Big Changes for State of the Phillies!

My Fellow Phans,

I know its been awhile since I posted and for that I apologize. I’ve had a lot on my plate lately with new employment as well as working on a brand new project.

Some of you have heard that there is big news on the front for this site and here is the news. The State of the Phillies is moving to Wordpress. The link to the new site is here: http://mlblogsshieldsyman07.wordpress.com/

Yes, this is not a total change, since I was already posting my blog on both blog sites already. After careful thought and examination of both blogger and WP. I decide to condense my blog down into one single page. It will be easier on me and more beneficial to you as the reader as I will have less work to concentrate on. This will give me the advantage to make a colorful, friendly and nicer blog site for you all t enjoy. Wordpress appeared to offer more of what I was looking for in a blog so that is why I switched.

The site is the only change. There will be no change in content. I will still give you then news from our beloved Phillies.

If you aren’t reading it already, I hope you go to the new page and look around. There is a new panel with many options including twitter, facebook, and links. There is a chance to register for email updates. at the bottom, you can find archives of my posts as well as a fancy Phillies RSS feed, which is a trial run at the moment.

Please offer any thoughts or opinions on the content, site, or anything else. I am open to new ideas.

Oh and before I forget, I will leave this site available to read and leave all my content up although all new content will be posted on the new page solely.

So head to http://mlblogsshieldsyman07.wordpress.com/ and enjoy!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and go Phillies!

Cards, Carpenter bounce Phillies from postseason

For the second straight season, the Phillies season came down to Ryan Howard and, for the second straight season, Howard was retired for the final out of the Phillies season. A season, which was record setting, and just flat out thrilling to watch, ended in a flash at the hands of Chris Carpenter and the St. Louis Cardinals as the Phillies fell 1-0 at Citizens Bank Park.

Here’s how it went down:

The crowd came out in drones and the Phillies looked to make it back to their 4^th straight National League Championship series. Roy Halladay was on the mound opposing Carpenter in the biggest game of the season for both teams.

As has been well noted, Halladay struggles in the first inning of starts and Rafael Furcal took note of that fact and led off the game with a triple. Skip Schumaker followed with an RBI double and the Cardinals were in business early with a 1-0 lead. Doc settled down and wiggled his way out of trouble thanks to a heads-up play from Chase Utley and the Phillies kept the damage to a minimum.

Unfortunately, that was all Carpenter would need. He set the Phillies down in order during 3 of the first 5 innings. The Phillies threatened in the 2^nd with a 1-out double from Shane Victorino and then again in the 4^th before Raul Ibanez flew out to the warning track with runners on the corners. From the 6^th inning on, the Phillies only managed two base runners; an Utley single and pinch hitter Ross Gload reaching on a strikeout with a wild pitch.

Meanwhile, Halladay had also settled down. After the first, Halladay limited the Cardinals to just 4 hits and 0 runs over the next 7 innings. He would finish the game with 7 strikeouts and 1 intentional walk in 8 innings. Ryan Madson finished off a scoreless 9^th inning in what may be his final game pitching for the Phillies.

However, Carpenter was just a little bit better. The Cardinals’ ace threw a 3-hit complete game shutout striking out 3 and throwing 70 of 110 of his pitches for strikes.

The only offensive bright spot for the Phillies was Victorino, who finished 2-for-3.

The Phillies season ends after a record setting 102 victories and expectations higher than in any previous years. There may be some changes next year with Jimmy Rollins, Ibanez, and Madson both free agents at the end of this season.

Lost in all the shock and confusion that the end of this game brought with it; is that fact that Ryan Howard crumpled to the ground after hitting the ball to second to end the ballgame. Details on his injury to come.

Trevor May profile & interview up!

My Fellow Phans,

As you may have known, I had the honor of talking with the Phillies’ 2011 Minor League Pitcher of the year, Trevor May last week. It took time to gather everything together, but I finally got the post up!

Check on the page tabs on the top of this page, I added the profile to its own page!

Hope you guys enjoy and let me know what you think!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; happy readings and go Phillies!

Doc & Phils overcome rough 1st; beat Cards in opener

PHILDELPHIA: It wasn’t a pleasant start for the Phillies or Roy Halladay.

A leadoff single by Rafael Furcal followed 2 batters later by a four-pitch walk to Albert Pujols put a pair of runners on for Lance Berkman. Berkman saw just a single pitch that at-bat; a mistake by Halladay that he deposited into the right field seats staking the Cardinals and starter Kyle Lohse to an early 3-0 lead.

That seemed to be all Lohse would need. He cruised through the first 3 innings retiring all 9 hitters he faced rather easily. Everything changed starting in the 4th. Chase Utley lined a double to right field with 1 out for the Phillies first hit of the evening. Following a Hunter Pence strikeout and a Howard walk, Lohse looked like he was going to wriggle his way out of trouble when Shane Victorino popped a ball down the third baseline that was misplayed by David Freese giving the Phillies’ centerfielder new life.

Giving a playoff team an extra out is never a smart option. Victorino promptly lined a single to left field scoring Utley cutting the Cardinals lead down to two at 3-1.

After a perfect 5th, many wondered if the Phillies would get anymore off of Lohse. That was until the 6th when everything started to unravel.

Howard’s monster home run reached the upper deck off of Citizens Bank Park. It was his first playoff homer and RBIs since 2009. His 2010 0-fer for the postseason had been washed away with one swing. The Phillies led 4-3 and looked to pile it on.

And pile it on they did. Victorino followed with a single, the Phillies’ fourth hit of the inning. The home crowd was going ballistic and the Cardinals’ starter had lost his composure. All that was needed was a capper and Raul Ibanez was happy to oblige.

Ibanez launched the 2-0 offering from Lohse into the right field bleachers. Successfully, launching complete pandemonium and forcing Tony LaRussa to go to his bullpen.

Once the Cardinals’ bullpen took over, the Phillies’ bats kept with the onslaught. They tallied 3 more runs in the 7th thanks to RBIs from Ryan Howard, Victorino, and Ibanez. In the 8th, Hunter Pence joined chipped in with his first two career postseason RBIs pulling the lead to 11-3.

While Lohse and the Cardinals’ bullpen were collapsing, Halladay was just starting to impress. After allowing a leadoff single to Skip Schumaker in the 2nd, the Philadelphia ace was unhittable in the most literal sense. Halladay retired the last last 21 batters he faced not allowing a batter to reach from the 3rd inning on. He finished the day tallying 8 innings allowing just 3 runs on 3 hits.

The Cardinals finally got to the Phillies’ bullpen in the 9th when Halladay was pulled for rookie Michael Stutes. Stutes struggled allowing 4 of the 5 hitters he faced to reach and had to be pulled after just getting 1 out. Phillies’ closer Ryan Madson entered and allowed a two-run double that glanced off of the glove of defensive replacement John Mayberry Jr. in left field and the Cardinals pulled to within 11-6. 

However, that is as close as they would get. Madson struck out Jon Jay and pinch hitter Matt Holliday sealing the opening game victory for the Phillies.

With the win, Halladay improve his career NLDS record to 2-0 with a sparkling 1.53 era. Lohse’s record drops to 0-3 in his postseason career.

Notes: 7 of the Phillies 9 starters had a hit…The meat of the Phillies order, Howard-Pence-Victorino-Ibanez, combined to go 8-for16 with 5 runs scored. They knocked in all 11 runs for the Phillies…Utley clubbed a pair of doubles off the warning track in right field; he finished with 3 runs scored and hits on the evening…Rolllins scored 3 runs while chipping in 2 hits of his own.

See the full box score here.

Phillies NLDS Preview is up!

My Fellow Phans,

My 2011 NLDS preview is up! Check the pages tab above for the link!

Have a great day everyone!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; happy readings and go Phillies!

Phillies vs. Cardinals: 2011 NLDS Preview!

My Fellow Phans,

So it is finally the day. The start of the most anticipated postseason in the history of the Phillies franchise. This has been a record setting year this season for the team itself with their 102 wins and Charlie Manuel, who became the most successful Phillies manager in history, when he won 646^th career game at the helm of the club on Wednesday.

