Written By Jason Voorhees

Bryce Harper mania has swept the town of Philadelphia like no other free agent signing in the history of Philly sports.  Its all you hear about on talk radio.  Its all that you see across social media platforms including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.  Sports television is littered with Bryce Harper content and this includes national media outlets like ESPN and Major League Baseball Network.  In fact, Bryce Harper apparel has even made news by setting the all-time record for jersey sales in a 48 Hour Period.

Today marks the one week anniversary of the Bryce Harper signing in Philly.  Last week Harper inked a professional sports record breaking contract of 13 Years for $330 Million Dollars.  While taking in all of the Harper energy, I couldn't help but wonder what were some of the biggest free agent signings in Philadelphia sports history.  So with that thought, I have decided to compile my own top 20 list of Top Free agents in Philly sports.

For the record, this was a difficult list to draft and obviously there will be some notable names that are missing when its all said and done.  However; as I have stated in the past, these lists are and always will be controversial due to differences in opinion.  Likewise, the parameters of the list ensures that the players on here at least enjoyed some success and also brought success to the team.  For that reason, players like Nnamdi Asomugha, Matt Geiger, DeMarco Murray, Danny Tartabull, Gregg Jeffries, Vincent LeCavalier, and Ilya Bryzgalov did not make the cut.  

Here we go...  

CONTRACT: 3 Years, $75 Million Dollars
The Philadelphia Phillies signed Jake Arieta to a three year 75 million dollar contract in 2018.  Arieta had been one of the leagues most dominating pitchers in MLB over the past few seasons.  In 2015 he went 22-6, while posting a 1.77 ERA and 236 Strikeouts en route to a Cy Young Award Victory.  Then in 2016 he helped lead the Chicago Cubs to their first World Series title since 1908.

Arieta was mediocre at best during his first season with the Phillies going 10-11/3.96ERA/138 Strikeouts in only 172.2 Innings of work.  However; it was announced this offseason that Arieta had played parts of the season with a partially torn meniscus which definitely could have contributed to his subpar season. 

He has shown tons of promise this spring and seems poised for a comeback run which would be huge for a team with playoff aspirations.  Jake makes the list due to his prowess and history; as well as his contributions in turning the Phillies around last season in which they were able to contend until a last month collapse.  Arieta's legacy here is still unwritten and he could jump up on the list with sustained success...we shall see.

CONTRACT: 5 Years, $82 Million Dollars
Although Brand often appears on NBA "Worst Free Agent Signings of All-Time" lists...he still makes this list due to his pedigree and also the fact that he did help the team make the playoffs in 2010-2011 and 2011-2012.  On July 9, 2008 the Sixers signed Brand as a free agent and at the time he was expected to help the team return to greatness.  

Unfortunately, Brand was injured early in the season, and would have season ending shoulder surgery on February 5th, 2009.  It was an extremely disappointing ending to the start of Brand's Sixers career.  During the 2010 season, Brand appeared in 76 games and averaged over 13.0 Points per game, despite the team missing the playoffs.

However; he would rebound one year later in 2011-2012 by averaging 15.0 Points per game and leading the team to the playoffs.  Of course, it was a one and done series and off to the next.  The following season, Brand was able to build on his success and that success saw the Sixers make an improbable run to the conference semifinals.  Brand was out of basketball only a few seasons later.  And even though his Sixers legacy did not end with a championship, he was able to bring some excitement back to a team that had been starving for that since the departure of one Allen Iverson. 

CONTRACT: 3 Years, $8 Million Dollars
William Fuller was one of the most prolific pass rushers in the NFL during the late eighties and early nineties.  In 1994, the Philadelphia Eagles signed him as a free agent.  Of course, Pro Bowl Defensive Linemen were no strangers to the Birds who employed all-time greats in Reggie White, Clyde Simmons, and Jerome Brown.  Fuller had big shoes to fill and he did not disappoint.

Fuller had 9.5 Sacks his first season with the team which earned him his first of three consecutive Pro-Bowls.  He followed that up with back to back 13 Sack campaigns while leading the team in forced fumbles with 8.  Fuller was a force to be reckoned with during his tenure as an Eagle.  He was also able to help the team make the playoffs in back to back years.  He recorded a sack and had six tackles in the 58-37 wild card win against the Detroit Lions in 1995. 

Of course, the Eagles lost the following week to the Dallas Cowboys In the Divisional Round and were bounced out the following season by he 49ers.  William Fuller may not be the greatest free agent in Philly sports history; however, he may just be the greatest free agent bargain if you take into account the contract vs. his production.  William Fuller was an excellent free agent signing and has the numbers to prove it.

When Peter Forsberg was traded along with a massive package to acquire the rights to Eric Lindros in 1992; no one could have ever predicted that he would have more individual and  team success than Lindros.  However; that's exactly the scenario that took place as Forsberg enjoyed a much longer career as well as his ability to help lead the Colorado Avalanche to a Stanley Cup Championship.

In 2005, after a year away from the NHL, Forsberg decided to return and when the Avalanche were caught in a salary cap situation, he signed with the Flyers.  Of course, the Flyers were getting their once prized draft pick back, with a chance to finish something that he never got started.  Although his stay with the Flyers was marred by injury, he was still able to put up impressive numbers in that first season.  Despite only playing in 60 games, he scored 75 points (19 Goals/56 Assists) and lead the Flyers to the playoffs.  Unfortunately, they were bounced out in the first round to the Buffalo Sabres.

He never got off on fresh ground the following season due to injuries and was ultimately traded away.  Although his second stint in Philly was short lived, he did bring a ton of leadership to the team and he mentored a lot of the young Flyers players.  It was a huge signing at the time and Peter surely packed the seats at The Wells Fargo Center.  Definitely one of the bigger free agent signings for the Flyers.

When Pedro Martinez signed with the Phillies in 2009, he was a shell of his former Hall of Fame self.  However; at the time the Phillies were in the thick of another playoff push and the organization hoped that his addition would provide a much needed spark to the rotation.  Also, taking a flyer on a future Hall of Famer for a $1 Million Dollar salary was a no brainer.  Pedro had spent the offseason working out privately in hopes of landing a new contract.  When he remained unsigned during the winter, Martinez entered the World Baseball Classic to showcase his arm.

In July, he joined the Phillies in hopes of adding another ring to his finger.  Pedro did not disappoint either as he became a fixture in the rotation right away.  He helped the team down the stretch going 5-1 in nine starts.  He posted a 3.63 ERA while striking out 37 hitters with only 8 walks in 44.2 Innings.  The Phillies actually won in Pedro's first seven starts which was the first time that happened in franchise history.  Martinez pitched great in the NLCS, although the Phillies ultimately blew the lead In his only start.  Unfortunately, he did not fare as well In the World Series start as he was torched by the New York Yankees.  

Pedro only played one season  with the Phillies and did not help them win their second championship in consecutive seasons.  However; Pedro was in fact the spark that the team needed and definitely belongs on the list of top free agent signings, even though his stay was short lived.  

Johnathan Papplebon ultimately became one of Philly fans most hated players.  However; his signing was one of their tops as far as free agents go.  The Phillies signed the free agent closer in 2012 to replace their former closer Ryan Madson who left the team in free agency.  In his first season as the Phillies stopper, Papplebon did not disappoint saving 38 while appearing in a career high 64 games.  He posted a stellar 2.44 ERA with 92 Strikeouts in 70 Innings.  Of course, the Phillies failed to make the playoffs despite Papplebon's all-star first season.

Papplebon struggled in his sophomore season and posted a career low in saves as a closer with 29 and a 2.92 ERA while losing some velocity on his fastball.  He claimed that he had played with an injury and that was the reason that his fastball dipped.  Papplebon also made controversial comments that he had never played for a losing team.  2014 was a bounce back season for the closer as he once again made the all-star team while saving 39 games for the team.  He struck out 63 hitters in 66.1 innings while posting a 2.02 ERA.  The team still struggled as they continued to rebuild and ultimately missed the playoffs once again.

Papplebon did not endear himself to the fans and he was ultimately jettisoned to the Washington Nationals in 2015.  He still makes the top free agent list due to his two all-star appearances and he also became the all-time save leader in franchise history.

In 2008, Asante Samuel was one of the most sought after free agents in the NFL.  Within minutes of the beginning of free agency, the Philadelphia Eagles had swooped in and scooped Asante up.  Samuel was brought in to shore up a sub par secondary and help get the Eagles back to the playoffs.  Samuel had previously won a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots while becoming one of the best shut down corners in the league.  He had carved his niche with the perennial contenders and now wanted top test the waters of free agency to get back to the big game after a last minute heartbreaking loss to the Giants the previous season.

Samuel made the pro bowl his first season after posting 4 interceptions for the Eagles.  That postseason, he set a record with his fourth interception return of a touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings.  It was a 44 yard beauty and helped get the Eagles to the Divisional Round of the playoffs.  That following week against the New York Giants, Samuel again almost found the end zone after a pick of Eli Manning, which also tied a then NFL record with 7 postseason interceptions.  The Eagles would make the NFC Conference Championship against the Cardinals.

In 2009, Samuel followed up his great first season with a monster sophomore gig.  He tied an Eagles all-time record with nine interceptions.  He was selected to his second consecutive Pro Bowl and his fourth overall.  Unfortunately, Samuel did not get that ring and he was ultimately traded away in 2012 to the Atlanta Falcons.  Still one of the Eagles all-time free agents and he backed up his pedigree with stellar numbers. 

Nigel Bradham was not a huge name signing by any means.  In fact, when the Eagles signed him as a free agent in 2016, he was relatively unknown around the NFL outside of the Buffalo Bills.  However; Jim Schwartz (Eagles Defensive Coordinator) had coached Bradham during his tenure in Buffalo and knew that the Eagles were getting a player well above his value at a position of need at linebacker.

Nigel became a fixture on the Eagles defense right away making his mark as the starting strongside linebacker.  He posted 102 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception while starting 16 games.  Bradham actually graded out at 86.5 which was good enough for the 8th best linebacker in football.  Of course, we all know what happened in 2017.  The Eagles won the Super Bowl and Bradham was once again wreaking havoc in Eagles defensive scheme. He was one of the leaders of the Defense and definitely outplayed his contract by far as far as production and the ultimate prize was Philly's first Super Bowl victory ever.  Rewards were reaped on this one.

In 1996, the Eagles made Vincent one of the highest paid cornerbacks in NFL history at the time.  Vincent had previously starred at cornerback for the Miami Dolphins.  He was already one of the best corners at the time of the signing and Vincent maintained his elite status throughout his entire career with the Eagles.  In fact, Troy made five consecutive Pro-Bowls for the team from 1999-2003.  In 2002, he also cemented his name as one of the best "people" in the NFL after winning the NFL Man of the Year Award.

Troy Vincent was named to the Eagles 75th Anniversary all team in 2007.  He was one of the greatest cornerbacks to ever don Eagle green and will always be remembered for his 104 yard interception return against the Dallas Cowboys in his first season with the team.  The interception was an instant highlight reel classic and by itself makes Vincent one of the greatest free agent signings in Eagles history.

"For Who, For What."  This line will forever live in infamy as the legacy of Ricky Waters in Eagles history.  However; he truly was one of the best free agent signings in Eagles history.  Watters signed a free agent contract with the Eagles coming off a fresh Super Bowl victory with the San Francisco 49ers.  He quickly made fans forget those famous comments as he further established himself as one of the top running backs in the NFL.

In fact, he helped lead the Philadelphia Eagles to the playoffs in both 1995 and 1996.  He had three above average seasons as the bell cow of those Eagles teams.  In three seasons, he posted 3,794 Rushing Yards and 31 Touchdowns on 995 carries.  Talk about a workhorse back.  Watters endeared himself to the team as well as the fans while becoming one of the most successful running backs in franchise history.

