Ibanez has driven in four runs over his last three games. Strange

Ibanez has driven in four runs over his last three games. Strange as it might seem given his bandbox of a home park, Ibanez has actually done his best work on the road. Monday's showing lifted his road average to .331 (versus .283 at Citizens Bank Park) and his 15 homers and 41 RBIs both compare favorably to his home numbers (11 and 33, respectively). The lesson: Ibanez is worth playing wherever he goes.

Ibanez goes deep for 26th time

News: Philadelphia LF Raul Ibanez homered on Sunday for the 26th time this season. Ibanez went deep in the 7th inning as the fourth Phillies player to homer in Sunday's win over the Cardinals. His was a two-run shot as he finished his day 1 for 4. He's batting .305 on the season. [...]

Despite his rather pedestrian .267 average in July, Ibanez has

Despite his rather pedestrian .267 average in July, Ibanez has more than made up for his shortcomings in that department with another round of power-backed fireworks. Despite missing over a week of action before being activated from the disabled list on July 11, the left-handed masher has posted an imposing .622 slugging percentage with eight extra-base hits -- including four homers -- and 14 RBIs.

Manager Charlie Manuel reiterated that he would continue to

Manager Charlie Manuel reiterated that he would continue to look for opportunities to rest Ibanez, who returned from the disabled list on July 11 after straining his groin, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez will get more rest in second half

According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Philadelphia Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said he would continue to look for opportunities to rest OF Raul Ibanez, who returned from the disabled list Saturday, July 11, after straining his groin. Manuel declined to offer further specifics on how and when he will do so, but he indicated that Ibanez would be more likely to sit out day games.

Manager Charlie Manuel reiterated that he would continue to

Manager Charlie Manuel reiterated that he would continue to look for opportunities to rest Ibanez, who returned from the disabled list on July 11 after straining his groin, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

Ibanez received a day off on Wednesday, the Philadelphia Inquirer

Ibanez received a day off on Wednesday, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez takes day off Wednesday

The Associated Press reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (rest) received the day off Wednesday, July 22. He grounded out as a pinch hitter in the eighth inning.

Ibanez gets game off Wednesday

News: Phillies OF Raul Ibanez was not in the lineup for Wednesday afternoon's game at the Cubs. “This is just a good day to give him off," said manager Charlie Manuel. [...]

Phils interested in Spilborghs

According to FoxSports.com, the Phillies are interested in Rockies' outfielder Ryan Spilborghs. Philly reportedly offered two decent pitching prospects to the Rockies in exchange for Spilborghs, but the Rockies turned the deal down because they value him as a player and as a clubhouse presence.

Our View: The Phillies are already loaded in the outfield, as all three of their starters played in this year's All-Star game, but they would like to have a guy like Spilborghs on the bench to spell the aging Raul Ibanez. Don't expect the Phils to offer much more than they already have, and if the Rockies decide to move Spilborghs the Phillies may be their only partner.

Phils interested in Spilborghs

According to FoxSports.com, the Phillies are interested in Rockies' outfielder Ryan Spilborghs> Philly reportedly offered two decent pitching prospects to the Rockies in exchange for Spilborghs, but the Rockies turned the deal down because they value him as a player and as a clubhouse presence.

Our View: The Phillies are already loaded in the outfield, as all three of their starters played in this year's All-Star game, but they would like to have a guy like Spilborghs on the bench to spell the aging Raul Ibanez. Don't expect the Phils to offer much more than they already have, and if the Rockies decide to move Spilborghs the Phillies may be their only partner.

Phillies | Ibanez, Howard hit homers Monday

The Associated Press reports Philadelphia Phillies 1B Ryan Howard and OF Raul Ibanez each hit home runs against the Chicago Cubs Monday, July 20. Howard finished the game 1-for-4 with a solo homer while Ibanez was 1-for-4 with a three-run home run.

Raul Ibanez homered and drove in three runs as the Phillies

Raul Ibanez homered and drove in three runs as the Phillies pounded the Cubs 10-1 on Monday night. Ibanez put the blowout in motion with a three-run blast in the first inning. [...]

Ibanez launches 25th homer

Raul Ibanez went 1-for-4 with a three-run homer off Ted Lilly in tonight's 10-1 win over the Cubs at home.

