Four Aces and a Joe-Ker Ready to Pitch

After the first day of Spring Training, the Phillies' starting rotation held a press conference where there was only one thing that was on their mind: Winning the World Series. But Cliff Lee was the first to state this: "We haven't thrown a single pitch as a group yet. So it's kind of early to say we're one of the best rotations in the history of the game. Obviously, we're a very talented group, and there is potential for all of that. But it's just that, it's potential." But watching the conference, I also recall him saying that it was his decision to come back to Philadelphia, he took less money for less time, but this is where he wanted to be. Philadelphia is where Cliff Lee would have his best chances of winning a World Series, something in the past two attempts he has come short. All fans must remember something, there is something more to the game then pitching, and that is offense and defense. Another things fans must not forget: Joe Blanton. I kind of feel bad for Joe, being the one who is left out. Fans must remember, he won with the Phillies in 2008 and hit a homerun during that series (first and only homerun). One reporter even asked Cole Hamels how he felt about being the only pitcher in the rotation with a championship ring. Hamels then pointed to Blanton and said, "He's got one, too." Together the rotation collectively has: three Cy Young Awards, 10 top-five finishes in the Cy Young Award voting, 13 All-Star selections, six 20-win seasons, three postseason MVP awards, a 22-8 postseason record, and two World Series championship rings. I think the Phillies are liking their chances in the postseason, but there are 162 games to go through before then. I wish them luck in the 2011 season, as my favorite team and possibly the greatest pitching rotation ever. And especially good luck to Joe Blanton.