Though Ruben Amaro did not add a relief pitcher at the deadline Sunday, he had done plenty already to make the Phillies what they had every opportunity to be: The team to beat in baseball.

They have been prone to ridiculous hitting slumps for more than a calendar year. There was one logical solution: Add a right-handed-hitting competitor to the middle of the lineup. That's what Hunter Pence will be for the Phillies.

He hit behind Ryan Howard, who had a home run and two doubles Saturday. he hit in front of Raul Ibanez, who had two home runs and the game-winning double in a 6-5, 10-inning victory Sunday over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Phils could use another right-handed bat off the bench. But if he does nothing else, Amaro has done his job. It's up to the players now.

Check out my column Monday in the Daily Times and on delcotimes.com