One Phan Who's Overjoyed About Oswalt

Throughout the last decade, Roy Oswalt’s been one of those pitchers. Understated, underestimated, under the radar. To everyone outside of Houston, Texas, that is.

Living out half my childhood in Houston, I was one of those Oswalt fans. Roy-O was dominating in an era of Astros baseball that ranked among the best. Biggio, Bagwell, Berkman, Oswalt. I got to grow up watching legends play ball. To bring a little piece of that to my current city is terribly exciting.

Talking the stats, Oswalt’s up there with the cream of the crop. Over his decade-long career, he’s had two 20 win seasons and an ERA that consistently hangs around 3. Oswalt’s got the team mentality, the selflessness, the passion that it takes to succeed in this game. A three-time All-Star, Oswalt just wants you to let him play ball. He wants to give a ballclub a chance to win. He’s a quick pitcher, a fast worker, and a great bunter. He’ll get the work done.

The main sentiment around Philly is that if the Phillies so badly wanted to bring an ace to their staff, they should have kept Cliff Lee. They wouldn’t have had the space and cap to bring around Roy Halladay without Cliff Lee gone. And if Lee would’ve had a similar season had he stayed in Philly, he’d have been a dead weight to an already sinking team.

For all the skeptical Phillies phans, baseball in Houston’s a lot like baseball in Philly. It’s tough. It’s passionate. And you’ll go years without a successful club. From top of the National League to nobodies. A city that’s never won a World Series. Trust me, Oswalt knows the frustration Philly’s felt for years. Oswalt’s a perfect fit for this Philly club. Just when they need a little push to make it into the postseason, he’s there to deliver. Don’t discount this guy. He’s still got the stuff. He’ll prove it to you.

Philly phans, I know you’re critical. I know players have to earn your respect. It wouldn’t be Philly without that atmosphere. Just hear me out, I’ve watched the guy loyally for years. He’ll bring some great energy to this city. Get ready, Philly, and be prepared to enjoy Roy-O’s runs.

And when the Phils make a decent postseason run thanks to their new addition, you don’t have to come back and tell me I told you so.