Game Recap:
Jamie Moyer wasn't as sharp as he could be, but the Phillies rode a four run fourth inning to their second straight win. Brad Lidge recorded his first save in almost a month.
What went right?
Chase Utley was 2-4 with two RBI.
Ryan Howard went 1-5 with an RBI.
Shane Victorino was 1-4 with an RBI.
Carlos Ruiz went 1-3 with an RBI.
The Phillies walked nine times.
Chan Ho Park, who apparently didn't suffer an exploded knee, as I first feared, pitched two shutout innings in relief of Jamie Moyer. He allowed no runs, no hits and struck out one.
Brad Lidge recorded his first save since June 1st against the Padres, allowing two men to reach base before closing the door.
What went wrong?
John Mayberry Jr was 0-5 with three strikeouts.
Jamie Moyer got the win, but he wasn't great, allowing four runs on five hits in five innings of work. He struck out four, walked two and allowed three home runs.
Game Analysis:
Wow, back to back wins for the Phillies for the first time since they finished up their last road trip...this is a good thing. Even though Moyer wasn't on his game tonight, the Phillies still managed to pull out a series win against a Toronto team that swept them just a week ago. The Phils even showed some patience at the plate today, walking nine times to counter the nine strikeouts they also had. Of course, Jayson Werth had four of those walks, but it was still good to see the Phillies not swinging at every last pitch.
I don't know if this is the start of a turnaround, but at least the Phillies looked alive for two straight games for the first time in two weeks. The offense looks like it's getting back on track, even with Jimmy Rollins still sitting on the bench. Chase Utley's picked up the slack, and if Shane and Werth can keep up with their efforts, the team might be ok. I'm still a little worried at pitcher, since Jamie got hit around a bit today and only made it through five innings, but seeing Brad Lidge pick up a save was worth it. Sure, he did it the typical Brad Lidge way, but he got the job done, and right now, that's the important thing.
If this is the start of a turnaround for the Phillies, I'd be very happy about it. Interleague play is done for another season, and even though the Phils took a beating, they're still in first place. That's where they need to be, and that's where they will hopefully stay. Remember, they didn't do that well in interleague play last year, and look where they ended up.
Tomorrow, the Phillies are off as they head to Atlanta to take on the Braves. Joe Blanton (4-4, 5.06 ERA) will face Derek Lowe (7-6, 4.53 ERA) on Tuesday.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Phillie of the Week: June 21-27
The Phillies started out this past week slowly, but looked like they were starting to come back together by the end of it. Even though he only appeared in one game this week, the Phillie of the Week is:
J.A. Happ
The young lefty pitched his first career complete game shutout on Saturday, defeating the Blue Jays 10-0. For the season, Happ is 5-0 with a 3.00 ERA. If he can keep up with this performance, the Phils will have one less thing to worry about as the season goes on.
J.A. Happ
The young lefty pitched his first career complete game shutout on Saturday, defeating the Blue Jays 10-0. For the season, Happ is 5-0 with a 3.00 ERA. If he can keep up with this performance, the Phils will have one less thing to worry about as the season goes on.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Chris Pronger is a Flyer...Believe it!
So, the first day of the NHL Draft was yesterday, and while other teams were making moves toward the long term future, the Flyers went and put all their chips on the table for next year.
The Flyers traded away Joffrey Lupul, defenseman Luca Sbisa, first-round picks in 2009 and 2010 and a conditional third-round pick in 2010 or 2011 to Anaheim for defenseman Chris Pronger and prospect Ryan Dingle. Yes, it's a huge trade for the Flyers, who gave up a lot to get Pronger. However, it's a trade that needed to be done, since the Flyers were hurting for a great defenseman.
Pronger gives the Flyers that edge on defense that they didn't have last season. He's a former Hart Memorial Trophy winner, as well as a Norris Award winner, and he brings size and performance to Philadelphia. Everywhere he's gone, the team has been good. Hell, he even got Edmonton to the Stanley Cup Finals. Either way, he's a huge upgrade for a defensive unit that needed a player like him last season.
What this move does is basically tell Philadelphia fans that the Flyers are going to try and make a run to the Stanley Cup this next season. Lupul was a good player, but the Flyers had six 20 goal scorers last year, and that's not counting Danny Briere or Claude Giroux, who both should score 20 this season. Two first round picks is a steep price, but it had to be done to bring in one of the best defensemen in the game. Pronger might not make the Flyers on the same level as Pittsburgh, but it certainly puts them closer, and in a seven game series, all you need to be is close. Better doesn't always win.
The Flyers traded away Joffrey Lupul, defenseman Luca Sbisa, first-round picks in 2009 and 2010 and a conditional third-round pick in 2010 or 2011 to Anaheim for defenseman Chris Pronger and prospect Ryan Dingle. Yes, it's a huge trade for the Flyers, who gave up a lot to get Pronger. However, it's a trade that needed to be done, since the Flyers were hurting for a great defenseman.
Pronger gives the Flyers that edge on defense that they didn't have last season. He's a former Hart Memorial Trophy winner, as well as a Norris Award winner, and he brings size and performance to Philadelphia. Everywhere he's gone, the team has been good. Hell, he even got Edmonton to the Stanley Cup Finals. Either way, he's a huge upgrade for a defensive unit that needed a player like him last season.
What this move does is basically tell Philadelphia fans that the Flyers are going to try and make a run to the Stanley Cup this next season. Lupul was a good player, but the Flyers had six 20 goal scorers last year, and that's not counting Danny Briere or Claude Giroux, who both should score 20 this season. Two first round picks is a steep price, but it had to be done to bring in one of the best defensemen in the game. Pronger might not make the Flyers on the same level as Pittsburgh, but it certainly puts them closer, and in a seven game series, all you need to be is close. Better doesn't always win.
Phillies Recap: Phillies-10, Blue Jays-0
Game Recap:
The Phillies rode J.A. Happ and Jayson Werth to a complete domination of Toronto this afternoon.
What went right?
J.A. Happ pitched his first career complete game shutout, allowing just five hits while striking out four and walking none.
Jayson Werth finished a triple short of the cycle, going 4-4 with two home runs and three RBI.
Ryan Howard went 3-4 with an RBI, two runs scored and a walk.
Pedro Feliz was 2-5 with two RBI.
Carlos Ruiz was 2-5 with two RBI.
Chris Coste went 2-5 with an RBI.
What went wrong?
Eric Bruntlett continued to exist, going 0-4.
John Mayberry went 0-4, but he scored a run.
Game Analysis:
I'm sorry, but where has this been the past two weeks? After getting the crap kicked out of them in three straight games, it's nice to see the Phillies actually act like World Champions again and shut out a Toronto team that I still don't think is up to Philadelphia's level. J.A. Happ was awesome today, and Jayson Werth looked great, too.
With the problems the pitching staff has been having lately, a complete game shut out had to be the best cure. J.A. Happ was on point all day, and his performance kept the Phils from ever having to use the bullpen, which has been taxed beyond belief lately. This was the best thing that could have happened for the Phils today, and scoring ten runs certainly helped, too.
The offense even looked better today, rocking Brad Mills so badly, his ERA went up five points. Jayson Werth hit a home run in the first inning that reached the top level of seats at the Rogers Centre, and then followed it up with another home run later in the game. This is the kind of production that the Phillies are going to need from their other players. Once Ibanez gets back, he, Howard and Utley can't do it all. They are going to need some help, and that's where Werth, Pedro Feliz and Carlos Ruiz come in, and all three did their jobs in this game. I know it's only one game, and I may have gotten too excited over the win over the Rays earlier this week, but any time the Phils can score ten runs, I'm happy.
Tomorrow, the Phillies say goodbye to interleague play, as Jamie Moyer (5-6, 5.97 ERA) takes on Brian Tallett (5-4, 4.36 ERA). Thank God interleague is over!
The Phillies rode J.A. Happ and Jayson Werth to a complete domination of Toronto this afternoon.
What went right?
J.A. Happ pitched his first career complete game shutout, allowing just five hits while striking out four and walking none.
Jayson Werth finished a triple short of the cycle, going 4-4 with two home runs and three RBI.
Ryan Howard went 3-4 with an RBI, two runs scored and a walk.
Pedro Feliz was 2-5 with two RBI.
Carlos Ruiz was 2-5 with two RBI.
Chris Coste went 2-5 with an RBI.
What went wrong?
Eric Bruntlett continued to exist, going 0-4.
John Mayberry went 0-4, but he scored a run.
Game Analysis:
I'm sorry, but where has this been the past two weeks? After getting the crap kicked out of them in three straight games, it's nice to see the Phillies actually act like World Champions again and shut out a Toronto team that I still don't think is up to Philadelphia's level. J.A. Happ was awesome today, and Jayson Werth looked great, too.
With the problems the pitching staff has been having lately, a complete game shut out had to be the best cure. J.A. Happ was on point all day, and his performance kept the Phils from ever having to use the bullpen, which has been taxed beyond belief lately. This was the best thing that could have happened for the Phils today, and scoring ten runs certainly helped, too.
The offense even looked better today, rocking Brad Mills so badly, his ERA went up five points. Jayson Werth hit a home run in the first inning that reached the top level of seats at the Rogers Centre, and then followed it up with another home run later in the game. This is the kind of production that the Phillies are going to need from their other players. Once Ibanez gets back, he, Howard and Utley can't do it all. They are going to need some help, and that's where Werth, Pedro Feliz and Carlos Ruiz come in, and all three did their jobs in this game. I know it's only one game, and I may have gotten too excited over the win over the Rays earlier this week, but any time the Phils can score ten runs, I'm happy.
Tomorrow, the Phillies say goodbye to interleague play, as Jamie Moyer (5-6, 5.97 ERA) takes on Brian Tallett (5-4, 4.36 ERA). Thank God interleague is over!
Phillies Recap: Blue Jays-6, Phillies-1
Game Recap:
Cole Hamels didn't make it out of the 5th inning, and the Phillies were no hit for six innings as they lost their third in a row.
What went right?
Nothing.
What went wrong?
Cole Hamels only lasted four and 2/3rds innings, allowing four runs on eight hits. He struck out four, walked two and was ejected from a game for the first time in his career.
Chan Ho Park was injured when he came in to replace Hamels, taking a line drive off his knee.
The Phillies managed only three hits and struck out eight times.
Game Analysis:
Ok Phillies, I think I understand you now. You want to look bad now, that way when you do your thing in September, everything will be ok, right? If that's not the case, this team had better start getting their asses in gear, because another game like this is going to drive me over the edge. You can tell that the frustration is starting to wear on the players, too. Cole was ejected for the first time ever, and Chase has been barking at umpires a lot lately. Even so, you can't blame an umpire when your team loses by five runs. He's not the one no hitting you for six innings. He's not the one allowing the other team to hit the ball all over the place against your starting pitching. The Phillies have to start taking responsibility for this horrible excuse of baseball, and they have to do it now.
The Marlins are just a game back, and the Mets are a half game back. Do the Phillies want to end up in third place after just one loss? It's about to happen. Jimmy's been sitting the past two games, so hopefully that helped him get his head back on straight. Ibanez will hopefully be back soon, but that's not going to help the pitching. The Phillies need to go out and get a top of the line pitcher to help Cole and the rest of the staff. Right now, Jamie Moyer is the number two guy in the rotation. That's not going to get it done. Antonio Bastardo wasn't the answer, and there's no one else in the minors that can help them as much as a top flight starter would. So...get your heads out of your asses, and Amaro, go get a PITCHER!
Today, J.A. Happ (4-0, 3.47 ERA) tries to put out the fire against Brad Mills (0-0, 9.82 ERA). I swear to all that is holy, if the Phillies don't score runs in this game...
Cole Hamels didn't make it out of the 5th inning, and the Phillies were no hit for six innings as they lost their third in a row.
What went right?
Nothing.
What went wrong?
Cole Hamels only lasted four and 2/3rds innings, allowing four runs on eight hits. He struck out four, walked two and was ejected from a game for the first time in his career.
Chan Ho Park was injured when he came in to replace Hamels, taking a line drive off his knee.
The Phillies managed only three hits and struck out eight times.
Game Analysis:
Ok Phillies, I think I understand you now. You want to look bad now, that way when you do your thing in September, everything will be ok, right? If that's not the case, this team had better start getting their asses in gear, because another game like this is going to drive me over the edge. You can tell that the frustration is starting to wear on the players, too. Cole was ejected for the first time ever, and Chase has been barking at umpires a lot lately. Even so, you can't blame an umpire when your team loses by five runs. He's not the one no hitting you for six innings. He's not the one allowing the other team to hit the ball all over the place against your starting pitching. The Phillies have to start taking responsibility for this horrible excuse of baseball, and they have to do it now.