For their season’s efforts, clinching the best record in all of baseball and home field throughout the postseason, they draw the wild card winning St. Louis Cardinals in the opening round of the 2011 MLB postseason. Here is your preview for the upcoming NLDS set to begin later this evening:

Philadelphia Phillies (East Champs; 102-60) vs.                              St. Louis Cardinals (Wild Card; 90-72)

Schedule/ Pitching Matchups:

Game 1: Friday, Saturday, October 1 @ Philadelphia (5:07pm):

Roy Halladay (19-6 2.35) vs. Kyle Lohse (14-8 3.39)

Game 2: Sunday, October 2 @ Philadelphia (8:37pm):

Cliff Lee (17-8 2.40) vs. Chris Carpenter (11-9 3.45)

Game 3: Tuesday, October 4 @ St. Louis (TBD):

Jaime Garcia (13-7 3.56) vs. Cole Hamels (14-9 2.75)

Game 4 (If necessary): Wednesday, October 5 @ St. Louis (TBD):

Lohse vs. Halladay or Roy Oswalt (9-10 3.69)

Game 5 (If necessary): Thursday, October 6 @Philadelphia (TBD):

TBD vs. TBD

Phillies Roster & Notes:

Hitters:

C: Carlos Ruiz (.283-6-40), Brian Scheinder (.176-2-9)

Inf: Ross Gload (.257-0-8), Ryan Howard (.253-33-116), Michael Martinez (.196-3-24), Placido Polanco (.277-5-50), Jimmy Rollins (.268-16-63), Chase Utley (.259-11-44), Wilson Valdez (.249-1-30)

Of: Ben Francisco (.244-6-34), Raul Ibanez (.245-20-84), John Mayberry (.273-15-49), Hunter Pence (.314-22-97), Shane Victorino (.279-17-61)

Pitchers:

Rhp: Joe Blanton (1-2 5.01), Roy Halladay (19-6 2.35), Kyle Kendrick (8-6 3.22), Brad Lidge (0-2 1.40), Ryan Madson (2.37 – 32 saves), Roy Oswalt (9-10 3.69), Michael Stutes (6-2 3.63), Vance Worley (11-3 3.01)

Lhp: Antonio Bastardo (6-1 2.64), Cole Hamels (14-9 2.79), Cliff Lee (17-9 2.40)

Phillies Season Notes:

The Phillies completed the greatest season in their franchise’s history winning 102 games and sweeping out the Braves to end the season.

Pitching: Roy Halladay led the way winning 19 games in his second season with the Phillies and Cliff Lee followed close behind with 17 wins of his own…The pitching staff itself led the major leagues in ERA (3.02), complete games (18), Shutouts (21), quality starts (108), and wins with 102…Ryan Madson finished with 32 saves in 34 chances.

Offense: Ryan Howard was the overwhelming leader offensively with his 33 homers and 116 RBIs. Since his acquisition, Hunter Pence has hit .324 with 11 homers and 35 RBIs with the Phillies in just 54 games… Shane Victorino finished with 15+ homers, triples, doubles, and steals for the first time in his career…The Phillies are the 7^th lowest scoring team in the postseason, only ahead of Tampa Bay, and lowest in the National League.

Cardinals Roster & Notes:

Hitters:

C: Gerald Laird (.232-1-12), Yadier Molina (.305-14-65),

Inf: Daniel Descalso (.264-1-28), David Freese (.297-10-55), Rafael Furcal (.231-8-28), Tyler Greene (.212-1-11), Albert Pujols (.299-37-99), Nick Punto (.278-1-20), Skip Schumaker (.283-2-38), Ryan Theriot (.271-1-47),

Of: Lance Berkman (.301-31-94), Adron Chambers (.375-0-4), Allen Craig (.315-11-40), Matt Holliday (.296-22-75), John Jay (.297-10-37)

Pitchers:

Rhp: Mitchell Boggs (2-3 3.56), Chris Carpenter (11-9 2.37), Octavio Dotel (5-4 3.50), Edwin Jackson (12-9 3.79), Kyle Lohse (14-8 3.39), Jason Motte (2.25- 9 saves), Fernando Salas (5-6 2.28), Jake Westbrook (12-9 4.66),

Lhp: Jaime Garcia (13-7 3.56), Arthur Rhodes (3-4 4.64), Marc Rzepcynski (2-6 3.34),

Cardinals Season Notes:

The Cardinals creeped their way into the postseason as the Wild Card aided by a monumental Braves collapse. They finished a NL best 18-8 in the month of September edging Atlanta by a single game.

Pitching: The Cardinals finished 8^th in the National League in ERA (3.74)…St. Louis had 5 pitchers with at least 10 wins (Lohse, Garcia, Westbrook, McClellan, and Carpenter)…The Cardinals bullpen blew the second most saves (26) in the major leagues last season…Garcia, Lohse, and Carpenter combined to allow just 5 earned runs in 45 innings against the Phillies this year (1.00 ERA).

Offense: In the NL this year, the Cardinals led in runs, hits, total bases, RBIs, batting average, and OPS. ..Albert Pujols led the Cardinals in homers (37) and RBIs (99) this season…Yadier Molina is the regular season batting champ (.305)…7 of the Cardinals regular starters are hitting .283 or above…As a team, they hit .290 with runners in scoring position…Despite these high offensive numbers, the Cardinals stole a National League low 57 bases last year.

Stand Out Stars:

Phillies: My stand out star for the Phillies this series is a playoff-newbie. That is Philadelphia’s new right fielder, Hunter Pence. Pence has starred for the Phillies since he was picked up from the Astros right before the trade deadline. One thing that I have learned about Mr. Pence since he’s been here is that he can quickly adjust to high pressure situations. Coming from Houston to Philly is a whole new atmosphere and Pence found his niche almost immediately. The playoffs are no exception, this is exactly the type of stage he wants to play on and I expect him to thrive under the bright lights.

Cardinals: While many people may pick Pujols here, I am going a bit down the pecking order for the player to watch from the Cardinals. Yes, we know Pujols and Berkman and Holiday will get their cracks, but my player to watch for on the Cardinals is catcher Yadier Molina. Molina quietly led the Cardinals in hitting this year and had a career year offensively. Of course, his numbers were overshadowed by the aforementioned superstars. He has a knack for getting big hits for the Cardinals this season and has in the postseason as well; remember his go ahead homer against the Mets back in 2006?

Series Analysis:

This series features both the top pitching team in the National League and the top offensive squad. Expect a low scoring, pitching oriented series. The Cardinals did go 6-3 against the Phillies this past season, but the postseason is a whole other can of worms. The Phillies are experienced, focused and refuse to be denied their quest to be world champions. In the other dugout, the Cardinals are ready, eager and dying to knock the big bad Phillies out of the postseason.

Prediction

As long as the Phillies aces can keep the Cardinals hitters off balance, their offense should produce enough runs to lead them to victory. It won’t be easy for the NL East champions as the Cardinals late season surge will provide a temporary boost. However, the top team in the National League is raring and ready to go.

Phillies in 4.

Until we meet again Phillies fans: happy readings and go Phillies!

Opening games time announced!

My Fellow Phans,

I bring you more information from the great world of MLB. The starting times for games 1 &2 of the Phillies series opening series with the Cardinals.

Here is the basics for those 2 games:

Game 1: Saturday, October 1 – 4:07 pm

Game 2: Sunday, October 2 – 8:07 pm.

I will share more information as it comes out. Stay tuned for my Phillies Playoff  preview coming tomorrow! It will have the full schedule, pitching matchups, lineups, rosters, predictions, analysis, breakdowns, and much-much more!

Aside from the Phillies, I am progressively working on previews for all of the 3 other divisional series. The Tigers vs. Yankees preview is already posted, I will complete the other ALDS matchup tonight, post the Brewers/Arizona preview tomorrow morning.Each of those previews have their own page so check them out at the top of the screen.

The Phillies will round out the previews. Look for that tomorrow night!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy readings and go Phillies!

Playoff Opponent Revealed!

My Fellow Phans,

I am sure many of you saw the news already, but incase you haven’t. The Cardinals clinched the NL Wild Card last night sealing the Phillies date with the Cardinals in the opening round of the MLB postseason.

The series is set to start Saturday.

I will do a full preview last on, but this is just the basics! Stay tuned!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy readings and Go Phillies!

Bring on the Big Apple! - Phillies / Mets Preview

My Fellow Phans,

There are a lot of things I could say about this recent string of games for the Phillies. However, this is not the time for such talk. The Phillies haven’t played a meaningful game since last Saturday, and ironically enough that was the last game that they won.

Yes, there is a little concern from some, but I will touch on that in a few days depending on the results of this upcoming series with the Mets.

Here is your preview:

Phillies (98-58: 1st NL East) @ New York Mets (74-82; 4th NL East)

Friday, September 23:

7:10 @ Citi Field, NY – PHL17

Cole Hamels (14-9 2.80) vs. R.A. Dickey (8-13 3.35)

Saturday, September 24:

1:10 @ Citi Field, NY – CSN

Kyle Kendrick (8-6 3.04) vs. Dillon Gee (12-6 4.48)

Sunday, September 25:

1:10 @ Citi Field, NY – PHL17

Roy Halladay (18-6 2.41) vs. Mike Pelfrey (7-12 4.58)

Series Notes: The Phillies are trying to stop their 6 game losing streak. They haven’t won a game since clinching the division last week and were manhandled by the Nationals in the final four home regular season games of their season.

How do they look to break it?

Well, some new additions would help. The Phillies were playing with Ryan Howard and a few games without right fielder Hunter Pence during this mini free fall. Now both are slated to return to action in this series.

It would also help the Phillies for their 1-2-3 guys in the order, Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, and Chase Utley, to return to form. The three went an abysmal 0-for-36 in this series against the Nationals. Yes, 0 hits in 36 trips to the plate. In fact all three are having horrendous Septembers as well. Rollins, Victorino, and Utley are hitting a miserable .174 combined in September with just 3 homers and 10 RBIs.

