a quick look at the current state of philly sports

Right now is a very exciting time to be a Philly sports fan. The Phillies are solidly in first place and are the favorites in at least the NL, if not the outright favorites to win it all and repeat as World Champions. The Eagles have had an excellent off season, and have improved a team that came within a touchdown of the Super Bowl last season. If only the Sixers could turn it around then all of the Philly Sports teams would be absolutely dominant. That's right, those are the only three Philly sports teams.

Let's start with the Phils. The big news of course, is the trade for Cliff Lee. What a ridiculously awesome move. We didn't give up the Kyle Drabek and Michael Taylor, my two favorites in the Phils' minor league system. The big name they gave up was Carlos Carrasco, but he has struggled to say the least this season in Triple A, and I would much rather give him up than Drabek, who has much more upside. I think the biggest thing they gave up was Jason Knapp, but even then he still has a long road before he is ready to pitch in the majors.

Regardless, Lee is a tremendous upgrade. Actually scratch that. My roommate Randy put it best: since the phils didn't have to include Happ in the deal adding Cliff Lee was great addition rather than simply an upgrade. They didn't have to give up any players who would have any impact on this year's team, with the small exception of Marson. Lee was lights out in his first start with the phils, pitching a one run complete game while dominating the red hot Giants. Now our playoff rotation is Hamels, Lee, Blanton (having an outstanding season) and Happ. With our offense, who else could possibly be favored to win the National League?

Lastly, the Eagles look in prime position to win the toughest division in football. Unfortunately Jeremy Maclin remains unsigned, but I hear the two sides are getting close to inking a five year deal. A couple incentive bonuses seem to be the big sticking points. If Maclin can get into camp soon, he may be ready to come in for certain situations on offense even early in the season.

Unfortunately there was pretty devastating news fro Eagles camp today, as Stewart Bradley tore his ACL and will most likely miss the remainder of the season. This is a huge blow as Bradley has become a vocal leader and signal caller on defense, and without him and Brian Dawkins, there could be a leadership void. Not to mention Bradley played at a pro-bowl level last season. However, the coaching staff is big on Joe Mays, so hopefully he can step up to the plate.

All have more on the Eagles soon, but I can't go without mentioning Jim Johnson. He was a great football coach, an even better man, and an icon in the Eagles franchise. He will not be forgotten by the Eagles nation. RIP.