Raul Ibanez is proving to everyone that he still has a lot left in the tank. In his past 6 games (excluding today's debacle) he is hitting .380 with 4 HR and 14 RBI’s enough to earn him NL Player of The Week honors last week. Overall on the season Ibanez is hitting .244 with 13 HR and 48 RBI’s and he has made some dazzling defensive plays in the outfield. But with Raul’s age of 39, a growing payroll, and the need to sign guys like Hamels, Madson and Rollins, in all likelihood this will be Raul’s final year in Philadelphia. With that in mind Raul is clearly seizing his opportunity and cherishing his time with this club.
Raul has never won a World Series so he is definitely going to give the Phils his all in the second half and try to lead them to the promised land. If Ibanez can step up and be the player he was in 2009 when he hit .272 with 34 HRs and 93 RBI's the Phils may not have to worry about acquiring another bat. Raul has the ability to be an All-Star outfielder and hopefully his hunger and to win a World Series and overall talent will benefit the Phils greatly in the second half.
Well put, Joe. Raul is a good guy and often get overlooked in Philly. I know he's had his struggles, but I don't think he gets the credit he deserves either. Without Ibanez last year, the Phillies may not have such an easy time overcoming the Braves down the stretch. Best of luck! Keep up the good work!
ReplyDeleteThanks alot for the comment, go Rauuuul!
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