SoxandPhils, Slocumb agree on one-year extension

SOXANDPHILSVILLLE, N.J. -- SoxandPhils, the leading blog dedicated to the 2008 and 2007 World Champion Phillies and Red Sox, proudly announces that it has extended the sponsorship of Heathcliff Slocumb's Baseball-Reference.com page for another year

"Heathcliff was long out of baseball by 2004, but he was just as responsible as Pedro Martinez for that glorious year," SoxandPhils co-owner and lead writer Greg said. "I still can't believe that the Sox were able to convert that pitcher into Jason Varitek and Derek Lowe. Slocumb will always have a special spot in SoxandPhils lore, and we're glad to have him back for another year.

"And, of course, Chris Berman has never come up with a better nickname than Heathcliff Slocumb 'if you got 'em.'"

Slocumb began his career with the Cubs and pitched for the Indians before he was traded to the Phillies for their current GM Ruben Amaro in 1993. Slocumb pitched for the Phillies in 1994 and 1995. For the Phils, he saved 32 games, with a 3.84 ERA in 113 games. He made his only All-Star game in 1995, picking up the win with a scoreless inning.

He was traded to Boston with Larry Wimbley and Rick Holyfield for Glenn Murray, Lee Tinsley and SoxandPhils-sponsored Ken Ryan.

In less than two years in Boston, Slocumb saved 48 games with a 4.02 ERA, but in 1997, he struggled with a 5.79 ERA and was dumped on the Mariners for Varitek and Lowe in a rather lopsided trade.

He also pitched for the Padres, Indians and Orioles, who play the Red Sox today.

Slocumb joined the SoxandPhils family last year as a birthday gift to Greg from Christine, SoxandPhils co-owner and head of editing and marketing.

"I swear, my husband really isn't as weird as he sometimes comes off on this blog," she said.

Those seeking further comment may post a comment or e-mail us. Because of a scheduling conflict, Greg and Christine may not be available for immediate comment until Sunday - including their takes on today's games.