A starting pitcher is making his way back to the major leagues via the traditional minor league rehab start. Oh, big news we all know that Pedro Martinez is on his way back to Shea, you say. Well, pipe down because that's not who we're talking about. Kris Benson is set to start for the Phillies Class A team in Clearwater on Sunday after throwing 75 pitches in an extended spring training game earlier this week. Assuming he doesn't have any physical setbacks, and there are safer assumptions, the Phillies would need to make a decision on him pretty soon. Benson can opt out of his deal if he's not with the team by June 1.
Odd as it sounds, if Benson proves himself physically sound he'll get an offer to join someone's rotation. The Phillies probably won't usurp Brett Myers, no matter how much he's struggling, but an alternative to Adam Eaton can't sound too bad. Sure, he won last night (against the Rockies, but still) and has turned in two quality starts in a row but I think I might bet on Benson staying healthy before I'd wager on Eaton keeping that up.
And, of course, no discussion of Benson is complete without a mention of his wife. Who isn't aching to see a picture of her wearing hot pants while devouring a whiz wit' at Pat's?
