Huge news

After several days devoid of any good SoxandPhils news, the incredible has happened: The Inquirer's beat writer, Andy Martino, has updated his blog. Yes, after 10 days the idle blog is no more.

Of course, it took something momentous to rouse the sleeping writer. The big news? As Todd Zolecki reported before Martino, J.A. Happ didn't win Rookie of the Year. As I predicted, the award went to a Marlins outfielder. OK, I had Cameron Maybin, not Chris Coghlan, the winner. I can't complain with the choice, but Christine will, especially because I told her in the preseason that Pablo Sandoval would still qualify as a rookie this year. I apologize again.

Of more pressing concern, one of the most vital members of the 2008 World Champions will not be back. There wasn't a blockbuster trade involving Cole Hamels or Brad Lidge, but Eric Bruntlett has been removed from the 40-man roster. We'll always fondly recall how the utility infielder just sort of became Pat Burrell's late-inning defensive outfield replacement last year.

We'll never forget his unassisted triple play against the Mets this season or his unlikely heroic moments during last year's playoffs - including scoring the last run that cinched the championship.

"Everyone hammers him, but he's one of my all-time favorite scrubby Phillies," Christine said. "He was scrubby, but I'll remember him in a good way."

Christine is also saddened that Tyler Walker is not going to be back.

"I just want to know what happened with him," Christine said. We thought he was one of the Phillies more effective relievers and can't figure out why he wasn't on the playoff roster or why he's getting the boot.

Oh well, tomorrow Jon Lester will get the first of what will be many Cy Young awards. I know, it's Zack Greinke's award, but it's all Lester in 2010.