Faith, Beer, and Other Things That Interest Geoff

Now. Is there a risk here? Sure. This is an awful lot of money for a guy who just doesn't see the value of a walk - a weird trait to have for a lead-off hitter. Even as Rollins has picked up his game at the plate, still he's drawn precisely one walk since May 25. That's right - one.

The Phillies now have committed $70.55 million to eight players next year. This team better be what the Phillies hope it is, because you're stuck with this group for a long time.

Now Rollins is certain to be among them. He's a bargain, relatively speaking, because in the crazy world of pro sports, $7.5 million in 2010 is almost certainly less than a player like Rollins would command. He's an elite defensive player and was the only player in the league last year to hit double digits in doubles, triples, homers and steals.

He's also this team's energy. Rollins is the Phillies' heartbeat, the guy who can get the park buzzing and the clubhouse going. And he wanted to stay.