Game Recap:
Thanks to three errors in the field, Rodrigo Lopez basically pitched himself out of the starting rotation, as the Phillies lost their second game in a row for the first time since the start of the month.
What went right?
Chase Utley went 1-3 with a home run and two runs scored.
Ryan Howard went 1-4 with an RBI.
The bullpen duo of Kyle Kendrick and Tyler Walker allowed just one hit and no runs in their four innings of work.
What went wrong?
Rodrigo Lopez had his worst start of the year at the worst possible time for him. He lasted just four innings, and allowed seven runs (three earned) on eight hits. He struck out two and walked two.
Raul Ibanez was 0-2.
Pedro Feliz went 0-4.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-4.
Jayson Werth, Chase Utley and Pedro Feliz all committed errors which led to runs.
Game Analysis:
Again, not much to say about the game from last night. The Phillies made more mistakes than they usually do, and with Rodrigo Lopez pitching for his job, they didn't exactly give him much support. Of course, he could have gotten out of the innings where there was trouble, but that's neither here nor there. The fact of the matter is that the Phillies played sloppy baseball last night, and the Giants managed to take advantage of that.
It certainly wasn't the best game in the world, but remember: the Phils still have a good lead in the division, and two losses in a row happens to even the best teams. The offense just needs to get back on track, and the defense needs to stop making stupid plays in the field. Both of these things are correctable, so I'm not overly concerned.
Tonight, a Mr. Cliff Lee (7-9, 3.14 ERA) makes his Philadelphia debut. He's taking on Ryan Sadowski (2-3, 4.81 ERA). Let's see if our new guy can earn his stripes in his first start. I've got a good feeling. Go Phils!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Phillies Recap: Diamondbacks-4, Phillies-0
Yes, I know this is late. Blame my work schedule and the fact that these games don't get over until 1:00 AM. Damn west coast road trips.
Game Recap:
The Phillies were shut out for the first time in nearly three months as Arizona salvaged a win out of the three game series.
What went right?
Ryan Howard was 2-4.
Raul Ibanez went 2-4.
J.A. Happ allowed two runs over six innings of work. He walked two and struck out five.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino was 0-3, and left the game in the eighth inning with what's being called a left knee contusion.
Greg Dobbs was 0-4.
Both Scott Erye and Todd Walker allowed runs out of the bullpen in one inning of work each.
The Phillies struck out 12 times.
Game Analysis:
There's not that much that can be said about this game. I'm going to blame it on Cliff Lee hangover and then move on, because I think that's for the best. It's not every day the best offense in the National League gets shut out by a pitcher who has an ERA that's approaching my shoe size. Normally, the Phils kill pitchers like this, but not last night. It just wasn't to be, but you figured there could be a let down, especially after beating one of the best pitchers in baseball the night before.
Do I like the fact that they lost last night? Of course not, I love when the Phillies sweep teams. However, it's not the end of the world. They're still 17 games over .500 and have a six game lead in the division. All things considered, it's all good.
Tonight, Rodrigo Lopez (3-0, 3.09 ERA) pitches for his job, as he goes against Jonathan Sanchez (3-9, 4.92 ERA). Sanchez threw a no hitter somehow this year, so you never know, but I think the Phils can take this one.
Game Recap:
The Phillies were shut out for the first time in nearly three months as Arizona salvaged a win out of the three game series.
What went right?
Ryan Howard was 2-4.
Raul Ibanez went 2-4.
J.A. Happ allowed two runs over six innings of work. He walked two and struck out five.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino was 0-3, and left the game in the eighth inning with what's being called a left knee contusion.
Greg Dobbs was 0-4.
Both Scott Erye and Todd Walker allowed runs out of the bullpen in one inning of work each.
The Phillies struck out 12 times.
Game Analysis:
There's not that much that can be said about this game. I'm going to blame it on Cliff Lee hangover and then move on, because I think that's for the best. It's not every day the best offense in the National League gets shut out by a pitcher who has an ERA that's approaching my shoe size. Normally, the Phils kill pitchers like this, but not last night. It just wasn't to be, but you figured there could be a let down, especially after beating one of the best pitchers in baseball the night before.
Do I like the fact that they lost last night? Of course not, I love when the Phillies sweep teams. However, it's not the end of the world. They're still 17 games over .500 and have a six game lead in the division. All things considered, it's all good.
Tonight, Rodrigo Lopez (3-0, 3.09 ERA) pitches for his job, as he goes against Jonathan Sanchez (3-9, 4.92 ERA). Sanchez threw a no hitter somehow this year, so you never know, but I think the Phils can take this one.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Breaking News! Phillies Trade for Cliff Lee
Here's the word from Mr. Jayson Stark:
So...the Phillies get the 2008 Cy Young Award winner and a right handed bat off the bench, and don't give up any of the pieces that the Blue Jays wanted for Roy Halladay? Wow, I can't believe that Ruben Amaro pulled this off. While I think Carrasco, Marson and Donald could have been very good players in Philadelphia, they're all prospects, and there's no telling how things are going to turn out with them.
With Cliff Lee, the Phils are getting a pitcher who has won his last three starts and allowed only four runs since the All Star break. He's struggled a bit this year, but is still a top of the rotation pitcher that can certainly provide a good jolt to the starting rotation. He doesn't walk many batters, and gives up very few home runs, so pitching in Philadelphia shouldn't be a problem.
The sleeper in the deal is Ben Francisco. He started in Cleveland, but will come off the bench here, but is going to provide a right handed bat with power off the bench, and if he can get his head on straight, he could be another Jayson Werth type of player. Charlie Manuel's done well with players like him in the past, so hopefully he can do the same this time.
Yes, I wanted Roy Halladay. All the Phillies fans did. However, the Blue Jays wanted the Phils to basically give up their future for a pitcher that might not have even stuck around after next season. What the Phillies got instead is a good pitcher who has been playing very well of late, and has a proven track record if you look back at last season. This right here was a very good trade for the Phillies, and could prove to be the thing that helps put them on top of the baseball world again come late October. For now though, we just wait and see.
Source: Cliff Lee traded to Philadelphia Phillies by Cleveland Indians-ESPN
The Philadelphia Phillies and the Cleveland Indians agreed to a
trade that would bring Cliff Lee to the NL East leaders along with outfielder Ben
Francisco for four minor leaguers, according to league sources.
Triple-A right-hander Carlos Carrasco, Single-A righty Jason Knapp, catch Lou Marson -- the likely heir
apparent to Victor Martinez -- and shortstop Jason Donald will be sent to
Cleveland.
So...the Phillies get the 2008 Cy Young Award winner and a right handed bat off the bench, and don't give up any of the pieces that the Blue Jays wanted for Roy Halladay? Wow, I can't believe that Ruben Amaro pulled this off. While I think Carrasco, Marson and Donald could have been very good players in Philadelphia, they're all prospects, and there's no telling how things are going to turn out with them.
With Cliff Lee, the Phils are getting a pitcher who has won his last three starts and allowed only four runs since the All Star break. He's struggled a bit this year, but is still a top of the rotation pitcher that can certainly provide a good jolt to the starting rotation. He doesn't walk many batters, and gives up very few home runs, so pitching in Philadelphia shouldn't be a problem.
The sleeper in the deal is Ben Francisco. He started in Cleveland, but will come off the bench here, but is going to provide a right handed bat with power off the bench, and if he can get his head on straight, he could be another Jayson Werth type of player. Charlie Manuel's done well with players like him in the past, so hopefully he can do the same this time.
Yes, I wanted Roy Halladay. All the Phillies fans did. However, the Blue Jays wanted the Phils to basically give up their future for a pitcher that might not have even stuck around after next season. What the Phillies got instead is a good pitcher who has been playing very well of late, and has a proven track record if you look back at last season. This right here was a very good trade for the Phillies, and could prove to be the thing that helps put them on top of the baseball world again come late October. For now though, we just wait and see.
Source: Cliff Lee traded to Philadelphia Phillies by Cleveland Indians-ESPN
Phillies Recap: Phillies-4, Diamondbacks-3
Game Recap:
Cole Hamels pitched eight solid innings, and the Phillies worked Dan Haren over to get their fourth straight win.
What went right?
Shane Victorino was 3-5 with two runs scored, a home run, a stolen base and two RBI.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-5, stole a base and scored a run.
Cole Hamels pitched eight innings, allowing one run on four hits. He walked none, struck out nine and went 1-4 at the plate with a double and a run scored.
The Phillies knocked Dan Haren out of the game after five innings and 117 pitches.
What went wrong?
Brad Lidge made the ninth inning interesting, allowing a two run home run to Mark Reynolds before shutting Arizona down for his seventh straight save.
Carlos Ruiz went 0-4, and was the only starting position player not to reach base or drive in a run.
Game Analysis:
What a pretty little bit of pitching that was from Cole Hamels. It's taken him a while, but it looks like he might finally be back to last year's form. He still had a little trouble early last night, when he gave up a first inning home run, but after that, it was vintage Cole. He had the Diamondbacks guessing at pitches all night, and his changeup looked really good, too. This is what the Phillies need from Cole if they want to make another run in the National League.
While the Phils only scored four runs last night, it was their patience at the plate that was more impressive. Dan Haren is one of the best pitchers in the National League, and the Phillies didn't let him get settled into any sort of a groove last night. The offense had several long at bats that drained Haren, and by the end of the fifth inning, the Arizona ace was already at 117 pitches. In comparison, Cole Hamels pitched eight innings and needed only 112 pitches to do that. That shows you how good the batters were last night for the Phillies. When you face good pitching you either need to come out swinging, and try and knock the pitcher out early, or have long, productive at bats that work the pitcher over. Last night, the Phillies did the latter, and it worked like a charm.
Tonight, the Phillies go for the sweep of Arizona. J.A. Happ (7-1, 2.97) ERA makes the start. He'll be facing off against Yusmeiro Petit (0-5, 7.68 ERA). Hopefully, it's not the last start Happ ever makes for us. Go Phils!
Cole Hamels pitched eight solid innings, and the Phillies worked Dan Haren over to get their fourth straight win.
What went right?
Shane Victorino was 3-5 with two runs scored, a home run, a stolen base and two RBI.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-5, stole a base and scored a run.
Cole Hamels pitched eight innings, allowing one run on four hits. He walked none, struck out nine and went 1-4 at the plate with a double and a run scored.
The Phillies knocked Dan Haren out of the game after five innings and 117 pitches.
What went wrong?
Brad Lidge made the ninth inning interesting, allowing a two run home run to Mark Reynolds before shutting Arizona down for his seventh straight save.
Carlos Ruiz went 0-4, and was the only starting position player not to reach base or drive in a run.
Game Analysis:
What a pretty little bit of pitching that was from Cole Hamels. It's taken him a while, but it looks like he might finally be back to last year's form. He still had a little trouble early last night, when he gave up a first inning home run, but after that, it was vintage Cole. He had the Diamondbacks guessing at pitches all night, and his changeup looked really good, too. This is what the Phillies need from Cole if they want to make another run in the National League.
While the Phils only scored four runs last night, it was their patience at the plate that was more impressive. Dan Haren is one of the best pitchers in the National League, and the Phillies didn't let him get settled into any sort of a groove last night. The offense had several long at bats that drained Haren, and by the end of the fifth inning, the Arizona ace was already at 117 pitches. In comparison, Cole Hamels pitched eight innings and needed only 112 pitches to do that. That shows you how good the batters were last night for the Phillies. When you face good pitching you either need to come out swinging, and try and knock the pitcher out early, or have long, productive at bats that work the pitcher over. Last night, the Phillies did the latter, and it worked like a charm.
Tonight, the Phillies go for the sweep of Arizona. J.A. Happ (7-1, 2.97) ERA makes the start. He'll be facing off against Yusmeiro Petit (0-5, 7.68 ERA). Hopefully, it's not the last start Happ ever makes for us. Go Phils!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Sad News: Jim Johnson has Passed Away
You could tell it was coming when the Eagles announced that Sean McDermott would be the full time defensive coordinator, but you didn't want to think about it. I just didn't think it would come this quickly. Jim Johnson has lost his battle with cancer, passing away this afternoon at the age of 68.
For the last ten years, Johnson ran one of the best defenses in the NFL. I always said he looked like a crazy old man, and I was glad he was on our side. I'm not going to like not seeing him on the sidelines. Hopefully, the Eagles can pull together and win this year for one of the best coordinators the NFL had ever seen.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family. Rest In Peace, Coach Johnson.
For the last ten years, Johnson ran one of the best defenses in the NFL. I always said he looked like a crazy old man, and I was glad he was on our side. I'm not going to like not seeing him on the sidelines. Hopefully, the Eagles can pull together and win this year for one of the best coordinators the NFL had ever seen.
My thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family. Rest In Peace, Coach Johnson.
Phillies Recap: Phillies-6, Diamondbacks-2
Game Recap:
Jamie Moyer pitched out of trouble, and the Phillies beat up on Jon Garland to take the first game of their three game series with Arizona.