Jeremy Roenick was already an elite player in the NHL in 2001.  The Flyers brought Roenick in to fill the void left by one Eric Lindros.  At the time it was one of the Flyers biggest free agent moves of all-time.  It did not take long for Roenick to become a fan favorite as he lead the team to the Atlantic Divison title during his first season.  He led the Flyers with 46 Assists and 67 Points while posting a plus/minus rating of +32.  Unfortunately, the Flyers were bounced in the first round by the Ottawa Senators.

In 2002, Roenick again led the Flyers in points during the regular season.  He enjoyed a very nice postseason scoring 13 points and leading the Flyers to the second round of the playoffs, before again losing to the Senators.  However; Roenick forever supplanted himself as an all-time Flyer in 2004.  After suffering a broken jaw and multiple concussions during the regular season, Roenick put the Flyers on his back in the Playoffs carrying the team to the Eastern Conference Finals against the Tampa Bay Lightning.  Jeremy had a postseason to remember scoring 13 points, including a series clinching overtime goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of the playoffs.

The Philadelphia Flyers came up one game short of the Stanley Cup; nonetheless Roenick did more than his part in getting the team to the promised land.  Although Roenick never sniffed the Stanley Cup again.

After finishing last in the NHL during the 2006-2007 season, the Philadelphia Flyers again decided to make a huge splash in free agency when they signed Daniel Briere, making him the highest paid player in the NHL in 2007.  Briere became a superstar while playing for the lowly Buffalo Sabres and spurned the Montreal Canadians to instead sign in Philly and become a Flyer.  That season, the Flyers went from last place to making it to the Conference Finals against the Pittsburgh Penguins.  After a regular season in which he was second on the team in scoring; Briere recorded 9 goals and 7 assists (16 Points) in his third consecutive semi finals appearance.

After some injury plagued seasons, Briere again rose to the occasion in 2010.  Briere lead the Flyers to their first appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals since 1997.  Briere lead all players in playoff points posting a Flyers postseason record 30 Points (12 Goals/18 Assists).  During the Stanley Cup alone, Briere provided 12 Points (3 Goals/9 Assists).  Unfortunately, the Flyers were bested by the Chicago Blackhawks in six games, coming up short of a championship.  Briere made himself an all-time Flyer during that playoff run and will always be considered one of their top free agent pick ups ever.

On December 6, 2002 the Philadelphia Phillies signed free agent slugger Jim Thome to one of the largest contracts in MLB history at the time.  Jim Thome brought something to the Phillies that they had been lacking in forever; star power.  Thome had an impressive debut season for the Phillies mashing 47 Home Runs.  He batted .266 knocked 131 RBI and scored 111 Runs.  The Phillies plan was to sign Thome in the middle of their slow rebuild to enhance fans into buying season tickets.  The plan worked as fans flocked to see Thome in red pinstripes.

During his second season with the Phillies, Thome once again starred while hitting bombs at CBP to the tune of 42 knocks on the season.  He batted .274 while producing 105 RBI and scoring 97 Runs.  That stellar season earned Thome the Lou Gehrig Memorial Award for his play both on and off the field.  However; his star power was not enough to help the Phillies get back to the playoffs.  Unfortunately, Thome never was able to finish what he started in Philly as he was ultimately injured the following season and subsequently traded away.  Thome may not have been in Philly a long time but his legacy as one of its greatest free agents will live forever.

As an offensive tackle, Jon Runyan did not play one of the DIVA positions in the NFL.  However; during his career he had a "DIVA" impact on the game at his position.  In February of 2000, the Philadelphia Eagles signed Jon Runyan to a 6 Year/$30 Million Dollar contract, which at the time made him the highest paid offensive lineman in NFL history.  Runyan had a penchant for being a dirty player and he brought a swagger to the Eagles that had not been seen since the days of Buddy Ryan.  The Eagles imagined Runyan as the anchor of the most important unit on the team; the offensive line that would ultimately protect Donovan McNabb for his entire career and Runyan made good on that dream.

Jon Runyan went on to set an amazing streak by starting 190 consecutive games as an offensive lineman.  At the time this was the second longest streak in NFL history for active players.  He also played in 18 playoff games during that streak which made the feat even more remarkable.  Needless to say, Jon Runyan went on to have one of the best careers for an offensive lineman in NFL history.  He is widely considered the greatest Eagles lineman in history and played in some of the teams best games including the Super Bowl loss in 2004.  Runyan was also named to the 75th Anniversary All-Eagles team.  Great Player...Great Signing.

When Cliff Lee signed his free agent contract with the Phillies in 2011, he was no stranger to the team.  In fact, only two seasons earlier in 2009, Lee had been acquired in a trade at the MLB deadline and helped the team make its second consecutive World Series; almost singlehandedly helped them win.  Of course that team ultimately lost to the New York Yankees and Lee was subsequently traded away after the team acquired Roy Halladay.  Well its amazing in sports how things seem to always come full circle and now Lee was back in red pinstripes.

When the Phillies signed Cliff Lee in 2011, they had assembled one of the greatest pitching staffs in MLB history as the staff was quickly labeled the "4 Aces."  The rotation included Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, and Roy Oswalt.  The fans and local Phillies media called the rotation "The Phantastic Phour."  What made the signing even more dubious was the fact that he turned down more money from the New York Yankees to instead join his old team.  He did not disappoint that first season going 17-8, while posting a 2.40 ERA and 238 Strikeouts in 232.2 Innings pitched.

Lee never did win a World Series with the Phillies as his career ultimately ended early due to arm injuries.  He did make the all-star team twice during his stay in 2011 and 2013.  Lee was highly coveted around MLB and the fact that the Phillies landed him over those other teams like the Yankees and Red Sox made his signing even more important to the team.  Lee may not have taken the Phillies to the promised land but he definitely was one of its best signings all-time.

In 2017, the Philadelphia Eagles were able to land top free agent wideout Alshon Jeffery on a one year prove it deal.  Who would have known then that this signing would go down as one of the Eagles most important signings ever.  Jeffery quickly solidified himself as the Eagles Number one passing option and gave Carson Wentz a much needed weapon in their upstart offense.  During his first season, Jeffery provided the Eagles a true number one receiver option catching 57 Passes for 789 Yards and 9 Touchdowns.    

However; Alshon did his real damage in the postseason.  In 3 games, Jeffery caught 12 passes for 219 yards and 3 Touchdowns including 3 Catches/73 Yards and a touchdown in the Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots.  After that season it was realized that Alshon had played the entire season with a rotator cuff injury.  That offseason he had surgery to repair the shoulder.  Jeffery's contract had been extended in December to ensure Alshon would be part of the fold for the next four seasons.  

In 2018, Jeffery actually outperformed his 2017 stats in only 13 games.  He went on to catch 65 Passes for 843 Yards and 6 Touchdowns.  He went on to catch another 11 passes for close to 160 yards in two more postseason games.  Unfortunately, the Eagles did not have the same success as they were bounced by the Saints during the Divisional Round of the playoffs.  Ironically, the season ended as a pass went through Jeffery's hands for a game ending interception.  Nonetheless; Alshon was one of the best as well as most important free agents in Philly history.

Malcolm Jenkins has quietly turned himself into one of the best Free Safeties in the NFL today.  In 2014, the Philadelphia Eagles signed him as a free agent, much to the dismay of many fans.  Fan favorite Brian Dawkins had been jettisoned a few years earlier and any safety that was signed in the town would never live up to Dawkins legacy.  Of course, fans in Philly have since forgotten those incredulous doubts about Malcolm.  Although, Malcolm may never be the elite talent that Dawkins was on the field, he arguably has become the same type of leader for the Eagles on that same field.

Jenkins is undoubtedly the Eagles leader on Defense and has become the unquestioned leader of the entire locker room.  Jenkins has also brought upper echelon statistics to the defensive backfield that has made him one of the best safeties in the game.  Of course, his pace of play as well as his leadership helped guide the Eagles to their first Super Bowl championship in 2017.  He was a major factor on and off the field and was once again named to the Pro Bowl.  In fact, Jenkins has made the Pro Bowl three seasons for the Eagles (2015, 2017-2108).  Jenkins has been huge for this Eagles regime and will continue to be the anchor of this defense for years to come.

When the Philadelphia Phillies signed Pete Rose in 1979, they had won the NL East three consecutive years.  They had two 101 win campaigns and another over 90, but yet they still failed to even make it to the World Series.  That is why the team chose to sign Pete Rose as they felt that he would be the difference maker that the team had been lacking.  Rose certainly did not disappoint as he helped lead the Phillies to their first World Series Championship win in 1980.  The team earned three division titles, two World Series appearances and one World Series Championship during Rose's tenure.

The Phillies already had the building blocks of a dominant team,  However; they lacked the spark that would put them over the top.  Rose provided that spark as he lead the team not only by statistics but also by example as evidenced by his nickname "Charlie Hustle."  Rose had been the unquestioned leader of the Cincinnati Dynasty "Big Red Machine" teams and now he was providing the same skills for the Philadelphia Phillies.  We all know how Roses' career ended and was ultimately marred by the gambling label that he is known by.  However; the mark that he made on this team coming in as a free agent may even make him one of the top free agent signings in total Sports history, let alone Philly sports.

There is not much more we can say about Nick Foles and his importance to the Philadelphia Eagles as well as the fans.  Foles legacy in Philly has been forever cemented and he will always be known for leading the team to its first Super Bowl victory in history.  Not only did Nick Foles lead the team at the most important position on its biggest stage; Foles put up numbers during that postseason run that are among the tops of NFL history.  During the teams upset of the New England Patriots, Nick Foles went 28 of 43 Passing for 373 Yards and 4 Touchdowns.  He also caught a Touchdown pass on one of the most iconic plays in Super Bowl history, "The Philly Special."

Nick Foles career with the Eagles truly did come full circle.  We know how his career began coming out as third round pick and for him to reach the celebrity status that he has reached is definitely well deserved.  Foles will never have to pay for a drink in Philadelphia ever again.  Foles is a legend in the town and will always be remembered for that magical postseason run of 2017.  The Eagles and Philly fans alike are forever indebted to Nick Foles and no free agent list would be complete without mentioning his name.

When MLB analyst Jon Heyman tweeted out..."Breaking: Bryce to the Phillies" the longest free agent saga in history had finally come to an end.  The Philadelphia Phillies had finally gotten their man.  Although Bryce Harper has yet to play a meaningful game for this franchise, his signing has been the most meaningful in history for a number of reasons.  First of all, he signed a 13 year contract at age 26, which could arguably take him to age 39 which in baseball language could be his entire career.  Secondly, the "no opt-out/no-trade" clause.  This means that Bryce Harper does in fact want to be in Philly and this is a career partnership that will ultimately define the next great regime of Phillies baseball.

Bryce Harper is a generational talent that is the face of baseball.  The Phillies have landed the biggest of biggest fish in a very long time.  Harper is destined to lead this franchise to multiple championships and be their face for the next 13 seasons.  What a joy it has been for Philly fans that have taken the free agent ride during the entire winter.  Harpers success on and off the field will ultimately define whether this contract was worth the dollars but regardless of the statistics, the meaning of the signing is so much more.  Just look at the ticket and merchandise sales since the signing.  Bryce Harper is definitely the greatest free agent signings of all time and has set the bar extremely high.  Hope that you enjoyed the list...more to come. 

Written By Jason Voorhees

  
​And so we have all become media whores.  As day 120 of the Bryce Harper saga continues...endless speculation continues to rattle social media like a bat out of hell.  On Thursday, former MLB general manager Jim Duquette went on the radio stating that the Phillies do not have the top offer on the table for Bryce Harper; and that their offer is between 270-300 million dollars. 

This comes on the heels of a report from Steve Philips (another former gm and analyst) yesterday stating that the Phillies now feel their chances of landing Harper are "remote." 

These days everyone has their own take on the Bryce Harper situation.  The contract negotiation has now taken on the appearance of a soap opera.  It's like reading a comic book and comparing a battle between super hero and villain.  The only problem with this scenario is that at the end of the day only one side can win. 

In this case...the "villain" is indeed super agent Scott Boras.  On the other hand, the Phillies organization continues to play the arrogant narrative lead by Matt Klentak and his idea that the Phillies have had an "objectively excellent offseason."  It appears that Klentak would rather play a high stakes poker game than win the player.  This strategy may end up being the death of the Phillies chances of landing Bryce Harper.

