So the ginormous contingent of national and TV media that has crowded the clubhouse at Bright House Field this week disappeared today. I believe there was only a half dozen reporters in camp today.

The die-hard, at-the-park-everyday contingent were rewarded with some news.

According to Charlie Manuel, "anyone can be beaten out" in the race for the fifth starter spot in the rotation, including Jamie Moyer. Manuel said its too soon to make any big statements, since Moyer is rehabbing his way back from two offseason surgeries, but the idea that the job was Moyer's to lose isn't exactly on target.

Manuel and Dubee have both been impressed with Kyle Kendrick. In the last year, Kendrick has grown up as a pitcher, perfecting a changeup and adding a cutter/slider to his repertoire.

Jose Contreras will also be stretched out as a starter (although his future is likey in the pen). When Grapefruit League play begins, it still appears to be a three-horse race with Kendrick, Moyer and Contreras getting a shot at the job.

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The other piece of news: Brad Lidge is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Monday.

Like Moyer, Lidge had two surgeries in the offseason (on his right elbow and right knee). He said he came into camp two weeks behind the health pitchers.

Pitching coach Rich Dubee: "Is he a little ahead of schedule? Yeah."