Tonight may be Cole Hamels’ final start of the regular season. It should be an interesting one. He looks to bounce back from a rocky stretch (9 runs in his last 12 innings) although it won’t be easy. Hamels has a history of rough starts against the Mets. In his career, Cole is 3-10 with an 4.69 ERA against the Metropolitans. Against the Mets just this season alone, Hamels has an 9.64 ERA.

Regardless, the Phillies will look to turn the page with the playoffs looking just 7 days away.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy readings and go Phillies!

Clinch-Tastic! Phillies win 5th straight NL East Title

My Fellow Phans,

I know many of you were watching the Mets and Braves today hoping for a New York victory so that the Phillies could have their title. However, the Braves won so the Phillies had everything in their own hands tonight against the Cardinals.

And the Phillies took full advantage.

Roy Oswalt pitched 7 stellar innings in a playoff like setting and the offense exploded for 9 runs as the Phillies won their 98th game of the season and clinched the 2011 National League East title. 

The Phillies started the offense early as Hunter Pence knocked in an 1st inning run. They added a pair of runs throughout the early innings thanks to a pair of Shane Victorino RBIs on a walk and a long home run to centerfield.

The Cardinals pulled a bit closer with a pair of runs off of Michael Stutes in the 8th inning, but the Phillies sealed the game in the bottom of the 8th with a 6 spot. The key blow; a Grand Slam off of the bat of Raul Ibanez!

Ryan Madson pitched a scoreless 9th to finish off the Cardinals and send the town of Philadelphia into a frenzy!

---

On a more personal note…

I would like to thank these Phillies for a wonderful season and I cannot wait until October! It’s been a total team effort and everyone has played some role in the success of this season. It’s been a great run boys, but it is far from over, far from over!

We all remember Brett Myers way back in 2007 throwing his glove his in the air in celebration and that fantastic double play turned in 2008 against the Nationals. We can add the brilliant barehanded stab by Chase Utley to that memorable list.

I also can’t imagine how tonight must feel for the newer guys on the squad. Players like Hunter “Lets go Eat” Pence, Michael Martinez, Michael Stutes, Vance Worley, John Mayberry must be having the time of their lives at this very moment. I tip my hat to you guys as well.

Kudos to the veterans as well. The players that have been here over the past several season. Now there are too many to name, but they know who they are. Thank you all so much!

Tonight is a night to rejoice, but there is still a long way to go.

Growing up in the 90s with those terrible teams, I still cannot believe what I have seen over the past several years. Although, I have also learned to keep my excitement down since we still have work to be done.

So, lets get that work done and finish this thing off Phillies, lets get it done.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; happy readings and GO PHILLIES, your 2011 NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONS!

Phillies / Cardinals series preview: clinch time (we hope) edition.

My Fellow Phans,

The Phillies sit on the brink of clinching their 5th consecutive National League East title. Our magic number currently sits at 2 to clinch that honor while we just need three wins (or losses by the D.Backs and Brewers) to solidify the best record in the National League home field for each playoff series we take part in.

First things first. The Phillies begin a 4 game series with high flying St. Louis. The Cardinals are currently chasing both the Braves and Brewers in the Wild Card and NL Central respectively. They have been playing well recently and will definitely play the Phillies well this upcoming series.

Some interesting notes on this series: If the Phillies somehow sweep this series, they will tie the team record for most wins in a season with 101 set back in 1976 and 1977. A series win will grant them their first 100 win season in the last couple decades.

But, let’s be realistic and take this series one game at a time.

The Phillies and Cardinals met in St. Louis back in June with the Phillies taking 2 out of 3 games.

Here is your preview:

Phillies (97-51 – 1st NL East)  vs. St. Louis Cardinals (81-68 – 2nd NL Central)


Friday, September 16:
7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – PHL 17
Vance Worley (11-2 2.92) vs. Jaime Garcia (12-7 3.68)

Saturday, September 17:
7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – PHL 17
Roy Oswalt (7-9 3.88) vs. Jake Westbrook (12-8 4.61)

Sunday, September 18:
8:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – ESPN
Cole Hamels (14-8, 2.71) vs Chris Carpenter (9-9, 3.80)

Monday, September 19:
7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN
Roy Halladay (18-5, 2.34) vs Kyle Lohse (13-8, 3.62)

Cardinals Series Notes:
The Cardinals come in hot. They have won 7 of their last 10 and 14 of their last 20 overall. The have climbed significantly in the standings lately and are trying to overtake either The first place Brewers or Wild Card leading Braves.

One thing that the Cardinals have going for them is their offense. they lead the National League in batting average and rank 2nd in the league in runs scored. They also lead the league in slugging percentage. A primary reason for this output are a trip of superstars.

The top gun in the St. Louis offense is, arguably the best player in the game, Albert Pujols (.295- 35 HR – 93 RBI). He is flanked by comeback player of the year candidate Lance Berkman (.290-30-86) and hot hitting left fielder Matt Holliday (.295-22-74). Together these three form what may be the most devestating trio in the major leagues. throw in players such as Yadier Molina (.295-12-60) and The Cardinals present one of the better lineups that the Phillies have faced this season.

Pitching wise, the Cardinals have thrown the 12th best ERA (3.84) as a team. They have the luxury of being one of the only teams with 4 pitchers posting 10+ wins. The Phillies will see 3 of those pitchers this series. the other pitcher they will face, Chris Carpenter, is one win away from making it 5 pitchers. Closer Jason Motte may be the Cardinals’ Cy Young pitcher this season. He has stepped into the closer’s role and posted an 1.93 ERA in his 72 games.

Phillies Series Notes:
I don’t think we have much else to say outside of what I said in the opening. The Phillies need 2 wins to be NL East champs and 3 wins to obtain the NL’s best record.

I don’t think I need to ramble on with various stats and figures from this season. Let’s face it. We all know the players, stats, streaks, and races that are going on. The time for all that sort of talk is over.

The only numbers that matter are 2 and 3. 

It’s time for the Phillies to put finishing touches on this magical and historical season and get prepared for the postseason.

I will keep you all updated on any clinching that may go on during this series.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; happy readings and go Phillies!

Double the fun: Marlins/Phillies doubleheader preview

My Fellow Phans,

A few weeks ago, today would be an off day and we would have a breather from the tough September schedule. Thanks to our ol’ buddy Hurricane Irene, the Phillies have a game today, and not just 1 game, but a doubleheader against those pesky Florida Marlins. This double billing marks the start of the Phillies final home stand where they will play 10 games in just 8 days.

Here is your preview:

Phillies (95-51 – 1st NL East) vs. Florida Marlins (67-81 – 5th NL East)

Game 1:

Kyle Kendrick (7-6, 3.29) vs Anibal Sanchez (8-7, 3.64)

Game 2:

Cliff Lee (16-7, 2.44) vs Alex Sanabia (0-0, 0.00)

Note: Both games are at Citizens Bank Park and are broadcast on CSN / 1210 AM.

Notes: The Phillies are fresh off of clinched a playoff berth and are eagerly looking at the declining magic numbers for both the division (4) and best record in the NL (5).

Thankfully, there are no hurricanes on the horizon and we should get both of these games in. Kyle Kendrick will make, what may be his first of two spot starts this week with another doubleheader looming next Tuesday. Cliff Lee will follow in the nightcap. This assures that all starters stay on their normal rest and there is not scrambling to fix the order.

There is also talk of Chase Utley returning early on during this home stand so watch out for him as well.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; happy readings and go Phillies!

Take 2 and I’ll see you in October!

My Fellow Phans,

For the second straight season, Roy Halladay stepped to the mound with a chance to put the Phillies into the postseason, and for a second straight year, he did not fail at his mission.

Just like in 2010, when the good doctor delivered a shutout of the Nationals to clinch the NL East and a playoff berth for the Phillies, Halladay again showed his mastery and propelled the defending NL East champs back into the postseason.

The Phillies scored early, but unfortunately not often, against the Astros yesterday. A first inning double by Shane Victorino followed by a first inning single off of the bat of Placido Polanco plated the Phillies an 1-0 lead. A lead that Halladay would not relinquish.

Halladay, who won his 18th game of the season, scattered 6 hits in a complete game shutout. He allowed just one walk and really only had one tough inning when the Astros loaded the bases with 0 outs in the bottom of the 2nd before wriggling out of trouble.

The win puts the Phillies back in the postseason for a 5th straight season and edges them ever closer to a division title as well as home field in the NL. Those magic numbers sit at 4 and 5 respectively. It also avoided the Phillies first 3 game sweep of the season.

The Phillies open up a 10 game-8 day home stand with the Marlins riding into town for a double header starting today.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; happy readings and go Phillies!

Acquaintances Reunite: Phillies / Astros Preview

My Fellow Phans,

It’s reunion time for the Phillies as a number of old faces meet up with each other during this three game set in Houston. The Astros and Phillies have seemed to be very compatible trading partners over the past few years. I guess it helps when the Phillies’ former GM Ed Wade is sitting in the Astros’ front office.

