Game No. 56

The Phillies and Mets will get together for their third series of the year of the year this week. The Phillies are finishing a 10-game road trip at Shitty Field. They have won 5 of 7 on the trip to this point. They have blown two of the games, thanks to tough ninth innings by Brad Lidge. The Mets are coming off being swept by the Pirates last, before they took 2 of 3 in D.C. Raul Ibanez, Jimmy Rollins, and Chase Utley all lead their positions in the all-star voting. David Wright and Carlos Beltran lead the Mets.

The Pitching Matchup:

• Philadelphia: LHP J.A. Happ (4-0, 2.48 era) Happ has thrown well since entering the starting rotation full-time, 2 weeks ago. Happ is 0-1 with a 4.40 era in his career against the Mets. Happ made his major league debut against the Mets in 2007, struggling in that game. He has made 4 career appearances against the Mets.
  
• New York: LHP Johan Santana (7-3, 2.00 era) Santana has been the best pitcher in the National League this year. Earlier this year, Santana out-dueled Chan Ho Park, beating him 1-0. Santana has made 7 career starts against the Fightins, going 3-0 with a 2.44 era.

The Phillies Lineup will be posted when it becomes available.

Game time is 7:10pm. It can be heard locally on 1210 wpht, and seen on myphl17.

North Penn and Parkland Head To Altoona

After a week of rainouts and playoffs, the state final is finally set. North Penn advanced to Altoona with a 12-1 trouncing of WPIAL champion, North Allegheny. The Knights scored in 5 of the 7 innings, and we in control from the first pitch on. 

Parkland beat St. Joseph's Prep, 6-2. Parkland was on the brink of elimination a week ago winning in extra innings, but now they will find themselves 7 innings from a State Championship.

First-pitch is 7:00pm Friday night. I'll post a preview later in the week. 

Monday in the NL East

The Mets and Phillies are both off tonight, preparing for their three-game series at Citi Field.

The Marlins got 8 innings of two-hit baseball, to shutout the Giants, 4-0. The teams split the four game series. Brett Carroll led the Marlins, going 3-for-4 with a 3-run homer.

• The Marlins now host the Cardinals for three. In game one, both teams throw their aces. Chris Carpenter against Josh Johnson both get the call.

Sunday in the NL East

The Phillies got another good start from rookie Antonio Bastardo. Bastardo left in the 6th with the lead, and the Phils didn't look back from there. Carlos Ruiz, Shane Victorino, and Ryan Howard all homered in the game. The Phils now get an off day before starting a three-game set with the Mets in Queens. 

• In the series opener, J.A. Happ (4-0, 2.48 era) faces Johan Santana (7-3, 2.00 era).

The Mets took the rubber-game of their 3 gamer with the Nats. The Mets scored 5 first inning runs, on their way to 7-0 win. Livan Hernandez got the win for the Mets.

The Braves rallied from behind to beat the Brewers. Tommy Hanson struggled in his debut, giving up six earned runs over six innings. Chipper Jones went 4-for-4 with 5 rbi's in the comeback. Nate McClouth's first hit as a Brave was a 2-run double in the 8th inning, to tie the game. He later scored on a Yunel Escobar single.

• The Braves now open up a four game series at home against the Pirates. Kenshin Kawakami faces Zach Duke in game one.

Tim Lincecum beat the Marlins Sunday in game three of four in the series. Lincecum went into the 8th inning giving up just 2 runs. 

• In the series ender, Randy Johnson faces Sean West.
• The Nationals host the Reds for three. In game one, Jordan Zimmermann faces Johnny Queto.

Game No. 55

Tonight, the Phillies look to get the split with the Dodgers. The Phillies are making their second appearance on Sunday Night Baseball of the year tonight. Brad Lidge blew his second save of the series, and sixth on the season. The Phillies offense hope to get back on track offensively as well. Jimmy Rollins and Ryan Howard have gone hitless for the series. Following tonight's game, the Phils are off Monday before going to Citi Field to take on the Mets.

The Pitching Matchup:

• Philadelphia: LHP Antonio Bastardo (1-0, 1.50 era) Bastardo was outstanding in his debut Tuesday night in San Diego. He threw 6 innings, allowing just an Adrian Gonzalez homer. Bastardo has never faced the Dodgers in his career.
• Los Angeles: LHP Randy Wolf (3-1, 3.21 era) The ex-Phil has made two career starts against the Phillies and is 1-0 with a 2.25 era. He pitched against the Phillies earlier this year, going six innings and allowing just a run.

The Phillies Lineup:

1. Shane Victorino, cf
2. Chase Utley, 2b
3. Jayson Werth, rf
4. Ryan Howard, 1b
5. Raul Ibanez, lf
6. Jimmy Rollins, ss
7. Pedro Feliz, 3b
8. Carlos Ruiz, c
9. Antonio Bastardo, p

The Phillies have just 3 extra men tonight. Matt Stairs is home for his daughters high school graduation. Coste, Dobbs, and Bruntlett are the only ones available tonight.

Tonight's game is at 8:05pm. It can be heard locally on 1210 wpht, and seen nationally on ESPN.

What To Do With One Brad Lidge..

I could post about a lot of things today. We could talk about how Brian Westbrook is going to miss training camp. We could talk about how much of a wreck the Sixers are. We could even try to stir up some rumors, like the Flyers going after Jay Bouwmeester. 

