Philadelphia Phillies Tickets

2010 Philadelphia Phillies Season Preview The Philadelphia Phillies came up just a little bit short in defending their World Series title, but they look more determined than ever to bring another championship home to the City of Brotherly Love.

Looking to make a big splash, the Phillies traded for Toronto Blue Jays ace Roy Halladay before dealing stud Cliff Lee to the Seattle Mariners. The move is probably a small upgrade, as Halladay has much better stuff and a better track record than Lee.

At the same time, many fans were hoping that the Phillies would keep both pitchers to have a 1-2 starting combination better than any other in all of baseball.

With Halladay anchoring the rotation, the Phillies have a veteran, reliable presence that will trickle down to some of the younger starters.

One of those younger starters is J.A. Happ, who has a very bright future ahead of him. Cole Hamels struggled at time last year, but he is another young pitcher who will really benefit from having Halladay in the rotation.

The team also re-signed Joe Blanton, who is still young but the type of pitcher who is pretty consistent in what he will give you with each outing.

Veteran Pedro Martinez is expected to be back, but it's highly doubtful that his arm and frail body with hold up to an entire season in the starting rotation. Look for Jamie Moyer to take some innings away from Martinez.

The Phillies brought in pitcher Jose Contreras, who will round out the starting rotation and could see some time in the bullpen. They also signed infielder Placido Polanco, who will probably see extensive time at third base.

Philadelphia still have plenty of offensive firepower in its lineup with first baseman Ryan Howard, second baseman Chase Utley, shortstop Jimmy Rollins and outfielder Raul Ibanez leading the attack.

When it comes to the National League East, Philadelphia should be considered the heavy favorite to take the division in 2010.