What went right?
Ryan Howard was 1-3 with his 26th home run of the year, a walk, two RBI and two runs scored.
Raul Ibanez went 2-4 with an RBI.
Jimmy Rollins was 1-5 with a double and an RBI.
Chase Utley went 1-4 with two runs scored.
Pedro Feliz was 1-4 with an RBI.
Jamie Moyer pitched 6.2 innings, allowing no runs on six hits. He walked four and struck out five.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino was 0-5.
Ryan Madson got into some trouble in the eighth inning, allowing two runs on three hits.
Game Analysis:
Another series gets started with a solid game by the Phils. Last night, it was all about Jamie Moyer's ability to get out of some big jams in the early innings. In the second inning, the Diamondbacks had the bases loaded with no one out. Moyer struck out Jon Garland, then got Stephen Drew to ground into a double play to end the inning. It was more of the same in the third inning, and then Moyer settled down to earn his 10th win of the season. In all, Arizona left 11 men on base, and missed several chances to take control of the game, but I'm not complaining.
The offense had another good game last night, with Ryan Howard starting things off with a two run blast into center field. When the big man is hitting, and has backup from Raul Ibanez, Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins, there are very few teams in the National League that can stop the Phils from scoring. It's just that simple, and they proved that last night against Arizona. Now, this is a series that the Phillies should win: aside from Dan Haren, the Diamondbacks don't exactly have the best pitching in baseball, so a win tomorrow would be expected. Either way, this is a series the Phillies are supposed to be able to handle, so let's see if they can continue to take care of business tonight.
Cole Hamels (6-5, 4.66 ERA) goes tonight for the Phillies. He'll be facing off against the previously mentioned Dan Haren (10-5, 2.14 ERA). Good luck tonight, Phils.
Jamie Moyer pitched out of trouble, and the Phillies beat up on Jon Garland to take the first game of their three game series with Arizona.
What went right?
Ryan Howard was 1-3 with his 26th home run of the year, a walk, two RBI and two runs scored.
Raul Ibanez went 2-4 with an RBI.
Jimmy Rollins was 1-5 with a double and an RBI.
Chase Utley went 1-4 with two runs scored.
Pedro Feliz was 1-4 with an RBI.
Jamie Moyer pitched 6.2 innings, allowing no runs on six hits. He walked four and struck out five.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino was 0-5.
Ryan Madson got into some trouble in the eighth inning, allowing two runs on three hits.
Game Analysis:
Another series gets started with a solid game by the Phils. Last night, it was all about Jamie Moyer's ability to get out of some big jams in the early innings. In the second inning, the Diamondbacks had the bases loaded with no one out. Moyer struck out Jon Garland, then got Stephen Drew to ground into a double play to end the inning. It was more of the same in the third inning, and then Moyer settled down to earn his 10th win of the season. In all, Arizona left 11 men on base, and missed several chances to take control of the game, but I'm not complaining.
The offense had another good game last night, with Ryan Howard starting things off with a two run blast into center field. When the big man is hitting, and has backup from Raul Ibanez, Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins, there are very few teams in the National League that can stop the Phils from scoring. It's just that simple, and they proved that last night against Arizona. Now, this is a series that the Phillies should win: aside from Dan Haren, the Diamondbacks don't exactly have the best pitching in baseball, so a win tomorrow would be expected. Either way, this is a series the Phillies are supposed to be able to handle, so let's see if they can continue to take care of business tonight.
Cole Hamels (6-5, 4.66 ERA) goes tonight for the Phillies. He'll be facing off against the previously mentioned Dan Haren (10-5, 2.14 ERA). Good luck tonight, Phils.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-9, Cardinals-2
Game Recap:
Four two run home runs, along with eight innings from Joe Blanton, pushed the Phillies to a series win over the NL Central leading St. Louis Cardinals.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 1-5 with a two run home run.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with two runs scored.
Chase Utley went 3-4 with a two run home run and two runs scored.
Ryan Howard was 3-3 with three RBI, two runs scored and a two run home run.
Raul Ibanez went 1-4 with...wait for it...a two run home run.
Joe Blanton pitched eight innings, allowing two runs on seven hits. He walked one and struck out six.
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with a run scored.
What went wrong?
Matt Stairs went 0-3.
That's it.
Game Analysis:
For the second day in a row, the Phillies came out and showed why they are one of the best teams in baseball. If you notice who hit the home runs today that put the Phils in the win column, one came from Jimmy Rollins, who has been reborn in July, while the others came from the number three, four and five batters in the lineup, which is exactly where you want that kind of power to come from. Any time you can have Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez launch home runs in the same game, it's almost certain that the Phillies are going to win.
In addition, Joe Blanton continued his awesome pitching of late, going eight innings, making it the fourth game in a row that Blanton has pitched into the eighth inning. For the month of July, Joe has allowed four runs in 29.2 innings, while walking five and striking out 22. He's 3-0 in the month, and if he's not at least in the running for Pitcher of the Month, I'm going to be ticked. He's been the most consistent pitcher that the Phillies have had of late, and if he can keep this up, the starting rotation will certainly be less of an issue, though Roy Halladay would certainly be nice, no matter how bad the talks seem to be getting.
It's so fun when this team is winning. The Phils have taken 17 of their last 20 games, are two games over .500 for the season at home, and have a 6.5 game lead in the National League East. All of these things seemed so far out of reach at the start of the month, and now here they are. There are still two months to play in the season, but if the Phillies keep playing like this, the last three weeks won't matter for much except positioning in the postseason.
Tomorrow, the Phillies take their act on the road, as they travel to Arizona. Jamie Moyer (9-7, 5.65 ERA) goes for win number ten on the season against Jon Garland (5-9, 4.41 ERA). Go Phils!
Four two run home runs, along with eight innings from Joe Blanton, pushed the Phillies to a series win over the NL Central leading St. Louis Cardinals.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 1-5 with a two run home run.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with two runs scored.
Chase Utley went 3-4 with a two run home run and two runs scored.
Ryan Howard was 3-3 with three RBI, two runs scored and a two run home run.
Raul Ibanez went 1-4 with...wait for it...a two run home run.
Joe Blanton pitched eight innings, allowing two runs on seven hits. He walked one and struck out six.
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with a run scored.
What went wrong?
Matt Stairs went 0-3.
That's it.
Game Analysis:
For the second day in a row, the Phillies came out and showed why they are one of the best teams in baseball. If you notice who hit the home runs today that put the Phils in the win column, one came from Jimmy Rollins, who has been reborn in July, while the others came from the number three, four and five batters in the lineup, which is exactly where you want that kind of power to come from. Any time you can have Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez launch home runs in the same game, it's almost certain that the Phillies are going to win.
In addition, Joe Blanton continued his awesome pitching of late, going eight innings, making it the fourth game in a row that Blanton has pitched into the eighth inning. For the month of July, Joe has allowed four runs in 29.2 innings, while walking five and striking out 22. He's 3-0 in the month, and if he's not at least in the running for Pitcher of the Month, I'm going to be ticked. He's been the most consistent pitcher that the Phillies have had of late, and if he can keep this up, the starting rotation will certainly be less of an issue, though Roy Halladay would certainly be nice, no matter how bad the talks seem to be getting.
It's so fun when this team is winning. The Phils have taken 17 of their last 20 games, are two games over .500 for the season at home, and have a 6.5 game lead in the National League East. All of these things seemed so far out of reach at the start of the month, and now here they are. There are still two months to play in the season, but if the Phillies keep playing like this, the last three weeks won't matter for much except positioning in the postseason.
Tomorrow, the Phillies take their act on the road, as they travel to Arizona. Jamie Moyer (9-7, 5.65 ERA) goes for win number ten on the season against Jon Garland (5-9, 4.41 ERA). Go Phils!
Phillie of the Week: July 19-25
The Phillies had another solid week, winning five out of their seven games, and while there were many possible options, only one player could be named Phillie of the Week, and this week it is:
Jimmy Rollins
Jimmy continued his turnaround, hitting .313 this week, with seven runs scored, two home runs and nine RBI. Ever since his benching in late June, he's been on fire, and it's helped the Phillies win 17 of their last 20 games.
Jimmy Rollins
Jimmy continued his turnaround, hitting .313 this week, with seven runs scored, two home runs and nine RBI. Ever since his benching in late June, he's been on fire, and it's helped the Phillies win 17 of their last 20 games.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Double Dip Phillies Recap
Friday: Cardinals-8, Phillies-1
Real simple...the less said about this game, the better. Happ got lit up, and nothing went right. Moving on!
Saturday: Phillies-14, Cardinals-6
Much Better!
Game Recap:
A grand slam by Jimmy Rollins opened the floodgates in the seventh inning, as the Phillies scored 11 times in their last two at bats to beat up on St. Louis.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-5 with that grand slam and five RBI. He also scored twice.
Shane Victorino went 4-4 with a home run, three runs scored, three RBI and a stolen base.
Raul Ibanez was 2-5 with an RBI and a run scored.
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with two RBI and two runs scored.
Chase Utley went 1-3 and scored twice.
Ryan Howard was 1-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth went 1-3 with two runs scored.
What went wrong?
Rodrigo Lopez got the win, but wasn't that sharp, allowing four runs (three earned) on ten hits. He walked one, struck out two and allowed two home runs.
The Phillies committed two errors.
Game Analysis:
After a very poor showing last night, the Phillies needed a strong bounce back game, and that's exactly what they got today, even though it certainly didn't look like that's where they were headed for six innings. After a three run burst in the first inning, the Phils let the Cardinals chip away at the lead, until Rick Ankiel's solo home run gave St. Louis the lead for the first time. Fortunately, Jimmy Rollins is starting to play like the 2007 MVP again, and his two out grand slam, and subsequent Shane Victorino home run in the seventh inning, gave the Phillies all the runs they would need. Of course, that didn't stop them from tacking on six more in the eighth inning, but when you're facing Albert Pujols, you can't be too safe.
Before the late offensive explosion, it looked like it was going to be another loss for the Phillies. Rodrigo Lopez only allowed three earned runs, but had given up ten hits to the Cardinals in six innings, which is far too many. At this point, even with three wins, it looks like he just might be keeping that spot in the rotation warm for Pedro Martinez. Hopefully, he can keep pitching well, even with the average play today. He's got a few more starts before Pedro should be ready to go, so let's see what he can do with them.
Like I said before, this was a game the Phillies needed to win. After being soundly beaten last night, this game was on national television, and was a chance for the Phils to make a statement, and they did just that. Yes, it took them until the seventh inning to really get started, but that's why a baseball game is nine innings long. It doesn't matter if you score runs in the first inning or the ninth, just as long as you score them. With the lineup the Phillies have, you are almost assured that the runs will eventually come, it's just a matter of how many and how soon. That's what makes this team so dangerous...they can score whenever they feel like it.
Tomorrow, Joe Blanton (6-4, 4.24 ERA) looks to push the Phils to a series win as he goes against Todd Wellemeyer (7-8, 5.68 ERA). Let's go Phillies!
Real simple...the less said about this game, the better. Happ got lit up, and nothing went right. Moving on!
Saturday: Phillies-14, Cardinals-6
Much Better!
Game Recap:
A grand slam by Jimmy Rollins opened the floodgates in the seventh inning, as the Phillies scored 11 times in their last two at bats to beat up on St. Louis.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-5 with that grand slam and five RBI. He also scored twice.
Shane Victorino went 4-4 with a home run, three runs scored, three RBI and a stolen base.
Raul Ibanez was 2-5 with an RBI and a run scored.
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with two RBI and two runs scored.
Chase Utley went 1-3 and scored twice.
Ryan Howard was 1-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth went 1-3 with two runs scored.
What went wrong?
Rodrigo Lopez got the win, but wasn't that sharp, allowing four runs (three earned) on ten hits. He walked one, struck out two and allowed two home runs.
The Phillies committed two errors.
Game Analysis:
After a very poor showing last night, the Phillies needed a strong bounce back game, and that's exactly what they got today, even though it certainly didn't look like that's where they were headed for six innings. After a three run burst in the first inning, the Phils let the Cardinals chip away at the lead, until Rick Ankiel's solo home run gave St. Louis the lead for the first time. Fortunately, Jimmy Rollins is starting to play like the 2007 MVP again, and his two out grand slam, and subsequent Shane Victorino home run in the seventh inning, gave the Phillies all the runs they would need. Of course, that didn't stop them from tacking on six more in the eighth inning, but when you're facing Albert Pujols, you can't be too safe.
Before the late offensive explosion, it looked like it was going to be another loss for the Phillies. Rodrigo Lopez only allowed three earned runs, but had given up ten hits to the Cardinals in six innings, which is far too many. At this point, even with three wins, it looks like he just might be keeping that spot in the rotation warm for Pedro Martinez. Hopefully, he can keep pitching well, even with the average play today. He's got a few more starts before Pedro should be ready to go, so let's see what he can do with them.
