I just heard on the radio broadcast today that Phils first-base coach Davey Lopes, who helped guide the team to the best stolen-base percentage in MLB history last season, will be taking a leave of four to six weeks away from the team. In his spring training physical, Lopes was diagnosed with prostate cancer that will require surgery.  Jerry Martin will fill in during Lopes' absence.

Scott Franzke said that the cancer was detected early and that Lopes is expected to make a full recovery. We wish him the very best--and hope that he's back soon for another great year of base larceny.