Our View: Ibanez has three home runs over six games in July, and is currently ranked second in the NL with 25 for the season. He should remain a strong source for power in fantasy leagues, namely while playing his home games at hitter-friendly Citizens Bank Park.

Ibanez blasts three-run shot

News: Philadelphia OF Raul Ibanez is possibly hotter in the second half than he was in the first half of the season when he made his first All-Star game. Ibanez went 1 for 4 on Monday night in a win over the Cubs and slammed his 25th home run. He stroked a three-run shot in the 1st inning off Ted Lilly. He's hitting .315 on the year. [...]

Ibanez finishes torture of Marlins

News: Phillies OF Raul Ibanez went 1 for 3 with two RBI and two walks in Sunday's win over the Marlins. He finished the three-game series going 5 for 10 with two homers, five RBI and three runs scored. [...]

Manager Charlie Manuel pulled Ibanez in the eighth inning of

Manager Charlie Manuel pulled Ibanez in the eighth inning of Friday's game to guard against Ibanez aggravating his groin injury, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

The long balls, Nos. 23 and 24, were the first since Ibanez

The long balls, Nos. 23 and 24, were the first since Ibanez returned from the 15-day DL on July 11. It looks like the hot-hitting 37-year-old is picking up right where he left off when he was forced to the DL in mid-June. He heads into Friday hitting .312 with 63 RBIs.

The long balls, Nos. 23 and 24, were the first since Ibanez

The long balls, Nos. 23 and 24, were the first since Ibanez returned from the 15-day DL on July 11 after missing three weeks of action. It looks like the hot-hitting 37-year-old is picking up right where he left off before the DL stint. He goes into Friday hitting .312 with 63 RBIs.

Phillies | Ibanez homers twice Thursday

The Associated Press reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez was 2-for-4 with two homers, three RBIs and two runs scored Thursday, July 16.

Ibanez opens 2nd half with two bombs

News: Phillies OF Raul Ibanez showed everyone that he is ready for the second half of the season on Thursday against the Marlins, going deep twice in a 4-0 victory. Ibanex went 2 for 4 in the game with two home runs. He scored twice and had three RBI, going 2 for 4 in the contest. It was his third multi-homer performance of the season. [...]

Ibanez has big night as Phils roll

Raul Ibanez provided all the offense for the Phillies on Thursday night, going 2-for-4 with two home runs and three RBI as the Phils beat the Marlins 4-0 in Miami.

Our View: Some wondered how going on the disabled would affect the 37-year-old Ibanez in the midst of his career year. Apparently the answer is not at all. He now has four extra base hits in his first three games back, and doesn't appear to have missed a beat. Start him every day.

Raul Ibanez homered twice and drove in three runs as the Phillies

Raul Ibanez homered twice and drove in three runs as the Phillies defeated the Marlins 4-0 on Thursday night. Ibanez wasted no time getting his post-break campaign started, providing the Phillies with all the offense they'd need in a Jamie Moyer gem. [...]

Ibanez to be featured on TWIB

Raul Ibanez had a solid career entering this year but went to his first All-Star Game in 2009. On Saturday, This Week In Baseball will give fans an in-depth look at how that experience went for Ibanez.

Phillies | Ibanez returns to action Saturday

Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez went 2-for-5 Saturday, July 11, against the Pittsburgh Pirates, with two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored, according to The Associated Press. It was his first game since being activated from the disabled list.

Ibanez went 2-for-5 with a RBI and two runs scored Saturday.

Ibanez went 2-for-5 with a RBI and two runs scored Saturday. [...]

The outfielder picked up exactly where he left off before landing

The outfielder picked up exactly where he left off before landing on the DL June 18, mashing his 41st and 42nd extra-base hits of the season. Despite missing a month of action, he’s still among the top-10 in the NL in home runs and RBIs, and appears primed for a big second half.

Phillies OF Raul Ibanez, making his first start since returning

News: Phillies OF Raul Ibanez, making his first start since returning from a groin injury Friday, went 2 for 5 with two doubles, two runs scored and an RBI on Saturday against the Pirates. [...]

Ibanez (groin) did not play Friday night against the Pirates

Ibanez (groin) did not play Friday night against the Pirates despite his activation off the disabled list earlier in the day, the Associated Press reports. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez does not play Friday

The Associated Press reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez did not play Friday, July 10, in his first day back from the disabled list.