Scott Boras is an evil genius.  He is extremely good at his job.  His job is very simple.  Get the most dollars for his client at whatever cost and he knows just exactly how to push buttons to maximize each deal.  In the case of Bryce Harper, Boras is trying to get him a record breaking contract which would shatter Giancarlo Stanton's 13 Year/325 million dollar deal.

Of course, Manny Machado signing for 10 years and $300 million last week and then the Nolan Arenado extension this week have only enhanced the leverage that Boras has in his arsenal.  So knowing all that we know and knowing the facts, the bottom line to make a deal happen should be at 10 Years and 335 Million Dollars right?  And a 3 year opt out right?  This is a no brainer and should now be the starting point for any negotiation with Bryce Harper.  Except that maybe it is not.

No one really knows where the Phillies stand on this issue and there is no way of knowing their exact offer.  However; one thing is for sure, if they have only offered between 270-300 as this report says, then they never really were planning on spending "stupid money" like the owner previously said.  BREAKING NEWS!!!!!!!.....THE PHILLIES JUST SIGNED BRYCE HARPER!!!!!! As I was writing this piece the news broke out all over twitter (first reported by Jon Heyman) and then WIP that the Phillies had signed Harper.

So here we are.  Ultimately Boras did his job and did it well...judging by the massive record breaking deal that he was able to secure for his client.  13 Years/$330 Million/No Opt-Outs/Full No Trade Clause.  Now that's a massive contract if I ever did see one...basically keeping Harper in a Phillies uniform for the remainder of his career.  So in the end...the Phillies front office was patient and was able to land their superstar.  

Philadelphia is now the place to be.  Welcome to Philly Bryce.  Thank you to Phillies ownership (Middleton and Klentak) for making this happen.  And thank you to twitter for being the Bryce Harper mouthpiece through this seemingly endless saga. 

For a fan that lived during the 2007-2013 run, this moment has instantly brought me back to that moment.  This may be the biggest free agent signing in the history of Phillies sports.  Harper is a game changer and now we can plug him into the middle of an already improved lineup.  And now the Phillies can truly say that they have had an "Objectively Excellent Offseason." 

​Exciting times to be a Philly fan folks.  We have a multitude of young stars...Carson Wentz, Joel Embiid, Ben Simmons, Carter Hart, Aaron Nola, Rhys Hoskins...and now Bryce Harper.  Savor the moment friends.  Enjoy this opportunity.

​So as the World Of Boras Turns, Remember that it was Boras that delivered Bryce Harper to the Phillies.  And for that I give thanks.  And now I can finally relax.  I am taking a Twitter vacation for a few days.  Welcome Home Bryce!

Written By Jason Voorhees

A few months back, Phillies principal owner John Middleton made a comment to a reporter that may forever live in infamy.  He was discussing the Phillies plans for free agency in 2019 and how they would operate as a franchise.  That reporter was Bob Nightengale.  The comment?...That the Phillies may even be "a little stupid" with how much money they spend on free agents in this years class.  Middleton jokingly added, "We just prefer not to be completely stupid."  

At the time those comments seemed completely harmless.  However, the media sure took them for a spin.  And Scott Boras surely Is now taking them to the same "bank" that Nightengale prefers.  Of course the news broke on Monday that Manny Machado will sign a 10 Year/$300 Million dollar contract with the San Diego Padres.  Yes you heard that right folks...the Padres.  This news came as a shock to most...including the Philadelphia Phillies who had been linked to Manny Machado the entire offseason.

At first glance this was an implausible punch to the gut in the Phillies attempt at "star gazing" just like when LeBron spurned the 76ers for the Lakers over the summer.  This was a crack in the Phillies negotiating leverage process with the other remaining star free agent, Bryce Harper.  However; the real kicker came back in November when Phillies owner John Middleton said the Phillies would spend "stupid money" in this years free agency.  That was the real arrow in the heart of the lion.

Those comments may have actually guaranteed that the Phillies will now likely have to grossly overspend their original "valuation" of both of these players in salary.  In fact, Machado getting 10 years and $300 million definitely was not what the Phillies had projected in their value that was placed on that player.  Matt Klentak, speaking to reporters on Monday had this to say...in regards to the Machado deal.  "If the reports are true, this contract will exceed our valuation.  Sometimes you have to walk away."

Will the Phillies do the same with Bryce Harper?  I would emphatically argue No.  So too is the opinion of some Phillies local beat writers speaking to some  sources on or close to the team.  Matt Breen who writes for philly voice had the following to say..."The Phillies, according to as source, are confident they will sign Bryce Harper, as they have ramped up their negotiations with the outfielder after being motivated by loosing out on Machado."  He further went on to state "The Phillies began the offseason with the expectation that they would sign either Harper or Machado...that expectation according to the source, has not changed." 

Breen is a very respected writer in this town and I am sure that he has legit sources.  But it was further analysis that truly has me buying in.  Breen on the Phillies next move..."Scott Boras, Harper's agent, is set on getting his client a bigger deal than the one Machado got.  The Phillies are well aware, and they will be much more reluctant this time to walk away, knowing what the public perception will be if they end the offseason without either free agent."  I think this emphatically tells the tale...that John Middleton's comments truly have painted the team into a corner where there really is only one outcome...sign Bryce Harper or else!!!  Or as some have said as well...Harper or Bust.

Do I feel that the Phillies offseason will have been a failure if they don't get Harper?  Absolutely not.  However; I also don't agree with Matt Klentak's absurd comments that the Phillies have had an "objectively awesome offseason" either. 

The fact of the matter is that unless the Phillies land Harper...their offseason will have been disappointing and everything goes back to the original comments made by Middleton.  Those comments not only set the Phillies up for failure...but also drastically altered their negotiating prowess with the star free agents.  And when it comes to going to bat with Super Agent Scott Boras, you better be ready to hit a home run.  Unfortunately, the Phillies are now in a position of bidding against themselves.  And that's exactly where Scott Boras wants them.

In the end, I do believe that all of the national reporters are correct and that the Phillies are indeed the favorites to win this war and get the player they undoubtedly covet.  I am just saying that those harmless comments a few months back could have been extremely detrimental to the organizations success at landing this big fish.  And I am sure that Middleton regrets the poor choice of words today...that's just my opinion.

The true question that we must ponder now is just how "stupid" this team will be in regards to the contract offer? A contract offer that may define the future of this franchise for years to come.  Notwithstanding the free agent classes of the next few years...this is an important crossroads for the Philadelphia Phillies and they need to tread lightly when making a final decision on Harper.  They have to nail this.

Let's face it folks, the bottom of the barrel right now is looking like 10 Years/$326 Million which would break Giancarlo Stanton's record for the highest contract in Major League Baseball history. 

​And if the reports are true...and the Phillies are truly bidding against themselves...what is the absolute walk away point now.  Because you can bet your hard earned dollars that Boras is going to drag this out as far as possible to squeeze every last penny for his client.  And you can rest assured that the Phillies are now feeling immense pressure to strike a deal done now.

My hunch is that a deal is close but what will the final number look like...only time will tell.  One thing is for sure, this has been the most excruciating baseball offseason ever.  It has been frustrating for fans and teams and players alike.  Hopefully they can resolve the disconnect between team and player In the upcoming years.  Until then, we must continue to hope that this Harper dilemma gets resolved any day soon.  

The bottom line..."Team Stupid Money" will now be forced to be more stupid than they originally thought and this will be a tone setting outcome for years to come.  Lets hope for all of our sakes that Middleton backs up his words with what will be the greatest signing in franchise history.  It definitely will be the most lucrative so Bryce yourselves folks...this thing is coming to a head quickly and it will all be over soon...we can only hope.      

Written By Jason Voorhees

In the past I have done posts on top positional rankings of all time in the NFL.  Undertaking the task of compiling a top all-time positional ranking is daunting.  It requires in depth research and analysis as well as having a key eye for the unknown.

Many times these lists are controversial due to the wide range and differences of opinion.  However; that is what makes these lists unique.  Top Lists are always based on a number of key variables most notably statistical analysis and postseason success.  However, there are also other measurables and intangibles that must be factored in when generating the flow of the list.

For these reasons, it is very possible for one player to have lesser statistics but fall higher on the list.  This can be argued by proving world class dominance during short periods of time.  Parameters must be set to limit the amount of sway due to the changing variables.  For purposes of this list, current and past players are eligible for the list and it may include relief pitchers or starting pitchers.

Before we get to the top 20 list, we will provide a list of players that did not make the cut but do require honorable mention. The following is a list of players that were on the bubble but ultimately did not crack the list. 

 Honorable Mention:
Juan Marichal (1960-1975)
Career Stats: 243Wins/142Losses/2.89ERA/1.10WHIP/2,303K's/63.0WAR/244CG/52Shutouts
Marichal was a six-time 20-game winner and ten-time All-Star.  He was known for his signature high leg kick and dart board accuracy.  He was relentless when it came to throwing inside and pushing batters off the plate.  He played most of his 16 year career with the San Francisco Giants and was one of the original stars to import from the Dominican Republic.  Juan twice lead the league in complete games and shutouts.

Jim Palmer (1965-1984)
Career Stats: 268Wins/152Losses/2.86ERA/1.18WHIP/2,212K's/68.9WAR/211CG/53Shutouts
Jim Palmer was the greatest pitcher in Baltimore Orioles history.  During his nineteen year hall of fame career, he was a three- time Cy Young Award winner and six-time All-Star.  Jim was an eight-time 20 game winner and lead his team to six world series appearances.  In 17 Postseason appearances, Jim won 3 world series championships while going 8-3 and posting a 2.61ERA, 1.21WHIP, and 90 strikeouts in 124.1 innings pitched.  Not too shabby and definitely worthy of the top 20!

Bob Feller (1936-1956)
Career Stats: 266Wins/162Losses/3.25ERA/1.32WHIP/2,581K's/63.9WAR/279CG/44Shutouts
Bob may have cracked the top fifteen-ten if not for missing four years during his prime where he served in the military during World War II.  Even with his four missing seasons, he still compiled one of the greatest resumes in baseball history.  He was a six-time 20-game winner that threw three no hitters, had 12 one hitters and one triple crown.  During his 18 year career, he lead the league in wins six times and lead the league in strikeouts seven times.  He would have smashed the 300 win barrier if not for his missing time in the service.

Ferguson (Fergie) Jenkins (1965-1983)
Career Stats: 284Wins/226Losses/3.34ERA/1.14WHIP/3,192K's/84.4WAR/267CG/49Shutouts
The man they called "Fergie" did not have overpowering stuff.  He was not flash and dash.  However, what he did bring to the table was confidence.  During his 19 year career, he was a seven-time 20-game winner as well as a three-time All-Star while winning the Cy Young award in 1971.  Fergie spent the majority of his hall of fame career pitching for terrible teams in hitters parks which makes his accomplishments that much greater.  The model of consistency.

Tom Glavine (1987-2008)
Career Stats: 305Wins/203Losses/3.54ERA/1.31WHIP/2,607K's/80.8WAR/56CG/25Shutouts
Along with Greg Maddux and John Smoltz, Glavine was part of one of the greatest pitching trios of baseball history for the Atlanta Braves.  He was a two-time Cy Young Award winner and World Series MVP.  During his 22 year career he was a ten-time All-Star and five-time 20-game winner including three years in a row (1991-1993).  Tom Glavine was often overshadowed by Greg Maddux but his achievements were outstanding nonetheless.

Ok...so these were players that just missed the cut.  I am sure that some people will disagree and that's the fun part of these lists when there will always be differences of opinion.  There are also many other current pitchers that I could have included like Madison Bumgarner, Max Sherzer, C.C. Sabbathia, or Justin Verlander, but I don't believe any of those guys are quite there yet.  Anyways...without further ado...lets get to the list of Top 20 Pitchers of All-Time in Jason Voorhees Perspective.​

In 2019, Mariano Rivera became the first major league baseball player ever to be voted into the Baseball Hall of Fame unanimously.  Many people were floored by this idea considering how many great players had entered the hall before him that were everyday players on the field; and yet no one was ever unanimous.  Nonetheless, this accomplishment speaks volumes about the greatness of Rivera and what he did as the New York Yankees star closer for almost two decades.

