PHILADELPHIA -- When Mike Lieberthal opens the 2005 season as the Phillies' starting catcher for a ninth consecutive season, he'll be adding the distinction of starting more Opening Days for the same team than any other catcher in the National League. Jason Kendall had him beat, but he'll be suiting up for Oakland in 2005.

In the first story of a weekly series, we will break down each team, position-by-position, starting with catcher. Next week, we'll feature David Bell and Jim Thome, or the corner infielders.

Despite slipping some from his career-best .313 average of 2003, Lieberthal still had one of the better seasons for a catcher. He clubbed 17 homers -- third highest in the league and his best total since swatting 31 in 1999.

• Catchers: Lieby to return • Corner inf.: Models of consistency • Middle inf.: Utley takes over at 2nd • Outfielders: Lofton brings experience • Starting rotation: Lieber new ace • Bullpen: Wagner looking to rebound • Bench: Polanco keeps Phil's versatile

At 33, the former third overall pick in the 1990 First-Year Player Draft has been around long enough to develop an easy rapport with the pitchers.

Lieberthal admitted last season that constant booing from fans and a loss in confidence from manager Larry Bowa contributed to a poor frame of mind. If nothing else, that won't be the case this season, as Charlie Manuel brings a positive attitude to the clubhouse.

Working in Lieberthal's favor is the fact his health hasn't been a concern. Since returning from a knee injury that cost him most of the 2001 season, he has caught at least 130 games in each of the previous three seasons.

After Kendall, Lieberthal had the second-most at-bats (476) of any NL catcher.

Veteran Todd Pratt also returns for an eighth season in a Phillies uniform. His second stint in Philadelphia has lasted since midway through the 2001 season. He's a quality defensive catcher with occasional pop.

A.J. Hinch offers insurance. The veteran spent the 2004 season at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and got 11 at-bats in September. In previous years, he's popped a few homers as a backup catcher, and he still has the skills to do that.