The Marlins are just a game back, and the Mets are a half game back. Do the Phillies want to end up in third place after just one loss? It's about to happen. Jimmy's been sitting the past two games, so hopefully that helped him get his head back on straight. Ibanez will hopefully be back soon, but that's not going to help the pitching. The Phillies need to go out and get a top of the line pitcher to help Cole and the rest of the staff. Right now, Jamie Moyer is the number two guy in the rotation. That's not going to get it done. Antonio Bastardo wasn't the answer, and there's no one else in the minors that can help them as much as a top flight starter would. So...get your heads out of your asses, and Amaro, go get a PITCHER!
Today, J.A. Happ (4-0, 3.47 ERA) tries to put out the fire against Brad Mills (0-0, 9.82 ERA). I swear to all that is holy, if the Phillies don't score runs in this game...
Friday, June 26, 2009
Phillies Recap: Rays-10, Phillies-4
Game Recap:
Antonio Bastardo got knocked around after the Phils spotted him a four run first inning, and the Phillies dropped their tenth game out of their last twelve.
What went right?
Ryan Howard went 1-4 with two RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 2-4 with an RBI.
Matt Stairs was 1-2 with an RBI.
That's about it.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino went 0-4.
Jayson Werth was 0-3.
Eric Bruntlett was 0-4.
Carlos Ruiz went 0-3.
Antonio Bastardo was hit hard for the third straight time, allowing six runs in less than four innings. He walked three and struck out four.
Game Analysis:
I know this is late, but it took me a while to cool down after that horrible game last night. Plus, I'm in the middle of a ten hour shift, and finally got some computer time. Anyway, the Phillies are in the midst of their worst slump in two years, and nothing seems to be going right. Antonio Bastardo clearly isn't helping anymore, since a pitcher that only knows how to throw fastballs is going to get the crap kicked out of him once teams figure out that's his only pitch. That's happened, and Bastardo needs to go back to the minors, right now.
I don't even really know how to express how I feel about the Phillies right now. They had a chance to put some real ground between themselves and the rest of the NL East. Instead, now there are three other teams within two games of first place...and the Washington Nationals. Either way, this is getting really old. The Phillies should have been at least seven or eight games up on the rest of this division. Now, the other teams are waking up, and the Phils are still asleep. Jimmy Rollins can't hit the ball if it was the size of New Jersey, Raul Ibanez is still hurt, and Chase and Ryan can't do everything if no one else is getting on base. This team is missing that killer instinct that got them the championship last year, and until they find that again, they're going to continue to struggle and give me ulcers.
Tonight, Cole Hamels (4-3, 4.24 ERA) goes for the Phils in Toronto against Ricky Romero (4-3, 3.59 ERA). Please, Cole...do what you did last year. I'm begging you.
Antonio Bastardo got knocked around after the Phils spotted him a four run first inning, and the Phillies dropped their tenth game out of their last twelve.
What went right?
Ryan Howard went 1-4 with two RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 2-4 with an RBI.
Matt Stairs was 1-2 with an RBI.
That's about it.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino went 0-4.
Jayson Werth was 0-3.
Eric Bruntlett was 0-4.
Carlos Ruiz went 0-3.
Antonio Bastardo was hit hard for the third straight time, allowing six runs in less than four innings. He walked three and struck out four.
Game Analysis:
I know this is late, but it took me a while to cool down after that horrible game last night. Plus, I'm in the middle of a ten hour shift, and finally got some computer time. Anyway, the Phillies are in the midst of their worst slump in two years, and nothing seems to be going right. Antonio Bastardo clearly isn't helping anymore, since a pitcher that only knows how to throw fastballs is going to get the crap kicked out of him once teams figure out that's his only pitch. That's happened, and Bastardo needs to go back to the minors, right now.
I don't even really know how to express how I feel about the Phillies right now. They had a chance to put some real ground between themselves and the rest of the NL East. Instead, now there are three other teams within two games of first place...and the Washington Nationals. Either way, this is getting really old. The Phillies should have been at least seven or eight games up on the rest of this division. Now, the other teams are waking up, and the Phils are still asleep. Jimmy Rollins can't hit the ball if it was the size of New Jersey, Raul Ibanez is still hurt, and Chase and Ryan can't do everything if no one else is getting on base. This team is missing that killer instinct that got them the championship last year, and until they find that again, they're going to continue to struggle and give me ulcers.
Tonight, Cole Hamels (4-3, 4.24 ERA) goes for the Phils in Toronto against Ricky Romero (4-3, 3.59 ERA). Please, Cole...do what you did last year. I'm begging you.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Sixers take Jrue Holiday with the 17th pick
In case you're unaware, or too busy crying about Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett dying on the same day, the NBA Draft is going on right now. Going in, I had one hope for the Sixers as their pick got closer and closer...
Just take a point guard.
Even with all the guards coming off the board early, I still had hope that one would come to the Sixers. My mind was locked on either Eric Maynor or Ty Lawson, but as they came on the clock, I had another guy in mind, and the Sixers actually went and picked him. While Jrue Holiday only played one year at UCLA, he has a huge upside. His offensive game struggled in UCLA's slow down offense, and he is a solid defensive player. There were some slight concerns about a shoulder injury, but obviously, the Sixers thought he was too good to pass up. Considering both Lawson and Maynor went in the next few picks, he had better be. A lot of people were calling Holiday a lottery pick before the draft, so to have him fall to 17 could be a blessing for the good guys.
If everything goes according to plan, that's the last pick the Sixers have tonight. If something else happens, I'll be back on to update.
Just take a point guard.
Even with all the guards coming off the board early, I still had hope that one would come to the Sixers. My mind was locked on either Eric Maynor or Ty Lawson, but as they came on the clock, I had another guy in mind, and the Sixers actually went and picked him. While Jrue Holiday only played one year at UCLA, he has a huge upside. His offensive game struggled in UCLA's slow down offense, and he is a solid defensive player. There were some slight concerns about a shoulder injury, but obviously, the Sixers thought he was too good to pass up. Considering both Lawson and Maynor went in the next few picks, he had better be. A lot of people were calling Holiday a lottery pick before the draft, so to have him fall to 17 could be a blessing for the good guys.
If everything goes according to plan, that's the last pick the Sixers have tonight. If something else happens, I'll be back on to update.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Hey look! Philly sports news that isn't the Phillies!
A couple of other interesting bits of news tonight before I head off to bed to end this horrid hangover:
The 76ers today officially announced a change back to their classic red, white and blue logo. As far as I'm concerned, that's great news. I always loved the old Sixers' logo and gear, and am glad to see it back full time. Hopefully now, they can start playing like some of those older teams again.
The second bit is concerning Philadelphia's other winter sports team. The Flyers will be travelling to Boston to take on the Bruins in the Winter Classic at Fenway Park on New Year's Day next season. The original plan was to have Washington head up there, but NBC wanted a bigger market to play Boston, apparently. Either way, it should be a lot of fun to see the Flyers playing outside to kick off 2010.
The 700 Level: Sixers Announce Return of Old Logo
ESPN: Flyers to Play Bruins on New Year's Day
The 76ers today officially announced a change back to their classic red, white and blue logo. As far as I'm concerned, that's great news. I always loved the old Sixers' logo and gear, and am glad to see it back full time. Hopefully now, they can start playing like some of those older teams again.
The second bit is concerning Philadelphia's other winter sports team. The Flyers will be travelling to Boston to take on the Bruins in the Winter Classic at Fenway Park on New Year's Day next season. The original plan was to have Washington head up there, but NBC wanted a bigger market to play Boston, apparently. Either way, it should be a lot of fun to see the Flyers playing outside to kick off 2010.
The 700 Level: Sixers Announce Return of Old Logo
ESPN: Flyers to Play Bruins on New Year's Day
Phillies Recap: Rays-7, Phillies-1
Game Recap:
A close pitchers duel came undone in the bottom of the eighth inning, as a Jimmy Rollins fielding mistake broke the game open for the Rays.
What went right?
Jayson Werth went 2-4 with a home run and an RBI.
Joe Blanton pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on six hits. He walked two and struck out ten.
What went wrong?
The top four hitters in the lineup tonight (Jimmy, Shane, Chase and Ryan) went 0-12 with three walks.
Aside from Jayson Werth, the Phillies only managed two other hits.
Jimmy Rollins made a huge fielding mistake in the eighth inning that pretty much sealed the loss for the Phils.
The bullpen got lit up, thanks to that mistake. J.C. Romero allowed three runs on one hit and a walk, while Chan Ho Park gave up two runs on two hits.
Game Analysis:
Just when you thought the Phillies had turned the corner on their bad play, they end up right back there. With the bases loaded and Pat Burrell batting in the eighth inning, Chan Ho Park got Burrell to ground right to Jimmy Rollins. A throw to first would have ended the inning, and with the heart of the lineup coming up in the ninth, there would have at least been a chance for a run or two to score. Instead, Jimmy threw to second, and Ben Zobrist was safe. A run scored, then four more followed as the Rays kicked the door in.
I'm not putting all the blame on this loss on Jimmy. Trust me, there's plenty to go around. The offense didn't help Joe Blanton out at all, and that's a shame, because ten strikeout outings from Joe Blanton shouldn't be wasted. Since his poor start, the big boy has looked good. Now, if only he could get the offense to help him win some of these games.
It was not a good night for the Phillies at all. Their bullpen couldn't stop the Rays when they had to, their offense didn't exist and their fielding went to hell in the eighth inning. All of that led up to another loss that probably could have been avoided if just one or two mistakes had not been made. This isn't how the Phillies played last year, and they need to get back into that groove, or they're not going to get anywhere close to the World Series again this year.
Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo (2-2, 5.21 ERA) takes on Andy Sonnanstine (5-7, 6.60 ERA). Apparently, Joe Maddon likes to keep Sonnanstine in a lot during games. Hopefully, the Phillies can take advantage of that and win the series.
A close pitchers duel came undone in the bottom of the eighth inning, as a Jimmy Rollins fielding mistake broke the game open for the Rays.
What went right?
Jayson Werth went 2-4 with a home run and an RBI.
Joe Blanton pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on six hits. He walked two and struck out ten.
What went wrong?
The top four hitters in the lineup tonight (Jimmy, Shane, Chase and Ryan) went 0-12 with three walks.
Aside from Jayson Werth, the Phillies only managed two other hits.
Jimmy Rollins made a huge fielding mistake in the eighth inning that pretty much sealed the loss for the Phils.
The bullpen got lit up, thanks to that mistake. J.C. Romero allowed three runs on one hit and a walk, while Chan Ho Park gave up two runs on two hits.
Game Analysis:
Just when you thought the Phillies had turned the corner on their bad play, they end up right back there. With the bases loaded and Pat Burrell batting in the eighth inning, Chan Ho Park got Burrell to ground right to Jimmy Rollins. A throw to first would have ended the inning, and with the heart of the lineup coming up in the ninth, there would have at least been a chance for a run or two to score. Instead, Jimmy threw to second, and Ben Zobrist was safe. A run scored, then four more followed as the Rays kicked the door in.
I'm not putting all the blame on this loss on Jimmy. Trust me, there's plenty to go around. The offense didn't help Joe Blanton out at all, and that's a shame, because ten strikeout outings from Joe Blanton shouldn't be wasted. Since his poor start, the big boy has looked good. Now, if only he could get the offense to help him win some of these games.
It was not a good night for the Phillies at all. Their bullpen couldn't stop the Rays when they had to, their offense didn't exist and their fielding went to hell in the eighth inning. All of that led up to another loss that probably could have been avoided if just one or two mistakes had not been made. This isn't how the Phillies played last year, and they need to get back into that groove, or they're not going to get anywhere close to the World Series again this year.
Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo (2-2, 5.21 ERA) takes on Andy Sonnanstine (5-7, 6.60 ERA). Apparently, Joe Maddon likes to keep Sonnanstine in a lot during games. Hopefully, the Phillies can take advantage of that and win the series.
Phillies Recap: Phillies-10, Rays-1
Game Recap:
The Phillies jumped on David Price early, knocking him around for ten runs to break their six game losing streak.
What went right?
Chase Utley went 3-5 with a home run, a double, two runs scored and four RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with an RBI and a run scored.
John Mayberry Jr. was 1-4 with a three run home run.
Carlos Ruiz went 1-4 with an RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-3 with two walks, two runs scored and an RBI.