Like I said before, this was a game the Phillies needed to win. After being soundly beaten last night, this game was on national television, and was a chance for the Phils to make a statement, and they did just that. Yes, it took them until the seventh inning to really get started, but that's why a baseball game is nine innings long. It doesn't matter if you score runs in the first inning or the ninth, just as long as you score them. With the lineup the Phillies have, you are almost assured that the runs will eventually come, it's just a matter of how many and how soon. That's what makes this team so dangerous...they can score whenever they feel like it.
Tomorrow, Joe Blanton (6-4, 4.24 ERA) looks to push the Phils to a series win as he goes against Todd Wellemeyer (7-8, 5.68 ERA). Let's go Phillies!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-9, Padres-4
Game Recap:
Behind a solid game from Cole Hamels, the Phillies won their 15th game out of 17, beating the Padres in their makeup game from April.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-4 with two runs scored and an RBI.
Chase Utley went 1-3 with an RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Raul Ibanez was 1-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth went 3-5 with two runs scored and an RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 3-5 with an RBI.
Carlos Ruiz was 1-4 with a home run.
Cole Hamels pitched seven strong innings, allowing three runs on four hits. He walked two and struck out six.
What went wrong?
Andrew Carpenter didn't exactly impress in his return from the minor leagues, allowing a run on two hits while recording only one out.
The Phillies placed both Chad Durbin and J.C. Romero on the DL.
Game Analysis:
After an ugly loss to the Cubs yesterday, the Phillies needed a bounce back game, and they got just that against one of the worst teams in baseball. Cole Hamels looked sharp, and the offense was on point again for a good win over San Diego, which is exactly what the Phils needed.
For the second straight start, Cole has looked more like himself, only this time, he was able to pitch deep into the game. While he did have trouble in the fourth inning, the offense was able to get those runs right back, and he didn't have a problem for the rest of the time he was in the game. His control still wasn't at 2008 levels, but seeing him pitch well again for seven innings is a very good thing, especially during the second half of the season.
You've got to love how the Phillies bounced back on offense today after a slow day yesterday. After wasting a ton of chances against the Cubs, the Phils managed to drive in nine runs today and looked much better doing it. Raul Ibanez drove an outside pitch to the leftfield corner for two runs, while the rest of the heart of the Philadelphia lineup did what they had to do, and gave Cole more than enough runs. Yes, the Padres are one of the worst teams in baseball, but the Phillies need to win games like this just the way they did, so I'm not going to complain. Beating up on bad teams is what pads the records of good teams. Sorry, Padres.
Tomorrow, J.A. Happ (7-0, 2.68 ERA) looks to continue his season of ass kicking, as he faces off against the St. Louis Cardinals and Joel Pineiro (8-9, 3.09 ERA). I don't know why Pinerio loses so many games with such a low ERA, but I hope the Phils can keep that trend up.
Behind a solid game from Cole Hamels, the Phillies won their 15th game out of 17, beating the Padres in their makeup game from April.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-4 with two runs scored and an RBI.
Chase Utley went 1-3 with an RBI and a run scored.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Raul Ibanez was 1-5 with two RBI.
Jayson Werth went 3-5 with two runs scored and an RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 3-5 with an RBI.
Carlos Ruiz was 1-4 with a home run.
Cole Hamels pitched seven strong innings, allowing three runs on four hits. He walked two and struck out six.
What went wrong?
Andrew Carpenter didn't exactly impress in his return from the minor leagues, allowing a run on two hits while recording only one out.
The Phillies placed both Chad Durbin and J.C. Romero on the DL.
Game Analysis:
After an ugly loss to the Cubs yesterday, the Phillies needed a bounce back game, and they got just that against one of the worst teams in baseball. Cole Hamels looked sharp, and the offense was on point again for a good win over San Diego, which is exactly what the Phils needed.
For the second straight start, Cole has looked more like himself, only this time, he was able to pitch deep into the game. While he did have trouble in the fourth inning, the offense was able to get those runs right back, and he didn't have a problem for the rest of the time he was in the game. His control still wasn't at 2008 levels, but seeing him pitch well again for seven innings is a very good thing, especially during the second half of the season.
You've got to love how the Phillies bounced back on offense today after a slow day yesterday. After wasting a ton of chances against the Cubs, the Phils managed to drive in nine runs today and looked much better doing it. Raul Ibanez drove an outside pitch to the leftfield corner for two runs, while the rest of the heart of the Philadelphia lineup did what they had to do, and gave Cole more than enough runs. Yes, the Padres are one of the worst teams in baseball, but the Phillies need to win games like this just the way they did, so I'm not going to complain. Beating up on bad teams is what pads the records of good teams. Sorry, Padres.
Tomorrow, J.A. Happ (7-0, 2.68 ERA) looks to continue his season of ass kicking, as he faces off against the St. Louis Cardinals and Joel Pineiro (8-9, 3.09 ERA). I don't know why Pinerio loses so many games with such a low ERA, but I hope the Phils can keep that trend up.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Phillies Recap: Cubs-10, Phillies-5
Game Recap:
The Phillies 10 game winning streak came to an end this afternoon, as Chicago pounded out ten runs on 13 hits.
What went right?
Greg Dobbs was 2-5 with two RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 2-5 with a run scored and two RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-4 and scored a run.
Ryan Howard went 1-4 and scored twice.
What went wrong?
Jamie Moyer didn't make it into the sixth inning, allowing five runs (four earned) on eight hits. He walked three and struck out three.
Chad Durbin took the Phillies out of the game for good in the seventh inning, allowing three runs on two hits while not recording an out. He also walked three batters.
Brad Lidge got hit for two runs of his own in the ninth inning. He allowed two hits, walked two and struck out two.
Chase Utley went 0-4 with three strikeouts and had a big error in the fourth inning.
Jimmy Rollins went 0-4, ending his hitting streak.
Game Analysis:
Well, everyone knew that the winning streak couldn't go on forever, and boy did it end with a thud today. In a horribly played game by both teams, the Phillies outstunk the Cubs. There were poor plays on both sides, as well as a combined four errors, 14 walks and 23 men left on base. It was a game that neither team deserved to win, but today, the Phils caught the wrong end of the ugly stick.
It was quite the nasty game today, as the Phillies wasted several chances to get back into the game and possibly put the Cubs away. In the past ten games, someone had always come up with the big hit. Today, no one could, as Chase Utley and Ryan Howard went a combined 1-8. When your two big bats in the middle can't produce, you're not going to win many games, and that was the case today.
So, what happens now? If the Phillies are as good as they've been playing for most of July, they'll dust themselves back off and play like they did during the last two weeks, save for today. If they let this loss get to them, it could be the start of something bad, but I honestly don't think it's going to go that way. This team is too good to let one bad loss get to them. Hell, they had a whole month of bad losses in June, and look how they've responded to that this month.
Tomorrow, Cole Hamels (5-5, 4.72 ERA) faces off against San Diego's Kevin Correia (6-7, 4.34 ERA). This is a makeup game from April 20th, when someone with a sense of humor decided it should be a Dollar Dog Night. It still is, so go and enjoy some cheap hot dogs tomorrow.
The Phillies 10 game winning streak came to an end this afternoon, as Chicago pounded out ten runs on 13 hits.
What went right?
Greg Dobbs was 2-5 with two RBI.
Pedro Feliz went 2-5 with a run scored and two RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-4 and scored a run.
Ryan Howard went 1-4 and scored twice.
What went wrong?
Jamie Moyer didn't make it into the sixth inning, allowing five runs (four earned) on eight hits. He walked three and struck out three.
Chad Durbin took the Phillies out of the game for good in the seventh inning, allowing three runs on two hits while not recording an out. He also walked three batters.
Brad Lidge got hit for two runs of his own in the ninth inning. He allowed two hits, walked two and struck out two.
Chase Utley went 0-4 with three strikeouts and had a big error in the fourth inning.
Jimmy Rollins went 0-4, ending his hitting streak.
Game Analysis:
Well, everyone knew that the winning streak couldn't go on forever, and boy did it end with a thud today. In a horribly played game by both teams, the Phillies outstunk the Cubs. There were poor plays on both sides, as well as a combined four errors, 14 walks and 23 men left on base. It was a game that neither team deserved to win, but today, the Phils caught the wrong end of the ugly stick.
It was quite the nasty game today, as the Phillies wasted several chances to get back into the game and possibly put the Cubs away. In the past ten games, someone had always come up with the big hit. Today, no one could, as Chase Utley and Ryan Howard went a combined 1-8. When your two big bats in the middle can't produce, you're not going to win many games, and that was the case today.
So, what happens now? If the Phillies are as good as they've been playing for most of July, they'll dust themselves back off and play like they did during the last two weeks, save for today. If they let this loss get to them, it could be the start of something bad, but I honestly don't think it's going to go that way. This team is too good to let one bad loss get to them. Hell, they had a whole month of bad losses in June, and look how they've responded to that this month.
Tomorrow, Cole Hamels (5-5, 4.72 ERA) faces off against San Diego's Kevin Correia (6-7, 4.34 ERA). This is a makeup game from April 20th, when someone with a sense of humor decided it should be a Dollar Dog Night. It still is, so go and enjoy some cheap hot dogs tomorrow.
Phillies Recap: Phillies-4, Cubs-1
Game Recap:
Jayson Werth's 13th inning home run gave the Phillies their tenth straight win, and put them over .500 at home for the first time this year.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-6 with a home run.
Jayson Werth went 2-3 with three walks and the game winning three run home run in the 13th inning.
Joe Blanton pitched seven great innings, allowing one run on five hits. He struck out five and walked none.
The bullpen was just as good, shutting out the Cubs for six innings, and not allowing a single hit.
What went wrong?
Chase Utley was 0-6.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-3.
The Phillies left nine men on base.
Game Analysis:
Last night, the Phillies took out the Cubs with their offense. Tonight, they proved that they have a good pitching staff as well, as Joe Blanton and the bullpen held Chicago to just one run in 13 innings. Blanton has looked great lately, and that continued tonight. Despite giving up a run in the fourth inning, the big guy was great through seven innings, and deserved to win tonight.
The Phillies were held in check most of the night by Chicago's pitching, but when it mattered the most, Jayson Werth came through. Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez walked, and Werth nailed a Jeff Samardzija pitch into the left field seats for a walk off win. While I do enjoy seeing a good offensive showing, a pitchers' duel works just as well for me, and to have it end with a walkoff in the 13th inning for the tenth win in a row for the Phillies...well now you're just messing with me.
No matter how they won, this is the longest winning streak for the Phillies since 1991, and they're really starting to put some ground between them and the lower part of the NL East (AKA: the Mets and Nationals). Tomorrow afternoon, Jamie Moyer (9-6, 5.58 ERA) looks to make it 11 in a row, as he faces off against Carlos Zambrano (6-4, 3.36 ERA). Let's go Phils!
Jayson Werth's 13th inning home run gave the Phillies their tenth straight win, and put them over .500 at home for the first time this year.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-6 with a home run.
Jayson Werth went 2-3 with three walks and the game winning three run home run in the 13th inning.
Joe Blanton pitched seven great innings, allowing one run on five hits. He struck out five and walked none.
The bullpen was just as good, shutting out the Cubs for six innings, and not allowing a single hit.
What went wrong?
Chase Utley was 0-6.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-3.
The Phillies left nine men on base.
Game Analysis:
Last night, the Phillies took out the Cubs with their offense. Tonight, they proved that they have a good pitching staff as well, as Joe Blanton and the bullpen held Chicago to just one run in 13 innings. Blanton has looked great lately, and that continued tonight. Despite giving up a run in the fourth inning, the big guy was great through seven innings, and deserved to win tonight.
The Phillies were held in check most of the night by Chicago's pitching, but when it mattered the most, Jayson Werth came through. Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez walked, and Werth nailed a Jeff Samardzija pitch into the left field seats for a walk off win. While I do enjoy seeing a good offensive showing, a pitchers' duel works just as well for me, and to have it end with a walkoff in the 13th inning for the tenth win in a row for the Phillies...well now you're just messing with me.
No matter how they won, this is the longest winning streak for the Phillies since 1991, and they're really starting to put some ground between them and the lower part of the NL East (AKA: the Mets and Nationals). Tomorrow afternoon, Jamie Moyer (9-6, 5.58 ERA) looks to make it 11 in a row, as he faces off against Carlos Zambrano (6-4, 3.36 ERA). Let's go Phils!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-10, Cubs-1
Game Recap:
The Phillies pounded Ted Lilly and the Cubs, scoring ten runs on nine hits as they extended their winning streak to nine games.
What went right?
Raul Ibanez was 1-4 with a three run home run.
Carlos Ruiz went 2-4 with a home run and three RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with a home run.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-3 with a run scored and an RBI.
Chase Utley was 1-3 with an RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with two runs scored.
Rodrigo Lopez pitched six solid innings, allowing one run on five hits. He walked three and struck out five.
What went wrong?
Not one thing. This game was awesome.