Former Phillies J.A. Happ, Brett Myers now dawn Astros uniforms either through trade or free agency. Not only will these two get to see former teammates, they will get the chance to prove something to the Phillies when they get to start in this series.

On the other side, this series give Hunter Pence his first series back in Houston, but this time wearing a Phillies uniform. Former Astros Roy Oswalt and Brad Lidge are also returning to their former confines.

They met to open the season with the Phillies sweeping out the Astros at Citizens Bank Park. Now they travel to Houston.

Here is your series preview for the family reunion of a baseball series occurring in Houston these next three games:

Phillies (94-49 – 1st NL East) @ Houston Astros (49-97 – 6th NL Central)

Monday, September 12:

8:05 @ Minute Maid Park – CSN

Roy Oswalt (7-8 3.72) vs. Brett Myers (4-13 4.66)

Tuesday, September 13:

8:05 @ Minute Maid Park – Phl 17

Cole Hamels (14-7 2.60) vs. J.A. Happ (5-15 5.77)

Wednesday, September 14:

2:05 @ Minute Maid Park – CSN

Roy Halladay (17-5 2.44) vs. Bud Norris (6-9 3.78)

Astros Series Notes:

The Astros have had a dismal season. Their opening day starter has lost 13 games and their newest addition to the rotation has lost 15. They are well on their way to being the first team to lose 100 games this season.They traded their top two offensive stars before the trading deadline and seem to have switched to rebuilding mode.

On a more positive note, Brett Myers has posted a 1.93 ERA in 2 starts against the Phillies during his career. His latest start was opening day which resulted in a quality start for Myers, but a walk-off win for the Phillies causing him to lose his chance at a win.

The Astros are led by outfield Carlos Lee (.276-15-81) whom, thanks for the recent trades, is the overwhelming leader in AVG, HR, and RBIs on the team.

Pitching-wise, the Astros best pitcher has been lefty Wandy Roriguez (11wins, 3.51). Bud Norris is the only other starter with an ERA under 4 at 3.51.

The Astros come into this game losing 7 of their last 9 games.

Phillies Series Notes:

The Phillies come in hot winning 6 of their last 7 against a pair of prominent National League contenders. They come in with a bit of a cushion. Their magic number for a postseason spot is just 2. Their number for clinch their division sits at 6.

Pitching wise, the Phillies are anchored by 3 Cy Young candidates and two of whom are pitching this series. They lead the league in ERA, Shutouts, and wins. The return to Houston allows Roy Oswalt to return to his old stomping grounds. He is the all-time leader in wins at Minute Maid Park with 73.

Offensively, Ryan Howard has been the primary power guy leading the Phillies in homers (33) and RBIs (112). Outfielder Raul Ibanez actually ranks 2nd in both categories (18-72). Centerfielder Shane Victorino has been the most consistent Phillies hitter hitting at .295 with 16 homers.

Howard has homered in 3 of his last 6 games and Hunter Pence has been hitting a lot for the Phillies as he has hit safely in 5 of his last 6 games.

Injury Note: The Phillies will again be without second basemen Chase Utley, whom is still sitting out due to the aftermath of getting hit in the head by a pitch during the Atlanta series.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy readings and go Phillies!

Minor Leagues - Pigs Fly; (Reading) Phillies Fall

My Fellow Phans,

Both first round series have ended for our Iron Pigs and Reading Phillies. On those fronts, I have good news and bad news to report.

Let’s start with the good news:

The Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs have advanced to the second round of the International League playoffs. The Pigs dispatched the Pawtucket Red Soxs swiftly sweeping them right out of the postseason (4-2, 3-2, 3-1).

Lehigh Valley’s pitching led the way as the trio of Dave Bush, Ryan Edell, and Brian Bass combined with a host of relievers posted an 1.28 ERA during the series allowing just 4 earned runs in 28 innings. They struck out 23 while walking just 7. Reliever Justin DeFratus posted a win and save while tossing 3 scoreless innings striking out 6 and walking none.

Offensively, outfielder Brandon Moss led the Iron Pigs with a crisp .417 batting average smashing 2 homers with 4 knocked in. Rich Thompson chipped in with an .333 clip and a pair of stolen bases.

With their victory, the Iron Pigs set their sights on their next opponent, The Columbus Clippers, The AAA affiliate of the Cleveland Indians.

Here is the schedule:

Game 1 @Columbus – Tuesday at 7:05.

Game 2 @Columbus – Wednesday at 7:05.

Game 3 @LHV – Thursday at 7:05.

Game 4 @LHV (If necessary) – Friday at 7:05.

Game 5 @LHV (If necessary) – Saturday at 1:05.

On a more disappointing note,

The Reading Phillies were ousted of the Eastern League playoffs in 5 games by the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

The Phillies struggled to score runs in the series averaging just a single run per game. Power hitting first baseman, Matt Rizzotti finished a miserable 0-for-12.

"I think we put a little too much pressure on ourselves," manager Mark Parent said. "Every time we've gone south it's when we try to do too much. We went cold at the plate against some pitchers that we've done well against.”

Overall Parent considers the season a success.

"We were above .500 and we made it to the playoffs," Parent said. "The fans were great all season. Spectacular. We enjoyed it, and I think the fans enjoyed it.”

The Reading Phillies wrapped up a successful season and look to build on their strong season.

I would like to offer congrats to the manager Mark Parent and his Reading Phillies on a successful season and continued success in the future!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies!

Phillies vs. Braves Series Preview

 

My Fellow Phans,

This week begins a stretch of games for the Phillies against a pair of NL playoff teams. It starts with the Braves coming in for a 3 game set before the Phillies head out to the Brewers’ Miller Park for a gritty 4-game set.

The good news is that the Phillies will have a pair of extra arms in the bullpen this week. Kyle Kendrick was activated from the paternity list and Big Joe Blanton was activated from the disabled list. Both are expected to go to the bullpen and be used as long relievers. After the Phillies marathon of a game yesterday, thanks to our good buddy Joe West, they can definitely use the help.

It is near game time so I promise to keep it short and sweet. Now, without further introduction: here is your Phillies vs. Braves Preview:

Phillies (88-48 – 1st NL East) vs. Atlanta Braves (82-57 – 2nd NL East)

Monday, September 5:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Cliff Lee (15-7 2.59) vs Derek Lowe (9-12 4.52)

Tuesday, September 6:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Vance Worley (10-1 2.85) vs Tim Hudson (14-8 3.05)

Wednesday, September 7:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Roy Oswalt (7-8 3.80) vs Brandon Beachy (7-2 3.37)

*Note: All Games in EST / All can be heard on 1210 AM on the radio.

Series Notes:

The Phillies and Braves have each won 6 games during this season’s series. The Phillies come into this series with a chance to bury the Braves or this series could be the stepping stone for the Braves to get back into the divisional race.

Currently, the Phillies sit 7.5 games ahead. A series win would put them at 8.5 back and a sweep would all, but end the race with the Braves behind by 10.5. Anything less than that would pull the Braves closer to the top.

This is the opportunity the Phillies were looking for and one that they hopefully won’t pass up.

Let’s see how this goes.

Until we meet again Phillies; Happy Readings and go Phillies!

Postseason Play for the ‘Pigs and (Reading) Phils!

My Fellow Phans,

While many of us are eagerly awaiting the possible Phillies’ postseason run in October, there is some other news to report on the playoff front. There will be playoff baseball for both the Phillies AAA & AA minor league teams!

Here is your information on each respective series:

The Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs, The Phillies’ AAA Team, clinched the Wild Card position in the International League this afternoon and will play Cleveland’s AAA squad, The Columbus Clippers in the opening round. It is also a historic moment for the club as this marks the first year the team has the playoffs, during its four years in existence. Rookie manager Ryne Sandberg deserves a lot of credit for his job this year with Lehigh Valley.

Players like Domonic Brown, Mike Zagurski, Pete Orr, Scott Podsednik, and possibly Erik Kratz as well as others were not called up due to the Iron Pigs playoff push. Now that they have made the postseason, it looks like it will be even longer until we see some of those players up with the big club. In the long run, this is a smart move for the organization.

Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs Playoff Schedule:

Game 1 @LHV – Wednesday at 7:05 p.m.

Game 2 @LHV – Thursday at 7:05 p.m.

Game 3 @ Pawtucket – Friday at 7:05 p.m.

Game 4 @ Pawtucket (if necessary) – Saturday at 6:05 p.m.

Game 5 @ Pawtucket (if necessary) – Sunday at 1:05 p.m.

Note: Fans can listen to all the games live on www.ironpigsbaseball.com

While the Reading Phillies don’t have as many players likely on the call-up list, they will also play in the postseason. Their opening opponent, Toronto’s AA affiliate, the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Reading Phillies Playoff Schedule:

Game 1 @ New Hampshire - Wednesday at 7:05 p.m.

Game 2 @ New Hampshire - Thursday at 7:05 p.m.

Game 3 @ Reading - Friday at 7:05 p.m.

Game 4 @Reading (if necessary) -Saturday at 7:05 p.m.

Game 5 @ New Hampshire (if necessary) - Sunday at 1:05 p.m.