The Phillies activated All-Star left fielder Raul Ibanez from

News: The Phillies activated All-Star left fielder Raul Ibanez from the disabled list on Friday. Ibanez, who missed 20 games with a groin injury, was available to pinch hit but did not play in Friday's game against the Pirates. Manuel said the outfielder would be in the starting lineup Saturday. [...]

Phillies activated OF Raul Ibanez from the 15-day disabled list.

Phillies activated OF Raul Ibanez from the 15-day disabled list. While you shouldn't expect the MVP-level numbers Ibanez has posted in 2009 going forward, he should immediately be returned to the lineup in all formats. [...]

Ibanez activated

Raul Ibanez has been activated from the DL following his recovery from a strained left groin, according to MLB.com.

Our View: Ibanez remains set to play in the All-Star Game in St. Louis next Tuesday. He still leads the Phillies with 22 homers, despite not playing since June 17.

Ibanez activated

Raul Ibanez has been activated from the DL following his recovery from a strained left groin, according to MLB.com.

Our View: Ibanez remains set to play in the All-Star Game in St. Louis next Tuesday.

As expected, Ibanez (groin) was activated from the 15-day disabled

As expected, Ibanez (groin) was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Friday, the Phillies' official site reports. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez activated

Alden Gonzalez, of MLB.com, reports the Philadelphia Phillies activated OF Raul Ibanez (groin) from the 15-day disabled list Friday, July 10. He is slated to start in the All-Star Game next week.

Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) was activated Friday prior to

News: Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) was activated Friday prior to the team's game against Pittsburgh. Catcher Chris Coste was let go to make room on the roster. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez could play Friday

Martin Frank, of The Courier-Post, reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) could play as early as Friday, July 10. Manager Charlie Manuel said he would like Ibanez to play in two of the three games this weekend.

It was only a matter of time before the Phillies formerly made

It was only a matter of time before the Phillies formerly made the move, as Ibanez had been playing in rehab games with Triple-A Lehigh Valley and taking batting practice during his off days. The 37-year-old will look to reclaim the stellar form that had him batting .312 with 22 homers and 59 RBIs before a strained groin muscle landed him on the DL on June 18.

Ibanez (groin) made his final rehab start Thursday night, going

Ibanez (groin) made his final rehab start Thursday night, going 1-for-3 with a two-run double and playing nine innings for Triple-A Lehigh Valley, the Philadelphia Daily News reports. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez doubles Thursday for Triple-A

The Associated Press reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) was 1-for-3 with a double and two walks in a rehab start for Triple-A Lehigh Valley Thursday, July 9.

Phillies manager Charlie Manual said he would like Ibanez to

Phillies manager Charlie Manual said he would like Ibanez to play in two of the Phillies' three games against the Pirates this weekend, although the manager did not specify which games. Stay tuned.

Phillies manager Charlie Manuel wants Raul Ibanez (groin) to

Phillies manager Charlie Manuel wants Raul Ibanez (groin) to play in two of Philadelphia's three games over the weekend against the Pirates. Manuel did not specify which games he preferred, although Ibanez could be back as soon as Friday. [...]

All-Star LF Raul Ibanez is scheduled for another rehab start

News: All-Star LF Raul Ibanez is scheduled for another rehab start with Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Thursday night after taking off Wednesday. Ibanez, out with a groin injury since mid-June, could rejoin the Phillies on Friday. [...]

Ibanez on track to return this weekend

Left fielder Raul Ibanez, who has made two rehab starts as he recovers from a strained left groin, is progressing well and remains on track to rejoin the Phillies this weekend.

Raul Ibanez (groin) finished 1-for-2 with a walk in his first

Raul Ibanez (groin) finished 1-for-2 with a walk in his first rehab game with Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Tuesday evening. Ibanez is now 1-for-4 with two walks on his rehab assignment and has played 12 innings in the outfield. [...]