Game Analysis:
After starting the second half of the season strong, the Phillies continued their great play last night. After almost wasting a scoring chance in the first inning, Raul Ibanez did his thing and nailed a three run home run to dead centerfield. After that, there was no way the Phils were going to lose last night. They took Ted Lilly behind the woodshed and showed him how a flyball pitcher does at Citizens Bank Park.
There is literally not a single thing I can complain about in regards to last night's game. The Phillies are playing their best baseball of the season right now, and when they're getting ten runs a game and great pitching from Rodrigo Lopez, there's nothing that needs to change. I would still like them to get Roy Halladay, of course, but right now, this team is doing everything it needs to in order to get back to the playoffs and defend their World Series crown. I know this momentum will eventually slow down, but that doesn't mean I can't enjoy the ride right now.
Tonight, Joe Blanton (6-4, 4.44 ERA), tries to make it ten straight wins for the Phillies. He'll be facing off against Rich Harden (6-6, 5.06 ERA). Go Phils!
The Phillies pounded Ted Lilly and the Cubs, scoring ten runs on nine hits as they extended their winning streak to nine games.
What went right?
Raul Ibanez was 1-4 with a three run home run.
Carlos Ruiz went 2-4 with a home run and three RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with a home run.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-3 with a run scored and an RBI.
Chase Utley was 1-3 with an RBI.
Shane Victorino was 2-4 with two runs scored.
Rodrigo Lopez pitched six solid innings, allowing one run on five hits. He walked three and struck out five.
What went wrong?
Not one thing. This game was awesome.
Game Analysis:
After starting the second half of the season strong, the Phillies continued their great play last night. After almost wasting a scoring chance in the first inning, Raul Ibanez did his thing and nailed a three run home run to dead centerfield. After that, there was no way the Phils were going to lose last night. They took Ted Lilly behind the woodshed and showed him how a flyball pitcher does at Citizens Bank Park.
There is literally not a single thing I can complain about in regards to last night's game. The Phillies are playing their best baseball of the season right now, and when they're getting ten runs a game and great pitching from Rodrigo Lopez, there's nothing that needs to change. I would still like them to get Roy Halladay, of course, but right now, this team is doing everything it needs to in order to get back to the playoffs and defend their World Series crown. I know this momentum will eventually slow down, but that doesn't mean I can't enjoy the ride right now.
Tonight, Joe Blanton (6-4, 4.44 ERA), tries to make it ten straight wins for the Phillies. He'll be facing off against Rich Harden (6-6, 5.06 ERA). Go Phils!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-5, Marlins-0
Game Recap:
J.A. Happ was dominant again, and Jimmy Rollins finished a home run short of the cycle as the Phillies swept the Marlins in Miami.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins finished the game 3-5, missing out on the cycle by just a home run. He scored once and drove in a run.
Raul Ibanez was 1-3 with a two run double.
Chase Utley went 1-4 with an RBI and a run scored.
Shane Victorino was 1-4 with a run scored.
J.A. Happ continued to produce, pitching seven shutout innings while giving up five hits. He walked one and struck out four. He also had a base hit and scored a run.
What went wrong?
Pedro Feliz was 0-4.
Eric Bruntlett continues to exist on this team, and went 0-4 in place of Ryan Howard.
Game Analysis:
Well, if the Phillies are going to work a deal for Roy Halladay that includes J.A. Happ, his stock has never been higher. Happ pitched seven quality innings for the fifth straight game to go to 7-0 on the season, and his 2.68 ERA is far and away the best out of the starters. He had his good stuff again today, and while he got into a bit of trouble in the sixth inning, he was able to work out of a bases loaded, no out situation without giving up a single run.
The offense struggled a little bit today, leaving the bases loaded in the first and second innings, but they did enough behind a great pitching performance. Raul Ibanez drove in his 64th and 65th runs of the year, and Chase Utley joined him with his 65th RBI when he was hit by a pitch in the second inning. From there, it was more than enough for Happ to do what he's done ever since he joined the starting rotation. It seems like it should be time for J.A. to be getting a little Rookie of the Year talk, but that may still be a little early. It never hurts to start campaigning now, though.
To come out of the All Star break and sweep the team right behind you in the standings is a great boost to morale and sends a message to the rest of your division, and that's what the Phillies did against the Marlins. They came into Miami four games up in the NL East, and they're leaving seven games up on the Marlins and Braves, with the Mets nine games back. The eight game winning streak the Phils are on now is the longest they've had since 2006, and if they can get Halladay away from the Blue Jays, it would be tough for any other team to catch them in the division this year. After the last two years, I'm not going to start talking postseason yet, but this team certainly has that look to it right now.
Tomorrow, the Phils come back to Citizens Bank Park to take on the Chicago Cubs. Rodrigo Lopez (1-0, 3.18 ERA) goes for the Phillies, while Ted Lilly (9-6, 3.18 ERA) takes the hill for Chicago. Let's go Phils!
J.A. Happ was dominant again, and Jimmy Rollins finished a home run short of the cycle as the Phillies swept the Marlins in Miami.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins finished the game 3-5, missing out on the cycle by just a home run. He scored once and drove in a run.
Raul Ibanez was 1-3 with a two run double.
Chase Utley went 1-4 with an RBI and a run scored.
Shane Victorino was 1-4 with a run scored.
J.A. Happ continued to produce, pitching seven shutout innings while giving up five hits. He walked one and struck out four. He also had a base hit and scored a run.
What went wrong?
Pedro Feliz was 0-4.
Eric Bruntlett continues to exist on this team, and went 0-4 in place of Ryan Howard.
Game Analysis:
Well, if the Phillies are going to work a deal for Roy Halladay that includes J.A. Happ, his stock has never been higher. Happ pitched seven quality innings for the fifth straight game to go to 7-0 on the season, and his 2.68 ERA is far and away the best out of the starters. He had his good stuff again today, and while he got into a bit of trouble in the sixth inning, he was able to work out of a bases loaded, no out situation without giving up a single run.
The offense struggled a little bit today, leaving the bases loaded in the first and second innings, but they did enough behind a great pitching performance. Raul Ibanez drove in his 64th and 65th runs of the year, and Chase Utley joined him with his 65th RBI when he was hit by a pitch in the second inning. From there, it was more than enough for Happ to do what he's done ever since he joined the starting rotation. It seems like it should be time for J.A. to be getting a little Rookie of the Year talk, but that may still be a little early. It never hurts to start campaigning now, though.
To come out of the All Star break and sweep the team right behind you in the standings is a great boost to morale and sends a message to the rest of your division, and that's what the Phillies did against the Marlins. They came into Miami four games up in the NL East, and they're leaving seven games up on the Marlins and Braves, with the Mets nine games back. The eight game winning streak the Phils are on now is the longest they've had since 2006, and if they can get Halladay away from the Blue Jays, it would be tough for any other team to catch them in the division this year. After the last two years, I'm not going to start talking postseason yet, but this team certainly has that look to it right now.
Tomorrow, the Phils come back to Citizens Bank Park to take on the Chicago Cubs. Rodrigo Lopez (1-0, 3.18 ERA) goes for the Phillies, while Ted Lilly (9-6, 3.18 ERA) takes the hill for Chicago. Let's go Phils!
Phillie of the Week: July 12-18
Since this week was so short, and the Phillies only played three full games because of the All Star break and the postponed game last night, I had a tough choice for Phillie of the Week. Rather than go with one player, I decided that this week's Phillies of the Week are:
The All Stars: Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Jayson Werth, Shane Victorino and Raul Ibanez
Though the American League won the All Star Game again, having five players make the team, with three of them starting, is a great feat. The entire starting outfield made the All Star team, becoming the first group in the National League to do that since 1972. If these five can keep up the pace during the second half of the season, this is a deep playoff team again.
The All Stars: Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Jayson Werth, Shane Victorino and Raul Ibanez
Though the American League won the All Star Game again, having five players make the team, with three of them starting, is a great feat. The entire starting outfield made the All Star team, becoming the first group in the National League to do that since 1972. If these five can keep up the pace during the second half of the season, this is a deep playoff team again.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-6, Marlins-5
Game Recap:
A 78 minute rain delay and a bullpen collapse still couldn't keep the Phillies from winning their seventh straight game, this one coming in extra innings.
What went right?
Chase Utley was 2-6 with a home run, two runs scored and three RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-6 with two RBI, including the game winning single in the 12th inning.
Jimmy Rollins went 2-6 and scored twice.
Ryan Howard was 2-6 and scored once.
Raul Ibanez went 2-3 and scored a run.
Cole Hamels was great before the rain delay hit, allowing one run on four hits in five innings. He struck out five and walked one.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino went 0-5.
The bullpen fell apart in the seventh and eighth innings, allowing three runs in those two innings. Chan Ho Park, Ryan Madson, J.C. Romero and Chad Durbin couldn't keep the Marlins from tying the game.
Game Analysis:
Boy, a game where Cole Hamels is shutting down the opposing team is supposed to be easier than that, right? Through five innings, Hamels looked every bit like the World Series MVP last night. Aside from a leadoff home run, Cole had the Marlins guessing at every last pitch he threw, and it looked like he was well on his way to picking up his sixth win of the season. Of course, Mother Nature and the bullpen got in the way of that, but the Phillies would hold on and win, despite some heart stopping moments from Brad Lidge in the 12th.
It wasn't the prettiest win in the world, but they all count the same. Chase Utley looked great, starting things off with a home run in the first inning, then driving in Jimmy Rollins with the go ahead run in the 12th. Jayson Werth responded well to the challenge in the 12th inning after the Marlins intentionally walked Paul freaking Bako to get to him. Nice move there, Florida. Plus, he had another RBI in the fourth inning, so after a rough stretch, it looks like he may have gotten himself back into a groove last night.
So far, so good for the second half of the season. The Phillies are starting to look like the defending champs, and the Marlins look like the young team that's still a few years away. After dropping the first two games of this series, it will be interesting to see how the Marlins respond. If I were on the Phillies, I'd want to choke the life out of them now. Just push them so far back that the Mets have to deal with them in fourth place. That's what I'd want by the end of this weekend, and hopefully it will happen.
In half an hour, the Phillies play again. Joe Blanton (6-4, 4.44 ERA) goes against Josh Johnson (8-2, 2.74 ERA). Let's see if the Phils can take out an All Star tonight.
A 78 minute rain delay and a bullpen collapse still couldn't keep the Phillies from winning their seventh straight game, this one coming in extra innings.
What went right?
Chase Utley was 2-6 with a home run, two runs scored and three RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-6 with two RBI, including the game winning single in the 12th inning.
Jimmy Rollins went 2-6 and scored twice.
Ryan Howard was 2-6 and scored once.
Raul Ibanez went 2-3 and scored a run.
Cole Hamels was great before the rain delay hit, allowing one run on four hits in five innings. He struck out five and walked one.
What went wrong?
Shane Victorino went 0-5.
The bullpen fell apart in the seventh and eighth innings, allowing three runs in those two innings. Chan Ho Park, Ryan Madson, J.C. Romero and Chad Durbin couldn't keep the Marlins from tying the game.
Game Analysis:
Boy, a game where Cole Hamels is shutting down the opposing team is supposed to be easier than that, right? Through five innings, Hamels looked every bit like the World Series MVP last night. Aside from a leadoff home run, Cole had the Marlins guessing at every last pitch he threw, and it looked like he was well on his way to picking up his sixth win of the season. Of course, Mother Nature and the bullpen got in the way of that, but the Phillies would hold on and win, despite some heart stopping moments from Brad Lidge in the 12th.
It wasn't the prettiest win in the world, but they all count the same. Chase Utley looked great, starting things off with a home run in the first inning, then driving in Jimmy Rollins with the go ahead run in the 12th. Jayson Werth responded well to the challenge in the 12th inning after the Marlins intentionally walked Paul freaking Bako to get to him. Nice move there, Florida. Plus, he had another RBI in the fourth inning, so after a rough stretch, it looks like he may have gotten himself back into a groove last night.
So far, so good for the second half of the season. The Phillies are starting to look like the defending champs, and the Marlins look like the young team that's still a few years away. After dropping the first two games of this series, it will be interesting to see how the Marlins respond. If I were on the Phillies, I'd want to choke the life out of them now. Just push them so far back that the Mets have to deal with them in fourth place. That's what I'd want by the end of this weekend, and hopefully it will happen.
In half an hour, the Phillies play again. Joe Blanton (6-4, 4.44 ERA) goes against Josh Johnson (8-2, 2.74 ERA). Let's see if the Phils can take out an All Star tonight.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-4, Marlins-0
Game Recap:
Jamie Moyer pitched seven innings of one hit baseball, and thanks to home runs by Raul Ibanez and Ryan Howard, the Phillies won their first game after the All Star break.
What went right?
Ryan Howard became the fastest player in major league history to 200 home runs, finishing the game 2-3 with that solo home run. He also scored twice.
Raul Ibanez was 2-4 with two home runs and three RBI.
