Breaking news this morning:

Cole Hamels is flying to Philadelphia today to get checked out by team physician Dr. Michael Ciccotti.

"He’s had a little bit of a persistent soreness in his elbow; we do not believe it’s serious," general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said. "But at least at this time we thought it was important for Dr. Ciccotti to check him out and see if there’s anything more serious than we think it is."

Amaro didn't sound overly concerned and used the word "cautious" about a dozen times in a five-minute media briefing.

He said it was a "possibility" Hamels could not be ready to pitch on Opening Day (April 5), but added that, as of right now, Hamels is "still on course for that."

Still, this is obviously something to keep a very close eye on...

Amaro said an MRI isn't scheduled, but that could change after Hamels consultation with Ciccotti Tuesday morning. Amaro said Hamels had a thorough physical before signing a three-year, $20.5 million contract in January.


I just walked around Bright House and saw Hamels. He was stretching with Joe Blanton, Jamie Moyer, Brett Myers and the rest of the guys not making the trip to Tampa today.

Although that doesn't tell you a whole heck of a lot, you can take two things from it: he's not laid up in a hospital bed (he's able to stretch/exercise) and he didn't look exactly like a guy bummed out that he has a sore arm.

Oh, now I just got word he's throwing, too. Again, maybe this is nothing to be concerned with.... but when your oft-injured ace flies back to Philly, I think it's kind of a big deal.