Jamie Moyer pitched six innings, allowing one run on five hits. He struck out four and walked three.
What went wrong?
Jimmy Rollins was 0-5...but he did reach on an error in the first inning and scored on Chase's double. Plus, he had an awesome catch off of an Evan Longoria drive that hit a speaker.
Pedro Feliz was 0-4.
Game Analysis:
A World Series rematch, against one of the hotter teams in baseball, with the new young super pitcher on the mound. Not exactly the best way to stop a losing streak, right? Well, if you're the Philadelphia Phillies, this situation couldn't have come at a better time. David Price was knocked silly last night, and didn't even make it out of the fifth inning against the suddenly hot bats of the Phils. I don't know where this Phillies team was while they dropped eight of nine at home, but if all it takes for them to win is to put them in their road uniforms and let them bat first, then I'm all for it.
This is the best game the Phillies have played since their last road trip. Almost everything went right from the start. Both Jimmy and Shane reached base, and the big boys drove them in, with Chase leading the way. Jamie Moyer looked great on the mound, as he kept the Rays off balance for six strong innings. Of course, having a 6-0 lead before you even get out on the mound is a great way to build your pitcher's confidence, even though Jamie doesn't need anything like that.
Sure, the scoring only came in two innings, but this was a great sign. Hopefully, the Phillies can turn this into a winning streak now, especially with the Mets dangling so close to .500. There's only two more weeks until the All Star break, so the Phils need to get some space between them and the rest of the NL East as quickly as possible.
Today, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.28 ERA) looks to keep the good mojo going, as he faces Matt Garza (4-5, 3.83 ERA). It's like the 2008 World Series all over again...go Phillies!
The Phillies jumped on David Price early, knocking him around for ten runs to break their six game losing streak.
What went right?
Chase Utley went 3-5 with a home run, a double, two runs scored and four RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with an RBI and a run scored.
John Mayberry Jr. was 1-4 with a three run home run.
Carlos Ruiz went 1-4 with an RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-3 with two walks, two runs scored and an RBI.
Jamie Moyer pitched six innings, allowing one run on five hits. He struck out four and walked three.
What went wrong?
Jimmy Rollins was 0-5...but he did reach on an error in the first inning and scored on Chase's double. Plus, he had an awesome catch off of an Evan Longoria drive that hit a speaker.
Pedro Feliz was 0-4.
Game Analysis:
A World Series rematch, against one of the hotter teams in baseball, with the new young super pitcher on the mound. Not exactly the best way to stop a losing streak, right? Well, if you're the Philadelphia Phillies, this situation couldn't have come at a better time. David Price was knocked silly last night, and didn't even make it out of the fifth inning against the suddenly hot bats of the Phils. I don't know where this Phillies team was while they dropped eight of nine at home, but if all it takes for them to win is to put them in their road uniforms and let them bat first, then I'm all for it.
This is the best game the Phillies have played since their last road trip. Almost everything went right from the start. Both Jimmy and Shane reached base, and the big boys drove them in, with Chase leading the way. Jamie Moyer looked great on the mound, as he kept the Rays off balance for six strong innings. Of course, having a 6-0 lead before you even get out on the mound is a great way to build your pitcher's confidence, even though Jamie doesn't need anything like that.
Sure, the scoring only came in two innings, but this was a great sign. Hopefully, the Phillies can turn this into a winning streak now, especially with the Mets dangling so close to .500. There's only two more weeks until the All Star break, so the Phils need to get some space between them and the rest of the NL East as quickly as possible.
Today, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.28 ERA) looks to keep the good mojo going, as he faces Matt Garza (4-5, 3.83 ERA). It's like the 2008 World Series all over again...go Phillies!
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Phillies Recap: Orioles-2, Phillies-1
Game Recap:
Cole Hamels pitched eight strong innings, but the Phillies could only muster four hits and one run as they dropped their sixth game in a row.
What went right?
Shane Victorino was 2-3.
Greg Dobbs went 1-3 with a home run.
Cole Hamels pitched eight innings, struck out ten and walked none. He allowed two runs on nine hits.
What went wrong?
Aside from Victorino and Dobbs, the rest of the offense went a combined 1-25 with one walk and three strikeouts.
That's all that needs to be said.
Game Analysis:
Thank God that the Mets have been sucking almost as bad as the Phillies lately, or else the Phils would be looking up at New York again. A second straight sweep finished off a 1-8 homestand for the Phillies, and nothing seemed to look right in either of the last two series. Today was just more of the same, as Cole Hamels pitched his heart out, but got no help from the offense. That's how it's been for the past week. When a pitcher goes eight innings, strikes out ten batters and allows only two runs, he should win that game. Instead, Hamels took the loss against a pitcher with an ERA over 5.00, who managed to hold the Phillies to just four hits on the day. Yes, Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez weren't in the lineup, but that shouldn't matter. The Phillies were playing the Baltimore Orioles.
If the Phillies had even played .500 ball on this homestand, they'd have at least a five game lead on the Mets. What they did instead was give the Mets a chance to claw back into the NL East race before the All Star break. Not only that, but the Braves are slowly catching up as well. You can't waste games like this from Cole Hamels, and you certainly can't go 0-6 at home against two teams scraping the bottom of the American League East. I know the Phillies don't play well in June under Charlie Manuel, but that's no excuse. This team has gotten complacent right now, and it needs a good kick in the ass to get it going again. Last year's team never looked this lost...and I hope this year's can get that feeling back, because they need it, now.
The Phils have on off day tomorrow (they say it's for their carnival, but I think it's for my birthday), before they head to Tampa to take on Pat Burrell and the Rays. Jamie Moyer (4-6, 6.35 ERA), goes against David Price (1-1, 3.46 ERA). Hopefully, this goes as well as the World Series last year, only without the Backstreet Boys butchering the National Anthem.
Cole Hamels pitched eight strong innings, but the Phillies could only muster four hits and one run as they dropped their sixth game in a row.
What went right?
Shane Victorino was 2-3.
Greg Dobbs went 1-3 with a home run.
Cole Hamels pitched eight innings, struck out ten and walked none. He allowed two runs on nine hits.
What went wrong?
Aside from Victorino and Dobbs, the rest of the offense went a combined 1-25 with one walk and three strikeouts.
That's all that needs to be said.
Game Analysis:
Thank God that the Mets have been sucking almost as bad as the Phillies lately, or else the Phils would be looking up at New York again. A second straight sweep finished off a 1-8 homestand for the Phillies, and nothing seemed to look right in either of the last two series. Today was just more of the same, as Cole Hamels pitched his heart out, but got no help from the offense. That's how it's been for the past week. When a pitcher goes eight innings, strikes out ten batters and allows only two runs, he should win that game. Instead, Hamels took the loss against a pitcher with an ERA over 5.00, who managed to hold the Phillies to just four hits on the day. Yes, Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez weren't in the lineup, but that shouldn't matter. The Phillies were playing the Baltimore Orioles.
If the Phillies had even played .500 ball on this homestand, they'd have at least a five game lead on the Mets. What they did instead was give the Mets a chance to claw back into the NL East race before the All Star break. Not only that, but the Braves are slowly catching up as well. You can't waste games like this from Cole Hamels, and you certainly can't go 0-6 at home against two teams scraping the bottom of the American League East. I know the Phillies don't play well in June under Charlie Manuel, but that's no excuse. This team has gotten complacent right now, and it needs a good kick in the ass to get it going again. Last year's team never looked this lost...and I hope this year's can get that feeling back, because they need it, now.
The Phils have on off day tomorrow (they say it's for their carnival, but I think it's for my birthday), before they head to Tampa to take on Pat Burrell and the Rays. Jamie Moyer (4-6, 6.35 ERA), goes against David Price (1-1, 3.46 ERA). Hopefully, this goes as well as the World Series last year, only without the Backstreet Boys butchering the National Anthem.
Phillie of the Week: June 14-20
You know what? After the way the Phillies played this week, no one deserves to be named Phillie of the Week. Instead, I'm giving it to another Philadelphia broadcasting legend that passed away well before his time:
Gary Papa
Like Harry Kalas, I could always count on Gary being there on Action News at six. I'll never forget the time I actually met him in Canton at the NFL Hall of Fame when the Eagles were playing out there. My buddy got put in front of a camera and basically cut an early 1990s wrestling promo about the Eagles winning the Super Bowl while I danced in the background. It was the first time I ever saw Gary Papa at a loss for words.
RIP Gary...you were one of the good guys.
Gary Papa
Like Harry Kalas, I could always count on Gary being there on Action News at six. I'll never forget the time I actually met him in Canton at the NFL Hall of Fame when the Eagles were playing out there. My buddy got put in front of a camera and basically cut an early 1990s wrestling promo about the Eagles winning the Super Bowl while I danced in the background. It was the first time I ever saw Gary Papa at a loss for words.
RIP Gary...you were one of the good guys.
Phillies Recap: Orioles-6, Phillies-5
Game Recap:
Ryan Howard's pinch hit three run home run in the seventh inning put the Phillies on top, but Ryan Madson gave up three runs in the ninth inning to send the Phils to their fifth straight loss.
What went right?
Chase Utley went 1-4 with an RBI and a run scored.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with a run scored.
Greg Dobbs went 2-3 with an RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard, who was hospitalized early on Saturday, hit a pinch hit three run home run in his only at bat.
J.A. Happ had a "hold on for dear life" game, but he pitched ok, allowing only two runs on ten hits. He walked four and struck out four.
What went wrong?
Ryan Madson blew his second straight save, giving up three runs in the top of the ninth inning on two home runs.
Jimmy Rollins went 0-3.
Jayson Werth was 0-4.
Pedro Feliz went 0-4.
Game Analysis:
Ok, I am officially sick of the way the Phillies have been playing on this homestand. One win in eight games is not good enough, even with the Mets sucking almost as badly. The issue is the Phillies are playing teams that they should beat, and they're not getting it done.
Look at last night...before the seventh inning, the Phillies managed all of two hits against a rookie pitcher. Then, after getting a clutch pinch hit home run from a man who was in the hospital before the game, the bullpen blew it again. Last year, the Phils were 78-0 when leading after eight innings. This year, they're 28-6. Those numbers right there are the difference between a World Series championship team, and a team that gets knocked out early in the playoffs. The mojo has worn off, something has to change. Ryan Madson isn't effective (in fact, I called the home run that gave Baltimore the lead right before it was hit), Raul Ibanez is on the DL, Ryan Howard is in the hospital again today and Jimmy Rollins is just off this year. I'm just glad that people finally realized the honeymoon is over, because maybe a bunch of pissed off fans will be just what this team needs to wake them up.
Today, Cole Hamels (4-2, 4.48 ERA) takes on Jeremy Guthrie (4-7, 5.42 ERA). Please Cole...just pitch the whole game.
Ryan Howard's pinch hit three run home run in the seventh inning put the Phillies on top, but Ryan Madson gave up three runs in the ninth inning to send the Phils to their fifth straight loss.
What went right?
Chase Utley went 1-4 with an RBI and a run scored.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with a run scored.
Greg Dobbs went 2-3 with an RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard, who was hospitalized early on Saturday, hit a pinch hit three run home run in his only at bat.
J.A. Happ had a "hold on for dear life" game, but he pitched ok, allowing only two runs on ten hits. He walked four and struck out four.
What went wrong?
Ryan Madson blew his second straight save, giving up three runs in the top of the ninth inning on two home runs.
Jimmy Rollins went 0-3.
Jayson Werth was 0-4.
Pedro Feliz went 0-4.
Game Analysis:
Ok, I am officially sick of the way the Phillies have been playing on this homestand. One win in eight games is not good enough, even with the Mets sucking almost as badly. The issue is the Phillies are playing teams that they should beat, and they're not getting it done.
Look at last night...before the seventh inning, the Phillies managed all of two hits against a rookie pitcher. Then, after getting a clutch pinch hit home run from a man who was in the hospital before the game, the bullpen blew it again. Last year, the Phils were 78-0 when leading after eight innings. This year, they're 28-6. Those numbers right there are the difference between a World Series championship team, and a team that gets knocked out early in the playoffs. The mojo has worn off, something has to change. Ryan Madson isn't effective (in fact, I called the home run that gave Baltimore the lead right before it was hit), Raul Ibanez is on the DL, Ryan Howard is in the hospital again today and Jimmy Rollins is just off this year. I'm just glad that people finally realized the honeymoon is over, because maybe a bunch of pissed off fans will be just what this team needs to wake them up.