Note: All games can be heard on ESPN 1240.

While the major league club motors along towards a postseason berth, remember to check out these minor league clubs in their question for a championship.

Good luck to both teams and I will do my best to keep everyone informed on how our young stars are performing!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and go Phillies!

Phillies vs. Reds Preview: Post-Hurricane Edition

 

My Fellow Phans,

First I wanted to let you guys know that I am trying a new format again for your series preview. I would also want to thank my friend John Russo for permission to use his graphic of this series and future games.

Now onto the baseball news:

So, the good news is that Irene is well past us, and thankfully, most places were not hit as hard as was expected. While the Phillies missed most of Irene’s fury, she took a toll on the scheduling process.

After raining out a pair of games against the Marlins, the Phillies schedule was sent into chaotic mode. After having both games pushed back into middle September, the Phightins now have the daunting task of playing 33 games in 31 days with a pair of doubleheaders within a week.

Sounds tough, but its nothing that champions can’t handle, right Charlie? “A man’s got to do what a man’s got to do,” Manuel said. “No big deal. Champions can play anywhere, anytime, any day. They can play 2 or 3 a day.”

Sounds like the manager’s ready and you know the players are ready as this brutal stretch begins tonight against the Reds.

The Phillies original rotation was also altered thanks to the numerous off days and those changes will be reflected in the pitching matchups for this series. Here is your preview:

Phillies (83-46 – 1st NL East) @ Cincinnati Reds (67-66 – 3rd NL Central)

Monday, August 29:

7:10 @ Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati OH – CSN & ESPN

Cole Hamels (13-7 2.62) vs. Homer Bailey (7-5 4.44)

Tuesday, August 30:

7:10 @ Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati OH – PHL 17

Roy Halladay (15-5 2.55) vs. Bronson Arroyo (8-10 5.02)

Wednesday, August 31:

7:10 @ Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati OH – CSN

Cliff Lee (14-7 2.71) vs. Dontrelle Willis (0-3 4.10)

Thursday, September 1:

12:35 @ Great American Ballpark, Cincinnati OH – CSN

Vance Worley (9-1 2.65) vs. Mike Leake (11-8 4.04)

*Note: All Games in EST / All can be heard on 1210 AM on the radio.

Series Notes: Reds

Its been a rough season for the Reds. After gaudy expectations entering this season following last year’s division title, they have struggled to repeat their success. They sit just a game over .500 and 13 games back in the NL Central. They come into this series on a four game winning streak which includes a sweep over the Washington Nationals.

Offensively, the Reds are no slouches. They lead the NL in runs scored as a team as well as home runs and rank 5th in team batting average. They are led by reigning NL MVP Joey Votto at first base (.325-26-86) and young hitting sensation, right fielder Jay Bruce (.262-28-85) an all-star second baseman Brandon Phillips (.297-12-73).

The pitching for the Reds however, has struggled this season. They ranked 11th in the NL in team ERA. Outside of ace Johnny Cuteo (9-5 2.05), who thankfully the Phillies will not see this week, the Reds’ rotation has struggled.

Out of the four going this week, only Bailey and Arroyo have faced the Phillies this season having allowed 13 earned runs in 6.2 innings. Arroyo is coming off of 8 shutout innings against the Marlins while Bailey allowed just 3 runs in 7 innings in his last outing.

This will be the Phillies first look at Willis since 2007 and Leake since 2010. Leake earned a win in his last start tossing 6 innings of 2 run ball while Willis struggled walking 5 batters in just 2.2 innings.

Series Notes: Phillies

This is the Phillies first game since Friday and it will be interesting to see how they come off of their long layoff. Cole Hamels is making his first start since August 12th and the rest of the starters will also be facing longer than usual layoffs. They are coming off of what technically could be considered the first time they were swept this season as the Marlins won the only game in the previous series.

Offensively, the Phillies rank 6th in the NL in runs scored. They are paced by Shane Victorino, who may be the Phillies most consistent hitter this season (.309-14-51) and first baseman Ryan Howard (.251-27-99). Newcomer Hunter Pence is paying dividends as well (.330-5-15 in 24 games).

Pitching-wise, if you don’t know already, the Phillies own the best team ERA in all of baseball (3.09). They are first in complete games (15), shutouts (17), and wins. The NL Cy Young race may be a battle between Phillies pitchers this season. Halladay, Lee and battling it out with Hamels as the dark horse. At the moment, I think Halladay has the slight edge.

During their first meeting with the Reds this season, the hometown Phillies took 3 out of 4 from the Reds which included 10-3 and 10-4 victories and an 19 inning walk-off which earned utility infielder Wilson Valdez his first career victory. I’m sure none of us have forgotten that game.

In that series, Lee and Hamels both won their starts and Halladay pitched well enough to win (7ip-3er), but the pen couldn’t hold the lead eventually leading to the 19 inning marathon.

This series is just the beginning of a very tiring stretch for the Phillies.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies.

Irene’s acomin’ and so are the Fish!

My Fellow Phans,

There has been a lot of craziness surrounding this series ever since the presence of Hurricane Irene was felt.

As you know, this was supposed to be a simple 3 game series against the Marlins. Well, at first it was a 3 game-2 day series as Sunday’s game was moved up to Saturday afternoon forcing a doubleheader. Now the schedule has changed again and the second game on Saturday evening, scheduled for 7:05 was pushed back until September 15th. The 15th is the Phillies final off day of this season.

So technically, this series the Phillies are playing games 1 & 3 of this series this weekend with game 2 in mid-September. Here are your details for these games, if they happen:

Phillies (83-45 – 1st NL East) vs. Florida Marlins (58-72 – 5th NL East)

Friday, August 26:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Roy Oswalt (6-7 3.51) vs. Clay Hensley (1-5 5.47)

Saturday, August 27:

1:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – MyPhl

Roy Halladay (15-5 2.56) vs. Anibal Sanchez (7-6 4.01)

Breakdown:

Pitching:

This short series features the familiar and the unfamiliar.

Hensley has only pitched in .2 of an inning against the Phillies this season striking out a batter and not allowing a run. His ERA this August is a crisp 9.87 giving up 7 earned runs to the lowly Padres in his last start in just 3.2 innings…Sanchez, however, has pitched 17 innings this year against the Phillies allowing 9 runs during that span. In his last outing, he received a no-decision allowing 3 earned runs in just 5 innings against the Padres. In his last start against the Phillies, Sanchez allowed 5 earned runs in 4 innings of work.

In 21 total innings against the Marlins, 15 for Halladay, the two Phillies started have pitched to identical 3.00 ERAs while striking out 23 and walking just 3…Halladay took a no-decision in his last start surrendering 2 runs in 5 innings against the Nationals…Oswalt is coming off of an 8 inning, 0 earned runs 8-hit gem against the Nationals. He is 2-0 in his last 2 starts.

Offense:

Watch out for the young, developing stars in the Marlins’ lineup:

Ritfielder Mike Stanton is slowly developing himself into the next major homerun hitting superstar. The 21 year-old is tied for 2nd in the NL with 30 homers and 12th in RBI with 77…Another talented youngster is a man that doesn’t need much of an introduction, Mr. Logan Morrison. The left fielder is second on the Marlins in homers with 18 and ranks 3rd on the team in RBIs. The young star is just 24 years old and continues to improve…The final part of that equation is first baseman Gabby Sanchez. The 27 year old is quietly clipping along with 16 homers and 64 RBIs this season.

The Phillies are paced by first baseman Ryan Howard, Second Baseman Chase Utley and newcomer Right Field Hunter Pence. An unsung star for the Phillies this year has been centerfielder Shane Victorino (14 HR, 51 RBI with 21 doubles and 14 triples.)

Analysis:

The Marlins have little to play for and judging by their attendance, they have little people to play for as well. Despite their disappointing record, the Marlins have some offensive talent and can put up some runs on the board and they always seem to put up a fight when playing the Phillies.

This season, the Phillies are 9-3 against the Fish.

Prediction:

I think the Phillies end up taking both games this season.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies!

Phillies vs. New York Mets–Mini Preview

My Fellow Phans,

With little time left, here is your mini-preview for this upcoming series with the Mets.

Monday, August 22:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Cliff Lee (13-7 2.82) vs. Dillion Gee (11-4 3.92)

Tuesday, August 23:

7:05 @Citizens Bank Park – PHL 17

Vance Worley (8-1 2.76) vs. Jonathon Niese (11-10 4.05)

Wednesday, August 24:

1:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Kyle Kendrick (7-5 3.24) vs. Mike Pelfrey (6-10 4.61)

The Phillies need to bounce back from a rough series in Washington! Let’s go boys!

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies!

Phillies @ Nats: Didn’t we just see these guys?

My Fellow Phans,

In what may turn out to be an NLDS preview, the Phillies defeated the Diamondbacks 2-of-3 games and in actuality outplayed Arizona for 26 of the 27 innings played that last series. The current NL West leaders were held to just 3 hits in each of the last two games in losing efforts.

