The Phillies are nipping at Milwaukee’s heels right now, but it seems like pretty much all the legitimate playoff contenders are scuffling. To what do you attribute Philadelphia’s recent struggles?

I hate to say it, but Chase Utley. Chase has been really struggling lately – striking out and popping up in clutch situations, when earlier in the year he would have hit a home run. The rumor is that he is injured and being the hard-nosed player that he is, he is going to wait until the off season to deal with it. The Phillies starting pitching has been surprisingly consistent down the stretch thanks to a resurgence of Brett Myers, but the bullpen has had some troubles in the 8th inning recently.

Do you see any parallels between our clubs in that they both have young superstars and interdivision rivals from larger cities are routinely humped by the national media? Any other similarities your may see?  

I think there are a lot of similarities among the players. Obviously both Ryan Howard and Prince Fielder have the ability to change a game with the swing of the bat. Both clubs also have solid shortstops in Hardy and Rollins, though one may be a little more outspoken than the other. Also, in terms of in-game entertainment you really can’t beat the tag team combos of Bob Ucker/[Bernie] Brewer and Harry Kalas/Phillie Phanatic. Steel cage match anyone?

How is Brewer fan favorite Geoff Jenkins regarded in his new city? He seems to be a platoon-type guy for the Phillies, and is splitting time with newly acquired Matt Stairs… was the Jenks signing a bust or are you getting pretty much what you expected?  

I know Jenkins was a stud for you guys, but he is a bust here in Philly and that’s not something that will endear you with Phillies fans. I don’t expect him to return next year.

Speaking of former Brewers, do Philly fans hate Wes Helms as much as most Milwaukee fans do? I mean you guys are paying this fat Val Kilmer lookalike not to be on your team, right?

Despite having bricks for hands at third base, Wes played well for the Phillies. If there was a contest next year to see which ex-Phillie is more revered, I think Wes would win of Geoff. But yea, the Phils are paying him $2 million not to play… they’re also paying Jim Thome $7 million.

Could you explain to those who haven’t heard the name Carlos Carrasco what we can expect to see from him in the coming years? Are there any other minor leaguers we should keep an eye out for?

The Phillies have a solid core of prospects in their farm system which is something they’ve been lacking for a few years. In that regard, I am glad they didn’t sell the farm to land C.C. (but I still wish they did). Carlos has quickly made his way through the Phillies organization and is currently in AAA. In his first 3 starts for the IronPigs he put up an 0.48 ERA, struck out 22 and walked just 6 in 18.2 innings. Look for him on the Phillies roster next year along with catching prospect Lou Marson. Jason Donald and Greg Golson also could get some ABs next year.

In your opinion has Kyle Kendrick pitched his way out of the rotation for the remainder of the season?

Yes, it’s a shame because all season he consistently had a line of 6 IP, 3ER, which was fine in front of the Phillies lineup. With J.A. Happ on the roster now, I feel that he will take 1 or 2 of Kendrick’s starts. Adam Eaton could also make a comeback, we assessed the possibilities on the site earlier in the week. 

What are Philadelphia’s primary offseason priorities?

Resign Pat Burrell and sign a starter. The Phillies have a handful of unproven starters that can shore up the bullpen in the future but they need another consistent starter besides Cole Hamels that can win 15 games a year. Also Pat Gillick’s contract expires, so although people aren’t talking it about it now, finding a new GM will be a pretty big priority unless they just let Asst. GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. assume the controls.

Most of us at RFB religiously watch “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” and not that it’s a requisite for you to watch that show, I’d assume you’ve at least seen it; anyway, do you agree with me that “Mac” looks a lot like J.J Hardy? Please agree with me!

Yes, they do look alike, someone should call ESPN’s Page 2. What do you think about Pat Burrell and Dave Matthews? (Ambassador’s Note: Sorry Brian, I personally can’t really see it.)

Predictions for the upcoming series, the remainder of the season?

Phillies take 3 of 4 and reclaim the NL East. See you in the playoffs!

Question for you… if the Brewers don’t make the playoffs, do you think think the Sabathia deal was a waste?Question for you… if the Brewers don’t make the playoffs, do you think think the Sabathia deal was a waste?

If you would’ve asked me before the trade, I would have said yes – since we gave up our top prospect and two other decent guys (which will surely be three one the PTBNL is established) but, with the way he’s absolutely dominated, Milwaukee wouldn’t be in the favorable position they are in if not for Sabathia. If the Brewers don’t make the playoffs, fans can look at the CC deal knowing he gave the team a best chance to make it to October.

If anything, it’s been quite a treat watching him pitch in a Brewers uni. I’ve never seen a starter post a better half season – and when he leaves for an epic amount of money, I will fondly remember his brief stint here for a long time.

Thanks Brian.