The Philadelphia Phillies enter their playoff series against the St. Louis Cardinals as the odds-on favorite to win the 2011 World Series. Approaching Saturday’s roster submission deadline, the Phillies had most of their playoff team ready to go. The only unknown entering the postseason was who would be named Philadelphia’s final reliever.
Joe Blanton missed most of the season due to injury and lost his spot in the rotation to rookie sensation Vance Worley. But, with his strong September performance, Blanton showed the Phillies enough to carry him as their final reliever. Blanton beat out David Herndon for the final roster spot.
The only other semi-noticeable omission from Philadelphia’s playoff roster was rookie outfielder Domonic Brown. Brown struggled during his time in the Majors this year and even more so when he was sent down. But, the youngster does bring speed and his left handed bat to the table, and the Phillies will have him continue to work out in case his services are needed later in the playoffs.
The Phillies playoff roster consists of six infielders, Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Placido Polanco, Jimmy Rollins, Michael Martinez and Wilson Valdez. In the outfield, Philadelphia’s regulars Raul Ibanez, Shane Victorino and Hunter Pence will be backed up by John Mayberry Jr., Ben Francisco and Ross Gload. Brian Schneider will backup Carlos Ruiz behind the plate.
Philadelphia Will Carry its lethal rotation of Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels and Roy Oswalt into the postseason along with relievers Blanton, Worley, Kyle Kendrick, Michael Stutes, Antonio Bastardo, Brad Lidge and Ryan Madson.
The Cardinals and Phillies begin their series this afternoon at 5:00 p.m.
For more on the Phillies, be sure to check out That Balls Outta Here.