So now, the Phillies travel back  to NL East play and battle the Washington Nationals. Here’s your series preview:

Phillies (80-42 1st NL East) @ Washington Nationals (59-63 4th NL East)

Friday, August 19:

7:05 @ Nationals Park – CSN

Roy Oswalt (5-7 3.84) vs. Livan Hernandez (7-11 4.21)

Saturday, August 20:

7:05 @ Nationals Park – CSN

Kyle Kendrick (7-5 3.25) vs. Jon Lannan (8-8 3.55)

Sunday, August 21:

1:35 @ Nationals Park – MyPhl

Roy Halladay (15-5 2.53) vs. Chien-Ming Wang (2-2 4.22)

Breakdown:

So this series looks oddly familiar. The Phillies are scheduled to face the same three starters that appeared last weekend in Philadelphia except for the fact that Sunday’s game was postponed.

Here’s how our two opponents, we faced last week fared against us:

- Hernandez allowed 0 earned runs in 6.2 innings against the Phillies last week gaining the only win for Washington in the series. This season, he is 2-1 with an 3.12 ERA against the Phillies in 4 starts thus far.

- Lannan allowed 7 runs, but just 1 earned, in 3 innings during an11-3 beat down from the Phillies. His ERA against the Phillies this season is an untidy 4.96.

- Wang did not get to start due to the cancelation. The only hitter we have with more than 10 at bats against him, is Raul Ibanez (24 ABs – .208 1HR 5 RBI).

Now for our boys:

- Roy Oswalt earned his first victory since he returned from the DL allowing 3 earned in 7 strong innings of work last weekend against the Nats.

- Halladay’s start was washed out against the Nats last Sunday. As for the season, Doc has pitched 23 innings against the Nats with an 3.13 ERA.

- Kendrick is making his first, and hopefully only, spot start for Cole Hamels. Cole is missing the start as a precaution.

Analysis:

I say this every time we play the Nats, but the Phillies better not take them lightly. One thing that the Phillies fans seem to forget during this season is that it is not that the Nationals have been that bad, they are just 4 games under .500, but the Phillies have been that good.

Although they sit 21 games back, it’s the Phillies strong play that put them there. Put Washington in the NL West and they’re only 9 games out, which is still a lot, but considerably less than 21.

What I am trying to get to here is that, like every Nationals series, is that this is going to be a tough series. Washington is a feisty team with some quality talent.

Prediction:

In the end though, I think the Phillies win 2-of-3.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies!

Milestones, Memorials & Injuries… Oh My!

My Fellow Phans,

Let’s start with a few bright spots:

Milestones:

Former Phillie Jim Thome successfully hit his 600th career home run earlier this week. I would like to personally wish Jim a gigantic congratulations on his accomplishment. We changed our Thome counter, on the right, and converted it to a congratulatory post. We will keep that up all season.

See the video of Thome's historic home run here.

Memorials:

In other good news, the Phillies finally presented the Harry Kalas memorial statue on Tuesday against the Diamondbacks. Jimmy Rollins and “Lefty” Steve Carlton did the honors as the statue of the beloved Philadelphia icon was revealed (see picture above).

The statue, baring a distinct likeness to HK will sit in the stadium near Harry The K’s and is open to all fans looking to sneak a peak and a picture.

Now for the Injuries:


- Cole Hamels will miss his start tomorrow night against the Nationals. Cole left his last start with a tight left shoulder admitting he was unable to get loose. On Monday, he received an MRI and the Phillies announced he will miss a start for precautionary reasons. Kyle Kendrick is expected to spot start on Saturday.

- Placido Polanco was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a Sports hernia. This is already the 2nd team since the All-Star Break since he’s been on the DL.

- Jose Contreras is making “progress” coming back from his forearm injury. Accoring to Matt Gelb, Jose Contreras is expected to throw off a mound for the first time tomorrow since his injury.

- Starter Joe Blanton was recently played on the 60-day DL and seems less likely to return than Contreras.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies! 

Nationals (56-61) @ Phillies (77-40)

My Fellow Phans,

Man its good to be home, isn’t it? Not that the Phillies didn’t enjoy their last west coast roadtrip finishing with a historically best 9-1 record since they last were home.

Now the Phillies return home for a brief 6 game home stand. They open with a 3 game set against Jayson Werth and the Nationals. The Phillies are 6-3 against the Nats this season. Here is your preview:

Washington Nationals (56-61 4th NL East) @ Phillies (77-40 1st- NL East)

Friday, August 12:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Cole Hamels (13-6 2.53) vs. Livan Hernandez (6-11 4.41)

Saturday, August 13:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Roy Oswalt (4-7 3.84) vs. John Lannon (8-7 3.56)

Sunday, August 14:

1:35 @ Citizens Bank Park – PHL 17

Roy Halladay (15-4 2.51) vs. Chien-Ming Wang (1-2 3.60)

Breakdown:

The Phillies open this series with a pair of a familiar foes.

This will be Hernandez’s fourth start against the Phillies this season. In 19.1 innings, he’s allowed 9 earned runs and compiled a 1-1 record.  John Lannon has had slightly less luck against the Phillies. This season, he is 0-2 with an 5.40 ERA against the hometown squad in two starts. As for Wang, its been a long time since he’s faced the Phillies and the only hitter we have with more than 10 at bats against him, is Raul Ibanez (24 ABs – .208 1HR 5 RBI.

As for the three Phillies starters. The trio of Hamels, Halladay, and Oswalt have combined to pitch 37 innings with a steady 2.68 ERA. During that time, the group has compiled a 3-1 mark with 33 strikeouts and just 5 walks.

It would sure seem that the odds are in the Phillies favor this series.

One side note. I hope Phillies fans thank Jayson Werth. Without him bolting for the biggest paycheck in Washington, the Phillies would have never acquired Hunter Pence.

So, thank you Jayson!

Analysis:

While all the chips seem to be in the Phillies favor, this is not a series to take lightly. The Nationals are a tough team that knows the Phillies very well by now and always seems to play us hard.

When all the dust settles, I think Halladay and Hamels work their magic as the home team wins the series. I won’t call for a sweep, but there is always a chance that the could occur.

Honestly, it would be nice to see the Phillies get to 40 games over .500, but I will be happy with another series win.

Prediction:

Phillies win 2-of-3.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and go Phillies!

Phillies (74-40) @ LA Dodgers (52-61) Preview

 

My Fellow Phans,

I am running a bit late on this preview so I am keeping it short and sweet tonight. The Phillies are coming off of a very impressive series against the Giants.

It all went well, at least in my opinion, except the Phillies getting a slap in the face from the league when nobody on the Giants got suspended for the brawl altercation. I will be touching on that hopefully tomorrow.

Anyhoo, here are your matchups for the Dodgers series:

Phillies (74-40 1st- NL East) @ LA Dodgers (52-61 4th- NL West)

All Games in EST

Monday, August 8:

10:10 @ Dodger Stadium – CSN

Roy Halladay (14-4 2.55) vs. Hiroki Kuroda (7-13 2.96)

Tuesday, August 9:

10:10 @ Dodger Stadium – CSN

Cliff Lee (11-7 2.96)  vs. Ted Lilly (7-11 4.86)

Wednesday, August 10:

3:10 @ Dodger Stadium – CSN

Vance Worley (8-1 2.35) vs. Chad Billingsley (10-9 4.17)

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Readings and go Phillies!

Thome Nears 600th Homer: Does Anybody Care?

 

My Fellow Phans,

So, I’m taking a break from our current Phillies to look back at a past Philadelphia superstar nearing a milestone.

I’m sure you don’t have to be an avid baseball watcher or, even a baseball watcher at all, to know that Derek Jeter joined the impressive 3000 hit club this season. I mean, how could you miss it? The media was swooning over this one event. We couldn’t hear enough about Jeter and his quest for 3000 from ESPN and other networks.

Now don’t get me wrong. I offered Jeter nothing but my personal congrats on his historical achievement. I just didn’t understand why it was the only thing to talk about.

Well, that day has long passed and now we sit with another superstar on the brink of a milestone although you wouldn’t know it by the media coverage. In fact, anyone that doesn’t watch the game regularly, lives in the city of New York, or dwells in a market outside of those in  Cleveland, Philadelphia, or Minnesota may not know at all that first baseman Jim Thome sits on the brink of 600 career homers. 

I scrolled eagerly through the ESPN MLB Page in search of any recognition of Thome’s pending accomplishment. At first I found nothing. So, after I scanned through twice quickly, I finally searched for Thome’s name on the page and found it only once. About two-thirds of the way down on the right side was a small “Thome Tracker”. A small square stating Thome’s career homer status and next game. It was hidden and may be easily passed by anyone that didn’t know what to look for. At least ESPN gives some acknowledgement. Yahoo’s MLB page doesn’t contain ay information on Thome anywhere on it.

Now I ask you, what gives with the lack of coverage for one of the most well liked, fan friendly players in the game today?

Here is a man that powered massive home run totals during an era when players’ muscles outweighed their bodies due to the supplements they took. Nearly all of the big “power” hitters during that era were accused and later discovered to have “cheated” the game in some fashion or another. One hitter whose name was never mentioned in those headlines: Mr. Jim Thome. He played the game right his entire life and now, thanks for a select bunch of chumps, is being pushed aside on the brink of an elite club.