Jamie Moyer was outstanding, pitching seven innings, allowing just one hit and one walk while striking out four.
The bullpen was also great tonight, not letting any Marlins reach base in the two innings of work that Ryan Madson and J.C. Romero pitched.
What went wrong?
Jayson Werth went 0-4 with four strikeouts.
The bulk of the Phillies offense was provided by Howard and Ibanez, as they drove in and scored every run.
Game Analysis:
You couldn't have scripted a better start to the second half of the season for the Phillies. With Jamie Moyer on the mound, I was hoping for a solid start, and what I got was worlds above that. Moyer was perfect for the first four innings of the game, and aside from getting into a little trouble in the fifth inning, he was great through his seven innings of work. The offense wasn't great, with only Howard and Ibanez doing much, but it was enough to get things done tonight.
I think it's safe to say Raul Ibanez is back from his little injury stint, too. Even though it was just one game, seeing him crank out two homers is certainly a warming sight. If he can come back without missing a beat like this, it's only going to mean good things for the Phillies...and maybe some MVP talk for Raul. I'm just saying.
Congrats to Ryan Howard tonight, as the big man made a little more baseball history, becoming the fastest player ever to hit 200 home runs. Howard needed only 658 games to get to 200 homers, and one can only imagine where he would be if he had been called up when he was younger, but that's neither here nor there. The fact of the matter is that Howard is a great offensive force in the middle of the lineup, and the Phillies have one of the best power hitters in the game today.
All in all, it was a great start to the second half. Jamie Moyer looked great, Raul Ibanez and Ryan Howard each had homers, and the Phils extended their division lead to five games over the Marlins. Tomorrow, Cole Hamels (5-5, 4.87 ERA) looks to keep the hotness going, as he faces off against Ricky Nolasco (6-7, 5.76 ERA).
Jamie Moyer pitched seven innings of one hit baseball, and thanks to home runs by Raul Ibanez and Ryan Howard, the Phillies won their first game after the All Star break.
What went right?
Ryan Howard became the fastest player in major league history to 200 home runs, finishing the game 2-3 with that solo home run. He also scored twice.
Raul Ibanez was 2-4 with two home runs and three RBI.
Jamie Moyer was outstanding, pitching seven innings, allowing just one hit and one walk while striking out four.
The bullpen was also great tonight, not letting any Marlins reach base in the two innings of work that Ryan Madson and J.C. Romero pitched.
What went wrong?
Jayson Werth went 0-4 with four strikeouts.
The bulk of the Phillies offense was provided by Howard and Ibanez, as they drove in and scored every run.
Game Analysis:
You couldn't have scripted a better start to the second half of the season for the Phillies. With Jamie Moyer on the mound, I was hoping for a solid start, and what I got was worlds above that. Moyer was perfect for the first four innings of the game, and aside from getting into a little trouble in the fifth inning, he was great through his seven innings of work. The offense wasn't great, with only Howard and Ibanez doing much, but it was enough to get things done tonight.
I think it's safe to say Raul Ibanez is back from his little injury stint, too. Even though it was just one game, seeing him crank out two homers is certainly a warming sight. If he can come back without missing a beat like this, it's only going to mean good things for the Phillies...and maybe some MVP talk for Raul. I'm just saying.
Congrats to Ryan Howard tonight, as the big man made a little more baseball history, becoming the fastest player ever to hit 200 home runs. Howard needed only 658 games to get to 200 homers, and one can only imagine where he would be if he had been called up when he was younger, but that's neither here nor there. The fact of the matter is that Howard is a great offensive force in the middle of the lineup, and the Phillies have one of the best power hitters in the game today.
All in all, it was a great start to the second half. Jamie Moyer looked great, Raul Ibanez and Ryan Howard each had homers, and the Phils extended their division lead to five games over the Marlins. Tomorrow, Cole Hamels (5-5, 4.87 ERA) looks to keep the hotness going, as he faces off against Ricky Nolasco (6-7, 5.76 ERA).
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Midseason Recap: Heartache, some poor baseball, but the Phils are still in 1st
It certainly was an interesting first half to the 2009 season, wasn't it? The Phillies came into the season as the defending World Champions for just the second time in team history, and while the first half wasn't all great baseball, the Phils still find themselves at 48-38 and four games up on the Florida Marlins for the division lead. Now that the Phillies are making a push to their third straight playoff appearance, let's look back at what's happened so far this year.
The end of an era.
Unfortunately, the first milestone of the 2009 Philadelphia Phillies season was the loss of one of the best voices in baseball history. Harry Kalas passed away after collapsing in the broadcast booth in Washington on April 13, just two weeks into the young season. While the Phils were able to play on and win that day, they're now wearing Harry's initials on their uniforms for the rest of the season. I've already expressed what Harry Kalas meant to me, so I'm not going to go into it here. I'll just say that it certainly was not the best start to the new season, and I'm still getting used to not hearing his voice on the broadcasts for the Phillies, especially now that we've hit summer.
Who likes home cooking? Not the Phillies, apparently.
For most of the first half, the Phillies seemed to enjoy playing on the road much more than they did at home. There really wasn't an explanation for it, as the fans have been great all season, and the players are still the same group of 25 that have played great on the road. Somehow, the Phillies came into the last two weeks of the first half with a 13-22 home record. Fortunately for them, a 9-1 homestand leading up to the All Star break has pushed the record to 22-23, but it's still something to look out for in the second half. At least the American League has home field advantage in the World Series again. If the Phillies get that far, it should help them, just like last year. This team seems to like living in hotels.
You want power? This team has it.
Even with the slow start at home, the Phillies have produced one of the best offenses in all of baseball. Their 460 runs scored is tops in the National League, and they're also in the top five in the league in on base percentage, slugging, and stolen bases. They also have four players with 20 home runs or more at the halfway point, as Chase Utley, Raul Ibanez, Ryan Howard and Jayson Werth have launched baseballs into orbit all season. All four have a chance to get to 100 RBI on the year as well, and the addition of Raul Ibanez, as criticized as it was during the offseason, has been one of the best moves of the season so far. Even with him spending some time on the disabled list, Ibanez has made Phillies fans forget about Pat Burrell faster than anyone thought possible. Just remember, he has 22 home runs and 60 RBI...and he missed almost three weeks. Imagine what those numbers would be like had he stayed healthy.
Let's not forget about Shane Victorino, either. The first time All Star is having a career season, batting .309 with 112 hits and 63 runs scored. I don't know where this kind of production is coming from, but I certainly won't complain. Shane has gone from a man that couldn't crack the starting lineup three years ago to being one of the most dependable players on the team, and that is pretty impressive.
Ummmm, it's not all great.
Of course, there have been some problems this season. Jimmy Rollins had what can be called a God awful first half, finishing with a .229 batting average, seven home runs and 34 RBI. His .287 on base percentage is one of the worst in the league for an everyday player, and this is with a good finish to the first half. Yes, he's starting to put things back together, but if it weren't for the play of Victorino and the heart of the lineup, his poor start could have set the Phillies back a long way this year. He had better pick it up during the second half, because the Phils are going to need him to start playing like an MVP again.
We all knew Brad Lidge would blow a save eventually. He's only human. What we didn't expect was for Lidge to come out this season and pitch as poorly as he did during most of the first half. Lidge was responsible for losing two games against the Dodgers in Los Angeles, and when he went on the disabled list, I was hoping he would stay there for quite some time. Ever since he's come back, he's looked like the Brad Lidge of old, picking up five straight saves. Much like Rollins, I'm hopeful that this trend can continue for the rest of the season, since Ryan Madson certainly didn't look like the answer at closer while Lidge was out.
Then, there's the starting pitching. Where do I even begin with that? Let's just say it has not been good so far this year. Cole Hamels fought an injury for the first month of the season, and still isn't pitching like he did last year during the postseason, Jamie Moyer has eight wins, but an ERA close to six, and Brett Myers is more than likely out for the rest of the season. Chan Ho Park was a disaster as a starter, but a gem out of the bullpen, and Antonio Bastardo looked good, but once people figured out all he had was a fastball, that experiment ended pretty quickly. J.A. Happ has been a shining light so far for the Phils with a 6-0 record and an ERA under three. He's going to have to try and pitch like that for the rest of the season, unless the Phillies are able to bring in a big arm...
What needs to change?
Aside from Jimmy and Lidge keeping up their paces now, the most glaring hole for the Phillies is their starting pitching. As I already said, Cole needs to get back to where he was, and the Phils have to add a top of the rotation pitcher. Pedro Martinez isn't going to be anything great, but the Blue Jays are dangling Roy Halladay out for a possible trade. It's going to cost an arm and a leg, but if the Phillies want to have another parade down Broad Street, they have to go and get him. Everything else seems to be falling into place, and adding that true ace that you know can go out and win every fifth day would be the final piece of the puzzle this year. Can the Phillies win the World Series again this year? I'm not saying no, but they are going to have to play better in the second half of the season. They can't keep playing streaky baseball, and their pitching has got to improve over the first half of the year. Another title can be had, but it's not going to be easy.
What's up next?
Tomorrow, the Phillies get back to baseball, as they take on the Florida Marlins. Jamie Moyer (8-6, 5.99 ERA) starts off the second half, going up against Chris Volstad (6-8, 4.44 ERA). The Phillies have a great chance to bury the Marlins early in the second half of the season, so a sweep here would be awesome.
Go Phils!
The end of an era.
Unfortunately, the first milestone of the 2009 Philadelphia Phillies season was the loss of one of the best voices in baseball history. Harry Kalas passed away after collapsing in the broadcast booth in Washington on April 13, just two weeks into the young season. While the Phils were able to play on and win that day, they're now wearing Harry's initials on their uniforms for the rest of the season. I've already expressed what Harry Kalas meant to me, so I'm not going to go into it here. I'll just say that it certainly was not the best start to the new season, and I'm still getting used to not hearing his voice on the broadcasts for the Phillies, especially now that we've hit summer.
Who likes home cooking? Not the Phillies, apparently.
For most of the first half, the Phillies seemed to enjoy playing on the road much more than they did at home. There really wasn't an explanation for it, as the fans have been great all season, and the players are still the same group of 25 that have played great on the road. Somehow, the Phillies came into the last two weeks of the first half with a 13-22 home record. Fortunately for them, a 9-1 homestand leading up to the All Star break has pushed the record to 22-23, but it's still something to look out for in the second half. At least the American League has home field advantage in the World Series again. If the Phillies get that far, it should help them, just like last year. This team seems to like living in hotels.
You want power? This team has it.
Even with the slow start at home, the Phillies have produced one of the best offenses in all of baseball. Their 460 runs scored is tops in the National League, and they're also in the top five in the league in on base percentage, slugging, and stolen bases. They also have four players with 20 home runs or more at the halfway point, as Chase Utley, Raul Ibanez, Ryan Howard and Jayson Werth have launched baseballs into orbit all season. All four have a chance to get to 100 RBI on the year as well, and the addition of Raul Ibanez, as criticized as it was during the offseason, has been one of the best moves of the season so far. Even with him spending some time on the disabled list, Ibanez has made Phillies fans forget about Pat Burrell faster than anyone thought possible. Just remember, he has 22 home runs and 60 RBI...and he missed almost three weeks. Imagine what those numbers would be like had he stayed healthy.
Let's not forget about Shane Victorino, either. The first time All Star is having a career season, batting .309 with 112 hits and 63 runs scored. I don't know where this kind of production is coming from, but I certainly won't complain. Shane has gone from a man that couldn't crack the starting lineup three years ago to being one of the most dependable players on the team, and that is pretty impressive.
Ummmm, it's not all great.
Of course, there have been some problems this season. Jimmy Rollins had what can be called a God awful first half, finishing with a .229 batting average, seven home runs and 34 RBI. His .287 on base percentage is one of the worst in the league for an everyday player, and this is with a good finish to the first half. Yes, he's starting to put things back together, but if it weren't for the play of Victorino and the heart of the lineup, his poor start could have set the Phillies back a long way this year. He had better pick it up during the second half, because the Phils are going to need him to start playing like an MVP again.
We all knew Brad Lidge would blow a save eventually. He's only human. What we didn't expect was for Lidge to come out this season and pitch as poorly as he did during most of the first half. Lidge was responsible for losing two games against the Dodgers in Los Angeles, and when he went on the disabled list, I was hoping he would stay there for quite some time. Ever since he's come back, he's looked like the Brad Lidge of old, picking up five straight saves. Much like Rollins, I'm hopeful that this trend can continue for the rest of the season, since Ryan Madson certainly didn't look like the answer at closer while Lidge was out.
Then, there's the starting pitching. Where do I even begin with that? Let's just say it has not been good so far this year. Cole Hamels fought an injury for the first month of the season, and still isn't pitching like he did last year during the postseason, Jamie Moyer has eight wins, but an ERA close to six, and Brett Myers is more than likely out for the rest of the season. Chan Ho Park was a disaster as a starter, but a gem out of the bullpen, and Antonio Bastardo looked good, but once people figured out all he had was a fastball, that experiment ended pretty quickly. J.A. Happ has been a shining light so far for the Phils with a 6-0 record and an ERA under three. He's going to have to try and pitch like that for the rest of the season, unless the Phillies are able to bring in a big arm...
