Welcome Back RJ

by David S. Cohen on Jul 7, 2008 9:52 AM EDT

Not a bad birthday present. On his 25th birthday, RJ Swindle is back. And he'll probably stick this time. He's not filling in for a temporary leave, but rather replacing the injured Tom Gordon. It'll be interesting to see how Manuel uses him. Is he going to be relegated to mop-up duty? Or, as another lefty in the pen with JC Romero struggling a bit, will he be immediately inserted into important lefty situations? Here's hoping, once again, for success at the big league level for RJ!

Tweet Comment 4 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

Excited though I am to see R.J. back with the club and hopefully primed for some action, I have a hunch this is a temporary expedient before trading for someone like Brian Fuentes—a lefty who can also serve in Gordon’s “backup closer” role. We’ll see.

by dajafi on Jul 7, 2008 12:51 PM EDT reply actions

Maybe

You might be right, but I think that’ll happen at the end of the month (if it happens). Maybe RJ’s performance will make them pass on Fuentes?

by David S. Cohen on Jul 7, 2008 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions

I just hope Charlie gives him a legit shot to show his stuff. Well, actually I hope we never need to see RJ, but you know what I mean…

by phillywriter21 on Jul 7, 2008 1:49 PM EDT reply actions

Swindle

RJ could be a valuble resource for the Phils with a 5 pitch arsenal including a 55 mph curve! We all want to see him succeed and could be a key to helping the bullpen maintain their position as the top in the majors. The kid is young so hopefully we are patient.

-Sports Picks

by Sports Picks on Jul 8, 2008 12:34 PM EDT reply actions