The BUZZ in Philly

Manager Charlie Manuel made his first brilliant move of the playoffs before the first pitch was even thrown.

The Phillies’ roster for the National League Division Series was announced today and Adam Eaton’s and Geoff Geary’s names were not on it (insert sigh-of-relief sound here).

Although he is being paid much more than the other starters on the playoff roster ($24.5 million over three years), the Phillies let common sense outweigh the almighty dollar and will keep the ineffective Eaton off the mound. Eaton is 1-4 with a 7.36 ERA in his last ten starts. Via the Associated Press on ESPN’s website:

“It’s the best case for the team,” Eaton said Tuesday.
…
“Because of the way others have performed, he’s the odd man out,” general manager Pat Gillick said.

All-Star Cole Hamels will start tomorrow and rookie Kyle Kendrick will take the mound on Thursday. Kyle Lohse will be available out of the bullpen in games one and two, and if not used, would likely be the starter for game three. Veteran Jamie Moyer would start game 4 if necessary.

The Phillies hope their core relievers who pitched so well down the stretch can continue to be effective in the playoffs. JC Romero, Tom Gordon and Brett Myers will see the bulk of the action. If used more than expected, they would be spelled by Antonio Alfonseca, Clay Condrey and Jose Mesa. Geoff Geary has an elbow injury and won’t pitch in the NLDS but might be available in the NLCS. Final rosters aren’t officially due until 10am ET on Wednesday, so changes can still be made.

Jon Buzby is a nationally-syndicated columnist who can be reached at www.jonbuzby.com.