Bobby

Abreu

Abreu was 0-for-3 with two strikeouts, and is now hitting .256. He, Jim Thome, and Pat Burrell have combined for a .240 average this season, which is the primary reason the Phils are stuck behind the Braves and Expos.

Abreu was 2-for-3 in stolen base attempts in the season’s first 39 games. He’s 3-for-4 in the last 10 days, as he no longer has to worry about getting thrown out in front of Jim Thome and Pat Burrell.

Abreu felt pain over the weekend in Montreal - probably because of the hard turf - but said he felt much better and hopes to play tonight.

As of right now, it looks like the Phillies will bat Abreu third and follow him with Thome and Pat Burrell. As long as they’re all together, it matters very little what order the three bat in.

All this means is that if Abreu is going to match his .306 career average he’ll hit about .316 the rest of the way.

Abreu’s weight gain wasn’t really any kind of a factor last year, but it’s still nice that he’s in better shape this time around. Clearly making an effort to appease Larry Bowa, Abreu said his main goal for this year is to cut down on his strikeouts. It’s one of those harmless statements that always sound good during spring training.

The Phillies are simply hoping that Abreu’s .390 OBP will kick start an offense hindered by, among other things, Jimmy Rollins’ .311 OBP. If everyone suddenly catches fire, Abreu will be moved back down in the order to drive in runs. And if it doesn’t help, Abreu will still be moved back down and Larry Bowa will move on to another strategy.

Abreu has made it clear throughout the years that he doesn’t want to bat leadoff. However, he will do it if Bowa insists. It probably wouldn’t be a long-term switch if it does happen.

Bowa says he’s not close to making that move yet. He did add that it has crossed his mind to pinch-hit for .198-hitting Pat Burrell if the situation warrants. As for Abreu, with his on-base ability and speed, he could be one of the top leadoff hitters in the game if he wanted to be, but he’s always resisted moving up in the order since he wants to drive in runs.

Abreu has been bothered with a sore back and Pratt hit a ball off his ankle yesterday. Bell says he’s fine but is being held back as a precaution. None of the injuries appears to be anything to worry about.