The biggest early-season storyline

We've had some great storylines to focus on after about a quarter of the season.

But it's hard to argue with Hal's emergence as the biggest one. No one expected much during his expansion year with a rag-tag group of keepers.

Yet, Hal, it appears, has firmly established himself as one of the top teams. Even more impressive, is that it seems Hal expected this.

When contacted this week, he was not boastful or cocky, but rather confident.


"You know, I try not to get too high or too low," Hal said. "I'm pleased with my team's early success, but our goal - even before the draft - was to put a competitive team out on the field and let our guys do the rest. I have to give credit to everyone in the organization, from the players to the scouts. Everyone has played a role in the Charlie Murphy!'s early success."

The expectations for Hal have been raised. He's on a four-game win streak in which he's been crushing opponents. He's made shrewd moves, and his draft has turned out to be a good one.

Andre Ethier, Dan Uggla, Paul Konerko and Carl Pavano have been great.

"I'm just happy that I was able to resurrect my managerial career," Hal said. "I've got a great group of guys in the locker room and I love coming to work every day. Day in and day out I just tell my guys to go out there and do their thing. If we play the way we're capable of, there's no doubt in my mind that good things will come."

Of course, the big horse on Hal's team has been Roy Halladay. When Shea took Miguel Cabrera first overall, Hal gladly and quickly scooped up Doc.

"I would have happily taken either of the two, but needless to say I'm ecstatic to have Doc on my club," Hal said. "Not only is he a Phillie, he's the best pitcher in baseball."

Hal replaced Richie, who couldn't handle the heat and competitiveness of this league. However, Richie, when told of Hal's 4-1 and first-place start, was gracious.

"He must have had a good draft," Richie said. "Upton and Reyes have been terrible. I hope he does well."

Hal absorbed some preseason ribbing, both in rankings and comments from other managers, specifically Mike. But now Mike is 2-3 and struggling. Hal, though, wouldn't take a shot at him when prompted.

"I realize that last time I was in a league with you guys I was more of a trash talker. At this point in my managerial career, I've matured a lot, and I'm at the point now where I do the best I can to put a competitive team on the field and let their play do the talking for me."

Hal has quickly adjusted to the league format. He wisely benched his players Sunday night, knowing he could only lose if they were in the lineup. We're four years in now, and there's some managers who still don't do that.

It's clear Hal is here to stay and here to make an impact.