And the same goes for putting Rivera on a top all-time list for pitchers.  But not only is Mariano Rivera the greatest relief pitcher of all-time, but he also belongs right here with the top pitchers in MLB history.  During his 19 year career as the Yankees closer, he was a 13-time All-Star, 5-time Rolaids Relief Man Award Winner, 3-time Delivery Man of the Year winner, 3-time MLB saves leader, 2003 ALCS MVP, and 1999 World Series MVP.  He was a world class talent at the closer position and the author of one of the nastiest cutters the game has ever seen.  

Not only did Rivera have Hall of Fame statistics...but he also had a penchant for helping his team win.  In fact, he helped guide the New York Yankees to Five World Series titles, four of which came during their dynasty in the late 1990's.  They won four titles in five years and Rivera had a lot do with those wins.  His major league postseason statistics are legendary: 78 Appearances, 141 Innings Pitched, 8-1, 0.70ERA, 42 Saves, 1 Blown Save, 110K's, 21BB.  That is some serious numbers folks.

Starter or no starter, what Mariano Rivera did in his career is nothing less than remarkable.  He definitely belongs in the Top 20 and maybe someday he will be even higher on the list.

Another Yankee to crack the list...go figure.  All joking aside Whitey was an astronomical part of the New York Yankees organization and greatest starting pitcher of all time.  He was a six time world series champion and Cy Young Award winner in 1961.  Ford lead the American League in wins three times and innings pitched twice.  

Ford missed two seasons earlier in his career due to military service and would have had even better stats.  His regular season stats are not as good as many others on the list but he did most of his damage during the postseason where it counts.  He still holds multiple World Series Records, most importantly 10 Career Wins.  He also threw 33 consecutive scoreless innings in the World Series.

Overall Postseason Numbers look like this...22 Games Started, 10-8, 2.71ERA, 146 Innings, 7 Complete Games, 3 Shutouts, 94 K's, 34 BB's.  Whitey Ford is the definition of a Big Game Pitcher.  His performance on the big stage is what places him at #19 on the list.

Who is Eddie Plank?  When talking about all-time great pitchers that name definitely does not come to mind.  However; what he accomplished on the diamond was utterly amazing.  Plank started 529 games during his career and completed 410 which comes out to roughly 77 Percent!  That's a ridiculous stat when In todays game the season leader for complete games may be six!

During his 17 year career he was an eight-time 20-game winner which included four years in a row (1902-1905).  He was a 2x MVP and 2x World Champ.  His other statistics are amazing in itself but the 410 complete games puts him far ahead of the nearest competition.  Eddie is definitely a gamer and deserves to be on the list!

Grover Alexander was another complete game machine tossing 436 of those gems including 90 shutouts which is second all-time in MLB history.  He began his career with the Philadelphia Phillies and had one of the greatest rookie seasons as a pitcher in baseball history.  That year he lead the league with 28 wins and 7 shutouts.  He only allowed 7 hits per nine innings, had 31 complete games and tossed 367 innings.  Alexander also posted a 2.57ERA and struck out 227 batters while finishing third in the NL MVP race.

Otherwise known as "Cleveland", Grover was an extremely dependable starter that posted consistent top end stats during his entire career.  He won the triple crown of pitching four times during his illustrious career.  The Cy Young Award was not yet in existence during his time; but had it been around he would have qualified eight times and would have had a great shot at winning it all eight times.  This was dominance at its peak.

For as good as Grover was, he only made the postseason three times but he did win a championship with the Saint Louis Cardinals in 1926.  Cleveland lead the NL in wins six times (each with 27 wins or more, including three 30-win seasons).  He also won five ERA titles and lead the league in strikeouts six times.  In essence, he was the greatest pitcher of his time and definitely one of the all-time greats.

Through 11 seasons, Clayton Kershaw has won an MVP Award, three Cy Young Awards, four ERA titles, three strikeout crowns, a Gold Glove, and a Triple Crown.  This is amazing for a pitcher that is still only 30 years old.  Kershaw has been the best pitcher of the past decade and if he can stay healthy will finish much higher on this all-time list.  Unfortunately, Kershaw has had some injuries the past few seasons or his stats would have been even greater.

Clayton's best season came in 2014 when he went 21-3 with a 1.77ERA and throwing 239 Strikeouts and only 31 walks.  At this point in his career he has a tremendous 4.24 Strikeout to Walk ratio.  He is definitely one of the greatest pitchers of his generation and that is why he cracks the list.  He still has some work to do, but has been one of the most consistent starters the past ten years. He is the active career leader with a 2.39ERA as well as 1.00 WHIP, 6.62 hits per nine innings and 15 career shutouts.  He is second all-time with an adjusted 159 career ERA+.

Gaylord Perry is most famous for the illegal spitball that he created.  However, he was more than just a prankster.  He was a BEAST on the diamond.  Perry was the first pitcher to win the Cy Young Award in both the American and National League.  He was a five time all-star and two time Cy Young Award winner.  Over his 22 year career, he accumulated one of the best WAR all-time for pitchers and is eighth all-time in strikeouts.

Unfortunately, Perry played on some very bad teams and only had one postseason appearance.  He bounced around a lot during his career and played for nine teams.  He did win his second Cy Young Award at the ripe old age of 39 with the San Diego Padres.  That season he finished 21-6 while posting a 2.73ERA, 260.2Innings, 154K's and only 66 walks.  Perry had five 20-win seasons during his career.  His best season came in 1972 with the Indians when he went 24-16 with a miniscule 1.92ERA , 29 Complete Games, 5 Shutouts, 234K's and 82 Walks.  Perry is a member of the Hall of Fame and lands at #15 on our list.

Warren Sphan made his major league debut at 21 years old in 1941, only appearing in 4 games.  He then was drafted into the military and was out of baseball from 1942-1945.  However; when he returned it did not take long for him to round into form.  In 1947, he went 21-10 while posting a league leading 2.33ERA, 22 Complete Games, league leading 7 shutouts, in 289.2 innings of work.  He struck out 123 batters and walked 84.  This was his coming out party and Warren never looked back.

From 1947-1954, he finished in the top 5 for MVP voting in the National League.  He won the Cy Young Award in 1957 and finished as the runner up in 1958, 1960 and 1961.  Spahn was one of the top control pitchers in history and won the ERA title three times in his 21 year career.  He was one of the most consistent pitchers of his day and produced as a front line starter in three decades.  His 63 shutouts is sixth all-time and he has more wins than any pitcher of the live-ball era.

Career Stats:
Wins- 300
Losses- 141
ERA- 3.06
WHIP- 1.28
K'S- 2,266
WAR- 106.1
CG- 298
Shutouts-35
One of the most dominant left handers of all time, Lefty led the American League in strikeouts in each of his first seven seasons.  He also won five ERA titles in those first eight seasons.  After leaving Philly, he went on to win four more ERA crowns with the Boston Red Sox.  So that's nine ERA titles in 17 years, over half his career.  That is a sick statistic and shows how dominant Grove was.  Of course they did not have the Cy Young Award during that time, but he probably would have won at least nine of those as well!

His best season came in 1931, when he went 31-4 while posting a 2.06ERA, 175K's, 62BB's, and 1.07WHIP, all enroute to an MVP Award.  He won two pitching triple crowns during his career and lead the Athletics to three consecutive World Series appearances where they won two.  In three postseason appearances, Lefty went 4-2 with a 1.75ERA, 51.1 Innings Pitched, 4 Complete Games, 36 Strikeouts and only six walks.  Two World Championships and a World Series MVP Award.  Grove was also a six time all star and MVP.  The definition of dominance and the first greatest lefty.

 Sandy Koufax is the example of the player that makes the list while having lesser stats.  Koufax only comes in with a 49.0WAR and did not even crack the 200 win barrier.  However; when you look back at his career, its the intangibles and the levels of dominance that he showed that earns him the spot on the list.  How much weight do we put on players when it comes to shorter careers?  That's the question that has to be answered here.  Koufax was a 7-time All-Star, 3-time World Series Champion, 3-time Cy Young Award winner, 5-time ERA Champ, 1963 NL MVP, and two time World Series MVP winner.  That's a ton of hardware for a player that only played 12 seasons.

The awards only show a small sample size of Sandy's dominance on the mound.  Koufax was unhittable literally as he tossed four career no hitters, second all-time to Nolan Ryan and also pitched a perfect game in 1965.  Along with his MVP award, he also finished as the MVP runner up two other times.  He is only one of four pitchers to retire with more strikeouts than innings pitched and posted a 9.27 Strikeout Rate per nine innings which ranks 11th all-time.  If not for the career ending elbow injury that cut his career short at age 30, Koufax probably would have been the best all-time if you projected his numbers out through a full career.  

Sandy Koufax was brilliant in the postseason as well.  4 World Series Appearances, 3 World Series Championships, 2 World Series MVP Trophies, 4-3 Record, 0.95ERA, 4 Complete Games, 2 Shutouts, 57 Innings Pitched, 61 K's, and only 11 Walks.  Now that's dominant Folks.  Big game pitcher for a big game squad.  One of the slam dunks for the Top 20.

Career Stats:
Wins- 251
Losses- 174
ERA- 2.91
K'S-3,117
WHIP- 1.18
WAR- 89.4
CG- 255
Shutouts- 56
Bob Gibson was so dominant that major league baseball changed the rules.  He was absolutely unhittable for a long period of time.  Prior to 1969, MLB lowered the pitching mound after 1968's "Year of the Pitcher."  During that year Gibson posted a 22-9 Record, 1.12ERA, 28 Complete Games, 13 Shutouts, 304.2 Innings, 268 K's and only 62 Walks with a miniscule 0.85WHIP.  Those are some serious numbers and Major League Baseball lowered the mound the next season...Talk about making a difference.

Gibson was the MVP winner in 1967 and went on to win two Cy Young awards along with a triple crown.  He was also a nine-time All-Star.  But his true stardom came in the postseason.  Bob flexed his muscles even more in October.  He had 3 World Series Appearances...Won 2 World Series and 2 World Series MVP Awards.  During those World Series he was 7-2, 1.89ERA, 8 Complete Games, 2 Shutouts, 81 Innings Pitched, 92 Strikeouts, 17 Walks, 0.89WHIP,  and 10.2 Strikeouts/per nine innings.  That is legendary and makes Bob Gibson one of the greatest postseason pitchers as well.

Career Stats:
Wins- 329
Losses- 244
ERA- 3.22
K'S- 4,136
WHIP- 1.25
WAR- 90.5
CG- 254
Shutouts-55
​
In 1972 the Philadelphia Phillies won 59 games.  Steve Carlton won 27 of those games as the Phillies ace.  Steve Carlton, otherwise known as "Lefty", dazzled hitters for much of his 22 year career.  He began his career in Saint Louis where he was a three time All-Star, but was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies in 1972 after a 20-win season for the Cardinals.  He went on to become the first pitcher ever to win four Cy Young Awards.  Lefty shined after the trade and was known for his unhittable slider.

That first season for Carlton with the Phillies was magical.  He posted a 12.0WAR which was the second highest single season WAR only bested later by Dwight Gooden's 12.2 in 1985.  He went 27-10, while posting a 1.97ERA, 310 Strikeouts, 346 Innings pitched and 40 Complete Games.  That season earned him the Cy Young award which he would go on to win three more.  The 1972 season was the beginning of Carlton's stardom and he never looked back.  10 All Star Games, 4 Cy Young Awards, 1 World Series Championship later he was basking in the greatness of the Hall of Fame.  Lefty was an unhittable force that dominated MLB for a long period of time and cemented himself as an all-time great.  

