Officially, We Are THE Team to Beat!

Phillies' title defense officially kicks off
World Series champions return almost entire roster to camp

By Todd Zolecki / MLB.com

The Phillies' roster remains mostly the same, with the notable exception of Raul Ibanez replacing Pat Burrell in left field.

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Shortly after they assembled, they scattered across the Carpenter Complex.

On one field, pitchers took fielding practice.

On another, they stretched.

And in between fields, pitchers threw bullpen sessions with front-office staff watching closely from the side.

"It's great to get back here and see everybody," Phillies closer Brad Lidge said.

The Phillies officially opened Spring Training on Saturday with pitchers and catchers reporting to camp. The full squad reports Tuesday, but players like Ryan Howard and Chase Utley are already at Bright House Field.

Utley, who is recovering from surgery on his right hip, has been taking fielding practice and jogging. He also has been taking "dry swings" in the batting cage. He remains on target to be in the Phillies' lineup on Opening Day on April 5 against the Atlanta Braves. Howard, who said he is 20 pounds lighter than last season, is in good spirits after signing a three-year, $54 million contract extension last Sunday.