Old Friends Return


The memory machine will be running at full speed tonight at Citizens Bank Park. After almost 120 games of underwhelming offense, the Phillies made a change at hitting coach -- firing the analytics-driven John Mallee and bringing back old-school franchise icon Charlie Manuel back as his replacement. The manager of the 2008 World Series champs will be in the dugout tonight to assist manager Gabe Kapler and spread his Yoda-like wisdom to a lineup that despite featuring Bryce Harper, Rhys Hoskins and Jean Segura, has struggled most of the year.

And when they look on the mound, they'll see Cole Hamels -- but in a Cubs uniform. The franchise's second-greatest lefthanded starter was the ace of Manuel's champion squad 11 seasons ago. Now 35, he's still an effective pitcher, having won six of his nine decisions. But his days as an innings-eating ace are in the rear-view mirror.

Just having them both on the same field will stir up nostalgia for the Phillies' five straight division titles and that magical run in 2008. As for inspiration, that's not something the Y2K number crunchers will have trouble calculating.

Comments

Kimmi (kim1girl) said…
Great post, Mike! While I am thrilled the Phillies' bats came alive coincidentally with the return of Charlie and Harper looked like an MVP, what a shame that was all at the expense of Hamels, who has always been a class act.
August 15, 2019 at 7:54 AM
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