Ibanez (groin) said he was "feeling good" Tuesday night after

Ibanez (groin) said he was "feeling good" Tuesday night after making his second rehab appearance, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

Phillies LF Raul Ibanez went 1 for 2 with a strikeout, walk

News: Phillies LF Raul Ibanez went 1 for 2 with a strikeout, walk and scored a run in a rehab start at Triple-A Lehigh Valley Tuesday. Ibanez, a first-time All-Star, has been sidelined with a groin injury since mid-June. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez to play with Class AAA Tuesday

Jim Salisbury, of The Philadelphia Inquirer, reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) will play with Triple-A Lehigh Valley Tuesday, July 7, and likely receive the day off Wednesday, July 8. He could play with Lehigh Valley again Thursday, July 9, which puts him on track to return to the team Friday, July 10.

Ibanez, who made his first rehab appearance on Monday, said

Ibanez, who made his first rehab appearance on Monday, said that for the first time in weeks, he didn't feel even a twinge of pain in his left groin, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez hitless in rehab game

The Associated Press reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) was 0-for-2 with a walk and a run scored in his first rehab start for Double-A Reading Monday, July 6. He played the first five innings of the game in the field, but he did not have any chances. He is expected to get a few more rehab starts.

Analysis: Ibanez, who went 0-for-2, will play six to seven innings in another rehab appearance Tuesday with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. The 37-year-old is then slated to rest on July 8 before playing in the Minors again July 9. "We'll go from there," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. If Ibanez feels good, he could be activated to play against the Pirates this weekend. Ibanez -- named to his first career All-Star team on Sunday -- was hitting .312 with 22 homers and 59 RBIs before landing on the DL. Manuel, who will also manage the National League squad at the July 14 Midsummer Classic, does not know if his star outfielder will be ready for the trip to St. Louis.

Kevin Slowey, who was placed on the 15-day DL July 3, was diagnosed

Kevin Slowey, who was placed on the 15-day DL July 3, was diagnosed with a strained wrist and was treated with a cortisone injection Monday.

Analysis: Ibanez, who went 0-for-2, will play six to seven innings in another rehab appearance Tuesday with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. The 37-year-old is then slated to rest on July 8 before playing in the Minors again July 9. "We'll go from there," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. If Ibanez feels good, he could be activated to play against the Pirates this weekend. Ibanez -- named to his first career All-Star team on Sunday -- was hitting .312 with 22 homers and 59 RBIs before landing on the DL. Manuel, who will also manage the National League squad at the July 14 Midsummer Classic, does not know if his star outfielder will be ready for the trip to St. Louis.

With Scott Hairston joining Oakland on Monday, Travis Buck was

With Scott Hairston joining Oakland on Monday, Travis Buck was optioned to Triple-A Sacramento to make room on the roster.

Analysis: Ibanez, who went 0-for-2, will play six to seven innings in another rehab appearance Tuesday with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. The 37-year-old is then slated to rest on July 8 before playing in the Minors again July 9. "We'll go from there," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. If Ibanez feels good, he could be activated to play against the Pirates this weekend. Ibanez -- named to his first career All-Star team on Sunday -- was hitting .312 with 22 homers and 59 RBIs before landing on the DL. Manuel, who will also manage the National League squad at the July 14 Midsummer Classic, does not know if his star outfielder will be ready for the trip to St. Louis.

Ibanez (groin) played five innings for Double-A Reading on Monday

Ibanez (groin) played five innings for Double-A Reading on Monday in his first rehab game, the Phillies' official site reports. Ibanez went 0-for-2, walking in his second plate appearance, scoring a run and successfully converting his only chance in left field. [...]

Raul Ibanez, on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with

Raul Ibanez, on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, played five innings for Double-A Reading on Monday in his first rehab game.

Analysis: Ibanez, who went 0-for-2, will play six to seven innings in another rehab appearance Tuesday with Triple-A Lehigh Valley. The 37-year-old is then slated to rest on July 8 before playing in the Minors again July 9. "We'll go from there," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. If Ibanez feels good, he could be activated to play against the Pirates this weekend. Ibanez -- named to his first career All-Star team on Sunday -- was hitting .312 with 22 homers and 59 RBIs before landing on the DL. Manuel, who will also manage the National League squad at the July 14 Midsummer Classic, does not know if his star outfielder will be ready for the trip to St. Louis.

Ibanez appears in first rehab game

Raul Ibanez (groin) went 0-for-2 with a walk and a run over five innings with Double-A Reading in his first minor league rehab appearance since landing on the DL on June 18, according to MLB.com.

