The Phillies 25-man roster has been finalized and looks like this:

Catchers: Carlos Ruiz and Brian Schneider.

Infielders:  Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Placido Polanco, Wilson Valdez, and Michael Martinez.

Outfielders: Raul Ibanez, Shane Victorino, Hunter Pence, John Mayberry Jr., Ben Francisco and Ross Gload.

Pitchers: Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, Roy Oswalt, Ryan Madson, Brad Lidge, Antonio Bastardo, Mike Stutes, Vance Worley, Kyle Kendrick and Joe Blanton.

Blanton beat out David Herndon for the final pitcher’s spot.

Infielder Pete Orr and Catcher Erik Kratz are expected to travel with the team. Right-hander Justin De Fratus, left-hander Joe Savery and outfielder Domonic Brown will work out in Clearwater, Fla., to keep sharp in case they are needed later. Outfielders John Bowker and Brandon Moss and right-hander Michael Schwimer have been sent home for the offseason. - Phillies.com

Nine year-old Philadelphia-suburb native, Ryan White who was struck by a hit-and-run driver after leaving a Phillies/Giants game in San Francisco, is going to throw out the first-pitch in Game 1. The accident occurred on August 4th and Ryan was in critical condition when he was rushed to the hospital and treated for traumatic brain injury, damaged liver, broken pelvis and a broken leg. The driver who hit Ryan fled the scene but was later caught.  He was charged with driving under the influence and felony hit and run.

Thankfully Ryan is recuperating at home and doing much better.  He will be throwing the first pitch at 4:58 pm EDT and will be joined by his brother.

I’d like to wish my son Matt a huge Happy 12th Birthday!  Two years ago on this date, we celebrated his 10th birthday at a Phillies game where they clinched the NL East.  Hopefully today they get a win for him too!  Love ya Matt!

Check out Game 1 preview after the jump…

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