Philadelphia, PA

It was all about Hunter Pence when the Phillies won their fifth consecutive NL Eastern division title two weeks ago. Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, among other teammates doused the Phillies latest key mid-season acquisition with champagne and beer after bludgeoning the St. Louis Cardinals, who they will face in the NLDS.

"That whole experience was just awesome," Pence said. "It was everything I ever dreamed it would be. It was awesome. I love being part of this team."

Charlie Manuel feels the same about Pence. "He's been a great addition," Manuel said. "He's better than I thought he was. He's just been that good."

When Pence was acquired some pundits dwelled on negative numbers, such as excessive strikeouts. However, Pence has certainly been productive as a Phillie.

The long, lanky Texas native hit . 324 with 11 homers and 35 RBI in just 207 at bats since arriving from Houston. But it's much more than numbers when it comes to Pence. He changed the dynamic of the lineup. He is perfectly suited batting before or after Howard. It's much harder to pitch around the 'big piece' with Pence in the lineup.

"He makes it much more difficult on pitchers and managers," Howard said. "He's a big threat every time he steps up to the plate. He's dangerous. He makes a difference."

The numbers back that up. The Phillies average about a run more a game since picking up Pence.

The affable power-hitter, who accidentally came up with the popular 'Let's Eat' phrase,' also adds a burst of enthusiasm in a clubhouse filled with quiet leaders such as Howard, Chase Utley and Roy Halladay.

"I like to have fun playing ball," Pence said. "It's a good time and that feeling just comes out of me. But how could you not have fun on this team? It's so extraordinary and they're a great bunch of guys. I just want to do my part and take this team as far as it can go."

Pence is most appreciative since he literally went from worst to first after being dealt by the Astros. Pence is a huge rarity, he is part of a 100-plus win team and was part of a 100-loss team.

"There's no doubt that's kind of weird," Pence said. "It happened and I couldn't be happier about it. I don't have a bad thing to say about the Houston Astro organization. I had some great years and was treated very well there. It was awesome that they traded me to the Phillies of all teams. I can't thank them enough. Just being in this clubhouse with this group of guys is amazing. And then there is what t his team does on the field. It knows how to win and it's all about winning. I'm very lucky to be here."

Twitter: @ihavenet

Copyright © 2011 AHN - All Rights Reserved