Grow Up and Play Ball - Tuesday, July 22, 2008
266 Views :: 0 Comments :: :: Michael Bradley

   There are several different ways to look at the pending series that begins tonight in the Shea toilet, from the debut of Joe Blanton, to the return of Brett Myers to the curious saga of the Phillies' quiet bats. The big story for the Home Team is the unwillingness of its most talented and highest-paid players to lead the club through the rough spots in a long season.

   When players are young, they have the luxury of limited or no responsibility, because there are always grown-ups around to handle the unsavory jobs and leave them to their production. As players age, they are required to step forward and lead, even if it "isn't in their personality" or "something they want to do." We have heard all year how the Phillies' top players aren't willing to lead, and it's hurting the team.

   This isn't an I-told-you-so about Aaron Rowand, last year's undisputed leader. He received too much money and too many years from the Giants to make him worth re-signing. Still, his willingness to stand out front and speak for and to the team made him incredibly valuable, and his absence has left a large hole in the clubhouse. With three games agains the malodorous Mets looming and the one-time 7 1/2-game lead gone, the Phillies need leadership more than ever. They need someone to pull everybody forward when tough times come and -- more importantly -- hold teammates accountable when they don't follow,.

   We can break down the pitching matchups, discuss the Phils' inability to deliver in the clutch and delve into the psyche of Brett Myers, but the most important topic right now is whether someone has it in them to be the man who takes charge of the clubhouse as the pennant race really begins. If the Phillies have a player like that, they have a chance. If not, they'll watch the Mets and even the Marlins zoom past them.

   It's time to lead. Any volunteers?