Not only is Tom Seaver one of the greatest pitchers of all-time, he may be the New York Mets greatest player of all-time!  In 1967, Seaver's rookie season, he won NL rookie of the year and he even garnered some MVP votes.  Two years later he guided the "Miracle Mets" to their first World Championship in 1969, en-route to his first of three Cy Young Awards.  He also finished second in MVP voting.  Seaver was downright dominant for the Mets his during his entire decade with the club.  From 1967-1973, Seaver posted an ERA under 3.00 and in 1971 he had microscopic 1.76 ERA while winning 20 games.

He was traded to the Reds in 1977, and although he did not have the same success, he did manage to finish top three in the Cy Young voting three more times.  Tom Seaver was one of the most consistent starters in the history of the game.  He was the definition of a quality start.  Every time he took the mound the team knew that they would be kept in the ball game.  Seaver is seventh all time on the WAR list among pitchers.  He was elected into the Hall of Fame in 1992 with a 98.84 Percent vote which stood as a record until 2016.  Seaver is also seventh all-time in strikeouts.  Mr. Met is an all-time great and comes in at #9 on the list.   

Nolan Ryan may not have been the most dominating pitcher in baseball history but he definitely was the most intimidating.  In fact, he is the all-time leader in strikeouts and its not even close (Randy Johnson-2nd 839 Less).  Ryan was blessed with an above average fastball that proved to be unhittable more than its share of time.  When Nolan let his fastball fly, more often than no batters would swing and miss.  He holds the MLB record of No Hitters with seven.  And as mentioned, he is the all-time strikeout king with a whopping 5,714 K's.  Ryan is the perfect example of a player that finishes higher on a list despite lack of statistical greatness in other areas and missing hardware.

Ryan never won a Cy Young award and only had eight all star appearances in  27 seasons of work.  However, he did his damage when the chips were down.  His 9.54 Strikeouts per nine innings ranks seventh all time.  Moreover, he posted 6 300-Strikeout campaigns including a career high of 383 in 1973.  He was also a shutout machine where he posted 61 in his career (tied for 7th all-time) with Tom Seaver.  Ryan won 11 strikeout crowns and 2 ERA titles in his 27 seasons as well.  Unfortunately, Ryan only won one world championship with the Mets as he played for some really bad teams the rest of his career.  Nonetheless, Ryan makes the list due to his fierceness and competitive prowess.

What Greg Maddux accomplished during the steroids era was epic.  Pitching in the same era as flamethrowers Randy Johnson, Pedro Martinez and Roger Clemens, Maddux managed to rely on pinpoint accuracy and control.  He was an 8-time All-Star award winner to go along with 4 Cy Young Awards.  He was the model of consistency in a league that was dominated by inconsistency.  He won 15 games or more seventeen straight seasons which is still an all-time record.  He also won those four Cy Young Awards in four consecutive seasons which had also never been done.

Maddux began his career with the Cubs and quickly established himself as an upper echelon ace in the league.  1988 was his coming out party when he went 18-8 while posting a 3.18 ERA.  He bested those numbers the next season going 19-12 and posting a 2.95 ERA.  His best season came with the Braves in 1995 when he went 19-2 with a miniscule ERA of 1.63, while throwing 10 complete games and 3 shutouts. 

All in all, Maddux won four ERA titles, while leading the NL in ERA five times.  He ranks eighth all-time in wins with 355 which is more than any other pitcher that pitched after 1965.  Maddux was the complete package.  He wasn't overpowering but knew how to get the job done and the results speak for themselves.  He lead the Braves to 10 straight division championships and a World Series title in 1995.  Maddux is the epitome of consistency and one could argue that he is the greatest of all-time...he was that good.

Otherwise known as "The Rocket", Roger Clemens burst on to the scene with the Boston Red Sox at age 21 and became their ace very quickly.  Unfortunately, Clemens will always be looked at in a different light due to his ties to steroid use.  Although the accusations were never officially proven, Clemens continues to be denied the Hall of Fame.  The bottom line is that Clemens was an absolute BEAST despite the steroid claims and his numbers were off the charts, putting him at the top of the all-time greats.  Clemens is the all-time leader in WAR coming in just south of 140 which is insane.

Clemens is a 7-time Cy Young Award winner, MVP winner, and 2-time triple crown winner.  Not to mention a six-time 20-game winner, including a his 24-4 season in 1986.  That season he posted a 2.48 ERA in 254 innings, 238 Strikeouts and only 67 walks, while winning the Cy Young and MVP awards.  Not including his seven Cy Young Awards, he also finished second for another Cy Young Award in 1990 when he posted a 21-6 record with a 1.93 ERA.

His postseason numbers were also off the charts.  He finished with a 12-8 record, 3.75 ERA, 199 Innings Pitched, 173 Strikeouts, 70 Walks, 1 Complete Game and 1 Shutout and of course a world series championship with the New York Yankees.  He was also an 11-time All-Star.  Clemens is third all-time in strikeouts only behind Nolan Ryan and Randy Johnson.  He is ninth all-time in wins.  And as mentioned...7 Cy Young Awards is tops all-time and shows the dominance that "The Rocket" displayed over three decades.  Despite being forever linked to the black cloud of steroids...Roger Clemens remains one of the all-time greatest pitchers of all-time.

Christy Mathewson was absolutely dominant pitching at the beginning of the century.  He won at least 20 games thirteen times out of his seventeen year career.  He won at least 30-games 4-times including a career high of 37 in 1908.  In 1908, Mathewson went 31-9, posting a 1.28 ERA with 206 Strikeouts and only 64 walks.  It was his third consecutive strikeout title and the ERA was one of the lowest all-time.  He actually bested it in 1909 with a microscopic 1.14 ERA.  Insane numbers folks.

He lead the Giants to a championship in 1905 at 24 years old.  His postseason numbers were also ridiculous when it comes to runs allowed.  He was 5-5, with a 0.97 ERA, 10 Complete Games, 4 Shutouts, 101.2 Innings Pitched, 48 Strikeouts and only 10 Walks.  Mathewson was a gamer that consistently lead the league in all pitching categories.  If the Cy Young Award was in existence he projected to win ten of those which definitely would have made him the best ever.

Pedro Martinez does not have the numbers that some of the others on the list have.  However, Pedro may have been the most dominant pitcher during a seven year period ever.  From 1997-2003, he enjoyed a peak that only a few others have matched.  In 1997, he threw 13 complete games while posting a 1.90 ERA and lead the league In strikeouts with 305.  He won the Cy Young Award that season, his first of three.  Then in 1999 and 2000, he was the unanimous Cy Young winner in the American League for the Boston Red Sox.

On top of his hardware that he did win, he also finished top 3 in 1998, 2002 and 2003.  In 2001, he finished with 163 Strikeouts in only 116.2 Innings despite a torn rotator cuff injury.  During the seven year peak, he averaged 11.26 Strikeouts per nine innings and almost 6 strikeouts per walk while posting a minute 2.20 ERA.  Pedro was unhittable at times and stymied hitters despite his extremely small frame.  He was an 8-time All-Star and just missed an MVP award in 1999.

Pedro was just as dominant in the postseason.  In 1999, he had a 17 inning scoreless innings streak.  He also went at least six innings in thirteen of his sixteen postseason starts.  He finally won a World Series in 2004 with the Boston Red Sox.  In game 3, he went seven scoreless innings with 6 Strikeouts and 2 walks.  Pedro only played 18 seasons and retired after the 2009 season.  Martinez slowed down at the end of his career but that dominant seven year period earns him #4 on the list.

What would the top list of all-time pitchers look like without the pitcher that the games best yearly award is named after.  Cy Young has the stats.  He is Baseballs all-time leader in wins (511), Losses (315), Innings Pitched (7,356), Starts (815) and Complete Games (749).  And these all-time numbers trump the next best to him by a landslide folks.  Cy Young won at least 20 games fifteen times and 30 games five times.  He also won two starts during the first modern day World Series against Pittsburgh going 2-1 while posting a 1.85 ERA in 34 innings pitched.  He struck out 17 and only walked 4 during that series.

Cy Young set the bar and standard for every guy that appears on this list.  He was consistent for a very long period of time.  His best season was in 1892 where he was 36-12 while posting a 1.93 ERA, 168 Strikeouts, 48 Complete Games and 9 Shutouts.  He also won  the triple crown of pitching.  Cy Young was a dominant force on the mound and has the lifetime numbers to prove it.  Not much more that we can say about the guy as evidenced by the best pitching award that bears his name. 

Known as "The Big Unit," Randy Johnson was an imposing and intimidating figure on the mound that struck fear in opposing batters minds.  At 6'10" and 225 Pounds, he looked like a Giant playing in a midgets game.  Johnson was a 5-time Cy Young Award winner and nine-time strikeout champ.  He finished his career second all-time to Nolan Ryan in strikeouts.  He had an unhittable fastball that routinely hit 100mph on the gun that would break like a Slider.  That fastball also lead to a 10.6 Strikeouts per nine innings mark which is best all-time in history.

Johnson began his career with the Expos and was traded to the Seattle Mariners after his first season.  He won his first Cy Young award with the Mariners in 1995 at age 31.  He went 18-2 with a 2.48 ERA and 294 Strikeouts.  He went on to win four more Cy Young Awards including 2002 at age 38.  Johnson also was a ten-time All-Star over a career that spanned three decades. 

The best work on his resume came during his career with the Arizona Diamondbacks where he won a World Series Championship in 2001.  He was also the World Series MVP as the Diamondbacks upset baseball's goliath New York Yankees.  Playing the role of David, Johnson went 3-0 while posting a microscopic 1.04 ERA in 17.1 innings of work.  He struck out 17 and only walked 3 while also throwing a complete game shutout.  His overall postseason work was marred by a few seasons where he had ERA's that were ballooned by a few bad starts.  With that being said, that 2001 postseason run was one of the greatest for a starting pitcher that MLB has ever saw.

Another player...another Johnson on the list.  Walter Johnson was known as "The Big Train."  One of the few stars on this list that spent an entire career with one team...a very rare feat.  During that career he won 417 games which is second to Cy Young.  He is also fifth all-time with 531 complete games and the all-time leader in shutouts with 110.  In 1914 he won an astounding 51 games and averaged over 26 wins over a nine year stretch from 1910-1919.  He lead the league in wins, complete games and shutouts six times and was a 12-time strikeout champ.

Walter Johnson did not have much postseason experience as he played on some very bad teams.  However, he was able to enjoy some postseason success at the end of his career.  His final numbers in October included a 3-3 record, 2.52 ERA, 5 Complete Games, 1 Shutout over 50 innings pitched.  He struck out 35 while walking 15.  His team finally won the World Series in 1924.  Speaking of hardware...Johnson was a 2x MVP.  Had the Cy Young Award been in existence he would have won at least thirteen which would have been tops ever.  He finished his career third all-time in WAR at 165.2.  

He finished 14 seasons in the Top Ten in Wins and ERA.  That's an amazing accomplishment in its own right.  Then to top that off he enjoyed 18 seasons in the Top Ten in strikeouts and strikeouts per nine innings.  Those dominant numbers over a consistent long period of time are what puts "The Big Train" at #1 on our list.  He was simply incredible and rounds out the top all-time list of pitchers.    

Written By Jason Voorhees

A major trade in any sport can tell a thousand stories.

On Thursday afternoon, the Philadelphia Phillies acquired all star catcher JT Realmuto in exchange for top pitching prospect Sixto Sanchez, starting catcher Jorge Alfaro, minor league lefthander Will Stewart and international slot money.  

For me, this trade screams the name of BRYCE HARPER.  Sure, acquiring JT Realmuto by itself is huge news as the Phillies get arguably the best catcher in baseball.  Also, the team did not gut the entire farm system to do so.  However; do not loose sight of the fact that Harper and Realmuto are close friends.

In fact, Bryce had been hounding Washington Nationals brass all season last year to trade for the all-star catcher.  Joe Fisaro, a Florida Marlins team reporter was on WIP radio on Wednesday evening (during the Joe Gigilio Show) and made the following statement..."Bryce Harper loves J.T. Realmuto...If the Phillies get Realmuto, it could enhance their chance at getting Harper."