Not many players have reached the 600 home run plateau. Even fewer have with an untarnished mark. Those include Hall of Famers Hark Aaron, Babe Ruth, and future first-ballot inductee Ken Griffey Jr. Other players such as Alex Rodriguez, Barry Bonds, and Sammy Sosa have had their records tarnished forever due to steroids.

Why does Thome mean so little to everyone? The man is a future Hall of Famer and a staple gentleman. In 2009, the man was voted by his peers as the nicest ballplayer in the game. I mean, I think the man has earned his due.

The lack of media attention in this quest a total slap in the face. I’m sure Thome wouldn’t be the one to complain, but as a huge fan of Jim’s since his days in Philadelphia, it is something that really bugs me.

It makes you ask yourself what really makes Jeter and Thome that much different?

The answer is a resounding… nothing.

I know he’s not a Yankee and never played in a major market, Philadelphia wasn’t really a major market when he played, but why treat him any differently? Whether you play in New York or you play in Minnesota, there is no change in difficulty in achieving these milestones.  A location should not make one milestone any more important than the other.

If you want to get technical, four times as many people have obtained 3000 hits compared to 600 home runs…

So, it begs the question, which milestone is more impressive?

Both Jeter and Thome are going to achieve or have achieved grand milestones this season, and only one is getting the coverage he deserves.

That needs to change. Now.

Give Jim Thome and his 598 homers the coverage they both so richly deserve. Let one of the good guys of the game how much you appreciate what he has done in his career.

Make it fast since this great milestone will come much faster than you know.

T-Minus 2 homers and counting…

Note: In honor of Thome’s milestone, I have added a Thome Countdown on the right side of my blog. I will update it daily if his home run total changes. If national media outlets won’t give him credit, I will do my best to give him some credit. Sadly, tonight it seems he is off so his total may not change. 

Nemesis Returns: Phillies face Giants in Critical Series

 

My Fellow Phans,

We sit just a few hours away from the opening game of the Phillies’ four game series against the Giants. Now, this is a pretty big deal. Defending NLCS foes are facing off; two of , if not, the best pitching staffs in all of baseball are going to head to head.

However, this series means so much more to the Phillies than just in the standings. Last season, the Phillies had the best record in the majors, as they do this season, and were taken out by San Francisco in the postseason.  The Phillies need this series to prove something to the Giants, the league, and most importantly, themselves.

Dating back to last year’s postseason, the Phillies have barely touched any of the Giants top pitchers. They have fizzled against Lincecum, despite the overly high number of baserunners via walks hes allowed. They have been slain by Cain and even have their share of share of struggles against the overly obnoxious Jonathan Sanchez. The only starter they seemed to have any luck against is Barry Zito, whom the Phillies will probably not see again this season.

So, why should this be an issue? “They’re not in our heads,” Charlie Manuel said last week. “I don’t think so. Really, I don’t think so at all.”

Whether or not, Charlie is correct in his assumption. The Phillies need to put together a good showing in these four games. The Giants are riding high on their cocky swagger with their immature teenage haircuts, rodeo clown attitudes, and fakely extended beards.

The Phillies need to knock the Giants down a peg. Show these guys that the Phillies are the true champs of the NL and that they will have serious troubles with us come October.

Put these Hairy Giants back in their place, Phillies.

“I think we can get ‘em, if you want to know the truth,” Charlie Manuel said. “I know we can get ‘em. It’s just a matter of us putting it together and for us to play the right way.”

Well, the time to play the right way is now, boys.

Let’s take them down!

---

Well, now that that is out of the way, here is the primary information for this series:

Phillies (71-39 1st- NL EAST) @ SF Giants (62-49 1st – NL West)

All Games in EST

Thursday, August 4:

10:15 @ AT&T Park – CSN

Cliff Lee (10-7 3.14) vs. Madison Bumgarner (6-10 3.80)

Friday, August 5:

10:15 @ AT&T Park – CSN

Vance Worley (7-1 2.33) vs. Jonathan Sanchez (4-5 3.81)

Saturday, August 6:

4:10 @ AT&T Park – Fox 29

Cole Hamels (12-6 2.62) vs. Matt Cain (9-7 3.10)

Sunday, August 7:

4:05 @ AT&T Park – PHL 17

Roy Oswalt (4-6 3.79) vs. Tim Lincecum (9-9 2.77)

Bring it on San Francisco!

Until we meet again Phillies Phans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies!

Phillies (68-39) @ Colorado Rockies (51-57)

 

My Fellow Phans,

Our Phillies are riding on a 3-game winning streak. After a miserable series against the Giants, the offense bounced back, Hunter Pence was acquired and the Phillies went on to sweep the upstart Pirates. I apologize for the lack of preview for the Giants series, I was down the shore last weekend and barely got any chance to get online.

Pence is top notch talent and will help this team much more than anybody can imagine right now.

The Phillies are leaving the friendly confines of Citizens Bank Park and venturing onto a big 10 West Coast road trip through Colorado, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

West coast trips are always tough and this one is no different. The Phillies  could win a bunch of games on this trip, but let’s let the games play out before we make any bold predictions…First stop: Coors Field in Colorado.

Phillies (68-39; 1st – NL East)  vs. Rockies (51-57; 3rd – NL West):  

(All Game times are in EST)

Monday, August 1:

8:40pm @ Coors Field – CSN

Cole Hamels (12-6 2.61) vs. Jhoulys Chacin (8-8 3.50)

Tuesday, August 2:

8:40pm @ Coors Field – CSN

Kyle Kendrick (5-5 3.52) vs. Aaron Cook (2-5 5.05)

Wednesday, August 3:

3:10pm @ Coors Field – CSN

Roy Halladay (13-4 2.44) vs. Jason Hammel (6-10 4.65)

Breakdown:

The Phillies are facing a couple familiar foes this series.

Chacin pitched back when the Rockies came to Citizens Bank Park. He surrendered just a single run in 7 strong innings in a winning effort against the Phillies. He pitched against Kyle Kendick, who gave up 5 runs in 3 innings. The Phillies lost the game, 7-1. Chacin leads the Rockies in Wins, ERA, Innings, and Strikeouts. With Ubaldo Jimenez gone, this guy is essentially the ace of the staff.

Remember Aaron Cook? - We haven’t face Cook in awhile although from what I remember about him, he always pitches well against the Phillies. His career stats beg to differ: (1-6 6.05 ERA). I still remember him pitching a 1-0 game against Brett Myers. If I recall correctly Ryan Howard hit a solo homer off of Cook for the lone run…So after mentioning the game, I decided to look it up and I was dead on. Here is the box score of Cook' best start against the Phillies.

The Rockies have a solid offense having scored the 5th most runs in the National League. Our aces will look to put a stop to that. They bring with them, the best power hitting shortstop in baseball with Troy Tulowitski and a perennial 5-tool star in outfielder Carlos Gonzalez. Don’t forget to look out for first baseman, and future HOFer, at least in my book, Todd Helton. He’s having yet another good season.

They are a good team on their home field at Colorado. The Phillies will need to be on their toes to win this series.

Analysis:

The last time the Phillies played the Rockies, they scored just 3 runs in a brief 2 game series in Philadelphia.

I think they will score more than 1.5 runs a game this series. Right now, the Phillies are in a groove. Pence was a bow put on a lineup that showed some serious life last month.

If the lineup continues to produce, the Phillies will easily win this series. If not, it will be a dogfight through these next three games against the Rockies.

The Phillies need to concentrate on the Rockies before their big 4-game series with the Giants starts. Just because the Rockies are a sub-500 team, it doesn’t make them a bad team. They are just a talented bunch that came under some hard times this season.

I think they win this series.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Reading and Go Phillies

Welcome to Philadelphia, Hunter Pence!

 

This past week, the Phillies made a big splash with the acquisition of star right fielder, Hunter Pence from the Houston Astros.

Now, Before I go ahead with your preview for this Rockies series. I thought I would take a post here and offer a big Philadelphia welcome to Mr. Hunter Pence.

Ever since his entry into the league, Pence has been one of the most dynamic players in the game. He’s got a nice skill set; speed, power, hitting for average, and one hell of an outfield arm.

I heard some people questioned acquiring him. I read a report that stated he was not the right hitter to bat behind and protect Ryan Howard. I have to say that I highly disagree with all of these sentiments. Pence brings a lot to the table and will assist greatly here in Philly.

At the plate, the Phillies got a .300 hitter. He’s right handed and fits in nicely in that 5th spot. He is that right handed bat that the Phillies have been “lacking” all season. Not to mention, he has the capabilities of hitting the ball out of the park on a routine basis.

In the field, we have a serious defensive upgrade over Domonick Brown and gives the Phillies, with Shane Victorino,  two of the best outfield arms in the game.

Pence is a 5-tool All-Star. Granted his power numbers may be down this year, but he still is an elite hitter in the game and one to be feared.

