NBC 10's John Clark is soaking up the sun and the swings in Florida. He will be bringing you the latest from Clearwater, Fla. as the Phillies report for Spring Training.
It's finally here...
The entire team is together for the first time this spring training.
The Phillies were in the clubhouse Tuesday morning listening to Charlie Manuel's speech. His message: 2008 was great -- we won the World Series. But, this is 2009 -- it's a different team -- let's do it again.
The only way we will repeat is if we put as much work into this season as we did last year, said Manuel.
This is the most excited Charlie has been to go to spring training in a long time. He thinks this team can be better than last year.
The players are also having a good time.
They are out on the field like little kids -- laughing it up and bustin' chops -- excited to be back. Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino and Ryan Howard are leading the way with the jovial smack talk.
The Phils, though, are missing half their infield to open camp. Chase Utley is working on his own to hopefully get his hip ready by Opening Day. Pedro Feliz isn't able to hit or field yet, but he told me he is hoping to also be ready for Opening Day.
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There is also a legend on the field. Mike Schmidt has arrived as an instructor, out on the field laughing it up with the guys.
The whole team seems ready to repeat starting Opening Day.