What needs to change?
Aside from Jimmy and Lidge keeping up their paces now, the most glaring hole for the Phillies is their starting pitching. As I already said, Cole needs to get back to where he was, and the Phils have to add a top of the rotation pitcher. Pedro Martinez isn't going to be anything great, but the Blue Jays are dangling Roy Halladay out for a possible trade. It's going to cost an arm and a leg, but if the Phillies want to have another parade down Broad Street, they have to go and get him. Everything else seems to be falling into place, and adding that true ace that you know can go out and win every fifth day would be the final piece of the puzzle this year. Can the Phillies win the World Series again this year? I'm not saying no, but they are going to have to play better in the second half of the season. They can't keep playing streaky baseball, and their pitching has got to improve over the first half of the year. Another title can be had, but it's not going to be easy.
What's up next?
Tomorrow, the Phillies get back to baseball, as they take on the Florida Marlins. Jamie Moyer (8-6, 5.99 ERA) starts off the second half, going up against Chris Volstad (6-8, 4.44 ERA). The Phillies have a great chance to bury the Marlins early in the second half of the season, so a sweep here would be awesome.
Go Phils!
All Star Recap: Not a whole lot went right for the Phillies
The All Star Game has come and gone, and while the game itself was quick, the whole thing sort of left me looking for a little bit more. Normally, I get into the entire All Star mode and enjoy the Home Run Derby and the All Star Game, but it wasn't like that this year.
The Home Run Derby this year definitely fell flat. Without Ryan Howard or Albert Pujols in the finals, I wasn't interested in seeing Nelson Cruz take on Prince Fielder. Plus, the whole event took longer than the actual All Star Game did! Other Home Run Derbys have been memorable, but this one didn't have anything. There was no spectacle, no player standing out over everyone, and did I mention it took three hours? That has to be fixed...no one wants to watch batting practice for three hours.
Then, there was the All Star Game itself. While the game was quick, it was lacking something, too. That was probably because the five Phillies who were there didn't exactly light up the scoreboard. The five of them went a combined 1-8, and Ryan Howard struck out with two on in the bottom of the eighth inning. At least Shane Victorino singled and scored in the second inning, because not a lot happened after that. It wasn't the worst All Star Game, but it certainly wasn't one of the better ones, either. Carl Crawford looked good and played some great defense, but when that's the one highlight, and the winning run scores on a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning, there isn't too much excitement there.
The Phillies did make some news of their own yesterday night, as they announced they had signed Pedro Martinez to a one year contract, then put him right on the 15 day disabled list with a shoulder strain. While I'm not thrilled with this news, at least the Phillies got him for cheap, and he'll be an upgrade over Antonio Bastardo and Rodrigo Lopez when he's ready to go. I'm not expecting him to set the world on fire with his pitching like he did in Boston, but a few quality starts to hold down the back of the rotation would be lovely. Besides, the Phils are still trying to go after Roy Halladay, so we'll see how that works out.
I'll be posting my midseason review later on today, so until then, Go Phillies!
ESPN: Phillies sign Pedro Martinez
The Home Run Derby this year definitely fell flat. Without Ryan Howard or Albert Pujols in the finals, I wasn't interested in seeing Nelson Cruz take on Prince Fielder. Plus, the whole event took longer than the actual All Star Game did! Other Home Run Derbys have been memorable, but this one didn't have anything. There was no spectacle, no player standing out over everyone, and did I mention it took three hours? That has to be fixed...no one wants to watch batting practice for three hours.
Then, there was the All Star Game itself. While the game was quick, it was lacking something, too. That was probably because the five Phillies who were there didn't exactly light up the scoreboard. The five of them went a combined 1-8, and Ryan Howard struck out with two on in the bottom of the eighth inning. At least Shane Victorino singled and scored in the second inning, because not a lot happened after that. It wasn't the worst All Star Game, but it certainly wasn't one of the better ones, either. Carl Crawford looked good and played some great defense, but when that's the one highlight, and the winning run scores on a sacrifice fly in the eighth inning, there isn't too much excitement there.
The Phillies did make some news of their own yesterday night, as they announced they had signed Pedro Martinez to a one year contract, then put him right on the 15 day disabled list with a shoulder strain. While I'm not thrilled with this news, at least the Phillies got him for cheap, and he'll be an upgrade over Antonio Bastardo and Rodrigo Lopez when he's ready to go. I'm not expecting him to set the world on fire with his pitching like he did in Boston, but a few quality starts to hold down the back of the rotation would be lovely. Besides, the Phils are still trying to go after Roy Halladay, so we'll see how that works out.
I'll be posting my midseason review later on today, so until then, Go Phillies!
ESPN: Phillies sign Pedro Martinez
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-5, Pirates-2
Game Recap:
The Phillies rode the arm of J.A. Happ and a first inning Pedro Feliz grand slam to a sweep of the Pirates and a 9-1 homestand.
What went right?
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with a grand slam and four RBI.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-3 with a run scored.
Shane Victorino was 1-3 and scored a run.
Chase Utley went 2-4 and scored a run.
J.A. Happ pitched seven strong innings for the fourth straight start, allowing one run on four hits. He walked two and struck out four.
What went wrong?
Raul Ibanez went 0-4.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-3.
JC Romero finished the game off in the ninth inning, but not without allowing a home run to lead off the frame.
Game Analysis:
The first half of the 2009 season is now over, and the Phillies stand four games up in the National League East and ten games over the .500 mark. Before this last homestand, the Phils were 13-22 at home; now they're 22-23, which is far better than they were just two weeks ago coming off of a very poor road trip. Today's game was pretty much a good picture of the first half. Even though the Phillies could put together only one good inning on offense, it was enough to get them past their opponent, even though the pitching made it a little closer than it should have been in the later innings.
Today though, the day belonged to J.A. Happ. Though he's not the second coming of Steve Carlton, the young lefty managed to get his sixth win of the season, and has continued to look good ever since he was named to the starting rotation. The Pirates had no answer for him at the plate, scoring only one run in the seven innings that he pitched. If Happ can pitch anywhere close to the way he did in the first half of the season in the second half, he may pitch himself into Rookie of the Year contention, but I'm getting ahead of myself.
It wasn't a pretty win by any means, but it's still a win for the Phillies. Sure, they haven't looked great at times this season, but they're playing their best baseball right now, and have a chance to really put some distance between themselves and the Marlins once the second half of the season gets started. For now though, it's all about the All Star game and watching the five players the Phils have there...oh, and the entire coaching staff. That's what happens when you win the National League.
The All Star break is in full effect now, and the Phillies do not play again until Thursday, when they kick off a four game series against second place Florida. Tomorrow, Ryan Howard goes in the Home Run Derby, and then the All Star Game is Tuesday night. Enjoy the midway point of the season, and I'll be back with a midseason recap in the next day or so.
The Phillies rode the arm of J.A. Happ and a first inning Pedro Feliz grand slam to a sweep of the Pirates and a 9-1 homestand.
What went right?
Pedro Feliz was 2-4 with a grand slam and four RBI.
Jimmy Rollins went 1-3 with a run scored.
Shane Victorino was 1-3 and scored a run.
Chase Utley went 2-4 and scored a run.
J.A. Happ pitched seven strong innings for the fourth straight start, allowing one run on four hits. He walked two and struck out four.
What went wrong?
Raul Ibanez went 0-4.
Carlos Ruiz was 0-3.
JC Romero finished the game off in the ninth inning, but not without allowing a home run to lead off the frame.
Game Analysis:
The first half of the 2009 season is now over, and the Phillies stand four games up in the National League East and ten games over the .500 mark. Before this last homestand, the Phils were 13-22 at home; now they're 22-23, which is far better than they were just two weeks ago coming off of a very poor road trip. Today's game was pretty much a good picture of the first half. Even though the Phillies could put together only one good inning on offense, it was enough to get them past their opponent, even though the pitching made it a little closer than it should have been in the later innings.
Today though, the day belonged to J.A. Happ. Though he's not the second coming of Steve Carlton, the young lefty managed to get his sixth win of the season, and has continued to look good ever since he was named to the starting rotation. The Pirates had no answer for him at the plate, scoring only one run in the seven innings that he pitched. If Happ can pitch anywhere close to the way he did in the first half of the season in the second half, he may pitch himself into Rookie of the Year contention, but I'm getting ahead of myself.
It wasn't a pretty win by any means, but it's still a win for the Phillies. Sure, they haven't looked great at times this season, but they're playing their best baseball right now, and have a chance to really put some distance between themselves and the Marlins once the second half of the season gets started. For now though, it's all about the All Star game and watching the five players the Phils have there...oh, and the entire coaching staff. That's what happens when you win the National League.
The All Star break is in full effect now, and the Phillies do not play again until Thursday, when they kick off a four game series against second place Florida. Tomorrow, Ryan Howard goes in the Home Run Derby, and then the All Star Game is Tuesday night. Enjoy the midway point of the season, and I'll be back with a midseason recap in the next day or so.
Phillie of the Week: July 5-11
There were lots of great choices this week for Phillie of the Week, as the Phils have been on fire since they got home. I could have gone with Chase Utley, or Joe Blanton, or Shane Victorino, but I ended up going with the latest Phillie to be named to the All Star team. This week's Phillie of the Week is:
Jayson Werth
The hottest hitter in the Phils' lineup hit .304 with four home runs and 11 RBI this past week. He was also named to his first All Star team, making it a very good week for him. Now let's see if he can carry that over to the second half of the season.
Jayson Werth
The hottest hitter in the Phils' lineup hit .304 with four home runs and 11 RBI this past week. He was also named to his first All Star team, making it a very good week for him. Now let's see if he can carry that over to the second half of the season.
Phillies Recap: Phillies-8, Pirates-7
Game Recap:
Down 7-3 in the ninth inning, the Phillies scored five times to come away with an 8-7 win.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins went 2-3 with a run scored.
Chase Utley was 2-4 with two runs scored.
Ryan Howard went 3-3 with two runs scored and a game tying three run home run in the ninth inning.
Raul Ibanez returned, and went 2-5 with two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored.
Paul Bako was 2-5 with two RBI, including the game winning single.
Matt Stairs went 1-1 with a pinch hit home run to lead off the ninth inning.
What went wrong?
Cole Hamels didn't have his best stuff, allowing five runs on seven hits in six innings. He allowed three home runs, walked none and struck out six.
Shane Victorino was 0-5.
Jayson Werth went 0-3.
Game Analysis:
Before this homestand, I wouldn't have told you that this Phillies team reminded me of last year's. They didn't have that same mojo that they had last year, and couldn't even win games at home. Now, after eight wins in nine games at home, and a great comeback win last night, I can say that these guys are starting to get their swagger back. You can't sleep on this team, even in the ninth inning. Matt Stairs started things off with a home run, then Ryan Howard did what he does and launched one into the left center field stands, and just like that, the game was tied. How many times have you seen cast offs win games for the Phillies? Last night was another example, as Paul freaking Bako got the game winning single. I'm actually upset that the All Star break is here, because this team is playing better now than they have all season.
There are still some questions, though. Cole Hamels didn't look great at all in the first two innings last night, and the need for a starting pitcher is looming large as the trade deadline approaches. Something is going to have to be done, because the crew that is in place now doesn't have enough to win the World Series. The only question is, will the Phils spring for a top of the line ace, or settle for someone like Pedro Martinez? I hope that they go for the ace, because right now, that's the biggest question mark on this team.
I'm done complaining right now. This team is hot, and is finally taking care of business at home. All I can say is it's about time. Today, J.A. Happ (5-0, 3.04 ERA) looks to close out the first half on a good note, as he faces Virgil Vasquez (1-2, 5.40 ERA). Go Phils!
Down 7-3 in the ninth inning, the Phillies scored five times to come away with an 8-7 win.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins went 2-3 with a run scored.
Chase Utley was 2-4 with two runs scored.
Ryan Howard went 3-3 with two runs scored and a game tying three run home run in the ninth inning.
Raul Ibanez returned, and went 2-5 with two doubles, an RBI and two runs scored.
Paul Bako was 2-5 with two RBI, including the game winning single.
Matt Stairs went 1-1 with a pinch hit home run to lead off the ninth inning.
What went wrong?
Cole Hamels didn't have his best stuff, allowing five runs on seven hits in six innings. He allowed three home runs, walked none and struck out six.
Shane Victorino was 0-5.
Jayson Werth went 0-3.
