Philadelphia Phillies: Five Things to Look Forward to in 2009

1. The First Game Against the Mets at Citizens Bank Park
May 1st, Phillies fans. Save the date. Just so you can rub more salt in my already oozing wound.

2. Can they repeat?
This is sure to be the common theme for the Phillies throughout the entire season. No team has managed to repeat as champions since the Yankees from 1998-2000. We'll see if the Phillies are up to the immense challenge.

3. The revival of Jimmy Rollins
Lost in the hoopla of winning a World Championship was a down season from Jimmy Rollins. To be fair, Rollins missed significant time in 2008 and his production suffered as a result. The 2007 MVP went from 88 XBH in 2007 to only 58 in 2008, a drop that signifies how much his production dropped because of the injuries. Look for Rollins to re-establish himself as one of the best shortstops in the league this season at the dish, which would give the Phillies the best lineup in baseball outside of the Yankees.

4. The continued assent of Jaime Moyer
As astonishing as it may seem, Moyer is pitching some the best baseball of his career at 47. The soft tossing lefty continues to baffle hitters throwing nothing but junk. What a wonder it is to watch him pitch. Enjoy him while you can Phillies fans...even though it should not be a surprise to see Moyer pitch until he is 50!

5. More Ryan Howard Subway Commercials
Seriously folks, these are gems. We want more!