1993 Phillies vs. 2007 Phillies - Who Would You Choose?

I have made no secrets about my admiration towards the Philadelphia Phillies. As each season approaches, I have a new sense of optimism and excitement towards the team’s World Series chances. Unfortunately, my optimism has not paid dividends as the Phillies have failed to reach the World Series since their last appearance in 1993.

The `93 Phillies team had something special about them - a core group of players that brought a unique identity to the club. Players like John Kruk, Lenny Dykstra, and Darren Daulton played an aggressive, hard-nosed style of baseball that I feel the present club is lacking. However, the 2007 club has young stars like Ryan Howard and Chase Utley that have an extraordinary amount of talent and have enjoyed great success at such an early age.

So I began thinking about the potential the team would have if you were to combine the two squads - the 1993 Phillies with the 2007 Phillies. I analyzed the starters at each position and made a decision on who I would choose for each. The result is one heck of a baseball team.

Catcher: Chris Coste (2007) vs. Darren Daulton (1993)

Chris Coste is a fantastic story. He spent 11 seasons in the minor leagues before finally getting a chance to play in a Major League game at the age of 33. Coste got that opportunity last year with the Phillies and made the best out of it - hitting .328 in just under 200 at-bats. Despite a successful rookie season, it looks as though Coste will either be platooning with the young Carlos Ruiz or sitting on the bench as the Phillies look to upgrade at the catcher position this off-season.

Darren Daulton also had to wait patiently before getting an opportunity to play as he played sparingly between 1983 and 1988. However, Daulton claimed the starting catcher position in 1989 and never looked back. Daulton was a three time All-Star and won the NL Silver Slugger award in 1992 - driving in 109 and hitting 27 home runs. More than just the statistics, Daulton was the leader and “captain” of the Phillies throughout his tenure.

My Pick: Darren Daulton - Likely the easiest pick I will have to make.

First Base: Ryan Howard (2007) vs. John Kruk (1993)