Game Analysis:
Before this homestand, I wouldn't have told you that this Phillies team reminded me of last year's. They didn't have that same mojo that they had last year, and couldn't even win games at home. Now, after eight wins in nine games at home, and a great comeback win last night, I can say that these guys are starting to get their swagger back. You can't sleep on this team, even in the ninth inning. Matt Stairs started things off with a home run, then Ryan Howard did what he does and launched one into the left center field stands, and just like that, the game was tied. How many times have you seen cast offs win games for the Phillies? Last night was another example, as Paul freaking Bako got the game winning single. I'm actually upset that the All Star break is here, because this team is playing better now than they have all season.
There are still some questions, though. Cole Hamels didn't look great at all in the first two innings last night, and the need for a starting pitcher is looming large as the trade deadline approaches. Something is going to have to be done, because the crew that is in place now doesn't have enough to win the World Series. The only question is, will the Phils spring for a top of the line ace, or settle for someone like Pedro Martinez? I hope that they go for the ace, because right now, that's the biggest question mark on this team.
I'm done complaining right now. This team is hot, and is finally taking care of business at home. All I can say is it's about time. Today, J.A. Happ (5-0, 3.04 ERA) looks to close out the first half on a good note, as he faces Virgil Vasquez (1-2, 5.40 ERA). Go Phils!
Friday, July 10, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-3, Pirates-2
Game Recap:
Joe Blanton pitched into the eighth inning and Jayson Werth's two run double were enough for the Phillies to pull out their seventh win on this ten game homestand.
What went right?
Joe Blanton was great, pitching 7 and 1-3rds innings and allowing just one run on four hits. He struck out six and walked one.
Shane Victorino was 3-4 and scored a run.
Jayson Werth was 1-3 with two RBI.
Chase Utley went 1-3 with a run scored.
What went wrong?
The Phillies managed only five hits.
Brad Lidge got the save, but allowed a home run to Brandon Moss that made things a little more interesting.
Game Analysis:
This one is very simple tonight. Joe Blanton pitched great, the Phillies scored just enough runs to win, and now they're starting to hit their stride at just the right time. With the All Star break just two games away, it's important for the Phillies to not only start winning games at home, but also put some space between them and the rest of the National League East. Right now, they're doing both of those things.
Again, there's really not much to add tonight. The pitching is finally doing well enough that three runs in a game is enough to pull out a win, and the offense is picking up clutch hits when they need to. Jayson Werth has just been the man lately, and Raul Ibanez comes back for tomorrow's game. Plus, the Mets keep losing. This just keeps getting better and better right now.
Tomorrow, Cole Hamels (5-5, 4.70 ERA) goes against Ross Ohelndorf (7-7, 4.63 ERA). Let's see if Cole can keep a good thing going right now. Go Phils!
Joe Blanton pitched into the eighth inning and Jayson Werth's two run double were enough for the Phillies to pull out their seventh win on this ten game homestand.
What went right?
Joe Blanton was great, pitching 7 and 1-3rds innings and allowing just one run on four hits. He struck out six and walked one.
Shane Victorino was 3-4 and scored a run.
Jayson Werth was 1-3 with two RBI.
Chase Utley went 1-3 with a run scored.
What went wrong?
The Phillies managed only five hits.
Brad Lidge got the save, but allowed a home run to Brandon Moss that made things a little more interesting.
Game Analysis:
This one is very simple tonight. Joe Blanton pitched great, the Phillies scored just enough runs to win, and now they're starting to hit their stride at just the right time. With the All Star break just two games away, it's important for the Phillies to not only start winning games at home, but also put some space between them and the rest of the National League East. Right now, they're doing both of those things.
Again, there's really not much to add tonight. The pitching is finally doing well enough that three runs in a game is enough to pull out a win, and the offense is picking up clutch hits when they need to. Jayson Werth has just been the man lately, and Raul Ibanez comes back for tomorrow's game. Plus, the Mets keep losing. This just keeps getting better and better right now.
Tomorrow, Cole Hamels (5-5, 4.70 ERA) goes against Ross Ohelndorf (7-7, 4.63 ERA). Let's see if Cole can keep a good thing going right now. Go Phils!
Random Friday Night Catchup Post
Just a couple of little things before I head out for a while.
Raise your hand if your entire outfield gets to go to the All Star Game...that's what I thought.
It was announced today that Charlie Manuel named Jayson Werth to the All Star team, taking the place of Carlos Beltran. Werth has been on fire of late, and is hitting .263 with 20 homers and 56 RBI coming into play tonight. As for anyone that thinks Matt Kemp from Los Angeles should have been taken...remember, Joe Torre did this all the time in New York. If he wanted Kemp to be in the All Star Game, maybe he shouldn't have put Broxton in to pitch to Matt Stairs last October.
One 37 year old comes back, one 36 year old leaves.
The Phillies made another roster move today, putting Raul Ibanez back on the active roster after a stint on the disabled list. Raul wasn't in the starting lineup tonight, but he should be for the rest of the series against Pittsburgh. To make room for the All Star, the Phils designated Chris Coste for assignment, and it didn't take too long before the Houston Astros snatched him up. Coste was a good story, and a solid player, but 36 year old catchers that are hitting .245 aren't long for the big leagues. You were fun while you were here, Chris. Now enjoy yourself in Houston.
Raise your hand if your entire outfield gets to go to the All Star Game...that's what I thought.
It was announced today that Charlie Manuel named Jayson Werth to the All Star team, taking the place of Carlos Beltran. Werth has been on fire of late, and is hitting .263 with 20 homers and 56 RBI coming into play tonight. As for anyone that thinks Matt Kemp from Los Angeles should have been taken...remember, Joe Torre did this all the time in New York. If he wanted Kemp to be in the All Star Game, maybe he shouldn't have put Broxton in to pitch to Matt Stairs last October.
One 37 year old comes back, one 36 year old leaves.
The Phillies made another roster move today, putting Raul Ibanez back on the active roster after a stint on the disabled list. Raul wasn't in the starting lineup tonight, but he should be for the rest of the series against Pittsburgh. To make room for the All Star, the Phils designated Chris Coste for assignment, and it didn't take too long before the Houston Astros snatched him up. Coste was a good story, and a solid player, but 36 year old catchers that are hitting .245 aren't long for the big leagues. You were fun while you were here, Chris. Now enjoy yourself in Houston.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-9, Reds-6
Game Recap:
The Phillies and Reds went back and forth until the fifth inning, when the Phillies took an 8-6 lead. Jayson Werth's home run was more than enough for Brad Lidge to pick up the save and give the Phils their sixth win in seven games.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Shane Victorino showed why he's an All Star, going 1-3 with two RBI and two walks.
Chase Utley went 2-5 with an inside the park home run.
Ryan Howard was 1-3 with two runs scored.
Jayson Werth went 2-4 with his fourth home run in four games and two RBI.
Pedro Feliz was 2-5 with an RBI.
The bullpen was great, with Chan Ho Park throwing three no hit innings, and Brad Lidge working a good ninth inning for his 17th save.
What went wrong?
Greg Dobbs went 0-4.
Jamie Moyer wasn't great, lasting only five innings and allowing six runs on eight hits. He walked one, struck out two and allowed two more home runs.
Game Analysis:
Boy, it's been a while since the Phillies were playing well at home, hasn't it been? With their sixth win out of seven games on this homestand, the Phils are proving that they are one of the better teams in the National League heading into the All Star break. In case you didn't notice, most of what went right for the Phillies came from the top of the lineup, which is exactly where it needs to come from if this team is going to be good come October. Jimmy Rollins is slowly working his way back to being a good ball player, while the foursome of Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Raul Ibanez and Jayson Werth all have 20 home runs...before the All Star break. All four of them have a great chance at driving in over 100 runs as well, giving the Phillies one of the best hearts of a lineup in all of baseball.
It wasn't a great start tonight from Jamie Moyer, but it was enough for him to somehow get his eighth win on the season. These are the kinds of starts we should be getting used to from Moyer by now. He's not good enough to completely dominate every time out, but if the offense shows up, there's a chance for the Phillies to win every game he pitches, and that was the case tonight. Six runs in five innings is nowhere close to good enough, but he hung in there, and the offense bailed him out. It's not great, but it's good enough.
The starting pitching is still a question. Even with the Phillies being interested in Pedro freaking Martinez, I still know they need one more top of the line starter for them to have a shot at a repeat. I know I said it yesterday, but Roy Halladay is sitting there for the taking. Yes, he's going to take an arm and a leg to get, but how many chances do you get to trade for one of the best pitchers in all of baseball? It has to be done. J.A. Happ is not Halladay, and Jason Donald isn't going to turn into Mike Schmidt. Could Kyle Drabek be good? Of course he could, but he could also turn into another Brandon Duckworth. It's too much right now, with Hamels fighting through an average year and Myers being out for most of the season. The Phillies need that top starter, and Halladay is right there...go get him.
Tomorrow, the Phils start a three game series with Pittsburgh. Hopefully they can keep their hot close to the first half going. Joe Blanton (5-4, 4.69 ERA) goes against Zach Duke (8-7, 3.28 ERA). Let's see if the Phillies can avenge the Flyers and take down Pittsburgh!
The Phillies and Reds went back and forth until the fifth inning, when the Phillies took an 8-6 lead. Jayson Werth's home run was more than enough for Brad Lidge to pick up the save and give the Phils their sixth win in seven games.
What went right?
Jimmy Rollins was 2-4 with a run scored and an RBI.
Shane Victorino showed why he's an All Star, going 1-3 with two RBI and two walks.
Chase Utley went 2-5 with an inside the park home run.
Ryan Howard was 1-3 with two runs scored.
Jayson Werth went 2-4 with his fourth home run in four games and two RBI.
Pedro Feliz was 2-5 with an RBI.
The bullpen was great, with Chan Ho Park throwing three no hit innings, and Brad Lidge working a good ninth inning for his 17th save.
What went wrong?
Greg Dobbs went 0-4.
Jamie Moyer wasn't great, lasting only five innings and allowing six runs on eight hits. He walked one, struck out two and allowed two more home runs.
Game Analysis:
Boy, it's been a while since the Phillies were playing well at home, hasn't it been? With their sixth win out of seven games on this homestand, the Phils are proving that they are one of the better teams in the National League heading into the All Star break. In case you didn't notice, most of what went right for the Phillies came from the top of the lineup, which is exactly where it needs to come from if this team is going to be good come October. Jimmy Rollins is slowly working his way back to being a good ball player, while the foursome of Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Raul Ibanez and Jayson Werth all have 20 home runs...before the All Star break. All four of them have a great chance at driving in over 100 runs as well, giving the Phillies one of the best hearts of a lineup in all of baseball.
It wasn't a great start tonight from Jamie Moyer, but it was enough for him to somehow get his eighth win on the season. These are the kinds of starts we should be getting used to from Moyer by now. He's not good enough to completely dominate every time out, but if the offense shows up, there's a chance for the Phillies to win every game he pitches, and that was the case tonight. Six runs in five innings is nowhere close to good enough, but he hung in there, and the offense bailed him out. It's not great, but it's good enough.
The starting pitching is still a question. Even with the Phillies being interested in Pedro freaking Martinez, I still know they need one more top of the line starter for them to have a shot at a repeat. I know I said it yesterday, but Roy Halladay is sitting there for the taking. Yes, he's going to take an arm and a leg to get, but how many chances do you get to trade for one of the best pitchers in all of baseball? It has to be done. J.A. Happ is not Halladay, and Jason Donald isn't going to turn into Mike Schmidt. Could Kyle Drabek be good? Of course he could, but he could also turn into another Brandon Duckworth. It's too much right now, with Hamels fighting through an average year and Myers being out for most of the season. The Phillies need that top starter, and Halladay is right there...go get him.
Tomorrow, the Phils start a three game series with Pittsburgh. Hopefully they can keep their hot close to the first half going. Joe Blanton (5-4, 4.69 ERA) goes against Zach Duke (8-7, 3.28 ERA). Let's see if the Phillies can avenge the Flyers and take down Pittsburgh!
Shane's an All Star!
I'm sure most of you have figured it out by now, but for those of you who haven't, Shane Victorino thoroughly trounced Pablo Sandoval in the end for the 33rd and final spot on the National League All Star team. Shane collected 15.6 million votes, the most all time since the Final Vote started. I'm sure we had something to do with that, right? Well done, Phillies fans!
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
In case you haven't figured it out...Vote for Shane!
He won the game for the Phils tonight. The least you can do is vote for him...about 50 times. Go Shane!
Phillies Recap: Phillies-3, Reds-2
Game Recap:
Shane Victorino made a serious case to be voted on to the All Star team, driving in the game winning run with two outs in the ninth inning to put the Phillies over the Reds.
What went right?
Shane Victorino should get your vote for the All Star team, after going 2-4 with two stolen bases, a run scored and the game winning RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with an RBI.
Jayson Werth went 1-4 with his third home run of the series.
Greg Dobbs went 2-3.
The bullpen was awesome tonight, allowing one hit in four innings of relief work.
What went wrong?
Chase Utley was 0-4.
Rodrigo Lopez looked good, but had to leave the game after just five innings with shoulder soreness. He allowed two runs on five hits while striking out four and walking three.