Will getting J.T. Realmuto guarantee that Bryce Harper comes to Philly?  No one knows for sure.  But what we do know is that the Phillies are not messing around and that they feel that they can contend NOW.  Trading for Realmuto sends a message to the rest of the league that they are serious about winning and that they are continually trying to improve as an organization.

Let us review the trade.  What are the Phillies getting in J.T. Realmuto?  According to Phillies GM Matt Klentak, the team is getting the best catcher in major league baseball. 

Last season, the all-star catcher had a career season batting .277AVG/74RBI/74RUNS/21HR/.340OBP/.484SLG/.825OPS.   

Yes the average was a little down folks but this is a catcher we are talking about.  His .825OPS is an elite number and compares with the big boys.  And most importantly, these numbers were put up in a stadium that is traditionally one of the hardest parks to hit in.  Moreover, he did this in one of the worst offensive lineups in baseball with the Marlins.  

Home/Road Splits-Career Home/Road Splits: Home-.244AVG/.292OBP/.384SLG/.279BABIP.  Road-.310AVG/.358OBP/.494SLG/.356BABIP.

Realmuto is an offensive star and an even better road warrior but do not loose sight of his defense.  He is also one of the best catchers in baseball, that calls an excellent game behind the plate to go along with an above average arm.  He is also a leader in the clubhouse on and off the field.  Make no bones about it, J.T. is a significant upgrade over the catcher that the Phillies gave up in Jorge Alfaro.

The players going the other way in the deal are in fact Jorge Alfaro (C), Sixto Sanchez (RHP), and Will Stewart (LHP). 

Jorge Alfaro was the Phillies starting catcher.  He was once considered one of their top 100 prospects.  Last season, Alfaro put up mediocre offensive numbers at best in 2018-.262AVG/37RBI/35RUNS/10HR/.324OBP/.407SLG/.731OPS.

Alfaro shined behind the plate as far as throwing out runners but was dead last in defensive WAR.  He lead the league in passed balls and was not good at blocking the plate.

The key linchpin in the deal was Sixto Sanchez.  Sanchez was the Phillies top prospect but he has been injury prone the last few seasons.  He has the nickname of Pedro Martinez 2.0.  His ceiling is extremely high, but the Phillies were willing to part with the unknown in exchange for a player of Realmuto's caliber.  Will Stewart is not as well known as Sanchez but has been compared to a young Chris Sale in some circles.

The trade seems to be good for both teams but it grades out as a slam dunk for the Phillies as they are significantly better with the addition of Realmuto.  Yes, its a pretty steep price to pay by giving up the teams top prospect.  However; in the scheme of things this is the prelude to something bigger.

This sends a message to Bryce Harper that the Phillies are for real and are doing everything in their power to improve the roster.  Sure, the money was always going to be the number one factor.  However; now the Phillies have added one of Harper's close friends to the roster and you can rest assure that they will use this as a bargaining chip.  I am sure that Realmuto will be on the phone telling Bryce to DO THE DEAL.  In fact, Harper may have even told the Phillies to go get J.T.

No one knows how this is going to play out exactly.  But a message has been sent TODAY.  A message to the league.  A message to other free agents.  A message to Bryce.  A message has been sent that the Phillies have arrived and that they are not finished making moves.  Now go spend that "STUPID MONEY" that you promised guys.  A city is anxiously waiting for the next domino to fall.  

PLEASE LET IT BE HARPER...

Written By Jason Voorhees

Super Bowl 53 had the same familiar ending. 

Yes...The New England Patriots won their unprecedented sixth Super Bowl Championship joining the Pittsburgh Steelers as the only NFL franchises to accomplish that feat.  With their sixth title in toe...Tom Brady and Bill Bellichik both cemented their status as "THE GOAT" within their respective positions.  Bellichik goes down as the greatest coach in football history while Brady becomes the unquestioned best quarterback of all time.

Lost in the shuffle of these amazing team and personal feats was how bad that the game actually was. 

The New England Patriots beat the Los Angeles Rams 13-3 in what was the lowest scoring game in super bowl history.  Not only was the game low scoring, but it also lacked big play ability.  There was only ONE red zone appearance by either team with the Patriots scoring the lone touchdown on a Sony Michel rushing touchdown.

Coming into the game, the matchup pitted the leagues #2 and #4 scoring offenses.  The game featured the Rams high flying offensive attack with marquee running back Todd Gurley and the coaching genius Sean McVay.  On the other sideline was the two headed goat known as the Evil Empire.  This game was supposed to be a track meet of offensive firepower that has seldom been seen on the field together.  Instead...the game was a major letdown.

Everything about the game was bad including the halftime show.  The game was not only bad live...but it also failed in the ratings department as there were a lot less people watching on television as well.  This game was actually dominated by defense and one could say that the Patriots defense rose to the occasion to bale out their leader in this one. 

Tom Brady did not perform like the "GOAT" in this one...instead looking more than pedestrian in this contest. Brady finished the game 21/35 for 265 Yards/0TD's/1INT/1Sack.  Brady was under duress most of the game and misfired on many of his passes.  He lacked the big play ability that he usually displays and was uncharacteristically inaccurate on many throws.  

Meanwhile, the Rams did not enter the red zone once and a young Jared Goff looked like a player that was scared of the big stage.  Goff finished 19/38 for 229 Yards/0TD's/1INT/4Sacks.  Sean McVay played scared as well and he was extremely conservative with his play calling.  When your best player (Todd Gurley) is limited to 11 touches...you are probably going to loose the game.  Coming into the game, McVay had mentioned that the key was to get its star running back going and that Gurley would be a major part of the game plan.

Todd Gurley was a non factor folks.  He had 10 rushes for 35 yards and 1 catch (-1yards).  The Patriots seemed to know every play that was coming.  Every time the Rams started to gain momentum on a drive...the Patriots had an answer.  Although this game was bad on so many levels, you have to respect the way that both defenses played on the field.  The Rams are known for their strong defense and Wade Phillips had a masterful game plan.  However, as good as Wade Philips was...Bill Bellichik and Brian Flores defense was that much better.

There is one amazing realization that I gained after watching this game.  This realization is the depth of Bill Bellichiks' greatness as a defensive mind.  In 2001, the Patriots began their great run with a 20-17 victory over the "Greatest Show on Turf" Rams.  That high flying Rams team was the number one team in total offense and scored 503 points during the regular season.  Bellichiks team only gave up 17 points to this team, an amazing accomplishment in its own right.

Then last night, Bellichik bested that accomplishment by only allowing one field goal to a Rams team that was #2 in scoring (527Points) in the regular season.  This was an absolute dominating performance by the Patriots defense.  Bill Bellichik may not be the only person calling the defensive plays but he is the one person that designs the game plan.  He is a defensive mastermind and if anyone is going to be referred to as a genius moving forward...it has to be Bellichik.

Love him or hate him he is no doubt "THE GOAT." 

There is no argument that can refute this opinion.  Not only has he won six championships as the coach of the New England Patriots...he also won two more super bowls as a defensive coordinator for the New York Giants.  That's 8 Super Bowl Wins.  No other coach comes close...not even CLOSE.  Although Bellichik and Brady will be forever joined at the hip of this dynasty...Bellichik's success trumps Brady when you look as his success as an assistant coach.  And you also have to recognize the importance he had in turning around the Cleveland Browns...a franchise that was at its absolute worst when he came on board.

Bellichik is an absolute beast in his field.  What the Patriots have accomplished in the salary cap era under his leadership is unrivaled in sports.  The New England Patriots dynasty may never be topped.  Can you imagine if Brady plays four more seasons like he has alluded to.  18 Seasons/9Super Bowl Appearances/6 Super Bowl Championships later...I guess anything is possible for this dynamic duo.

Facts are facts.  As bad as Super Bowl LIII was...it definitely was a defining moment in what could be the most debated topic of NFL history.  Are Bill Bellichik and Tom Brady "THE GOATS?"  I think everyone knows the answer to this question and this was just another example of this. 

This championship solidified the argument and made it that much more credible.  Whether you are a hater, or you are in the "cheater camp", or even those troll happy paratroopers...you have to respect these guys now.  You cannot argue the facts. 

Call Brady a system quarterback...check.  Call Bellichik a cheater...check.  Say the New England Patriots play in the easiest division in NFL football the AFC East...check.  Whatever doubts you may have about the dynasty...you have to admit that there is greatness and beyond with both of these guys.  Ladies and gentlemen...we have experienced "THE GOAT" of our lifetime.  

Written By Jason Voorhees

  
Don't get your hopes up yet folks...but I think the Flyers have FINALLY found their Goalie of the Present and his name is Carter Hart.  Back in December I wrote a post on the Flyers young prospect and I stated the case that Hart was indeed not only the goalie of the future...but that the future is NOW.  Now I don't want to pound my chest and tell everyone that "I told you so!"  But I must say that as a die hard Flyers fan...it has been an absolute pleasure to watch this kid play in his first NHL action.

In fact, Hart has been everything as advertised and then some since his callup in mid December.  In 13 games, he has a 7-5-1 Record and has posted a 2.51 Goals Against Average and a .922 Save Percentage.  These numbers are stellar.  To emphasize Carters excellence even more...there have only been 42 goalies in NHL history to start more than 10 games in a season at age 20 or younger.  Of those 42 goalies, no one had posted a higher save percentage than Hart.    

Although this is a very small sample size...these numbers put him in elite company.  Numbers are just numbers and its truly the eye test that tells the entire story.    

And Carter Hart has aced that test with flying colors.  Hart plays with poise and confidence that far outweigh his years of life.  He approaches every game like it will be his last.  He plays every puck with ferociousness and tenacity that is unmatched.  Hart stick handles with patience and awareness.  He is definitely a prodigy and will only get better playing his rookie season in the NHL.  

After dominating the Western Hockey league the past two seasons...Hart began this season with the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.  However; after injuries took down both Flyers starters...the organization chose to call him up and give him a shot on the big league team.  He has not disappointed and basically has tied their hands moving forward.  Trust me when I tell you that this is a GREAT thing!

In a town where hockey fans have been starved of star goaltending forever and a day, Hart not only brings hope but he also brings an impressive resume and pedigree.  This is real guys. 

We finally have a stud goalie and he will be here for a very long time.  Year in and year out the Flyers roster changes and they have had their share of star players in this organization.  But one thing has eluded them all of these years and the same theme has run true year after year and that is their lack of talent behind the pipes.  That my friends is now a thing of the past. 

Carter Hart is the Flyers next FRANCHISE PLAYER.  This is not a typo folks.  This is a FACT.  Hart is the one player that will take this team to the promised land.  I believe that Carter Hart is the missing link that will carry the Philadelphia Flyers to multiple Stanley Cup Championships.  It is evident that the kid is here to stay and now its just a matter of tweaking the roster here and there and just getting better with experience.

The trade deadline is fast approaching and new GM Chuck Fletcher has his work cut out for him.  During their recent five game win streak, the club has in fact been heavily outshot by a 185-115 margin.  However; the goaltending has kept them in games and in most cases won them these games.  In those games Hart was 4-0 with the one win going to Anthony Stolarz.  

At this point, Fletcher needs to make a few deals to help the Flyers for next season. 

Now that the Flyers finally have their goalie, it is absolutely imperative that he improves the defensive talent in front of him.  I think its time to move both veteran defensemen Andrew McDonald and Radko Gudas.  I also think that the team moves Wayne Simmonds.  Simmonds has been one of my favorite players on the team the past few seasons; however, he is the same type of player as James Van Reimsdyk (whom the team signed this past offseason in free agency).  The return from a Simmonds trade should be decent and may even net you another veteran defenseman and a draft pick.

The Flyers young core on defense will only get better.  Although Ivan Provorov began the season on a down turn, he has picked it up as of late and his future is bright.  Shayne Ghostisphere is still a highly touted offensive defenseman,  Then the team has a young Sam Morin set to return and probably will see young Philip Myers get called up as well.  That would be a defensive 6 next season of Ghost/Provorov, Myers/Morin, and Haag/Sanheim. 

