What? Me Worry?

Roy Halladay pitched a bullpen session today.  He is preparing for a start on Saturday.

In minor league camp.

Although he seems invincible at times, Roy Halladay certainly is human, and humans get sick. So sick, in fact, that Roy lost about ten pounds in two days with a stomach virus.  This same virus sent Jonathan Papelbon headed to get IV fluids for dehydration.  This is the same virus that took him out of his last spring training start after one inning.

Roy is scheduled to pitch his first start of the season on April 3 against the Braves. He is no longer the staff's number one starter (but always number one in my heart!) as he lost that job to the ever emerging Cole Hamels.

In reading stories about Roy, it seems his pitching is much slower than it had been in the past, as he has been clocked at between 85-88 this spring.  Chalk it up to still getting ready for the season?  Maybe.  Chalk it up to injury? The Phillies say no.  Chalk it up to the fact that Roy is simply getting older, and probably closer to the twilight of his career than ever?  I believe this is the answer, but being the fighter he is, Roy won't let us see it.

So what are my expectations for my favorite player this year?  I expect--and I hope--Roy has a better season than last, and stays off of the disabled list this go around.  Would I be surprised if Roy missed his first start?  No.  Would I be surprised if Roy gave up several runs in his first start?  No.

Of course I hope it doesn't happen, but it is a distinct possibility for a pitcher who might not be quite ready or have the stamina to go against a regular season big league team.

One thing I am sure of, however, is that if the Phillies have any shot at winning anything significant this season, they will need a performance from the Roy Halladay of old.