The Phillies struck out 11 times.
Game Analysis:
After last night's poor effort, the Phillies didn't exactly show much more tonight, but they did enough to win, and maybe push Shane Victorino to his first All Star team. With two outs in the ninth inning, Shane looped a single into left field that scored Pedro Feliz and gave the Phillies a good victory. Even with the win, the Phillies are still left with some questions after tonight's game.
The first and most important question is about the starting pitching. If Rodrigo Lopez is out for a period of time (and even if he isn't, he should just be a stop-gap pitcher), who is going to replace him? Apparently, the Blue Jays have put Roy Halladay on the market, and though the price tag is going to be quite steep, the Phils need to make an effort to go after him. Yes, it's probably going to cost Jason Donald and Kyle Drabek at least, but you can't get much better than Roy Halladay on the mound. Any questions about the starting pitching would be answered, and that's the kind of move that might push the Phillies back to the top of the National League again this season.
The other question is about the offense. Yes, the Phillies managed to scrape together enough runs to win tonight, but they can't score 22 runs in one game, then only manage five in the next two games put together. Jimmy Rollins is starting to hit the ball better, but it needs to be a team effort for these guys to get something started each and every night on offense. Any pitcher can win ballgames with enough runs, and that's something the Phils haven't been able to do consistently this season.
Either way, it was another good win tonight, and the Phillies retained their two game lead over the Marlins, while the Mets sit in fourth place, four and a half games back. That makes me laugh. I hate the Mets so much.
Tomorrow, Jamie Moyer (7-6, 5.72 ERA) looks to get the series win for the Phillies as he takes on Micah Owings (6-8, 4.48 ERA). Let's go Phils!
Shane Victorino made a serious case to be voted on to the All Star team, driving in the game winning run with two outs in the ninth inning to put the Phillies over the Reds.
What went right?
Shane Victorino should get your vote for the All Star team, after going 2-4 with two stolen bases, a run scored and the game winning RBI.
Ryan Howard was 1-4 with an RBI.
Jayson Werth went 1-4 with his third home run of the series.
Greg Dobbs went 2-3.
The bullpen was awesome tonight, allowing one hit in four innings of relief work.
What went wrong?
Chase Utley was 0-4.
Rodrigo Lopez looked good, but had to leave the game after just five innings with shoulder soreness. He allowed two runs on five hits while striking out four and walking three.
The Phillies struck out 11 times.
Game Analysis:
After last night's poor effort, the Phillies didn't exactly show much more tonight, but they did enough to win, and maybe push Shane Victorino to his first All Star team. With two outs in the ninth inning, Shane looped a single into left field that scored Pedro Feliz and gave the Phillies a good victory. Even with the win, the Phillies are still left with some questions after tonight's game.
The first and most important question is about the starting pitching. If Rodrigo Lopez is out for a period of time (and even if he isn't, he should just be a stop-gap pitcher), who is going to replace him? Apparently, the Blue Jays have put Roy Halladay on the market, and though the price tag is going to be quite steep, the Phils need to make an effort to go after him. Yes, it's probably going to cost Jason Donald and Kyle Drabek at least, but you can't get much better than Roy Halladay on the mound. Any questions about the starting pitching would be answered, and that's the kind of move that might push the Phillies back to the top of the National League again this season.
The other question is about the offense. Yes, the Phillies managed to scrape together enough runs to win tonight, but they can't score 22 runs in one game, then only manage five in the next two games put together. Jimmy Rollins is starting to hit the ball better, but it needs to be a team effort for these guys to get something started each and every night on offense. Any pitcher can win ballgames with enough runs, and that's something the Phils haven't been able to do consistently this season.
Either way, it was another good win tonight, and the Phillies retained their two game lead over the Marlins, while the Mets sit in fourth place, four and a half games back. That makes me laugh. I hate the Mets so much.
Tomorrow, Jamie Moyer (7-6, 5.72 ERA) looks to get the series win for the Phillies as he takes on Micah Owings (6-8, 4.48 ERA). Let's go Phils!
Phillies Recap: Reds-4, Phillies-3
Game Recap:
The Phillies started strong, but couldn't get enough runs across the plate when they needed to, dropping the second game of their series to the Reds.
What went right?
Chase Utley was 3-5 with an RBI.
Ryan Howard went 1-3 with his first home run since June 20.
Jayson Werth was 1-3, and followed Howard's home run with one of his own.
J.A. Happ pitched seven strong innings, allowing three runs on six hits. He struck out a career high seven, and walked none.
What went wrong?
Brad Lidge took the loss, allowing a run in the top of the ninth on two hits and a walk.
The Phillies left 12 men on base.
Game Analysis:
You had to figure a game like this would follow a 22 run game. With all the hits that the Phillies got Monday night, all they would have needed last night was one or two more, and this game would have been a win as well. Instead, the Phils couldn't get the clutch hits when they needed to, and dropped a game they could have won.
It looked like it was going to be more of the same in this game, as Ryan Howard and Jayson Werth went back to back in the second inning, and then the Phils loaded the bases with no one out in the third. However, after Chase Utley drove home Jimmy Rollins, the Phillies couldn't manage to get another run across the plate. They left a total of 12 men on base for the game, and had one runner thrown out at the plate, when John Mayberry was nailed in the bottom of the eighth inning. It wasn't the best game for the Phillies, but hopefully they can avoid the same problems they had after their 20 run showing against the Cardinals last year. The All Star break is almost here, so let's see if the Phillies can close out the first half on a good note.
Tonight, Rodrigo Lopez (1-0, 2.84 ERA), looks to pick up where he left off last weekend as he faces Homer Bailey (1-0, 5.94 ERA). Go Phils!
The Phillies started strong, but couldn't get enough runs across the plate when they needed to, dropping the second game of their series to the Reds.
What went right?
Chase Utley was 3-5 with an RBI.
Ryan Howard went 1-3 with his first home run since June 20.
Jayson Werth was 1-3, and followed Howard's home run with one of his own.
J.A. Happ pitched seven strong innings, allowing three runs on six hits. He struck out a career high seven, and walked none.
What went wrong?
Brad Lidge took the loss, allowing a run in the top of the ninth on two hits and a walk.
The Phillies left 12 men on base.
Game Analysis:
You had to figure a game like this would follow a 22 run game. With all the hits that the Phillies got Monday night, all they would have needed last night was one or two more, and this game would have been a win as well. Instead, the Phils couldn't get the clutch hits when they needed to, and dropped a game they could have won.
It looked like it was going to be more of the same in this game, as Ryan Howard and Jayson Werth went back to back in the second inning, and then the Phils loaded the bases with no one out in the third. However, after Chase Utley drove home Jimmy Rollins, the Phillies couldn't manage to get another run across the plate. They left a total of 12 men on base for the game, and had one runner thrown out at the plate, when John Mayberry was nailed in the bottom of the eighth inning. It wasn't the best game for the Phillies, but hopefully they can avoid the same problems they had after their 20 run showing against the Cardinals last year. The All Star break is almost here, so let's see if the Phillies can close out the first half on a good note.
Tonight, Rodrigo Lopez (1-0, 2.84 ERA), looks to pick up where he left off last weekend as he faces Homer Bailey (1-0, 5.94 ERA). Go Phils!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Phillies Recap: Phillies-22, Reds-1
Game Recap:
The Phillies scored ten runs in the first inning and added twelve more in the next seven innings for the biggest win in Phillies history since 1894.
What went right?
There's a lot here, so bear with me.
Jimmy Rollins went 3-4 with four runs scored, an RBI and two walks.
Shane Victorino proved why you should vote for him to make the All Star team, going 4-5 with a home run, four RBI and five runs scored.
Chase Utley went 2-3 with a home run and four RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-5 with a grand slam and five RBI.
Greg Dobbs went 4-6 with two RBI and a home run.
Cole Hamels pitched seven strong innings, allowing one run on three hits. He struck out two, walked none and went 2-4 at the plate, while scoring twice and adding two RBI of his own.
Every Phillie that started had at least one base hit.
What went wrong?
Nothing. Not one damn thing. Last night was beautiful.
Game Analysis:
After sweeping the Mets over the weekend, I'm sure people were worried about a letdown series against the Reds. Johnny Cueto has been one of the best pitchers in the National League this season, and Cincinnati has been a competitive team.
Of course, all of that didn't matter last night. The Phillies took Cueto and his ERA and bumped it up almost a full run in just two thirds of an inning. Thirteen Phils came to the plate in the first inning, and it was just the start of one of the best games I have ever seen as a Phillies fan. Jimmy Rollins continued his nice little hot streak, picking up another three hits and scoring four times. I know it's been said time and time again, but when Jimmy hits and scores runs, this team is worlds better. If he's starting to warm up, that is a very, very good thing for the Phillies. Plus, Shane Victorino had himself one hell of a game, scoring five times and driving in four runs himself. The only two Phillies to bat and not get a hit were John Mayberry and Matt Stairs, and both of them reached base anyway.
Now, scoring 22 runs is nice, but without good pitching, who knows what could have happened? I know I'm reaching here, but getting ten runs for Cole Hamels in the first inning is something he can't be used to. Without the pressure of having to pitch spot on the entire night, Hamels looked like himself again. He shut down the Reds the entire night, and allowed only one run in the second inning, and that was paid back many times over by the end of the night. This was the kind of game he needed to get his groove back after a very frustrating first half of the season. He's shown flashes of the World Series MVP this season, now he just needs to stay consistent throughout the rest of the year. Last night was a good starting point.
After the horrible end of the weekend, this game was exactly what I needed to see last night. Of course, I thought I may have just hit my head a little harder than I thought in my car accident, but fortunately, that wasn't the case. This was the most runs the Phillies had scored since 1985, and it was their biggest margin of victory since 1894. That's 115 years, people. Plus, it was the biggest loss in Reds history, and they're the longest existing pro baseball team in history. It was a good night.
Tonight, J.A. Happ (5-0, 2.96 ERA) hopes the Phillies didn't use up all their runs for the week, as he faces Aaron Harang (5-8, 3.86 ERA). I'm not asking for 22 runs again, but a win would be nice.
The Phillies scored ten runs in the first inning and added twelve more in the next seven innings for the biggest win in Phillies history since 1894.
What went right?
There's a lot here, so bear with me.
Jimmy Rollins went 3-4 with four runs scored, an RBI and two walks.
Shane Victorino proved why you should vote for him to make the All Star team, going 4-5 with a home run, four RBI and five runs scored.
Chase Utley went 2-3 with a home run and four RBI.
Jayson Werth was 2-5 with a grand slam and five RBI.
Greg Dobbs went 4-6 with two RBI and a home run.
Cole Hamels pitched seven strong innings, allowing one run on three hits. He struck out two, walked none and went 2-4 at the plate, while scoring twice and adding two RBI of his own.
Every Phillie that started had at least one base hit.
What went wrong?
Nothing. Not one damn thing. Last night was beautiful.
Game Analysis:
After sweeping the Mets over the weekend, I'm sure people were worried about a letdown series against the Reds. Johnny Cueto has been one of the best pitchers in the National League this season, and Cincinnati has been a competitive team.
Of course, all of that didn't matter last night. The Phillies took Cueto and his ERA and bumped it up almost a full run in just two thirds of an inning. Thirteen Phils came to the plate in the first inning, and it was just the start of one of the best games I have ever seen as a Phillies fan. Jimmy Rollins continued his nice little hot streak, picking up another three hits and scoring four times. I know it's been said time and time again, but when Jimmy hits and scores runs, this team is worlds better. If he's starting to warm up, that is a very, very good thing for the Phillies. Plus, Shane Victorino had himself one hell of a game, scoring five times and driving in four runs himself. The only two Phillies to bat and not get a hit were John Mayberry and Matt Stairs, and both of them reached base anyway.
Now, scoring 22 runs is nice, but without good pitching, who knows what could have happened? I know I'm reaching here, but getting ten runs for Cole Hamels in the first inning is something he can't be used to. Without the pressure of having to pitch spot on the entire night, Hamels looked like himself again. He shut down the Reds the entire night, and allowed only one run in the second inning, and that was paid back many times over by the end of the night. This was the kind of game he needed to get his groove back after a very frustrating first half of the season. He's shown flashes of the World Series MVP this season, now he just needs to stay consistent throughout the rest of the year. Last night was a good starting point.
After the horrible end of the weekend, this game was exactly what I needed to see last night. Of course, I thought I may have just hit my head a little harder than I thought in my car accident, but fortunately, that wasn't the case. This was the most runs the Phillies had scored since 1985, and it was their biggest margin of victory since 1894. That's 115 years, people. Plus, it was the biggest loss in Reds history, and they're the longest existing pro baseball team in history. It was a good night.
Tonight, J.A. Happ (5-0, 2.96 ERA) hopes the Phillies didn't use up all their runs for the week, as he faces Aaron Harang (5-8, 3.86 ERA). I'm not asking for 22 runs again, but a win would be nice.
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