign Randy Wolf they are not really in the market for a starting pitcher and unless you plan on throwing big money at Barry Zito, you should avoid free agent pitchers. The Phillies have saved a lot of money on payroll with the trades of Jim Thome, Bobby Abreu, and hopefully this off-season Pat Burrell. C'mon Nomar come to Philly.

One note: Hopefully tomorrow I can update whats happening in the other Philly sports.