Our View: He'll play his second minor league game on Tuesday, rest on Wednesday, and then play again on Thursday before being re-evaluated. It remains to be seen whether or not Ibanez will be able to return to Philadelphia's lineup before the All-Star break, but he's certainly getting closer and closer to a return.

Raul Ibanez (groin) played five innings with Double-A Reading

Raul Ibanez (groin) played five innings with Double-A Reading in his first rehab stint Monday. He went 0-for-2 with a walk before being pulled. He didn't report any setbacks in his groin and is slated to play six or seven innings for Triple-A Lehigh Valley Tuesday. [...]

All-Star left fielder Raul Ibanez moved closer to returning

News: All-Star left fielder Raul Ibanez moved closer to returning to the Philadelphia Phillies, going hitless in two at-bats in his first rehab start with Double-A Reading on Monday. Ibanez, who has been sidelined with a strained left groin since June 18, didn't get any chances in five innings in the field. He had no problems running the bases after reaching on a walk and scored a run. "It felt better than I ever expected," Ibanez told reporters after the game. "I was moving around; it was pretty uneventful. I was very pleased with how it went." [...]

Ibanez set for rehab assignment

Raul Ibanez, who has been recovering from a strained left groin, is set to start his rehab assignment with Double-A Reading Monday, according to MLBblogs.com.

Our View: Ibanez still has a shot to play in the All-Star Game, barring a setback in his rehab. He is expected to need three games in his rehab stint. He still leads the Phillies with 22 homers despite not playing since June 17.

Raul Ibanez (groin) is set to play in a game for Double-A Reading

Raul Ibanez (groin) is set to play in a game for Double-A Reading on Monday. Ibanez could return for the final series before the break and then still play in the All-Star Game. [...]

Raul Ibanez (strained left groin) is expected to make his first

Raul Ibanez (strained left groin) is expected to make his first rehab appearance Monday when he joins Double-A Reading.

Analysis: Ibanez, who was named an NL starter in the All-Star Game, still isn't sure when he'll rejoin the Phillies. He suspects he'll play five innings Monday and take it from there. It's risky for weekly leaguers to activate him for the upcoming week, although daily leaguers should pay close attention to see if he returns by next weekend. The All-Star nod was the first for the outfielder, who has a .312 batting average with 22 home runs and 59 RBIs.

Ibanez (groin) is scheduled to play five innings in left field

Ibanez (groin) is scheduled to play five innings in left field for Double-A Reading on Monday, the Delaware News Journal reports. [...]

MLB.com reports that Phillies OF Raul Ibanez will start a rehab

News: MLB.com reports that Phillies OF Raul Ibanez will start a rehab assignment Monday with Double-A Reading. He is expected to get 10 to 12 at-bats. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez to begin rehab assignment Monday

MLB.com's Todd Zolecki posted on his Twitter page that Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) will play Monday, July 6, for Double-A Reading.

Raul Ibanez (groin) has yet to begin his rehab assignment. Ibanez

Raul Ibanez (groin) has yet to begin his rehab assignment. Ibanez will need about 12 minor league at-bats to get tuned up for his return to the majors, meaning he's still at least three days away. [...]

Raul Ibanez received a positive examination by Phillies team

Raul Ibanez received a positive examination by Phillies team doctors on Friday, but is still without a timetable for the beginning of a rehab assignment.

Analysis: It's a seeming paradox -- Ibanez is progressing, but seemingly no closer to beginning a rehab stint. Ibanez was supposed to begin his rehab at Double-A Reading on Wednesday, which was pushed back to Thursday and then scrapped all together. Despite missing time, Ibanez is fourth in the National League with 22 home runs and fifth with 59 RBIs. He will likely be named a starter for the All-Star Game when rosters are announced on Sunday. John Mayberry and Greg Dobbs will continue to split time in left field during Ibanez's absence.

Ibanez (groin) is making progress, but there's still no set

Ibanez (groin) is making progress, but there's still no set timetable for his minor league rehab assignment, the Phillies' official site reports. [...]

Exam reveals Ibanez is progressing

The Phillies have not decided when injured left fielder Raul Ibanez will begin a rehab assignment. Ibanez met with team physician Michael Cicotti on Friday.

Phillies | Team still unsure when Ibanez's rehab assignment will start

Updating previous reports, MLB.com's Todd Zolecki posted on his Twitter page that Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez's (groin) visit with Dr. Michael Ciccotti went well, but the team is still uncertain when his minor league rehab assignment will begin.