Today, Cole Hamels (4-2, 4.48 ERA) takes on Jeremy Guthrie (4-7, 5.42 ERA). Please Cole...just pitch the whole game.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Phillies Recap: Orioles-7, Phillies-2
Game Recap:
The Phillies couldn't get back on the winning side of the game tonight, as they dropped their fourth straight game in interleague play.
What went right?
Jayson Werth went 2-4 with two RBI.
John Mayberry Jr. was 2-4 with a double.
Shane Victorino went 1-2 with two walks and a run scored.
Antonio Bastardo didn't pitch poorly, allowing four runs in six innings while striking out five and walking none.
What went wrong?
Jimmy Rollins was 0-3.
Chase Utley was 0-5.
Pedro Feliz went 0-4.
Jack Taschner got shelled, again. He gave up three runs in two innings on five hits. He struck out one and walked one.
Game Analysis:
Ok, this has to end, right now. I was ok with dropping a few games to Boston, because they're the freaking Red Sox. Now, the Phillies have lost four games in a row, to three no name pitchers from the Blue Jays, and one to the last place Baltimore Orioles. If the team is pitching well, then the bats go cold. If they're hitting well, the bullpen or starting pitching falls apart. If they're getting good pitching and hitting, then the defense lets them down. This doesn't feel like the same kind of swoon that the Phils got into at this point last year. This feels like something different, and I don't like it.
The Orioles are not supposed to come into Philadelphia and win this easily. Hell, they're not supposed to win here at all. The fans need to start getting on this team again, because the World Series honeymoon is over, as far as I'm concerned. When the pitching staff starts getting lit up by guys like Adam Jones, Matt Wieters and Nolan Reimold, and the lineup gets shut down by Rich Hill, who had an ERA over 5.50 going into tonight, something has to be done. This team needs a swift kick in the ass before the Mets run past us so fast, they leave a dust version of themselves, like in the old cartoons.
Ugh...this is frustrating right now. What happened to my championship Phillies?
Tomorrow, J.A. Happ (4-0, 3.53 ERA) tries his hand at getting the Phils back where they should be, as he faces Brad Bergesen (4-2, 3.79 ERA). Come on Phillies, just win one.
The Phillies couldn't get back on the winning side of the game tonight, as they dropped their fourth straight game in interleague play.
What went right?
Jayson Werth went 2-4 with two RBI.
John Mayberry Jr. was 2-4 with a double.
Shane Victorino went 1-2 with two walks and a run scored.
Antonio Bastardo didn't pitch poorly, allowing four runs in six innings while striking out five and walking none.
What went wrong?
Jimmy Rollins was 0-3.
Chase Utley was 0-5.
Pedro Feliz went 0-4.
Jack Taschner got shelled, again. He gave up three runs in two innings on five hits. He struck out one and walked one.
Game Analysis:
Ok, this has to end, right now. I was ok with dropping a few games to Boston, because they're the freaking Red Sox. Now, the Phillies have lost four games in a row, to three no name pitchers from the Blue Jays, and one to the last place Baltimore Orioles. If the team is pitching well, then the bats go cold. If they're hitting well, the bullpen or starting pitching falls apart. If they're getting good pitching and hitting, then the defense lets them down. This doesn't feel like the same kind of swoon that the Phils got into at this point last year. This feels like something different, and I don't like it.
The Orioles are not supposed to come into Philadelphia and win this easily. Hell, they're not supposed to win here at all. The fans need to start getting on this team again, because the World Series honeymoon is over, as far as I'm concerned. When the pitching staff starts getting lit up by guys like Adam Jones, Matt Wieters and Nolan Reimold, and the lineup gets shut down by Rich Hill, who had an ERA over 5.50 going into tonight, something has to be done. This team needs a swift kick in the ass before the Mets run past us so fast, they leave a dust version of themselves, like in the old cartoons.
Ugh...this is frustrating right now. What happened to my championship Phillies?
Tomorrow, J.A. Happ (4-0, 3.53 ERA) tries his hand at getting the Phils back where they should be, as he faces Brad Bergesen (4-2, 3.79 ERA). Come on Phillies, just win one.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Phillies Recap: Blue Jays-8, Phillies-7
Game Recap:
Joe Blanton wasn't great, but the bullpen failed to do its job for the second time in three games as the Phillies were swept by Toronto.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 3-4 with a home run, two runs scored and two RBI.
Shane Victorino went 2-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Jayson Werth was 1-4 with his third home run in as many games and two RBI.
John Mayberry Jr. went 2-5 with a home run and an RBI.
Greg Dobbs was 1-1 with a pinch hit home run in the eighth inning.
What went wrong?
Joe Blanton wasn't great, allowing four runs in 5 and 1/3rds innings. He allowed nine hits, walked one and struck out two.
The bullpen was even worse, giving up four runs on seven hits the rest of the way. Ryan Madson took the loss after giving up a home run to Rod Barajas.
Ryan Howard was 1-5 with three strikeouts.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-2.
The Phillies struck out nine times and left nine men on base.
Raul Ibanez was put on the 15 game DL before the game.
Game Analysis:
What the hell happened to the team that was going through a tough road trip like it was nothing? After six games at home, the Phils are 1-5, and are looking nothing like the WFCs that we all loved from last year. The starting pitching is regressing, the bullpen is horrible, the defense has committed eight errors in a week and the offense looks worse than it has all season. Something has to be done, and fast.
Look at the last two series. You can argue that the Phils should have taken two of three from the Red Sox and the Blue Jays. What happened instead? They won one out of the six games against those two teams. It may not look like that much now, since the Phillies are in first place, but if it comes down to a handful of games at the end of the year, it's series like those two that can come back and bite this team right in the ass. Now, with Raul Ibanez out for at least the next two weeks, the rest of this team is going to have to step up. That means that someone is going to have to take charge in the locker room, rally the troops, and get them ready to kick ass again. I don't care who it is, if it's Jimmy, Chase, Ryan, Shane, anyone. Someone has to do it, because when I'm watching the Phillies get beat by Rod Barajas, something has to change.
Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo (2-1, 5.25 ERA) will hopefully end this losing streak, as he faces off against Baltimore's Rich Hill (2-1, 5.81 ERA).
ESPN: Raul Ibanez placed on 15 day DL with groin strain.
Joe Blanton wasn't great, but the bullpen failed to do its job for the second time in three games as the Phillies were swept by Toronto.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 3-4 with a home run, two runs scored and two RBI.
Shane Victorino went 2-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Jayson Werth was 1-4 with his third home run in as many games and two RBI.
John Mayberry Jr. went 2-5 with a home run and an RBI.
Greg Dobbs was 1-1 with a pinch hit home run in the eighth inning.
What went wrong?
Joe Blanton wasn't great, allowing four runs in 5 and 1/3rds innings. He allowed nine hits, walked one and struck out two.
The bullpen was even worse, giving up four runs on seven hits the rest of the way. Ryan Madson took the loss after giving up a home run to Rod Barajas.
Ryan Howard was 1-5 with three strikeouts.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-2.
The Phillies struck out nine times and left nine men on base.
Raul Ibanez was put on the 15 game DL before the game.
Game Analysis:
What the hell happened to the team that was going through a tough road trip like it was nothing? After six games at home, the Phils are 1-5, and are looking nothing like the WFCs that we all loved from last year. The starting pitching is regressing, the bullpen is horrible, the defense has committed eight errors in a week and the offense looks worse than it has all season. Something has to be done, and fast.
Look at the last two series. You can argue that the Phils should have taken two of three from the Red Sox and the Blue Jays. What happened instead? They won one out of the six games against those two teams. It may not look like that much now, since the Phillies are in first place, but if it comes down to a handful of games at the end of the year, it's series like those two that can come back and bite this team right in the ass. Now, with Raul Ibanez out for at least the next two weeks, the rest of this team is going to have to step up. That means that someone is going to have to take charge in the locker room, rally the troops, and get them ready to kick ass again. I don't care who it is, if it's Jimmy, Chase, Ryan, Shane, anyone. Someone has to do it, because when I'm watching the Phillies get beat by Rod Barajas, something has to change.
Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo (2-1, 5.25 ERA) will hopefully end this losing streak, as he faces off against Baltimore's Rich Hill (2-1, 5.81 ERA).
ESPN: Raul Ibanez placed on 15 day DL with groin strain.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Phillies Recap: Blue Jays-7, Phillies-1
Game Recap:
The Blue Jays jumped all over the Phillies early, scoring four runs in the first two innings as they coasted to their second straight win.
What went right?
Not a whole lot.
Shane Victorino was 2-4.
Jayson Werth went 1-4 with a home run and the only RBI for the Phils.
What went wrong?
Jamie Moyer was shelled, allowing six runs in six innings on ten hits. He struck out six and walked two.
Jimmy Rollins was 0-4.
Chase Utley was 0-4.
Raul Ibanez went 0-3.
The Phillies struck out 12 times and walked only three against a young pitcher, and only one of those walks came against him.
Game Analysis:
After losing a game they should have won last night, the Phillies came out tonight and looked flat. Jamie Moyer got knocked around right out of the gate, and it was all downhill from there. Scott Richmond just dominated the Phillies tonight, making it two games in a row that the Phils couldn't find an answer for a young pitcher. The offense has looked jumpy ever since interleague play started, and I don't know if it's because they're facing American League pitchers or not, but I don't like it. The strikeouts are starting to pile up, and this is not the Phillies team that just got back from a great road trip.
Ever since the Phillies got back to Citizens Bank Park, they have not looked good. The pitching has been off again, and the offense, with the exception of Sunday, hasn't been great. Even Raul Ibanez is struggling right now, and that's certainly not a good thing, since he's been the driving force in the offense for most of the first half of the season. Something has to happen, and soon, for this team to get back together. They've got interleague games until the end of June, so they can't go through the same rough patch that they did last year. These wins have got to start coming again.
Tomorrow, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.17 ERA) goes against Brad Mills, who is making his Major League debut. This is the third young pitcher in a row Toronto has thrown at the Phillies...maybe they can at least beat up on one of them.
The Blue Jays jumped all over the Phillies early, scoring four runs in the first two innings as they coasted to their second straight win.
What went right?
Not a whole lot.
Shane Victorino was 2-4.
Jayson Werth went 1-4 with a home run and the only RBI for the Phils.
What went wrong?
Jamie Moyer was shelled, allowing six runs in six innings on ten hits. He struck out six and walked two.
Jimmy Rollins was 0-4.
Chase Utley was 0-4.
Raul Ibanez went 0-3.
The Phillies struck out 12 times and walked only three against a young pitcher, and only one of those walks came against him.
Game Analysis:
After losing a game they should have won last night, the Phillies came out tonight and looked flat. Jamie Moyer got knocked around right out of the gate, and it was all downhill from there. Scott Richmond just dominated the Phillies tonight, making it two games in a row that the Phils couldn't find an answer for a young pitcher. The offense has looked jumpy ever since interleague play started, and I don't know if it's because they're facing American League pitchers or not, but I don't like it. The strikeouts are starting to pile up, and this is not the Phillies team that just got back from a great road trip.
Ever since the Phillies got back to Citizens Bank Park, they have not looked good. The pitching has been off again, and the offense, with the exception of Sunday, hasn't been great. Even Raul Ibanez is struggling right now, and that's certainly not a good thing, since he's been the driving force in the offense for most of the first half of the season. Something has to happen, and soon, for this team to get back together. They've got interleague games until the end of June, so they can't go through the same rough patch that they did last year. These wins have got to start coming again.
Tomorrow, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.17 ERA) goes against Brad Mills, who is making his Major League debut. This is the third young pitcher in a row Toronto has thrown at the Phillies...maybe they can at least beat up on one of them.
Phillies Recap: Blue Jays-8, Phillies-3
Game Recap:
Ryan Madson blew his second save of the season, then the wheels fell off the bullpen in the 10th as the Phillies dropped the series opener to the Blue Jays.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-5 with a run scored.
Chase Utley went 3-4 with an RBI, a walk and a run scored.
Jayson Werth went 1-5 with a two run home run.
Cole Hamels pitched six decent innings, allowing two runs on seven hits. He walked two and struck out six.
What went wrong?
Raul Ibanez's 13 game hit streak came to an end, as he went 0-5 with three strikeouts.
Ryan Howard struck out three times and committed his third error in less than a week.
Pedro Feliz was 0-4.
Carlos Ruiz went 0-4.
Ryan Madson blew his second save of the season by walking in the tying run in the ninth inning.
Clay Condrey was shelled in the 10th, allowing five runs on three hits in just a third of an inning. He walked two and didn't strike anyone out.
