Game Recap:
The Phillies got seven strong innings from Brett Myers to go along with two Raul Ibanez home runs as they took the first game of their doubleheader against the Nationals.
What went right?
Brett Myers pitched seven great innings, allowing only two runs. He struck out eight and walked just two.
Raul Ibanez went 3-5 with two home runs.
Jayson Werth went 3-5 with a home run.
Jimmy Rollins went 2-4 with an RBI and raised his batting average to .207.
Brad Lidge pitched a scoreless ninth inning to pick up the save.
What went wrong?
Ryan Madson was shelled in the eighth inning. He allowed four hits and three runs, making an 8-2 game much closer than it should have been.
Eric Bruntlett started for Chase Utley, and went 0-4.
Game Analysis:
After last night's twelve inning marathon, the Phillies needed a good start out of Brett Myers. He was either going to have to dominate and stay in for most of the game, or get shelled and take it. Fortunately for the Phillies, Myers pitched a gem, going seven innings and allowing just two runs on three hits. He's looking better and better as the season is coming along, and that's certainly something to smile about. Not only that, but Brad Lidge finally got a save without giving up a run, which is another good thing.
Ryan Madson was hit hard, but that happens to almost every relief pitcher at least once during the season. Considering how well he's been throwing this year, I doubt that there's anything to worry about, at least not yet. If it continues, then I might get worried, but for now, I'll be happy with the fact that the Phillies had a six run lead going into the eighth inning.
As he has been for most of the season, Raul Ibanez was again on point in the first game. He started things off with a solo home run in the first inning, then capped it with a three run shot in the third that essentially wrapped the game up with the way Myers was pitching. Ibanez has killed the Nationals this year, with five of his homers coming against them. Maybe the Phillies should try and play them even more than they already do. I know it's still early in the season, but I don't think I've ever seen a player do so well for the Phillies this quickly after joining the team than Raul Ibanez. I certainly won't complain...have you seen how Pat Burrell is playing in Tampa? I think he misses Philly more than ever.
For all intensive purposes, this was the best way this first game could have played out for the Phils. They got a great start from Myers, some early offense and very little usage out of their bullpen. It's exactly what they needed. Their starting pitching is looking better and better, and if Lidge can actually save a few games in a row without having us clutch our chests, I think everything might still be OK. I just hope that Chase Utley can start to pull through, because Eric Bruntlett sure isn't very useful right now.
In about five minutes, the Phils start up game number two of the day. Andrew Carpenter will be making his Major League debut for the Phillies, as he takes on Daniel Cabrera (0-4, 4.98 ERA). Hopefully, the Phillies can keep up this little winning streak they're on right now. Go watch the game!
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