Raul Ibanez (groin) was examined by team physician Michael Ciccotti

Raul Ibanez (groin) was examined by team physician Michael Ciccotti on Friday, but it is still unknown when his rehab assignment will begin. No problems were reported in the exam. [...]

MLB.com reports that Raul Ibanez (groin) says he's feeling better.

News: MLB.com reports that Raul Ibanez (groin) says he's feeling better. "I mean, way better," Ibanez said before the team's game Friday against the Mets. However, he does still feel the strain in his groin. Twice he has been rescheduled to begin a rehab assignment with Double-A reading but he postponed both times because he wasn't comfortable with how he felt. Manager Charlie Manuel said Ibanez still feels the injury when he pushed off of his back side and when he has to twist or turn on the run. Ibanez won't likely begin a rehab assignment until at least Sunday. [...]

Ibanez (groin) may not begin his rehab assignment until Sunday,

Ibanez (groin) may not begin his rehab assignment until Sunday, the Phillies' official site reports. [...]

Ibanez feels better, but return date unknown

Though Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, reports improvement, he still feels the strain.

Phillies | Ibanez day-to-day

MLB.com's Todd Zolecki posted on his Twitter page that Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) will not begin his rehab assignment Friday, July 3, and might not at all this weekend. He is listed as day-to-day and will meet with a doctor Friday.

Phillies | Ibanez hoping to return Monday

The Philadelphia Inquirer's Andy Martino reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) is hoping to return Monday, July 6.

Ibanez (groin) had his first rehabilitation game delayed for

Ibanez (groin) had his first rehabilitation game delayed for the second straight day on Thursday, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

Ibanez (groin) had his first rehabilitation game delayed for

Ibanez (groin) had his first rehabilitation game delayed for the second straight day on Thursday, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

Ibanez could return Monday

The Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting that Phillies' outfielder Raul Ibanez could return to the team Monday if he plays a rehab game on Friday. Ibanez will need 10-to-12 at-bats before returning, so he will have to play today if he wants to return by the start of the week.

Our View: Ibanez was supposed to start his rehab two days ago, but he wasn't ready. The Phillies insist he has not suffered a setback, so we will have to see if he is ready to go today. Expect him to be ready at some point next week, barring some kind of serious setback.

Raul Ibanez (groin) could return to the Phillies' lineup Monday

Raul Ibanez (groin) could return to the Phillies' lineup Monday if he's able to play for Double-A Reading Friday night. Ibanez's rehab assignment has been delayed twice, but he's been able to fully participate in pregame workouts and should be close. [...]

Analysis: Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day DL since June 18 with a strained left groin, was originally scheduled to begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Reading on Wednesday. But that got pushed back to Thursday and then to Friday, which means Ibanez will not play against the Mets this weekend at Citizens Bank Park. "We're just trying to make sure that he doesn't get on the field unless he feels 100 percent," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "He hasn't had a setback. It's just a matter of him not being quite ready to get on the field and play at his accustomed level yet. ... We have to make sure that he's comfortable and he is not having any feeling or symptoms of the injury."

Fernando Tatis went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run, a stolen

Fernando Tatis went 3-for-4 with a two-run home run, a stolen base and four runs scored Thursday in a 9-8 win over the Pirates.

Analysis: Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, had been scheduled to begin a rehab assignment Wednesday with Double-A Reading. But that got pushed back to Thursday. Thursday then got pushed back to Friday, which means he will not play against the Mets this weekend at Citizens Bank Park. "We're just trying to make sure that he doesn't get on the field unless he feels 100 percent," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "He has improved. He hasn't had a setback. It's just a matter of him not being quite ready to get on the field and play at his accustomed level yet. When he's ready to do that, whether it's today or [Friday] or in five days, we have to make sure that he's comfortable and he is not having any feeling or symptoms of the injury.

Ibanez not coming back this weekend

Raul Ibanez will not be returning to the Phillies lineup this weekend, according to MLB.com.

Our View: The Phils are taking it slow with their 37-year-old star. He will likely be back around the All-Star game, and there is little need to worry about him being out longer.

