Friday, December 15, 2017

PHILLY SPORTS CORNER- FLYERS, PHILLIES, EAGLES

* After losing 10 straight games, the Flyers have reeled off 5 wins in a row, the latest a 2-1 victory over Buffalo. Goalie Brian Elliot has stepped up and has only allowed a total of eight goals in those five wins. The fans are back on the bandwagon, as the Orange and Black have three more home games against the Stars, Kings and Red Wings before hitting the road over the holidays.

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* I'm underwhelmed by Phillies GM Matt Klentak. He is clearly in over his head. He comes home after a week in Florida at the Winter Meetings with two aging middle relievers.No starting pitching help for Aaron Nola. The crowded infield situation remains a mess. Who is the full-time catcher?

Hopefully Klentak set the building blocks for upcoming trades. They need to move Joseph, maybe Galvis and/or Hernandez. Even a Rupp or Franco.

I get it. The team isn't expected to contend- again- in 2018. They are still in a rebuilding mode. But they should be competitive and give the fans some hope. Playing .500 ball isn't too much to ask.

Again, what has Klentak done so far to warrant MacPhail's and Middleton's trust? He comes home with a lot of work still to be done.

I can't imagine Klentak wheeling and dealing with crafty vets like Theo Epstein. I'm willing to give Klentak a chance, along with new manager Gabe Kapler. But please, give us a little help and a little hope to get excited about the future.

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* The Eagles are preparing to face the lowly 2-11 Giants this Sunday. Even more than the mystery revolving around QB Nick Foles, the situation with guard Stefan Wiesnieski is equally concerning.

Wienieski has played great this year. When he left the Ram game with an injury, the left side of the offensive line crumbled. To Foles' credit, the offense didn't falter and the birds pulled the game out.

The line needs to hold up to protect Foles. The game plan needs to feature the running game. Everyone needs to step up in the absence of Carson Wentz.

Sunday should be a win. Blowing out New York on the road would give the fans a little faith and hope that everything will be OK. Losing to the Giants or even squeaking out a close win will be disturbing and no doubt will show these Eagles as paper tigers going into the playoffs.

Win on Sunday and clinch a playoff bye, perhaps even home field advantage thru-out the post-season. Win on Sunday and the anxious fan base can breathe a sigh of relief and enjoy the ride.


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