INSIDE THE 1993 PHILLIES

It was 1993 when a local reporter called me to talk about my upcoming season. Every year, I got the same routine question, “Have the Phillies asked you to sign with them?” Each time, I answered, “They haven’t called. I don’t think they have any interest in me.”

Lee Thomas, the GM, called me the next day. He asked what I meant about not having interest. I reassured him that it was okay, and that I was fine with it. Which was true! I’d been one of the highest paid players in the Minor League, so it was never a question about money. Still, Thomas told me to stay close to my phone, so I did. I signed with the Phillies soon after.

Looking back, it was a relief getting to play for my hometown team. There were so many unsung heroes:

When Ruben Amaro came to Philly, he did an incredible job protecting Dykstra.

After Kevin Stocker left spring training, he was seen as a good player, but we had no idea he would soon be the answer to our Shortstop issue.

Bobby Thigpen, an All-Star closer, solidified the bullpen by taking innings off the regulars.

John Kruk was considered the “funny” guy in the clubhouse, but was arguably the best player on the team! He was a tremendous hitter, a great defender with a remarkable ability to run the bases.

Mitch Williams may not have finished how he would’ve liked to, but he was always ready to pitch and never said no when the bullpen phone rang. An unbelievable competitor.

Nobody ever talks about these things, which is why I’m happy to bring attention to it now. Having the opportunity to be alongside those talented guys, and being considered a Phillies alumni, is one of my greatest honors. So many players on that team stepped up when they had to.

We were just a bunch of guys who loved playing baseball and really got along with each other.

Have questions of your own? Email them to me at jmantopdc@gmail.com and it may be featured in a future blog post.

See you in two weeks!

Until next time,

Jeff