Phils_pitchers_blantonThis chick, however, she's out

This will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. According to many people on Twitter and Facebook, it was mentioned this morning on XM's MLB Radio that Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Roy Oswalt, and Cole Hamels won't appear in any photos (other than these, of course) or take part in any interviews without Joe Blanton.

Awwwy!

Somewhere, Kyle Kendrick wants to hang himself- But what if I'm the fifth starter, guys?

No word from Joe, but our sources tell us that as long as there is a cheesecake present after the shoot, he's in.

Apparently, this was said by Billy Ripken on MLB Radio this morning- or something like that, let's not let the facts get in the way. Here's the problem: Who the hell is Billy Ripken to have an inside track on the Phillies?

There is no reason to doubt the conjecture, but it hasn't been mentioned by any of the beat writers, at least not that I could find. However, judging from CSN's announced schedule of Phillies coverage, which will include two segments on all five of the Phillies' pitchers and a supposed press conference with all of them on Monday, perhaps this is the case.

Oh fuck it, let's go with it: ZOMG this team is so loveable!

Next we'll hear that LeBron and Co. refuse to appear without Mario Chalmers and Zydrunas Ilgauskas…. Nevermind. Guess we won't be seeing that smoke-screen on-stage unveiling for R2C2 with Cliff Lee nodding his head in smug approval.

Other Phillies news:

– According to the website, the Phillies ballgirls will be taking photos with fans at noon tomorrow at the Macy's in Center City, where they will be making an announcement regarding new uniforms designed by… a department store. 

Oh yeah, nothing says sexy like beige body shapers. Even Cacique Intimate, plus-size women's lingerie, would have been a better option.

– It's also been officially confirmed that Scott Franzke will be back with the Phillies this year, finally.