I am also not sold on Scott Gordon behind the bench.  I think Fletcher decided to give him a tryout, but ultimately I think the team goes after Quenville in the offseason.  I think that Claude Giroux still has a lot in the tank and the team can be competitive the next few seasons.  Its just a matter of surrounding the young pieces with some key veterans and a great coach.  I believe that formula will finally bring home the Stanley Cup.

The Flyers have a ton of young talent that is developing in front of our eyes.  It appears that the rebuild was not in vain and we are finally getting to see the fruits of that "process."  Nolan Patrick.  Travis Konecny.  Carter Hart.  Ivan Provorov.  The youngest team in hockey continues to get younger but yet they are now getting wiser.  With each passing game this team comes closer to the turnaround that we could see coming a few years back.  Its just a shame that Ron Hextall will not be here to see things through. 

For now just enjoy the ride folks.  Watch these games and keep your eyes focused on #79.  He is truly growing in front of us.  Carter Hart wears his heart on his sleeves.  This is the type of blue collar talent we have been waiting for.  He has finally graced us with his presence and appears here to stay.  That is excellent news for Flyers faithful.  Hopefully all of those bad years have finally paid off as we see these young players coming into their own.  The future is bold and bright for this team, and the sky is the limit for Carter Hart.  Thank God we finally have a goalie to count on. 

 

​​

Written By Jason Voorhees

We are exactly two months away from opening day for the Phillies in 2019 and yet the two major free agent "mega stars" remain unsigned. In fact, only one player (Patrick Corbin) from the original MLB Top 10 List provided by Jim Duquette in October has signed a contract.  Up until a few weeks ago...there were at least 50 Bryce Harper/Manny Machado rumors on a daily basis.  

Since Manny Machado's agent Dan Lozano ripped Bob Nightengale and Buster Olney for false reports about his clients potential destinations and contract offers, the rumor well had suddenly went dry.  The Harper/Machado "rumors" that were swirling around on Twitter had slowed to a snails pace.  Up until today.  On Monday, Bob Nightengale was once again reporting that the Phillies are still heavy favorites to land Bryce Harper and that the White Sox are favorites for Manny Machado.

Then, in dramatic fashion another Bryce Harper related tweet.  This time from MLB THE SHOW Twitter Handle.  What exactly did it say you ask?  "You'll want to keep an eye on this account tomorrow...just saying."  Can you say cryptic?


​At this point, its a waiting game to see which player will blink first.  Who will sign the first contract and who will get the larger payday.  Major League Baseball Free Agency has become a crap shoot.  Free Agency is supposed to be the crème de le crème when it comes to the major league sports offseason.  Just look at NFL, NBA, and even NHL "Free Agent Frenzies" for how big of a deal these systems have become.  Then look at MLB, where it has become the exact opposite...extremely slow, boring, and downright disappointing.

I can remember as a young kid how exciting the MLB "Hot Stove" used to be.  It was the premier free agent offseason in the sporting world and there was always so much fun and drama attached to it.  The "Hot Stove" used to be synonymous with baseball winter meetings when major free agent signings or trades would be discussed or consummated.  Rumors of these deals were often leaked or floated which would cause a major stir in and around the MLB community.  This was MLB free agency at its finest. 

Then, along the way something bad happened...

The past few years have led to a drastic decline in free agent activity in and around the meetings, which has led to players signing much later into the free agent period.  Here we are today, January 28th and we still have nine of the top ten free agents still available on the board.  This is a sad state of affairs for the league.  Just one of a large number of reasons that this league is heading on a crash course for its next major "labor strike." 

​Just look at last year for one example...our own Philadelphia Phillies finally signing the Top Free Agent Pitcher Jake Arrieta who waited until March 11th to sign his 3yr 75 Million Dollar Contract last year.

The free agent system that MLB has going for itself now cannot be good for the benefit of the league.  First of all, it makes sense that the best players in the sport want to get as much money as possible and that they want to be paid comparable to other players in their peer group.  That's easy to understand and I cant fault the player for this.  However; when the best players are waiting to sign its making it more difficult for the lower tier free agents to get "their payday."

Teams are becoming more and more reluctant to shell out the long term contract.  This could be due to so many teams getting burned by players in the past that have not performed up to par.  One great example of this on the Phillies was Ryan Howard's contract extension that was signed in 2010.  The deal was a 5yr/125 Million Dollar payout...a deal at the time that was only bested by Alex Rodriguez as far as average annual value goes.  Of course, we all know too well how that contract panned out.  A minus 4 on the WAR scale over the life of the contract.  In simple terms...PUTRID.

Now I am in no way comparing g a 30year old Ryan Howard to a 26 yr old Bryce Harper or Manny Machado.  The latter are both much younger and just beginning their prime as compared to the 30yr old Howard who had already past his better seasons.  Nonetheless...what I am saying is that I once again can see how this type of situation would cause teams to be more hesitant when distributing out the next big contract.  So I think that this may be the biggest contributing factor to these mega stars lack of interest this season.

Of course, the lack of interest has led to a lack of potential suitors which has ultimately cost Machado and Harper a ton of cash.  The usual suspects (New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, Saint Louis Cardinals, New York Mets, etc) have either bowed out already or were never ever really involved.  Coming into this season, both players were expected to reach deals that would at least hit 300 million, with some people projecting Bryce Harper to break the 400 million threshold.  Instead, neither player will come close to getting the projected number and as mentioned...the long term contract fear may be the biggest factor.

So the lack of signings of the top free agents has basically put the free agency period on hold.  This has been bad in so many ways.  As mentioned earlier...it has hurt second and third tier free agents because now they are being forced to wait and may loose out on suitors as the bigger names fall off the board.  It has also put a damper on potential trades which could effect teams future plans as we get closer and closer to spring training.  Even in the Phillies case...what happens if we are waiting on Harper and he decides to sign with the Nationals instead.  Then what do we do?...

Do we go to PLAN B and sign Machado.  Well...then we have Machado.  And all of a sudden the team is scrambling to trade Mikael Franco or Cesar Hernandez...depending on whether or not Manny is willing to play shortstop or third base.  What if we sign Harper...do we then trade away Nick Williams or Odubel Herrerra.  There are so many "what ifs" and that's just touching on the Phillies situation.  Imagine other teams dilemmas.  I guess some would say that's a great spot to be in and a good problem to have.

In retrospect, its fair to say that this whole free agent "hot stove" thing has become a huge debacle.  Major League Baseball should be ashamed of itself at this point.  Many players and agents have spoke out already against the current system.  However, one may say what can the league do.  Hands are tied at this point.  Not a "ton" of teams looking to spend and still a fairly large crop of free agents to choose from.  Of course...I would say hogwash.  The league needs to step in and take a close look at this current trend and the decline in past few seasons of the free agent frenzy.

The league needs to step in and say...hey guys...we need to make some changes to the current format.  Maybe institute a fine for players that don't sign by a certain deadline.  Maybe make the final deadline February 1st.  Then, at least the majority of players would be forced to sign deals at a much quicker fashion or risk being penalized.  This would at least eliminate the situation that we find ourselves in this year...with 15 of the top 25 free agents yet unsigned.  Also, it would make the MLB offseason relevant once again.  Right now...they are in fifth place in the big 4 of professional sports.  That's not a good place to be in heading towards a labor stoppage.

When will this endless winter of baseball end?  No one seems to have an exact date or time.  One things for sure.  The endless rumors and chatter that had seemed to die for a bit will continue at a feverish pitch.  Where will Bryce and Manny land no one knows exactly.  What is known is that this is just the beginning of the ugly sweater that is also known as baseball free agency. 

Something must be done soon folks.  This is downright embarrassing for a league that has traditionally called itself the top echelon sporting event in America.  It still pales to comparison with Americas Game.  A good starting point would be free agency.  Fix this and possibly fix major league baseball.​  Until then guys...Bryce Yourself for many more rumors to come.

Written By Jason Voorhees

An article in the Philly Voice, written by Joseph Santoliquito, that was published on Monday has created a huge stir across all Social Media Sources.  The article included material that was gathered from anonymous sources from the Eagles organization including more than half a dozen players and other sources close to the team.  The story portrayed Carson Wentz in a totally different light than many people have grown accustomed too.  In fact, the piece used language that was very antagonistic and downright degrading towards the young star quarterback.

The title of the article was...EXCLUSIVE: SOURCES inside EAGLES paint Carson Wentz as 'Selfish,' 'Uncompromising' and 'Playing Favorites.'  This definitely paints a different picture of Carson Wentz that has not been viewed up until today.  The article then went on to say...The franchise quarterback 'complicated' the offense, sources said, adding he didn't want to run 'Foles stuff.' Many of Carson Wentz's teammates and coaches(current and former)have taken to social media in defense of their star quarterback.

The list of those that have come out to defend Carson Wentz include...Fletcher Cox, Lane Johnson, Jason Kelce, Torrey Smith, Frank Reich, Malcolm Jenkins, Stefan Wisnewski, Wendell Smallwood, Zach Ertz, and Brandon Brooks. Not that it signifies anything, but some notable names that have not come to Carson's defense are Nick Foles and Doug Pederson.  However; in my opinion this probably is along the lines of those guys not wanting to give any further legs to the story by refraining from any type of reaction.  Pederson and Foles do not seem like the kind of guys that would be taking to twitter to air out 'family' business.

A list of journalists have also been extremely critical of the Santiloquito piece including Marcus Hayes, Howard Eskin and Elliott Shor-Parks.  Of course, Monday's sports debate would have likely been dominated by the Championship game officiating drama (bad calls/no calls).  However; the Philly Voice article made sure that those plans were put on hold. 

Here was WIP morning show host Angelo Cataldi on Twitter- "Carson Wentz is selfish and uncompromising?  Really?  I've gotten to talk to him a dozen or so times since he joined the Eagles, and he has come across as one of the most thoughtful and determined athletes I have ever encountered."  Echoed by another host Ike Reese (also on Twitter)- "Who's really the 'bad teammate' here, Carson or these 'Anonymous Sources'" referring to the unnamed players who apparently were bad mouthing their leader.

Any time that a controversial piece is written, it is important to note the timeline of events surrounding the story and what the agenda may have been for writing such a damning narrative.  Joseph Santoliquito is a very reputable writer and there is no reason to believe that he was making this story up.  Having anonymous sources in an article is nothing new or extraordinary.  However; the language in the article and the additional plot lines of the story were very demeaning of a guy that has frankly been viewed as an upper echelon character and person.

Some of the words that were put to paper in the article describing Wentz included "arrogant", "egotistical," "selfish," "uncompromising," and "selfish." were very vicarious. Of course this was according to several teammates and other unnamed sources to describe their levels of dissatisfaction of their starting quarterback.  These are very veracious accusations to make of a person with no levels of facts to back them up.  Was Joe out of line for publishing the piece?...Absolutely not.  Freedom of press is still a right in America today and everyone is entitled to their opinion.  Were the accusations overblown?  Absolutely.

I think the aftermath of this bombshell article brings to light one major point.  The morale of the story is that when you have any large group of individuals (in this case more than 50), peoples attitudes and opinions of each other will not all be the same.  This is obvious as evidenced by the amount of Wentz supporters that shellacked social media in defense of their leader.  However, there are obviously a few players that have differing opinions of Carson Wentz and that will not change season to season.  And I think this is a journalist that chose to take these players opinions and use them not only for the gain of the company he works for (Philly Voice), but also for his own betterment.

In less than an hour after the piece was published, this story graced the national spotlight.  The story was all over ESPN and many other media outlets (tv and radio) were also joining the debate.  So in essence, Joe and Philly Voice were garnering a ton of national attention that may not have come their way otherwise.  As mentioned...I believe that the story was not made up.  However; where was the timeline of these comments??  These comments could have been made at any point in the season as these were all unnamed sources and there was no actual event mentioned in retrospect.  