Game Analysis:
Two outs away from a win. That's how close the Phillies were last night to taking the first game against the Blue Jays. Of course you all know how it ended. Madson blew the save, and Clay Condrey had his first relapse into being Clay Condrey from 2008. In the end, it was a disappointing loss, since the Phils should have had this one in the bag from the start.
The game started out well, with Cole pitching a quick first, and Jimmy leading things off with a double and then scoring, but problems crept up very quickly after that. Cole never had his best stuff last night, and the Phils just couldn't get anything going against rookie Ricky Romero, who struck out nine in seven innings. In all, the Phillies left eight men on base, which seems small when you compare it to the 16 that Toronto left out there, but all the Phillies needed was one more runner to cross the plate.
I don't even want to talk about the 10th inning, that was just horrible. The bullpen has been taxed to the limit with four extra inning games in the past week, and it's just been too much. The starters need to last longer in these games right now, because some of those guys need some time to rest up, so they can avoid situations like last night. It's just one game, and it's happened to these guys before, so they should bounce back. It still sucks, though.
Tonight, Jamie Moyer (4-5, 6.11 ERA) tries to even the series as he goes against Scott Richmond (4-3, 3.90 ERA).
Ryan Madson blew his second save of the season, then the wheels fell off the bullpen in the 10th as the Phillies dropped the series opener to the Blue Jays.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-5 with a run scored.
Chase Utley went 3-4 with an RBI, a walk and a run scored.
Jayson Werth went 1-5 with a two run home run.
Cole Hamels pitched six decent innings, allowing two runs on seven hits. He walked two and struck out six.
What went wrong?
Raul Ibanez's 13 game hit streak came to an end, as he went 0-5 with three strikeouts.
Ryan Howard struck out three times and committed his third error in less than a week.
Pedro Feliz was 0-4.
Carlos Ruiz went 0-4.
Ryan Madson blew his second save of the season by walking in the tying run in the ninth inning.
Clay Condrey was shelled in the 10th, allowing five runs on three hits in just a third of an inning. He walked two and didn't strike anyone out.
Game Analysis:
Two outs away from a win. That's how close the Phillies were last night to taking the first game against the Blue Jays. Of course you all know how it ended. Madson blew the save, and Clay Condrey had his first relapse into being Clay Condrey from 2008. In the end, it was a disappointing loss, since the Phils should have had this one in the bag from the start.
The game started out well, with Cole pitching a quick first, and Jimmy leading things off with a double and then scoring, but problems crept up very quickly after that. Cole never had his best stuff last night, and the Phils just couldn't get anything going against rookie Ricky Romero, who struck out nine in seven innings. In all, the Phillies left eight men on base, which seems small when you compare it to the 16 that Toronto left out there, but all the Phillies needed was one more runner to cross the plate.
I don't even want to talk about the 10th inning, that was just horrible. The bullpen has been taxed to the limit with four extra inning games in the past week, and it's just been too much. The starters need to last longer in these games right now, because some of those guys need some time to rest up, so they can avoid situations like last night. It's just one game, and it's happened to these guys before, so they should bounce back. It still sucks, though.
Tonight, Jamie Moyer (4-5, 6.11 ERA) tries to even the series as he goes against Scott Richmond (4-3, 3.90 ERA).
Monday, June 15, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-11, Red Sox-6
Sorry for the delay on this one, but moving into a new apartment sort of takes precedent.
Game Recap:
After a rough outing from J.A. Happ, the Phils scored six times in the seventh inning to avoid being swept by the Red Sox.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 1-4 with a run scored, a home run and three RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with two runs scored and two RBI.
Ryan Howard went 2-5 with two RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 3-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-5 with a run scored and an RBI.
Chase Utley went 2-4 with two runs scored.
What went wrong?
J.A. Happ didn't look sharp. He lasted just 5 and 2/3rds innings and allowed five runs on seven hits. He walked six and struck out three.
Greg Dobbs was 0-4.
Game Recap:
After two straight rough losses against Boston, the Phillies finally got to return the favor, rocking Josh Beckett and preventing the sweep. While the Phils have only managed to beat Washington in a series at home this year, they've yet to get swept, and their road record is still the best in the majors. Yesterday though, they showed why no one can give up on them, especially when the game is close. J.A. Happ didn't have his best stuff, but the Phillies still held it together, with the big bats leading the way. Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Jayson Werth all scored at least once during the game, and Rollins nailed the tying home run in the seventh inning off of Beckett. Twelve batters came to the plate in the seventh inning, and from there, it was all Phillies.
It's amazing what a change can to for a pitcher. Chan Ho Park still isn't great, but he's looked better coming out of the bullpen than he ever did in the starting rotation, and if he can keep coming in to eat up innings in games like this, it'll be a good thing. With Scott Eyre on the DL and Kyle Kendrick and Sergio Escalona back in the minors, it's going to be interesting to see which pitcher the Phils either decide to keep up with the big club or sign, but I'm sure they'll find someone soon enough. Yesterday wasn't the best game by Happ, hell he gave up a home run to Beckett. The most important thing is that he managed to settle down after a bad second inning, and aside from that home run, he looked decent after that. It wasn't a great start, but he managed to keep the Phils in it until they took the lead, which is all you can ask from most pitchers. Plus, the Phillies didn't get swept by Boston, so I'm happy. I hate Boston.
Tomorrow, the Phils get back into action against the Blue Jays. Cole Hamels (4-2, 4.62 ERA), goes against Ricky Romero (3-3, 3.71 ERA). Go Phillies!
Game Recap:
After a rough outing from J.A. Happ, the Phils scored six times in the seventh inning to avoid being swept by the Red Sox.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 1-4 with a run scored, a home run and three RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with two runs scored and two RBI.
Ryan Howard went 2-5 with two RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 3-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-5 with a run scored and an RBI.
Chase Utley went 2-4 with two runs scored.
What went wrong?
J.A. Happ didn't look sharp. He lasted just 5 and 2/3rds innings and allowed five runs on seven hits. He walked six and struck out three.
Greg Dobbs was 0-4.
Game Recap:
After two straight rough losses against Boston, the Phillies finally got to return the favor, rocking Josh Beckett and preventing the sweep. While the Phils have only managed to beat Washington in a series at home this year, they've yet to get swept, and their road record is still the best in the majors. Yesterday though, they showed why no one can give up on them, especially when the game is close. J.A. Happ didn't have his best stuff, but the Phillies still held it together, with the big bats leading the way. Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Jayson Werth all scored at least once during the game, and Rollins nailed the tying home run in the seventh inning off of Beckett. Twelve batters came to the plate in the seventh inning, and from there, it was all Phillies.
It's amazing what a change can to for a pitcher. Chan Ho Park still isn't great, but he's looked better coming out of the bullpen than he ever did in the starting rotation, and if he can keep coming in to eat up innings in games like this, it'll be a good thing. With Scott Eyre on the DL and Kyle Kendrick and Sergio Escalona back in the minors, it's going to be interesting to see which pitcher the Phils either decide to keep up with the big club or sign, but I'm sure they'll find someone soon enough. Yesterday wasn't the best game by Happ, hell he gave up a home run to Beckett. The most important thing is that he managed to settle down after a bad second inning, and aside from that home run, he looked decent after that. It wasn't a great start, but he managed to keep the Phils in it until they took the lead, which is all you can ask from most pitchers. Plus, the Phillies didn't get swept by Boston, so I'm happy. I hate Boston.
Tomorrow, the Phils get back into action against the Blue Jays. Cole Hamels (4-2, 4.62 ERA), goes against Ricky Romero (3-3, 3.71 ERA). Go Phillies!
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Phillie of the Week: June 7-13
Though the Phillies only managed a 3-3 record this past week, they did close out a 7-3 road trip, and looked good against some of the best teams in the league. Several players stood out this week, but I'm picking one that has been better this season than I possibly could have imagined. This week's Phillie of the Week is:
Pedro Feliz
This past week, Pedro hit safely in five of six games, compiling a .364 average, with eight runs scored, one home run and five RBI. Feliz is hitting .311 for the season, and while he doesn't have that home run pop he had in San Fran, I won't complain if he keeps batting like this.
Pedro Feliz
This past week, Pedro hit safely in five of six games, compiling a .364 average, with eight runs scored, one home run and five RBI. Feliz is hitting .311 for the season, and while he doesn't have that home run pop he had in San Fran, I won't complain if he keeps batting like this.
Phillies Recap: Red Sox-11, Phillies-6
Game Recap:
Antonio Bastardo got rocked as the Red Sox beat out the rain and the Phillies for an 11-6 win.
What went right?
Chase Utley was 3-5 with an RBI and a run scored.
Raul Ibanez went 1-5 with his 22nd home run of the season.
Jayson Werth went 3-4 with a home run and two RBI.
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with a home run and two RBI.
What went wrong?
Antonio Bastardo only made it through one inning, allowing five runs (four earned) on three hits. He walked three and struck out one.
The Phillies committed three errors in that first inning.
Jimmy Rollins went 0-5.
Jack Taschner and Sergio Escalona got rocked in the three innings they pitched, allowing five runs on eight hits with three walks and two strikeouts.
Game Analysis:
I said it the last two times Bastardo pitched: the kid looks good, but if he faces a team that will wait for him to pitch to them, he could get rocked. Last night, that's exactly what happened. The Red Sox were patient, and Bastardo couldn't get out of the first inning. Boston either let Bastardo walk their batters, or swung when they knew he had to throw a fastball. Of course, Bastardo wasn't helped out by the three errors in the first inning, but had he made better pitches, he wouldn't have had to worry about that.
After the rain delay, the Phillies were able to get back into the game, only for the bullpen to take them right back out of it. I don't know what it's going to take for Jack Taschner to not pitch for the Phils again, but I'd like to see that. Plus, Sergio Escalona didn't look any better than Kyle Kendrick did Friday night. I never thought I'd miss Scott Eyre, but I do.
At least the Phillies showed a little bit more life on offense than on Friday night. They only struck out eight times, compared to the 20 the night before, and every position player aside from Jimmy Rollins managed to get a base hit. Raul Ibanez is still the man, and hopefully, Jayson Werth can continue his momentum from last night into breaking out of his nasty slump.
Today, J.A. Happ (4-0, 2.98 ERA) goes for the Phillies. He'll be facing Josh Beckett (7-2, 3.77 ERA). Let's see if the Phils can at least take a game in this series.
Antonio Bastardo got rocked as the Red Sox beat out the rain and the Phillies for an 11-6 win.
What went right?
Chase Utley was 3-5 with an RBI and a run scored.
Raul Ibanez went 1-5 with his 22nd home run of the season.
Jayson Werth went 3-4 with a home run and two RBI.
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with a home run and two RBI.
What went wrong?
Antonio Bastardo only made it through one inning, allowing five runs (four earned) on three hits. He walked three and struck out one.
The Phillies committed three errors in that first inning.
Jimmy Rollins went 0-5.
Jack Taschner and Sergio Escalona got rocked in the three innings they pitched, allowing five runs on eight hits with three walks and two strikeouts.
Game Analysis:
I said it the last two times Bastardo pitched: the kid looks good, but if he faces a team that will wait for him to pitch to them, he could get rocked. Last night, that's exactly what happened. The Red Sox were patient, and Bastardo couldn't get out of the first inning. Boston either let Bastardo walk their batters, or swung when they knew he had to throw a fastball. Of course, Bastardo wasn't helped out by the three errors in the first inning, but had he made better pitches, he wouldn't have had to worry about that.
After the rain delay, the Phillies were able to get back into the game, only for the bullpen to take them right back out of it. I don't know what it's going to take for Jack Taschner to not pitch for the Phils again, but I'd like to see that. Plus, Sergio Escalona didn't look any better than Kyle Kendrick did Friday night. I never thought I'd miss Scott Eyre, but I do.
At least the Phillies showed a little bit more life on offense than on Friday night. They only struck out eight times, compared to the 20 the night before, and every position player aside from Jimmy Rollins managed to get a base hit. Raul Ibanez is still the man, and hopefully, Jayson Werth can continue his momentum from last night into breaking out of his nasty slump.
Today, J.A. Happ (4-0, 2.98 ERA) goes for the Phillies. He'll be facing Josh Beckett (7-2, 3.77 ERA). Let's see if the Phils can at least take a game in this series.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Phillies Recap: Red Sox-5, Phillies-2
Game Recap:
The Phils took their third straight game into extra innings, but Kyle Kendrick let things go in the 13th, and the Phillies lost 5-2.
What went right?
Ryan Howard went 1-6 with the game tying home run in the ninth inning.
