It took until the final day of camp, but JD Durbin was finally placed on waivers.  The self-proclaimed “Real Deal” proved this spring why he has no business being in the major leagues.  Durbin’s 0-4 record with an atrocious 12.33 ERA, wasn’t just the worst on the Phillies but one of the worst springs among all pitchers.  If Durbin clears waivers (which there’s no doubt he will), he’ll join the Iron Pigs rotation.

Joining Durbin will be Travis Blackey.  Blackley was placed on waivers Tuesday.  Being a Rule 5 pick, he was offered back to the Giants after he cleared waivers, but they chose not to take him back for $25,000.  I like Blackley’s stuff (he just need to control it), and was hoping the Giants would let the offer pass. Unlike Durbin, I can see Blackley joining the Phillies at some point this season.

Another pitcher I expect to see joining the Phillies this season is Kris Benson. Benson, who is not on the 40-man roster, was assigned to minor league camp.  He will remain in Clearwater at extended spring training continuing to rehab from rotator cuff surgery.  Hope are he’ll be in Philadelphia by mid-May, though June may be more realistic. 

Regarding not opting out of his contract on Tuesday when the opportunity arose, Benson made it clear he wants to be a Phillie. 

“I’m happy here,” Benson said on Tuesday. “I’m feeling good with the clubhouse, the pitching coach and the manager. The winning attitude here, the excitement going into the season, it’s a win-win situation from my standpoint. I just want to be a part of their plans and get back healthy.”

It good Benson wants to be here.  Hopefully he’ll get healthy and be able to contribute.  After seeing some of the pitching this spring, we’re going to need him.