Read the article for yourself and then form your own opinion.  On one side of the spectrum are those staunch Carson Wentz supporters that feel this is a total lie.  A fabricated story that was brought to light to slander the star quarterback and push a journalists "own agenda."  Santoliquito had many negative comments towards Wentz on twitter in months past, so this could back up that argument.  On the other side of the spectrum there are the Carson "Haters" who totally believe the story and want to ship Wentz out of town on the first train available.  These are also the same people that live and breathe the motto "In Foles we Trust."  Odds are, you will probably fall somewhere in between on this story, like myself.

Only time will tell what becomes of this story.  We may never ever know who these "Anonymous Sources" are.  Meanwhile, plenty of media outlets have interviewed Santoliquito and he obviously is not backing down from his report.  So we will have an offseason of debate on whether these allegations are the beginning of bigger issues inside of the soon to be former "NFL World Champions" locker room. 

One things for sure...Carson is still the starting quarterback of the Philadelphia Eagles.  The organization came out last week and told us this much moving forward.  Carson has dealt with so much adversity already in his very young career.  From last season...the ACL injury to watching the team win its first ever super bowl behind a backup quarterback Nick Foles.  To this season and the very poor start and another major injury (back)…and once again watching that same backup QB in a magical run at the end of the season and playoff run.  And now Carson will once again deal with adversity.  This time at the feet of social medias doorstep.  

I believe that this report will only make Carson Wentz stronger.  He will once again be out to prove his doubters wrong.  The fact of the matter here is that Wentz is a superb talent that is less than a season removed from serious MVP contention.  This is still a 26 year old quarterback that is still maturing not only on the football field but also off of it.  One thing that came out in the report I do believe.  "The only thing holding Carson back is Carson."  "Carson Wentz is his own worst enemy."  Those two statements I do believe are true when it comes to the Eagles star signal caller.  Now its time for the rubber to meet the road.  Now its time to get away from distractions and focus on getting back on the football field. 

I am pretty sure these reports will all be "fake news" the minute the Eagles kick off next season and Carson walks onto that field of play as "The Man."  Eagles fans will quickly forget this moment when Carson gets back to leading this football team on the field once again.  However; the organization needs to make sure that he has a supporting cast because no matter how much talent he has...he is not super man.  So...this may turn out to be Howie Roseman's most important offseason yet.  Many hard decisions will have to be made including who will stay and who will go.  Lets all hope that Howie and company make the right decisions and the Chosen One comes back to reality.  Lets face it...Carson Wentz is the franchise and this team will go as far as he takes them moving forward.

JUST IN CASE YOU FORGOT...CHECK OUT THESE HIGHLIGHTS...
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Written By Jason Voorhees

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As I took the time to reflect on the Eagles Divisional Round playoff loss to the Saints...a few glaring issues came to mind.  The first idea that popped up was how well the Eagles started out the game in one of the toughest and loudest road stadiums to play in, the New Orleans Superdome.  Playing a road playoff game in the NFL is hard in itself; and when you factor in the record noise crowd levels that are produced in the Superdome, it becomes one of the most hostile environments to execute your plays.  The Eagles did an admirable job of navigating the beginning of the game and weathering the storm.  By the way that they started the game, one would have thought that the Eagles were the home team and not the Saints.

However; its not how you begin a game in the NFL, its how you finish and unfortunately the Eagles finished out on the loosing side in 2018.  There were many reasons why the Philadelphia Eagles lost this game and we could spend an entire offseason debating those reasons one by one.  Furthermore, there wasn't one play that decided the game.  Nonetheless, there were six key moments or plays that I can think of...that if any one of those six plays turned out differently...the Eagles win that game.  That's why they call it a game of inches and the NFL is a war of attrition.  We will highlight these six key plays/moments that could have changed the outcome of the game. 

​Before the list of plays it is important to note that the Eagles loosing Brandon Brooks (All-Pro Right Guard) early in the first quarter could also be the first reason on the list as A) The Eagles did not run the ball effectively after he left and B) The Saints were able to put way more pressure on Foles the rest of the game causing him to rush many of his passes causing him to be unseasonably inaccurate.  Also another key realization that came to mind watching this game that was very evident during his absence...Fletcher Cox is not only the best player on the Eagles roster, but he is also the most important player on the field in any game when it comes to making plays.  Here is the list of plays:

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1. The Brandon Graham strip sack of Drew Brees and subsequent non recovery by the Eagles.  This play occurred with .48 seconds left in the first quarter and after a review, the play was called a forced fumble that was recovered by New Orleans Ryan Ramczyk at the Saints 31.  Had Brandon Graham just fell on the ball instead of trying to pick up the fumble, the Eagles get at least a field goal and its 17-0 in the second quarter.  After a long replay, they ruled that Graham never had control of the football, causing 4th down and a Saints punt.  This was what Chip Kelly used to call a "city' fumble as opposed to a "country fumble."  When there is a "city" fumble (fumble in traffic) the best play is to just fall on the ball and Graham should have went for the easy recovery instead of trying to extend the play.  That's 3 points the Eagles could have desperately used and huge momentum swing.​
2. Nick Foles Interception #1.  On the ensuing drive the Eagles were at the 48 yard line and a deep pass was called from Foles to Zach Ertz.  There was only one problem.  Foles threw a horrible pass that was well underthrown and Marshawn Lattimore was able to make an easy play on the ball for the pick.  Two problems on this play.  If Nick throws this ball on a dime Ertz may have been able to score a touchdown (7 more points left on the field) and the Eagles would have been up 21-0.  The second mistake on the play was by Zach Ertz, who should have at least contested Lattimore and maybe the ball falls to the turf.  Either way the play was a failure and cost the Eagles not only points but further momentum as well.
3. The Saints Fake Punt on 4th and 1 on the Saints own 30 yard line, that Taysom Hill rushed for 4 yards on and a First Down.  So many things went wrong on this play.  First of all, Fletcher Cox and Rasul Douglas were both hurt on this play (which would be a huge factor moving forward in the game.)  Secondly, this was a huge gamble by Sean Payton who could feel the game getting away from him, taking matters into his own hands.  If the Eagles make that play they are in field goal range again and possibly are able to ice the game with a touchdown.  Talk about key moments in the game...this was the turning point where the Saints took back full momentum and got themselves back into a contest that they were conceivably squandering.  Fletcher Cox and Douglas were out the entire rest of the Saints drive which ended in a touchdown...bringing us to moment #4.
4. With 7:28 to go in the second quarter, the Saints had a 4th and Goal at the Eagles 2 yard line.  Of course, on this play Rasul Douglas (CB) was out once again and Josh Hawkins (Practice Squad DB recently called up) was on the field.  Well the Saints went right after him as he bit on a double move by Kirkwood and Brees hit him in the corner of the end zone for an easy touchdown.  Yes, this only made the game 14-7; however, the Saints were back in the game and the momentum  had totally shifted at this point.  If the Eagles make that stop they possibly get momentum back and maybe the Saints are deflated.  Instead the Eagles gave Brees and company life that they would not give back and of course you watched the rest of the game.
5. 18 Plays. 11 Minute and 42 Second Drive.  80 Passing Yards. 32 Rushing Yards.  Drew Brees hit Michael Thomas (once again flanked by the reserve Hawkins) 6 yards deep in the end zone to go up 17-14 in the 3rd quarter.  Fletcher Cox was once again missing in action (injury) and the Saints took advantage of a tired defense and some costly penalties.  This was one of the longest drives in the modern super bowl playoff era.  There were several key 3rd and longs that the Saints executed to perfection.  There were also several key penalties on the Saints that could have deflated their own balloon.  A Max Unger holding penalty negated what would have been a Taysom Hill touchdown pass to Alvin Kamara.  Michael Thomas caught five passes alone on the drive including the 2 yard touchdown.
6. Nick Foles Interception #2.  It was happening again.  The Eagles were driving late.  The magic of Nick Foles was on fire.  And in an instant it was over.  Ball goes through Alshon Jeffery's hands and into the waiting arms of Marshawn Lattimore for his second and game ending interception.  Folks...I believe had Alshon made this catch...the Eagles are facing the Rams in the NFC Championship instead of the Saints.  I firmly believe that if the Eagles executed that play...then Foles finishes the comeback in dramatic fashion and the Eagles win on the last possession.  However; it would not be.  We know how the game ended.  Had any one of these six plays gone the other way...I believe that we are talking about an Eagles win and it would be "get your popcorn ready" time in Philly.  Instead its get your mind on and reflection time on a season of what ifs and the game of inches...

​BREAKING NEWS...The 2018 Philadelphia Eagles will not be repeat Super Bowl Champs.  However; this does not mean that the season was a failure or even a disappointment in my mind because of one major reason...the amount of key injuries sustained vs. the amount of adversity faced vs. the insurmountable odds that were overcome vs. the war of attrition.  Ok...well this is more than one reason but nonetheless this is the legacy of this team.  The 2017 version of the team overcame many injuries but this team was DECIMATED and I do mean decimated.  The Saints game was a microcosm of the Eagles entire season (at one point they were missing Fletcher Cox, Rasul Douglas, Brandon Graham, Michael Bennett, Nigel Bradham, Corey Graham, and Alshon Jeffery.)  Wow...its like the game within a game.  Or in this case...the game within a season.

Here is a list of Eagles players that were on Injured Reserve:

• Mike Wallace (WR2)
• Mack Hollins (WR4)
• Jay Ajayi (RB1)
• Corey Clement (RB2)
• Josh Perkins (TE3)
• Richard Rodgers (TE4)
• Rodney Mcleod (FS)
• Ronald Darby (CB1)
• Jalen Mills (CB2)
• Derek Barnett (DE2)
• Josh Sweat (DE4)
• Jordan Malaita (LT2).

***Other Key Injuries (Players Missed at least parts of two games or more)

• Carson Wentz (QB1)
• Alshon Jeffery (WR1)
• Sidney Jones (CB3)
• Rasul Douglas (CB4)
• Jordan Hicks (MLB1)
• Nigel Bradham (OLB1)
• Corey Graham (SS2)
• Avonte Maddox (CB5)
• Darren Sproles (RB3)
• Stefan Wisnewski (OG)
• Lane Johnson(RT1)
• Jason Peters (LT1)
• Jason Kelce (C)
• Haloti Ngata (DT3)
• Tim Jernigan (DT2)

That's 27 Players that missed at least parts of two games if not more...that's more than half of the Eagles entire 53 Man Roster.  In my opinion, that's an astronomical amount of injuries to key players.  I do not like to use injuries as an excuse for a teams success or lack of success; however, you must be a realist and say that these injuries had a huge effect on how the team played and the results of team play.

So for the Eagles to begin the season 4-6 and then come all the way back to make the playoffs was a huge success in my mind.  The team overcame insurmountable odds to finish where they did after almost every expert to a "T" counted them out.  No one expected this Eagles team to finish with a 9-7 record, let alone make the playoffs.  And yet we sit here Tuesday afternoon, almost having saw this team upset the New Orleans Saints in NOLA and go to the NFC Championship Game.  Yes folks...they were that close to accomplishing what many thought was impossible.  And I will go one step further...I firmly believe that had the Eagles won this game that we would be hoisting our second Lombardi Trophy again in February.

So close...but yet so far away.  A season of promise.  Almost saw another Nick Foles miracle.  We saw plenty of Foles magic on display.  Where do we go from here?  Many questions to answer.  What players do we resign?  Is Nick Foles staying or is he going?  Many questions to ponder as we enter an offseason with more questions than answers.  However; one things for sure...the 2018 Philadelphia Eagles season was a season of promise and we have every reason to be proud of this team that battled and clawed and fought their way to the divisional round of the NFC playoffs. 

This team that won a wildcard game on the road in Chicago against arguably the best defense all season.  A team that won 5 of its last six games to finish 9-7, winning 4 of those 5 on the road.  Amazing Finish BIRDS!  I see a bright future ahead and many more years of success.  Well, that's my season ending review.  I hope that you enjoyed it.  There will be plenty of time for what ifs and where do we goes but for now its just enjoy what just happened and ponder how good this team could have been if not for all of the injuries.  Until next time...this is Jason Voorhees reporting For Philly Rock Radio.  Cheers!