Could you imagine? You're 23 and coming off a rookie season in which you solidified the Phillies rotation and started a game in the playoffs. Then your manager and assistant GM tell you that you've been traded to a team in Japan. Classic prank. My favorite part was that Charlie Manuel told Kyle Kendrick that he was traded for a guy named Kobayashi... the hot dog eating champion.
This tells me a few things as spring training gets underway. First, this Phillies team has chemistry and unity. You don't pull off a prank that includes the entire team, the manager, the assistant general manager and the local press unless everyone is on the same page.
Second, this Phillies team is loose. Just like last year, the Phillies had fun playing baseball, even when star after star took turns on the disabled list. They're not worried about Johan Santana. They're not worried about Ryan Howard's arbitration hearing. They're having fun.
Finally, the mastermind behind the prank, Brett Myers, may have finally grown up. Always a hothead with a bad temper, these fun-loving Phils might be rubbing off on Myers. He has the ability to be a 20-game winner, but he needs to maintain an even keel to finally reach his full potential and complete the 1-2 punch at the top of the rotation with Cole Hamels.
Kyle Kendrick, you may have been punk'd, but now you have the right to get anyone in the clubhouse with full immunity. And you helped set the tone for what should be a ridiculously fun season in Philly.
Click here to see the video.
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