Ryan Church went 3-for-6 with two RBIs and four runs scored

Ryan Church went 3-for-6 with two RBIs and four runs scored Thursday in a 9-8 win over Pittsburgh.

Analysis: Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, had been scheduled to begin a rehab assignment Wednesday with Double-A Reading. But that got pushed back to Thursday. Thursday then got pushed back to Friday, which means he will not play against the Mets this weekend at Citizens Bank Park. "We're just trying to make sure that he doesn't get on the field unless he feels 100 percent," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "He has improved. He hasn't had a setback. It's just a matter of him not being quite ready to get on the field and play at his accustomed level yet. When he's ready to do that, whether it's today or [Friday] or in five days, we have to make sure that he's comfortable and he is not having any feeling or symptoms of the injury.

With his rehab assignment pushed back to Friday, Raul Ibanez

With his rehab assignment pushed back to Friday, Raul Ibanez will not return from the 15-day DL during the July 3-5 weekend.

Analysis: Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, had been scheduled to begin a rehab assignment Wednesday with Double-A Reading. But that got pushed back to Thursday. Thursday then got pushed back to Friday, which means he will not play against the Mets this weekend at Citizens Bank Park. "We're just trying to make sure that he doesn't get on the field unless he feels 100 percent," Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "He has improved. He hasn't had a setback. It's just a matter of him not being quite ready to get on the field and play at his accustomed level yet. When he's ready to do that, whether it's today or [Friday] or in five days, we have to make sure that he's comfortable and he is not having any feeling or symptoms of the injury.

Raul Ibanez (groin) will not return to the Phillies' lineup

Raul Ibanez (groin) will not return to the Phillies' lineup this weekend. Ibanez had his rehab assignment pushed back yet again, as the Phillies want to ensure that he's 100 percent healthy before playing. [...]

Ibanez won't rejoin Phils this weekend

The Phillies said on Thursday that Raul Ibanez has not suffered a setback. Ibanez was scheduled to begin a rehab stint Wednesday, but it got pushed to Thursday, then got pushed to Friday, which means he will not play against the Mets this weekend at Citizens Bank Park.

Ibanez (groin) worked out on the field and hit in the indoor

Ibanez (groin) worked out on the field and hit in the indoor cage on Wednesday at Double-A Reading, but did not play in the game that evening, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]

The Delaware News Journal reports that Phillies OF Raul Ibanez's

News: The Delaware News Journal reports that Phillies OF Raul Ibanez's rehab assignment has been pushed back again, this time to Friday. [...]

Raul Ibanez had his rehab assignment pushed back yet again on

Raul Ibanez had his rehab assignment pushed back yet again on Thursday. Ibanez was originally supposed to begin playing games with Double-A Reading on Wednesday. [...]

Ibanez's rehab delayed

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Raul Ibanez's rehab start has been pushed back to either Thursday of Friday night.

Our View: Ibanez has been out the last couple weeks with a strained left groin, and the team wants to play it safe with their new prized slugger. He is eligible to come off the DL today, but that now seems like an impossibility. Don't expect to see him this weekend either. He could make it into the series against the Reds next week, but nothing is set in stone. Continue to stash him on your roster until he's ready to roll.

Raul Ibanez (groin) is expected to begin his rehab assignment

Raul Ibanez (groin) is expected to begin his rehab assignment either Thursday or Friday night. Ibanez was originally slated to get going Wednesday. "We decided to push it back a day or two, or whatever," he said. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez pushed back a day

The Philadelphia Daily News' Paul Hagen reports Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) will begin his rehab assignment Thursday, July 2, or the following day at Double-A Reading. "We decided to push it back a day or two, or whatever," Ibanez said. "We're just kind of playing it safe."

Raul Ibanez (groin) is expected to begin his rehab assignment

Raul Ibanez (groin) is expected to begin his rehab assignment either Thursday or Friday night. Ibanez was originally slated to get going Wednesday. "We decided to push it back a day or two, or whatever," he said. [...]

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, did not make a rehab appearance Wednesday with Double-A Reading, as some expected. Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest. Matt Diaz (LF)Jul 01 2009, 11:19 pm ET Bio | News Archive Matt Diaz went 3-for-5 with a two-run homer, his fourth, in Wednesday’s 11-1 win over the Phillies.

Analysis: Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest.

