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!
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