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!
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