In Brett We Trust

With Cole Hamels on the mend Brett Myers must once again pick up the slack as the Phillies No. 1 starter. But, how will he respond?

Hamels was supposed to start his run as Opening Day starter but with his throwing elbow inflamed he most likely won't be ready on April 5. "It's probably a long shot," said pitching coach Rich Dubee.

Right now it looks like Myers will be the Phillies Opening Day starter for the third straight year.

Myers slimmed down this off-season and looks healthy. But health isn't always his problem.

The problem with Myers is his mind. What he is thinking out on the mound and off the field can destroy entire outings for the righty.

He is the Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde of the Phillies staff. He can go from dominant to dominated in just a matter of a few starts.

The good news is that right now Myers seems to have his head on straight and his arm in good form.

Myers mowed down the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday in Clearwater. He struck out seven, walked none and allowed only four hits in 5.2 scoreless innings.

Myers' performance was his first longer spring outing. It helped to lower his ERA to 2.08 in 8.2 innings pitched.

Myers is ready -- in Mr.-Hyde form -- so the Phils can let Hamels take it easy and not rush to pitch Opening Day.

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