Phillies Sign Raul Ibanez

After the Yankees signed C.C. Sabathia and the Mets brought in Francisco Rodriguez and J.J. Putz, the Phillies make their own acquisition in the signing of a left-fielder.

According to reports, the Phils have signed free-agent outfielder Raul Ibanez to a $30 million deal over three years.

Ibanez will be the new everyday left-fielder, which means Pat Burrell will be somewhere else next season.

Our newest player, who was a Mariner last season, hit .293 with 23 homers, 110 RBIs, a .358 on-base percentage and a .472 slugging percentage.

However, he is a left handed bat, which does make this lineup overloaded in lefties and lacking righties. 

Make of this signing what you want. Personally, I wanted Burrell back. I really feel that even though he was not the greatest defensive player and he was slow on the bases, he was a right handed power bat who hit home runs and drove in runs. Left handed pitchers, unless Ibanez can hit lefties, will have a field day with us this season. Left handed relievers will be able to be brought in at will during the late innings.

I am sorry, but so far, Ruben Amaro Jr. has been very sub par as general manager. Sure, it is early and we have not played yet. I will still give him a chance. But, on paper he has not improved the team (maybe this guy's overall numbers are better but like I said, he is left handed). 

Just do not look at the fact that left handed pitchers will have an easier time, but think about how the lineup will have trouble being broken up considering all of the left handed batters. I wonder what Charlie Manuel thinks about this move. I really do. His job is much harder now.

But like I said, enough giving Amaro flak. Let's see how it plays out.