Burrell Era Ends, Phillies Acquire Free Agent Ibanez
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The Phillies will have a new face, lefthanded hitting Raul Ibanez, in leftfield when the 2009 season opens as the Pat Burrell era seems at an end.
The 36 year old Ibanez, formerly with the Seattle Mariners, comes to the Phils pending club physical, taking over for the 32 year old righthanded hitting Burrell who had been a fixture in leftfield since 2000.
Aside from the age differential, Ibanez brings a more consistent bat with some power, less strikeouts and, over the last 4 seasons, more RBIs. His lifetime BA is about 40 points higher than Burrell although Burrell’s OBP and SLG are slightly higher.
Associated Press writer Joann Loviglio outlines Ibanez’s contract terms and some of his 2008 stats for Yahoo sports;
Ibanez will receive a $2 million signing bonus, payable this year, a $6.5 million salary next season and $11.5 million each in 2010 and 2011.
A left-handed hitter, Ibanez batted .305 against lefty pitchers last season and .288 against righties.
Ibanez drove in 100 or more runs during each of the last three seasons in Seattle.
The presence of another lefthanded bat in an already lefty-loaded top of the lineup poses some challenges for manager Charlie Manuel.
Meanwhile the Phillies continue in hot pursuit of 35 year old free agent righthander Chan Ho Park as well as with their free agent veteran 46 year old lefthander Jamie Moyer.
AP’s Loviglio also reports;
Philadelphia agreed to one-year contracts with infielder Eric Bruntlett ($800,000) and right-hander Clay Condrey ($650,000).
Utility player Bruntlett seems slotted to spell 2nd baseman Chase Utley who is rehabbing after hip surgery and may not be ready to start the season.
Inquirer Staff writer Todd Zolecki notes nostalgically;
Pat Burrell had hoped to make a few more memories with the Phillies next year and beyond.
Instead he learned yesterday his final memories will be his leadoff double off the left-center-field wall in the seventh inning in Game 5 of the World Series - which led to the winning run in the series-clinching game - and leading the World Series championship parade down Broad Street.
If he had to go, there could not be a better way.
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