Grand Imperial Poobah: Dave Montgomery Out As Phillies President?

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) --- (Editor's Note) Stan Hochman, a Daily News sports columnist for 55 years, has been appearing on 94WIP's morning show for over a year now, settling disputes (and starting new ones) as the "Grand Imperial Poobah." He brings that persona to CBSPhilly.com/poobah on Tuesdays and Thursdays and we welcome input on which issues you want the Poobah to take a good, hard look at. Send requests and ideas for The Poobah to WIPpoobah@gmail.com. 

Without further ado, here's The Poobah.

Phil E. Phan: What does the Poobah make of the rumors that Dave Montgomery is out as president of the Phillies, and if so, how will that impact the future of the franchise?

Poobah: There is considerable fire to that smoke. Dave Montgomery got his job when the owners conspired to oust Bill Giles after the long delay in moving into a new stadium. They even sawed his office in half, which is cold.

This time, if it happens, John Middleton's fingerprints will be all over the move. He is very rich, having sold his tobacco interests for more than $3 BILLION. He is very competitive. He is weary of finishing last and wants to do something about it.He will start by buying shares from other, less competitive partners. He is willing to spend money, but he will want to see results. The Poobah can't see him approving a trade of Cole Hamels with the idea of patiently watching the prospects they get in return mature into major league ballplayers.

You can hear Stan "The Grand Imperial Poobah" Hochman on the 94WIP Morning Show every Thursday at 7:20am E.T. Send the Philadelphia sports issues you want The Poobah to tackle to WIPpoobah@gmail.com

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