Raul Ibanez went 2-4 with a run scored.
Joe Blanton pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on five hits, while striking out seven.
What went wrong?
The top three batters in the lineup: Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley and Jayson Werth, went 0-15 with six strikeouts.
Despite his home run, Ryan Howard had four strikeouts.
Pedro Feliz and Shane Victorino stuck out twice.
Kyle Kendrick reminded everyone why he was in Triple A, allowing three runs on four hits.
Game Analysis:
Ugh...I hate to lose this game as a Phillies fan. This game should have been over when Greg Dobbs hit a long shot down the right field line in the 11th inning, but the ball was called foul, and that was the end off that. No replay, no nothing. I thought baseball had replay now, but maybe it's only when the Yankees or Red Sox need it to work for them.
No matter the case, the Phillies were able to work their third straight extra inning game. The only problem was this time, they were out of pitchers that could work through it. Kyle Kendrick was called up from Triple A to fill Scott Eyre's place, and he did exactly what he did last season: get a few outs and then let a base runner get to him. By the time he recovered, the Red Sox had scored three runs, and the game was over. Can't the Phillies trade him to Japan for real this time?
Either way, the Phils are still standing toe to toe with the best in baseball. Hopefully, they can start to land the knockout blows, rather than the other way around. Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo takes on Daisuke Matsuzaka (1-4, 7.33 ERA).
Go Phils!
The Phils took their third straight game into extra innings, but Kyle Kendrick let things go in the 13th, and the Phillies lost 5-2.
What went right?
Ryan Howard went 1-6 with the game tying home run in the ninth inning.
Raul Ibanez went 2-4 with a run scored.
Joe Blanton pitched seven innings, allowing two runs on five hits, while striking out seven.
What went wrong?
The top three batters in the lineup: Jimmy Rollins, Chase Utley and Jayson Werth, went 0-15 with six strikeouts.
Despite his home run, Ryan Howard had four strikeouts.
Pedro Feliz and Shane Victorino stuck out twice.
Kyle Kendrick reminded everyone why he was in Triple A, allowing three runs on four hits.
Game Analysis:
Ugh...I hate to lose this game as a Phillies fan. This game should have been over when Greg Dobbs hit a long shot down the right field line in the 11th inning, but the ball was called foul, and that was the end off that. No replay, no nothing. I thought baseball had replay now, but maybe it's only when the Yankees or Red Sox need it to work for them.
No matter the case, the Phillies were able to work their third straight extra inning game. The only problem was this time, they were out of pitchers that could work through it. Kyle Kendrick was called up from Triple A to fill Scott Eyre's place, and he did exactly what he did last season: get a few outs and then let a base runner get to him. By the time he recovered, the Red Sox had scored three runs, and the game was over. Can't the Phillies trade him to Japan for real this time?
Either way, the Phils are still standing toe to toe with the best in baseball. Hopefully, they can start to land the knockout blows, rather than the other way around. Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo takes on Daisuke Matsuzaka (1-4, 7.33 ERA).
Go Phils!
Football news...in June! McNabb is getting PAID.
Big news from the Eagles today. After expressing his desire for playmakers during the offseason, and watching the Eagles add Jeremy Maclin and LeSean McCoy with their first two draft picks, as well as trade for Jason Peters to fill the gap at tackle, Donovan McNabb had his contract reworked. Basically, he's getting a raise, and a decent one at that.
Instead of making about $20 million over the next two years, McNabb's new deal is now worth $24.5 million, with another $1 million in incentives, according to ESPN.com. While this gives the Eagles an out if McNabb struggles this year, it also makes sure that the franchise quarterback will be happy, at least at the bank. Plus, this keeps Kevin Kolb sitting right on the bench where he belongs, and leaves McNabb with no other excuses now. With the team the Eagles have put together for this coming season, anything short of a parade down Broad Street is going to be a let down.
He's got his playmakers and his money...now let's see what he can do with both of them.
ESPN.com: Eagles give McNabb considerable raise
Instead of making about $20 million over the next two years, McNabb's new deal is now worth $24.5 million, with another $1 million in incentives, according to ESPN.com. While this gives the Eagles an out if McNabb struggles this year, it also makes sure that the franchise quarterback will be happy, at least at the bank. Plus, this keeps Kevin Kolb sitting right on the bench where he belongs, and leaves McNabb with no other excuses now. With the team the Eagles have put together for this coming season, anything short of a parade down Broad Street is going to be a let down.
He's got his playmakers and his money...now let's see what he can do with both of them.
ESPN.com: Eagles give McNabb considerable raise
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-6, Mets-3
Game Recap:
For the second night in a row, the Phils came back against the Mets to win in extra innings. Tonight, it was Raul Ibanez who had the game winning, three run home run that put the Phillies four games ahead of New York in the NL East.
What went right?
Raul Ibanez went 1-5 with the game winning three run home run.
Chase Utley was 1-4 with an RBI, a walk and a run scored.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-4 with a run scored.
Pedro Feliz went 3-4 and scored twice.
Shane Victorino was 1-5 with a run scored.
Chris Coste went 2-4.
Jamie Moyer pitched another solid game, giving up just three runs on eight hits in six innings of work. He struck out three and walked none.
The bullpen was great once again, allowing just one hit in four innings of work.
What went wrong?
Ryan Howard was 0-4 with two strikeouts.
Jayson Werth went 0-5 with three strikeouts.
Game Analysis:
These games aren't good for my heart, but I'll take them every day of the week. When I player I love (RRRAAUUUUULLLL!!!) hits a game winning homer to beat a team I hate, it just makes the win feel that much better. Add to that the fact that this was the second straight come from behind extra innings win for the Phillies against the Mets, and the game just keeps getting sweeter. The Phils finished their ten game road trip 7-3, and considering two of those losses came in the ninth inning or later against the best team in baseball, I'll take that any day of the week.
Not only was the bullpen great again tonight, but Jamie Moyer was on point once again. This was the fifth start in a row for Moyer where he's lasted at least six innings, and while he gave up eight hits, this is the kind of effort people should expect from Moyer from now on. He's not going to throw a no hitter, but as long as he can keep the Phillies in the game, they'll have chances like this, and that's what they need out of him right now, considering how well the rest of the starters have been pitching lately.
While Raul Ibanez and Chase Utley are expected to get the hits for the Phillies, and they did tonight, Pedro Feliz has quietly been having a great season at third base. His defense has once again been awesome, but his bat has been great as well. In the last 15 games, Pedro has a hit in 13 of them, and while he only saw six pitches tonight, he hit three of them for base hits. His .312 batting average is well above his career average, and if the guys in front of him keep hitting, his RBI totals should start climbing again, too. Of course, he's going to need Ibanez to stop hitting so many homers, but I doubt that he's complaining.
There is not much that could bring me down tonight. The Phillies took seven out of ten on what looked like it was going to be a brutal road trip, and if not for a few bad breaks, they could have won all ten games. Now, they get to come home for the first time this month and experience interleague play once again, as the Boston Red Sox are in town. Tomorrow, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.46 ERA) faces off against Jon Lester (5-5, 5.09 ERA). Let's see if the Phils can do better against the American League this regular season than they did last year.
For the second night in a row, the Phils came back against the Mets to win in extra innings. Tonight, it was Raul Ibanez who had the game winning, three run home run that put the Phillies four games ahead of New York in the NL East.
What went right?
Raul Ibanez went 1-5 with the game winning three run home run.
Chase Utley was 1-4 with an RBI, a walk and a run scored.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-4 with a run scored.
Pedro Feliz went 3-4 and scored twice.
Shane Victorino was 1-5 with a run scored.
Chris Coste went 2-4.
Jamie Moyer pitched another solid game, giving up just three runs on eight hits in six innings of work. He struck out three and walked none.
The bullpen was great once again, allowing just one hit in four innings of work.
What went wrong?
Ryan Howard was 0-4 with two strikeouts.
Jayson Werth went 0-5 with three strikeouts.
Game Analysis:
These games aren't good for my heart, but I'll take them every day of the week. When I player I love (RRRAAUUUUULLLL!!!) hits a game winning homer to beat a team I hate, it just makes the win feel that much better. Add to that the fact that this was the second straight come from behind extra innings win for the Phillies against the Mets, and the game just keeps getting sweeter. The Phils finished their ten game road trip 7-3, and considering two of those losses came in the ninth inning or later against the best team in baseball, I'll take that any day of the week.
Not only was the bullpen great again tonight, but Jamie Moyer was on point once again. This was the fifth start in a row for Moyer where he's lasted at least six innings, and while he gave up eight hits, this is the kind of effort people should expect from Moyer from now on. He's not going to throw a no hitter, but as long as he can keep the Phillies in the game, they'll have chances like this, and that's what they need out of him right now, considering how well the rest of the starters have been pitching lately.
While Raul Ibanez and Chase Utley are expected to get the hits for the Phillies, and they did tonight, Pedro Feliz has quietly been having a great season at third base. His defense has once again been awesome, but his bat has been great as well. In the last 15 games, Pedro has a hit in 13 of them, and while he only saw six pitches tonight, he hit three of them for base hits. His .312 batting average is well above his career average, and if the guys in front of him keep hitting, his RBI totals should start climbing again, too. Of course, he's going to need Ibanez to stop hitting so many homers, but I doubt that he's complaining.
There is not much that could bring me down tonight. The Phillies took seven out of ten on what looked like it was going to be a brutal road trip, and if not for a few bad breaks, they could have won all ten games. Now, they get to come home for the first time this month and experience interleague play once again, as the Boston Red Sox are in town. Tomorrow, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.46 ERA) faces off against Jon Lester (5-5, 5.09 ERA). Let's see if the Phils can do better against the American League this regular season than they did last year.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-5, Mets-4
Game Recap:
Chase Utley's 11th inning home run, his second of the game, put the Phillies on top for the first time, and Ryan Madson recorded a 1-2-3 bottom of the 11th to preserve the win.
What went right?
Chase Utley went 3-5 with two solo home runs. He also scored twice.
The Phillies bullpen was awesome tonight, throwing six shutout innings and picking up the slack that Cole Hamels left out there.
Pedro Feliz was 1-5 with an RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-5 with a run scored.
Raul Ibanez went 1-5 and scored a run.
Jayson Werth was 1-4 with a walk and a run scored, and had several great defensive plays that saved the game.
What went wrong?
Cole Hamels was not himself, allowing four runs on 11 hits. He struck out one and walked two.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-4.
Jimmy Rollins was 0-5, but he did have an RBI.
Game Analysis:
Just look at the line score, and it'll tell you everything you need to know about this game, except for who actually won. The Mets outhit the Phillies 16 to nine, walked five times and saw 212 pitches. The only problem was that once Cole Hamels left the game, the Mets couldn't do anything to get anyone across the plate, as they left 16 men on base. Thanks to a two homer night by Chase Utley, and a great showing by the bullpen, the Phils are again three games up on the Mets.
So far, both the games in this series have felt like playoff games. Tonight, the Mets got to Cole Hamels, and chased him after just five innings and 100 pitches. Cole looked a bit off, especially after his complete game shutout last week against the Dodgers, but he's not going to be at his best every time out. When he's not, the Phillies are going to have to get support from the bullpen and offense, and that's what happened tonight. Even though the bullpen got into a couple of jams, they managed to get out of each one without giving up any more damage. Add to that the fact that Chan Ho Park managed to pitch two scoreless innings to lower his ERA to a pedestrian 6.50, and it was a good night for the guys out of the bullpen.
Even though the offense wasn't exactly clicking tonight, Chase Utley did what he had to do, and the Phils had one big inning in the seventh, and that's all they would need. I'm not going to touch the Raul Ibanez stuff that's been going down today; that's not my style. All I'm going to say is that stuff like that gives the honest bloggers, like myself, a bad name. Don't start accusing people of anything. Anyway, it was nice to see the middle of the lineup produce tonight, as Utley, Howard, Ibanez and Werth each had at least one run scored, which is exactly what needs to be done for this team to keep winning. Last night, the Phils lost a game they probably should have won, and tonight, they won a game they should have lost. Let's see what's going to happen tomorrow. I know it won't be boring.
Tomorrow's game features Jamie Moyer (4-5, 6.27 ERA), going against Tim Redding (0-2, 6.97 ERA). Would you look at that? The Mets have a starting pitcher with a higher ERA than Moyer. Hopefully, that works in the Phillies' favor tomorrow.
Chase Utley's 11th inning home run, his second of the game, put the Phillies on top for the first time, and Ryan Madson recorded a 1-2-3 bottom of the 11th to preserve the win.