On top of all this. I think his best attribute is his personalities. He’s relaxed, yet gritty and hard-paying. He’ll give 110% night in and night out.

He’s the type of player that fans in this town will instantly fall in love with, if they haven’t already.

He’s the type of player that’s a perfect fit for this team.

Welcome to Philadelphia, Hunter Pence!

SF Giants (59-43) @ Philadelphia Phillies (64-37)

 

My Fellow Phans,

So the Phillies are coming off of a series win against the Padres although they did miss a golden chance to sweep them yesterday.

Next they face the Giants. It is the matchup that all fans in this area have been waiting for since the Phillies’ season last year was ended by SF in the NLCS. Excitement is building and for some, tension is high as the defending World Champions come to town.

Bruce Bochy got his wish as you will see with the pitching matchups this series. His scheming during the All-Star Game set up a series against the Phillies minus the top 2 in the Phillies rotation; Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay.

That doesn’t mean the Phillies are going into this series unarmed. I still believe in our chances to win this series despite the Bochy Factor.

A last second note was handed to me a few moments ago. Tim Lincecum, tonight’s scheduled starter, has been scratched from his start. Barry Zito will pitch in his place. With this new change, I am flip flopping the two players in my preview. There is no, I repeat no, confirmation of Timothea pitching tomorrow, but for now I am listing him as the opponent to Cole Hamels.

Giants / Phillies Preview:

Tuesday, July 26:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – myPHL17

Vance Worley (6-1 2.02) vs. Barry Zito (3-2 4.78)

Wednesday, July 27:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN & ESPN

Cole Hamels (12-5 2.62) vs. Tim Lincecum (8-8 2.90) *

Thursday, July 28:

7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN

Kyle Kendrick (5-4 3.45) vs. Matt Cain (8-6 3.06)

Breakdown:

At first glance, the Phillies look overmatched this series. However, I believe this to be far off. The Phillies and Giants are very similar teams. Both have excellent rotations with average lineups. The Giants edge the Phillies in ERA, but sit next to last, behind their division rival, the Padres in runs scored.

Yes, the Phillies will be facing a tough staff, but the light-hitting Giants lineup will be facing some quality starting pitching as well. In just pitching matchups alone, the Giants have a slight edge, but overall the Phillies have a stronger offensive club.

Analysis:

Before we all panic about this series, remember that the Phillies have beaten Matt Cain a few times before. Even the Giants appear weary of him pitching in Philadelphia, look at last' year’s NLCS for proof of this. We also beat Barry Zito too.

I think the Phillies can win 2-of-3 this series. Yes, I will warn all you fans now; this will be an excruciatingly tough series to watch offensively. Matt Cain is a flyball pitcher pitching in a hitter friendly ballpark where the ball flies during warm weather. Let’s hope the Phillies can take advantage.

I will keep tabs on this Lincecum situation and do my best to update you accordingly.

Until we meet again Phillies fans; Happy Reading and Go Phillies

Lidge Back: Baez Put Down (& more Updates)

 

My Phillies Phans,

Today the Phillies announced that Brad Lidge has finally been activated and Dannys Baez has been designated for assignment.

Now on the field, Baez had his share of struggles as he went 2-4 with an abysmal 6.25 ERA during the 2011 season with the Phillies.

Ill admit, I am glad to see him go to some extent, but give the man some credit. He pitched a week’s worth of innings in a single game back during that 19 inning marathon against the Reds. Yes, stat-wise he wasn’t too good, but that game he gave it his all. I’ll also admit that I had forgotten that game recently with his struggles, but it is something that should never be forgotten.

A for Lidge, he has been battling arm injuries that caused him to miss the start of the season. Brad has worked hard to get himself back to this point and the hard work has paid off a he will debut tonight.

The right-hander was 0-0 with a 3.52 ERA during an eight-game rehabilitation stint with Class A Lakewood and Double-A Reading, walking two batters and striking out 10 in 7 2/3 innings

Some people are badmouthing Lidge even before he has thrown a pitch this season. Anyone remember that the man threw to an 2.96 ERA last year. Can we give the man a shot before we crucify him again.

That’ all I am asking; patience people, patience. You guys are fans of one of the most frustrating teams, at times, in all of Major League Baseball. I see no reason why can’t be patient with Lidge.

Give the man a break; its only his first day.

---

In other injury news:

- John Salisbury, via twitter, reports that Roy Oswalt is recovering nicely:  “Roy Oswalt is picking up rehab pace. He is pitching to hitters Mayberry, Brown, Francisco and Valdez right now at CBP.”

- Jose Contreras received a second opinion on his ailing arm that was just the same as the first. “He told me everything is OK, and I had just a little inflammation,” Contreras said. “There was no structural damage.” - Contreras could possibly return in mid-August.

- Joe Blanton’s situation has gone from bad to worse. Matt Gelb reports that Joe has stopped his throwing program and will return to Philadelphia for an examination by a physician. There is no real timetable for return.  Blanton is suffering from what has been diagnosed as “an impingement that is causing inflammation”. I am honestly not sure what that means, but it doesn’t sound good.

Blanton, who has still has 1 more season of his 3-year, 24 million dollar contract remaining, has started just 6 games this season composing 1-2 mark with a 5.50 ERA in 2011.

- Placido Polanco has been suffering from bulging disks in his back. He has, received injections for his injury and will be reevaluated next week.

---

Rosters & Rumors:

- The Phillies signed 11th Round pick Tyler Greene. There were no details disclosed of the deal.

- The Phillies also added former Met and Diamondback Aaron Heilman to a minor league deal. The righty posted a 6.88 ERA in 32 games with Arizona before being released. I’m not sure if he will see time with the ballclub, but we shall see.

- In terms of rumors, the Phillies have been linked to such players as The Mets’ Carlos Beltran and Houston’s Hunter Pence with rookie righty Vance Worley as the key player involved.

Other players thrown around include The Padres’ Heath Bell, Mike Adams, and Ryan Ludwick as well as the Rockies’ Ubaldo Jimenez and the Royals’ Melky Cabrera.

* These are just names I have heard. There is most likely little truth to them, but I am just reported some things I am hearing.”

---

Upcoming

The Phillies will open a four game series with the San Diego Padres tonight. Cole Hamels opens up against Padres’ lefty Cory Luebke.

Click here for more on that series.

Until we meet again Phillies Fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies

San Diego Padres (44-55) @ Phillies (61-36)

 My Fellow Phans,

So, I am trying a new look to my series previews here. I thought it would be nice to give you some more information than I used to. Let me know what you all think. I welcome all comments and suggestions. Anyhoo, here is your new look series preview:


The first place Phillies are coming off an impressive series win over the Cubs and come home to entertain the 4th place San Diego Padres.

Here is your preview:

Friday, July 22:                                                                                                                                      7:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN                                                                                                         Cole Hamels (11-5 2.71) vs. Cory Leubke (3-3 2.57)


Saturday, July 23:                                                                                                                                 4:10 @ Citizens Bank Park – Fox 29                                                                                                      Kyle Kendrick (5-4 3.34) vs. Matt Latos (5-10 4.02)


Sunday, July 24:                                                                                                                                   1:35 @ Citizens Bank Park – PHL 17                                                                                                     Roy Halladay (11-4 2.57) vs. Tim Stauffer (6-6 2.83)


Monday, July 25:                                                                                                                                  1:05 @ Citizens Bank Park – CSN                                                                                                          Cliff Lee (9-6 2.83) vs. Aaron Harang (8-2 3.29)

* All Games also on 1210 AM


Breakdown:
The Phillies begin a 10-game home stand with this four gamer against the Padres. San Diego has had a dismal year although, like most seasons, their pitching has been solid coupled with an horrible offense. Their team ERA is third best in the NL at 3.16 while they are dead last in runs scored and batting average.

That doesn’t mean that these guys are pushovers. Offensively, there is some talent there. They are led by outfielder Ryan Ludwick, who leads the team by a long shot with 11 homers and 61 RBIs. The lesser known offensive star of the Padres is third baseman Chase Headley (.299 2 HR 32 RBI).

Pitching wise, the Phillies will be facing a bunch of quality arms. The ironic part is that the best pitcher that they are facing this weekend may have the highest ERA of the bunch. Latos was a stud last year and there is no doubt that he has the stuff capable of shutting down this lineup. Although, it could really be said of any starter this weekend.

Analysis:
I don’t see the Phillies scoring as many runs as they did against the Cubs although, I can definitely see them winning 3 or 4 games this season especially with all three of their “aces” going.

Being at home we a chance to put some runs on the board. Our friendly confines usually suits the offense better especially compared to the gigantic Petco Park in San Diego. We are one of the best teams when playing at home this season and we should keep this up against the Padres.

With this optimism, I do offer some words of caution. This could possibly set up to be a trap series for our beloved Phillies. The Giants are lurking directly behind the Padres and we all know how everyone wants another shot at the defending champs. The Phillies shouldn’t overlook this light-hitting team. They have played particularly well against these guys in the past so let’s hope it continues this series.

Until We Meet Again Phillies Fans; Happy Readings and Go Phillies!