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, did not make a rehab appearance Wednesday with Double-A Reading, as some expected. Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest. Jair Jurrjens (P)Jul 01 2009, 11:01 pm ET Bio | News Archive Jair Jurrjens allowed just one hit and no earned runs in seven sharp innings against the Phillies to lift his record to 6-6.

Analysis: Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest.

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, did not make a rehab appearance Wednesday with Double-A Reading, as some expected. Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest. Jose Contreras (P)Jul 01 2009, 10:48 pm ET Bio | News Archive Jose Contreras was sharp once again on Wednesday, keeping the Indians at two earned runs on five hits and one walk and striking out eight over eight innings to earn his third victory.

Analysis: Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest.

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since

Raul Ibanez, who has been on the 15-day disabled list since June 18 with a strained left groin, did not make a rehab appearance Wednesday with Double-A Reading, as some expected. Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest. Troy Glaus (3B)Jul 01 2009, 10:28 pm ET Bio | News Archive Troy Glaus (shoulder) is moving his rehab east and could be playing in Minor League games by the end of next week.

Analysis: Ibanez is eligible to be activated Friday, but he might need at least 10 to 12 at-bats in the Minors before he is ready. That means he might not return until Sunday, July 5, at the earliest.

CSNPhilly.com reports that Raul Ibanez's Double-A rehab won't

News: CSNPhilly.com reports that Raul Ibanez's Double-A rehab won't begin until Thursday now as he was pushed back from starting on Wednesday. Ibanez is on the DL with a groin injury. He can come off the disabled list on Friday but likely won't until next week. He's expected to need 10 to 12 at bats before being activated. [...]

Ibanez not set to begin rehab just yet

Updating a previous report, Raul Ibanez will not begin a minor league rehab assignment for his injured groin on Wednesday night, according to the Philadelphia Daily News.

Our View: It is still unknown when Ibanez will begin a rehab assignment or return to the Phillies. Sometime around the All-Star break seems most likely.

From The Sports Xchange: LF Raul Ibanez (strained groin) reported

News: From The Sports Xchange: LF Raul Ibanez (strained groin) reported Tuesday to Double-A Reading, where he took batting practice and worked out. If he feels well enough, he may play for Reading on Wednesday, Phillies assistant GM Benny Looper said. Ibanez is eligible to be activated from the disabled list before Friday night's game against the Mets at Citizens Bank Park. But Looper believes Ibanez needs 10-12 at-bats in the minors before he'll be ready to play in the majors, and the Phillies won't rush his return, especially because groin injuries can easily reoccur if they aren't healed properly. Ibanez, who still leads the Phillies with a .312 average and 22 home runs despite not playing since June 17, also will be re-examined by team physician Michael Ciccotti before he returns. [...]

Despite previous reports, Raul Ibanez (groin) will not begin

Despite previous reports, Raul Ibanez (groin) will not begin a minor league rehab assignment Wednesday night. Ibanez is eligible to return from the disabled list Friday, but that obviously won't be happening. [...]

Phillies | Ibanez unlikely to be back this weekend

MLB.com's Todd Zolecki posted on his Twitter page that Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) is unlikely to return to the team this weekend. He also will not play for Double-A Reading Wednesday, July 1.

Phillies | Ibanez to begin rehab assignment

The Philadelphia Daily News' David Murphy reports the Philadelphia Phillies OF Raul Ibanez (groin) will begin a rehab assignment at Double-A Reading Wednesday, July 1. The team would like to get him 12 at-bats before he returns, and it's unlikely he'll return Friday, July 3.

Ibanez set for rehab assignment

According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, Raul Ibanez is set to begin a Double-A rehab assignment on Wednesday.

Our View: The team is playing it safe with the surprising slugger. They want to make sure he's 100 percent before bringing him back, so he'll play three or four games in Double-A before returning just to test out his ailing groin. Still, expect him back before the All Star break.

Raul Ibanez (groin) is scheduled to begin a minor league rehab

Raul Ibanez (groin) is scheduled to begin a minor league rehab assignment with Double-A Reading on Wednesday night. Ibanez ran in the bases, played catch and took batting practice in an indoor cage on Tuesday. [...]

Ibanez (groin) worked out with Double-A Reading Tuesday afternoon

Ibanez (groin) worked out with Double-A Reading Tuesday afternoon in preparation for a planned rehab appearance on Wednesday night, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. [...]