What went right?
Chase Utley went 3-5 with two solo home runs. He also scored twice.
The Phillies bullpen was awesome tonight, throwing six shutout innings and picking up the slack that Cole Hamels left out there.
Pedro Feliz was 1-5 with an RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-5 with a run scored.
Raul Ibanez went 1-5 and scored a run.
Jayson Werth was 1-4 with a walk and a run scored, and had several great defensive plays that saved the game.
What went wrong?
Cole Hamels was not himself, allowing four runs on 11 hits. He struck out one and walked two.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-4.
Jimmy Rollins was 0-5, but he did have an RBI.
Game Analysis:
Just look at the line score, and it'll tell you everything you need to know about this game, except for who actually won. The Mets outhit the Phillies 16 to nine, walked five times and saw 212 pitches. The only problem was that once Cole Hamels left the game, the Mets couldn't do anything to get anyone across the plate, as they left 16 men on base. Thanks to a two homer night by Chase Utley, and a great showing by the bullpen, the Phils are again three games up on the Mets.
So far, both the games in this series have felt like playoff games. Tonight, the Mets got to Cole Hamels, and chased him after just five innings and 100 pitches. Cole looked a bit off, especially after his complete game shutout last week against the Dodgers, but he's not going to be at his best every time out. When he's not, the Phillies are going to have to get support from the bullpen and offense, and that's what happened tonight. Even though the bullpen got into a couple of jams, they managed to get out of each one without giving up any more damage. Add to that the fact that Chan Ho Park managed to pitch two scoreless innings to lower his ERA to a pedestrian 6.50, and it was a good night for the guys out of the bullpen.
Even though the offense wasn't exactly clicking tonight, Chase Utley did what he had to do, and the Phils had one big inning in the seventh, and that's all they would need. I'm not going to touch the Raul Ibanez stuff that's been going down today; that's not my style. All I'm going to say is that stuff like that gives the honest bloggers, like myself, a bad name. Don't start accusing people of anything. Anyway, it was nice to see the middle of the lineup produce tonight, as Utley, Howard, Ibanez and Werth each had at least one run scored, which is exactly what needs to be done for this team to keep winning. Last night, the Phils lost a game they probably should have won, and tonight, they won a game they should have lost. Let's see what's going to happen tomorrow. I know it won't be boring.
Tomorrow's game features Jamie Moyer (4-5, 6.27 ERA), going against Tim Redding (0-2, 6.97 ERA). Would you look at that? The Mets have a starting pitcher with a higher ERA than Moyer. Hopefully, that works in the Phillies' favor tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Phillies Recap: Mets-6, Phillies-5
Game Recap:
The Phillies hit four home runs off of Johan Santana, but it wasn't enough, as the Mets were able to score against the bullpen and work a 6-5 win.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins went 3-4 with a home run, two RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with a home run.
Raul Ibanez went 1-4 with his 20th homer of the season.
Chase Utley was 1-4 with a home run...I'm sensing a theme here.
What went wrong?
The usually reliable bullpen fell flat tonight, allowing two runs in a combined 2 and 2/3rds innings, including giving up the game winning home run to Ryan Church.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-3.
Charlie Manuel's two pinch hitters in the ninth inning, Matt Stairs and Greg Dobbs, managed to make contact with all of one pitch, and if it wasn't for Jimmy Rollins, it would have been a game ending double play.
Game Analysis:
It sucks to lose an entertaining game like this, but the Phillies can take some positives out of it. For one thing, they were able to jack four homers off of Johan Santana, who is usually untouchable when it comes to things like that. Before tonight, Santana had allowed only six home runs on the season, so the Phils had his number tonight. Even though Santana ended up with the win, he only struck out two in seven innings, and the Phillies looked like they had him rattled several times.
J.A. Happ got into trouble a few times in the early innings, which is why he only managed to pitch into the sixth inning. However, he got out of the situations without giving up many runs, and for a guy that had struggled against the Mets before this start, that was important. He struck out four and walked four, but he only allowed four runs, and was able to get out of some sticky situations without allowing a ton of runs, so the kid looked decent tonight.
The main problem was with the bullpen. Both Clay Condrey and Chad Durbin were unable to hold the Mets down, and it became a problem later on as the Phillies were able to climb back within one run. All it would have taken was a Condrey pitch not right down the middle to Santana that turned into an RBI double for the pitcher, or a Durbin pitch to Ryan Church that didn't result in a freaking apple bashing homer that would keep the Mets on top for good. It just sucks when the Phils can come back and get the lead in the sixth inning, only for the bullpen to blow it. I know Brad Lidge wasn't 100%, but Durbin and Condrey need to be able to lock down opposing batters when they come into the game. It's what they get paid for. Tonight, they didn't do it, and the Phillies lost because of it. When you hit four homers and lose, something happened with your pitching, and that was the case tonight.
Tomorrow, the Phillies look to get back on the winning track, as Cole Hamels (4-2, 4.40 ERA) goes against Mike Pelfrey (4-2, 4.85 ERA). Go Phillies!
The Phillies hit four home runs off of Johan Santana, but it wasn't enough, as the Mets were able to score against the bullpen and work a 6-5 win.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins went 3-4 with a home run, two RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with a home run.
Raul Ibanez went 1-4 with his 20th homer of the season.
Chase Utley was 1-4 with a home run...I'm sensing a theme here.
What went wrong?
The usually reliable bullpen fell flat tonight, allowing two runs in a combined 2 and 2/3rds innings, including giving up the game winning home run to Ryan Church.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-3.
Charlie Manuel's two pinch hitters in the ninth inning, Matt Stairs and Greg Dobbs, managed to make contact with all of one pitch, and if it wasn't for Jimmy Rollins, it would have been a game ending double play.
Game Analysis:
It sucks to lose an entertaining game like this, but the Phillies can take some positives out of it. For one thing, they were able to jack four homers off of Johan Santana, who is usually untouchable when it comes to things like that. Before tonight, Santana had allowed only six home runs on the season, so the Phils had his number tonight. Even though Santana ended up with the win, he only struck out two in seven innings, and the Phillies looked like they had him rattled several times.
J.A. Happ got into trouble a few times in the early innings, which is why he only managed to pitch into the sixth inning. However, he got out of the situations without giving up many runs, and for a guy that had struggled against the Mets before this start, that was important. He struck out four and walked four, but he only allowed four runs, and was able to get out of some sticky situations without allowing a ton of runs, so the kid looked decent tonight.
The main problem was with the bullpen. Both Clay Condrey and Chad Durbin were unable to hold the Mets down, and it became a problem later on as the Phillies were able to climb back within one run. All it would have taken was a Condrey pitch not right down the middle to Santana that turned into an RBI double for the pitcher, or a Durbin pitch to Ryan Church that didn't result in a freaking apple bashing homer that would keep the Mets on top for good. It just sucks when the Phils can come back and get the lead in the sixth inning, only for the bullpen to blow it. I know Brad Lidge wasn't 100%, but Durbin and Condrey need to be able to lock down opposing batters when they come into the game. It's what they get paid for. Tonight, they didn't do it, and the Phillies lost because of it. When you hit four homers and lose, something happened with your pitching, and that was the case tonight.
Tomorrow, the Phillies look to get back on the winning track, as Cole Hamels (4-2, 4.40 ERA) goes against Mike Pelfrey (4-2, 4.85 ERA). Go Phillies!
It's Been a Busy Day...and There Hasn't Been a Game Yet!
Big news coming out of two different camps today, but I'll start with the Phillies. To the surprise of no one, Brad Lidge was put on the 15 day disabled list today with a sprained right knee. You had to see this coming after he blew back to back saves in Los Angeles over the weekend. Lidge needs some time to get the feel back for his pitches, and with his knee acting up, he can't do that. Some time on the DL is the best thing for him. It worked wonders last year, so I'm hopeful it'll do the same thing this time around. To take Lidge's spot, the Phils called up catcher (!) Paul Bako from Double A. I didn't even know Bako was still in the league, but at least now the Phillies have an extra man at the end of their bench.
Now, onto the other news of the day, and it involves the Philadelphia 76ers. Fans have been shouting for an outside shooter for the past two seasons, and today, the Sixers went and got one. Reggie Evans was traded to Toronto for Jason Kapono, giving the Sixers that three point shooting threat that's been missing since Kyle Korver was traded to Utah. Kapono's tied for the highest three point shooting percentage in NBA history, and he averaged 7.2 points, two rebounds and 1.3 assists last season to go along with a 42.8% three point average. This move adds about $1.6 million to the cap for the Sixers next season and Evans always did seem to give the team a little kick in the pants when he needed to, but for a team that finished dead last in three point shooting last year, it was a much needed trade. I still don't know what else the Sixers are going to do this offseason, but at least they answered one question already.
Phillies.com: Phillies place Lidge on Disabled List
Nba.com/sixers: Philadelphia 76ers acquire Jason Kapono from Toronto
Now, onto the other news of the day, and it involves the Philadelphia 76ers. Fans have been shouting for an outside shooter for the past two seasons, and today, the Sixers went and got one. Reggie Evans was traded to Toronto for Jason Kapono, giving the Sixers that three point shooting threat that's been missing since Kyle Korver was traded to Utah. Kapono's tied for the highest three point shooting percentage in NBA history, and he averaged 7.2 points, two rebounds and 1.3 assists last season to go along with a 42.8% three point average. This move adds about $1.6 million to the cap for the Sixers next season and Evans always did seem to give the team a little kick in the pants when he needed to, but for a team that finished dead last in three point shooting last year, it was a much needed trade. I still don't know what else the Sixers are going to do this offseason, but at least they answered one question already.
Phillies.com: Phillies place Lidge on Disabled List
Nba.com/sixers: Philadelphia 76ers acquire Jason Kapono from Toronto
Monday, June 8, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-7, Dodgers-2
Game Recap:
The Phillies took a 3-2 game and broke it open in the seventh and eighth innings to earn a split with the Dodgers.
What went right?
Antonio Bastardo picked up his second straight win, going five innings and striking out four while walking one and allowing two runs.
Chan Ho Park looked great in relief, throwing three scoreless innings while striking out one.
Shane Victorino went 2-5 with a home run, two RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard went 1-5 with a home run.
Jimmy Rollins went 2-4 with a run scored.
Carlos Ruiz went 2-3 with a home run and three RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 1-2 with a walk, an RBI and two runs scored.
What went wrong?
Chase Utley went 0-4, ending his hitting streak at 11 games.
Jayson Werth was 0-4.
Game Analysis:
After two stomach punch games, the Phillies managed to man up last night and put a bit of a pounding on the Dodgers. Antonio Bastardo looked solid once again, though he still had to throw a lot of pitches to get through five innings. He hasn't shown much other than a fastball, and once teams see him a few more times, they'll be able to hit that. An off speed pitch is going to be completely necessary for him to succeed up at the major league level, but for now, he's 2-0 with an ERA of 2.45, so all is well with him. Plus, Chan Ho Park came in and actually managed to hold a lead. I consider that to be a small miracle.
After three straight games of scoring less than four runs, the Phillies finally broke out their big bats last night with a trio of homers. Carlos Ruiz has quietly bounced back from a horrible start to look like a very good eight hole hitter. Seriously, he's hitting over .300 with 13 RBI and a .435 OBP...those are great numbers. Shane looked good in the leadoff spot tonight, and even Jimmy got to hitting out of the six hole, picking up two hits, and he looked like he was finally starting to get his swing back. It's about time, since he and Brad Lidge are about the only things that look off with the Phils right now.
While this series could have, and possibly should have, been a sweep for the Phillies, I'll take a split against the team with the best record in baseball in their house. The Phillies just keep rolling along on this road trip, going 5-2 out on the west coast. Now, they head to New York...and the real fun begins.
Tomorrow, J.A. Happ (4-0, 2.48 ERA) looks for his fifth win of the season against Johan Santana (7-3, 2.00 ERA). Let's go Phillies!
The Phillies took a 3-2 game and broke it open in the seventh and eighth innings to earn a split with the Dodgers.
What went right?
Antonio Bastardo picked up his second straight win, going five innings and striking out four while walking one and allowing two runs.
Chan Ho Park looked great in relief, throwing three scoreless innings while striking out one.
Shane Victorino went 2-5 with a home run, two RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard went 1-5 with a home run.
Jimmy Rollins went 2-4 with a run scored.
Carlos Ruiz went 2-3 with a home run and three RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 1-2 with a walk, an RBI and two runs scored.
What went wrong?
