Bill Mattis
AllStarInc

When you look at the current Phillies lineup, you see something that more closely resembles a spring training "split squad" batting order in Bradenton when half the regulars have been kept back in Clearwater.

Injuries have devastated the Phils’ squad, but there’s no use in crying over broken thumbs.

Instead, it’s time for the more healthy professionals on the squad to buckle themselves up and make up for the walking wounded.

There’s one guy in particular who is also playing for a very big pay day.  What better way to secure a large guaranteed contract than to strap the Phillies to his back?

Jayson Werth is looking to get a contract that ranks him among some of the top players in the game. 

Well, guess what Jayson?   Here’s your chance to show the world you actually deserve it.

While Werth’s numbers are good, he has been very streaky and that lack of consistency has likely made bidders a little bit cautious about jumping into the dollar pool with both feet.

There is a rumor surfacing that the Phils may possibly consider trading Werth in some sort of blockbuster trading deadline 3-way deal to re-acquire a top of the line starting pitcher (maybe even Cliff Lee).

Personally?  I can’t see this happening.  The lineup is already WAY too left handed and Werth represents one of the few solid right handed bats in the order.  Unless Ruben Amaro is prepared to make Ben Francisco an everyday player, I don’t see it happening.

It’s time for Jayson Werth to step up.  It’s time for Jayson Werth to prove he’s the “real deal”.  It’s time for Jayson Werth to play the way he thinks he needs to be paid.  “Average play” or worse, that just won’t cut it during this difficult stretch.

It’s not fair to put that kind of pressure on the guy?  Ok, then he doesn’t deserve the big bucks.

Look, Jayson deserves a pay day.  He’s come a long way, I certainly agree with that. 

After all, the $7.5 million he makes this year is well above the $2.5 million he made in 2009 and the $1.7 million he made in 2008.  Prior to that, Jayson’s contracts ranged from $200,000 to $850,000, so you know he has this next contract date circled in some big green magic marker.

But is he worth it? 

Here’s Jayson’s chance to show the world, and about 30 General Managers as well.