Sounds like semantics, aren't all early-career (pre-arbitration) players with options basically on a split contract? Like, if Nick Williams gets sent down he's not going to get his major league salary. Certainly the major league $ could be guaranteed but not sure it's the default?
2/28/09
First TV broadcast of the '09 season, as Phils take on the Rays in a rematch of last year's World Series. Phils still looking for a (ST) win.
3/1/09
Last game of the spring before a bunch of players head out to play in the World Baseball Classic.
The legendary Harry Kalas begins another season of work.
3/3/09
Jayson Werth is dealing with a sore shoulder, so there's discussion of who would play if he's out for an extended time. Newcomer John Mayberry, who's having a good spring, may see some more playing time than planned on.
3/5/09
Phils have won 4 straight after beating Team Canada. Today they play Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino and the rest of Team USA. Also, Phils signed Rodrigo Lopez to a minor league deal.
3/10/09
Chad Durbin and Pedro Feliz rumored to be able to play in split squad games today.
3/12/09
Pedro Feliz, Brad Lidge, Chris Coste and Chad Durbin, all dealing with injuries, all were due to see action yesterday.
3/13/09
Jayson Werth due to see action today after dealing with a groin injury.
3/15/09
Chase Utley due for his first spring action post hip surgery.
3/16/09
Cole Hamels to return to Philadelphia to have his elbow examined.
3/23/09
Kyle Kendrick sent to the minors.
Wow, didn't remember he barely factored in that year.
3/27/09
Phils trade C Ronny Paulino to SF for LH reliever Jack Taschner.
3/30/09
Marcus Giles comeback attempt falls short as the Phillies release him.
John Mayberry and Carlos Carrasco are optioned to the minors.
4/1/09
Rumors are Phils are thinking about picking up Gary Sheffield.
Kyle Drabek gets a start in today's exhibition game, working his way back from Tommy John surgery.
4/3/09
Time to 'break camp' and head north. Sports Illustrated says the NY Mets are the team to beat in the NL East this season, ending the Phils' twoyear reign at the top. They do predict a first ever Wild Card berth for the Phils. Mets seem to be picking up Gary Sheffield.
4/4/09
25 man roster is finalized, with Miguel Cairo getting the last spot.
4/5/09
Phils open their title defense with Sunday Night Baseball against the Braves.
Opening Night Lowe vsMyers
4/6/09
Brian McCann’s big blast took the wind out of the sails and Derek Lowe did the rest as the Phils start the 2009 season with a loss.
Off day, time to argue about why Charlie would set up a lineup with 3 lefties in a row.