Chase Utley went 0-4, ending his hitting streak at 11 games.
Jayson Werth was 0-4.
Game Analysis:
After two stomach punch games, the Phillies managed to man up last night and put a bit of a pounding on the Dodgers. Antonio Bastardo looked solid once again, though he still had to throw a lot of pitches to get through five innings. He hasn't shown much other than a fastball, and once teams see him a few more times, they'll be able to hit that. An off speed pitch is going to be completely necessary for him to succeed up at the major league level, but for now, he's 2-0 with an ERA of 2.45, so all is well with him. Plus, Chan Ho Park came in and actually managed to hold a lead. I consider that to be a small miracle.
After three straight games of scoring less than four runs, the Phillies finally broke out their big bats last night with a trio of homers. Carlos Ruiz has quietly bounced back from a horrible start to look like a very good eight hole hitter. Seriously, he's hitting over .300 with 13 RBI and a .435 OBP...those are great numbers. Shane looked good in the leadoff spot tonight, and even Jimmy got to hitting out of the six hole, picking up two hits, and he looked like he was finally starting to get his swing back. It's about time, since he and Brad Lidge are about the only things that look off with the Phils right now.
While this series could have, and possibly should have, been a sweep for the Phillies, I'll take a split against the team with the best record in baseball in their house. The Phillies just keep rolling along on this road trip, going 5-2 out on the west coast. Now, they head to New York...and the real fun begins.
Tomorrow, J.A. Happ (4-0, 2.48 ERA) looks for his fifth win of the season against Johan Santana (7-3, 2.00 ERA). Let's go Phillies!
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Phillie of the Week: May 31-June 6
The Phillies had a very good week, winning five games in a row before dropping the last two against the Dodgers. To top it off, most of the wins were thanks to the starting pitching, and this means I've gone with a pitcher as my Phillie of the Week for the first time. So, this week's Phillie of the Week is:
Jamie Moyer
Yes, Cole Hamels pitched a complete game shutout, but Jamie Moyer won his 250th game last Sunday against Washington, and would have had win number 251 had the bullpen not blown the lead against Los Angeles Friday night. He finished the week with a 1-0 record, a 2.08 ERA and seven strikeouts. Congrats on winning number 250, Jamie.
Jamie Moyer
Yes, Cole Hamels pitched a complete game shutout, but Jamie Moyer won his 250th game last Sunday against Washington, and would have had win number 251 had the bullpen not blown the lead against Los Angeles Friday night. He finished the week with a 1-0 record, a 2.08 ERA and seven strikeouts. Congrats on winning number 250, Jamie.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Phillies Recap: Dodgers-3, Phillies-2
Game Recap:
Brad Lidge blew his second straight save, and Chad Durbin gave up a walk off home run to Andre Ethier to send the Phils to their second straight loss.
What went right?
Joe Blanton was solid, going six innings, while allowing just one run on five hits. He struck out five and walked one.
Matt Stairs had a pinch hit, two RBI single in the seventh inning that gave the Phillies the lead.
Pedro Feliz was 2-5 with a run scored.
Raul Ibanez was 1-5 with a run scored.
What went wrong?
Brad Lidge blew his second save in row, giving up a home run to Rafael Furcal that tied the game.
Shane Victorino was 0-5.
Ryan Howard was 0-5.
The Phillies left seven men on base.
Game Analysis:
Another game, another Brad Lidge blown save. While last night's game could be blamed on a missed strike three call and a Pedro Feliz error, today's game was strictly on Lidge. All he had to do was get three outs, and the game was over. Instead, he gave up a pinch hit home run to Rafael Furcal, of all people, and the Dodgers were able to tie the game. This year has not been good to Lidge. His ERA is over 7.00, and he's allowed more runs and given up more home runs than he did all of last season. I don't know what the hell is wrong with him, but it's something that needs to be looked at. He seems to do well with the poor teams, like the Nationals and Padres, but when it comes to the teams that the Phillies could be playing in October, like the Dodgers and Yankees, he has trouble. It might just be because those teams are better, but he didn't blow a save last season, no matter who it was against. A year after going 41-41, Lidge has already blown six saves. This is Billy Wagner territory he's getting close to now.
Once again, the lineup wasted a solid start from a starting pitcher. When Joe Blanton gives you six innings of one run baseball, you need to be able to score enough runs to get him the win. Instead, the Phillies only managed two hits off of starter Hiroki Kuroda, and could only score after he was taken out of the game. Even so, the Phils left seven men on base, and just couldn't come through when they needed to, once again. I don't know if it's the Los Angeles pitching, or just the fact that the Phillies are going through a team slump, but it needs to stop, and quickly. Everything looked like it was coming together a few days ago, and now, I'm not sure. I hate baseball for this very reason, but it makes it more compelling through the season. The Phillies have to bounce back tomorrow night to at least earn a split in L.A. If they can't do that, then this series with the Mets is going to be very, very interesting.
Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo (1-0, 1.50 ERA), goes up against Randy Wolf (3-1, 3.21 ERA). You might remember Wolf as one of those young pitchers that once had as much potential as Bastardo. Now, the Dodgers have him. Go Phillies!
Brad Lidge blew his second straight save, and Chad Durbin gave up a walk off home run to Andre Ethier to send the Phils to their second straight loss.
What went right?
Joe Blanton was solid, going six innings, while allowing just one run on five hits. He struck out five and walked one.
Matt Stairs had a pinch hit, two RBI single in the seventh inning that gave the Phillies the lead.
Pedro Feliz was 2-5 with a run scored.
Raul Ibanez was 1-5 with a run scored.
What went wrong?
Brad Lidge blew his second save in row, giving up a home run to Rafael Furcal that tied the game.
Shane Victorino was 0-5.
Ryan Howard was 0-5.
The Phillies left seven men on base.
Game Analysis:
Another game, another Brad Lidge blown save. While last night's game could be blamed on a missed strike three call and a Pedro Feliz error, today's game was strictly on Lidge. All he had to do was get three outs, and the game was over. Instead, he gave up a pinch hit home run to Rafael Furcal, of all people, and the Dodgers were able to tie the game. This year has not been good to Lidge. His ERA is over 7.00, and he's allowed more runs and given up more home runs than he did all of last season. I don't know what the hell is wrong with him, but it's something that needs to be looked at. He seems to do well with the poor teams, like the Nationals and Padres, but when it comes to the teams that the Phillies could be playing in October, like the Dodgers and Yankees, he has trouble. It might just be because those teams are better, but he didn't blow a save last season, no matter who it was against. A year after going 41-41, Lidge has already blown six saves. This is Billy Wagner territory he's getting close to now.
Once again, the lineup wasted a solid start from a starting pitcher. When Joe Blanton gives you six innings of one run baseball, you need to be able to score enough runs to get him the win. Instead, the Phillies only managed two hits off of starter Hiroki Kuroda, and could only score after he was taken out of the game. Even so, the Phils left seven men on base, and just couldn't come through when they needed to, once again. I don't know if it's the Los Angeles pitching, or just the fact that the Phillies are going through a team slump, but it needs to stop, and quickly. Everything looked like it was coming together a few days ago, and now, I'm not sure. I hate baseball for this very reason, but it makes it more compelling through the season. The Phillies have to bounce back tomorrow night to at least earn a split in L.A. If they can't do that, then this series with the Mets is going to be very, very interesting.
Tomorrow, Antonio Bastardo (1-0, 1.50 ERA), goes up against Randy Wolf (3-1, 3.21 ERA). You might remember Wolf as one of those young pitchers that once had as much potential as Bastardo. Now, the Dodgers have him. Go Phillies!
Phillies Recap: Dodgers-4, Phillies-3
Game Recap:
The Phillies let a ninth inning lead get away from them, as they dropped their first game in over a week to the Dodgers.
What went right?
Jamie Moyer pitched seven solid innings, allowing two runs on four hits. He struck out three and walked none.
Chase Utley was 2-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-3 with a walk and a run scored.
Raul Ibanez was 1-5 with an RBI.
Eric Bruntlett was 2-3 with a run scored, but he did have a fielding mistake in the seventh inning that allowed a run to score.
What went wrong?
Jimmy Rollins was 0-5.
Brad Lidge blew his fifth save of the season. He gave up two unearned runs on two hits. He walked one and struck out one.
The Phillies left 10 men on base.
Game Analysis:
Well, everyone knew that the Phillies would lose again. I don't think many people believed it would be after Brad Lidge retired the first two guys in the ninth inning, then got a ground ball to third base, where the normally sure handed Pedro Feliz plays. Of course, some things just aren't supposed to happen. Feliz muffed the play, and three batters later, Andre Ethier got to play hero with a bases loaded double. It sucks losing like that, and it sucks even more when it's not the closer's fault.
This was a game of missed chances for the Phillies. They left 10 men on base, and Jimmy Rollins was responsible for almost all of them. I know he's a leadoff guy, but when Shane gets back into the lineup, Charlie may want to move Jimmy down and try Shane for a couple of days. Jimmy just is not hitting this year, and though he hit a screamer with the bases loaded in the eighth inning, Juan Pierre made it to the ball easily. It was little things like that, or the ground ball to Feliz, or the fly ball that Eric Bruntlett misread in the seventh inning after Raul Ibanez missed a ball earlier in the same inning. You had a feeling going into the ninth inning that something was going to happen, or at least I did. Either way, the streak is over now, so it's time to start a new one.
The big problem with those mistakes was that they cost Jamie Moyer a chance at another win. While Moyer has been shelled by the Dodgers lately, he pitched great last night, and looked like the Moyer of 2008. If he can keep that up, all of a sudden, there are no holes in the pitching staff. He had his control last night, he was working the corners, and he was getting ground balls to get out of innings. When Moyer is pitching like that, you know he's in the zone, and this wasn't the Washington Nationals lineup, either. This was one of the highest scoring teams in baseball that he was dealing with. It may take a little bit longer, but Jamie's slowly getting back into my good graces.
Today, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.86 ERA), goes against Hiroki Kuroda (1-1, 2.53 ERA). The game is on Fox, so I hope you enjoy everyone gushing about the Dodgers and how well they're playing this year.
The Phillies let a ninth inning lead get away from them, as they dropped their first game in over a week to the Dodgers.
What went right?
Jamie Moyer pitched seven solid innings, allowing two runs on four hits. He struck out three and walked none.
Chase Utley was 2-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-3 with a walk and a run scored.
Raul Ibanez was 1-5 with an RBI.
Eric Bruntlett was 2-3 with a run scored, but he did have a fielding mistake in the seventh inning that allowed a run to score.
What went wrong?
Jimmy Rollins was 0-5.
Brad Lidge blew his fifth save of the season. He gave up two unearned runs on two hits. He walked one and struck out one.
The Phillies left 10 men on base.
Game Analysis:
Well, everyone knew that the Phillies would lose again. I don't think many people believed it would be after Brad Lidge retired the first two guys in the ninth inning, then got a ground ball to third base, where the normally sure handed Pedro Feliz plays. Of course, some things just aren't supposed to happen. Feliz muffed the play, and three batters later, Andre Ethier got to play hero with a bases loaded double. It sucks losing like that, and it sucks even more when it's not the closer's fault.
This was a game of missed chances for the Phillies. They left 10 men on base, and Jimmy Rollins was responsible for almost all of them. I know he's a leadoff guy, but when Shane gets back into the lineup, Charlie may want to move Jimmy down and try Shane for a couple of days. Jimmy just is not hitting this year, and though he hit a screamer with the bases loaded in the eighth inning, Juan Pierre made it to the ball easily. It was little things like that, or the ground ball to Feliz, or the fly ball that Eric Bruntlett misread in the seventh inning after Raul Ibanez missed a ball earlier in the same inning. You had a feeling going into the ninth inning that something was going to happen, or at least I did. Either way, the streak is over now, so it's time to start a new one.
The big problem with those mistakes was that they cost Jamie Moyer a chance at another win. While Moyer has been shelled by the Dodgers lately, he pitched great last night, and looked like the Moyer of 2008. If he can keep that up, all of a sudden, there are no holes in the pitching staff. He had his control last night, he was working the corners, and he was getting ground balls to get out of innings. When Moyer is pitching like that, you know he's in the zone, and this wasn't the Washington Nationals lineup, either. This was one of the highest scoring teams in baseball that he was dealing with. It may take a little bit longer, but Jamie's slowly getting back into my good graces.
Today, Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.86 ERA), goes against Hiroki Kuroda (1-1, 2.53 ERA). The game is on Fox, so I hope you enjoy everyone gushing about the Dodgers and how well they're playing this year.
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