Pat Burrell arrived at the ballpark before 8 a.m. this morning to get treatment on his back.

Phils team trainer Scott Sheridan said the left fielder felt "significantly better," but Burrell's fate for today's game against the Brewers won't be determined until after he takes batting practice.

If the Phils deem he's not ready, Matt Stairs will take his place in the lineup (and play right field, moving Jayson Werth to left).

If Burrell can't start, Charlie Manuel said he'd also probably stay away from using the right-handed hitter in a pinch hit spot. The Phils also admitted that Burrell's availability for Thursday's game - when the Phils take on left-hander CC Sabathia - could be more crucial.

Expect a decision sometime before 2 p.m.