However, the biggest problem today seems to be with the one of the biggest sure things this city had a year ago. That's the closer in the bullpen. Brad Lidge has seemed to lost all confidence in himself. Last year, he was perfect. This year, not so much. Look, we all knew he wasn't going to have the same season he had last year but I wouldn't have ever guessed Lidge would have a 7+ era and six blown saves before the fourth of July. So, now the Phillies are sitting there thinking of what they can do with Lidge. Here are some of the answers the Phillies have.

• Shut down Lidge, let someone else get a chance: This one is what most fans probably think should be done but there are steep consequences for this. Ryan Madson would most likely be the guy to get those chances. However, what happens if Madson struggles. You now have lost your two best relievers at the mid-point of the season. On the flip side, what if Madson is great? Well, you have solved your closer spot but now you also have no place for Brad Lidge. In Houston when Lidge lost the closer role, the wheels came off and that was it for him as an Astro. The Phillies still have Lidge under contract the next two seasons, and losing him would be the worst. That's why I don't see this happening.
• Keep giving Lidge the ball: I'm not sure how I feel about this one either. I do think Lidge will get it back, and I really don't think shutting him down will help him at all. He needs to pitch through this and get confidence back that way. No one has ever gotten their swagger back with a trip to the DL. This team needs Lidge, and hopefully he will work through it. 
• My solution: Let me stress, there is no perfect answer with Lidge. Right now, I would pick my spots with Lidge. I know they are worried about overworking Madson, but yesterday would've been a good day to try and have him go a second inning. Lidge needs to find himself. To me the only way to do that is to keep trying. 

Hopefully Lidge gets things going soon. Tonight the Phillies look for a split with the Dodgers at 8:05pm.

Baseball Final Four Set

After a few days of rainy weather postponed two of the quarterfinal games, the final four is now set for Monday. North Penn defeated Council Rock North, 2-1 in what was a pitcher's duel. Parkland upset Wyoming Valley West, and St. Joe's Prep stunned West Chester East. North Allegheny advanced Thursday afternoon, beating Pine-Richland. So, now each of these four teams is a win away from Altoona. Let's take a look at the match-ups for Monday afternoon.

• District 12's St. Joseph's Prep vs. District 11's Parkland, 2pm at Spring-Ford HS in Royersford.

St. Joseph's Prep was the District 12 champion and beat Garnet Valley and West Chester East, each by a run. Parkland also was the District champion, and beat Pennridge in 8 innings Monday. They defeated Wyoming Valley West on Thursday, 7-1.

• District 7's North Allegheny vs. District 1's North Penn, 4pm in Scotland. 

North Allegheny beat Hollidaysburg in round one, and then beat Pine-Richland in a rematch of their WPIAL championship game, 3-2 in 9 innings. North Penn enters winners of 4 in a row, after being District 1's 5-seed. They beat Chambersburg and Council Rock North to get to the semi's. 

I'll take St. Joseph's Prep and North Penn to meet in the finals on Friday. We will see how it ends up.  I went 2-2 in the quarterfinal round. Once again, the championship is Friday at 7pm in Altoona.

Saturday in the NL East

Saturday afternoon, the Phillies saw Brad Lidge blow his second consecutive days in as many days. Lidge surrendered a 9th inning homer to Rafael Furcal, tying the game and sending it to extras. The Phils trailed into the 7th inning when Matt Stairs singled in two runs, to give the Phillies the lead. J.C. Romero and Ryan Madson each worked scoreless innings before giving way to once Lights Out Lidge. Chad Durbin took the loss for the Phils, who gave up a walk-off homer to Andre Ethier. It was Ethier's second walk-off in two days. The Phillies had just 6 hits in the game, two of which belonged to Pedro Feliz. The Phillies will try again Sunday night on ESPN.

• In the series finale, Antonio Bastardo(1-0, 1.50 era) faces former Phil, Randy Wolf(3-1, 3.21 era).

Phillies fans can at least take solace in knowing the division lead didn't move anywhere on Saturday. The Mets lost 7-1 in D.C. to the Nationals. John Maine gave up 7 runs over just 4 innings for the Mets. The Nationals solution to their brutal bullpen... Don't use it. John Lannan went all nine innings to get the win. He allowed just 4 hits. 

• In the series capper, the Mets send Livan Hernandez against Craig Stammen. 

For the second straight night, the Braves were shutout by the Brewers. Prince Fielder homered twice for the Brewers. Javier Vazquez took the loss for Atlanta.

• In the series finale, the Braves send highly touted rookie Tommy Hanson against Manny Parra. Hanson is making his major league debut.

The Marlins hung on to beat the Giants, 5-4. Hanley Ramirez went 2-for-4 for the Marlins. 

• The Marlins will recall Ricky Nolasco to face last year's Cy Young winner, Tim Lincecum. 

Lidge Blows Another

THAT Brad Lidge is obviously the real one. He fucking sucks. We should have won 9 in a row. Instead we have lost two in a row against a Dodgers team that is so fucking overrated. Brad has continued to blow saves. The only reason he still has his job is because he sells a lot of jerseys. I don't give a shit that he was perfect last year. It's typical Brad Lidge to be great one year, and BLOW the next. And boy, does he blow. I want Ryan Madson. Throw Lidge on the 15-Day DL because he needs a break to get his head straight. He has no confidence and can't help this team.

Game No. 54

This afternoon, the Phillies will look to get back on track as they face the Dodgers for the third game of a four game series. The Dodgers got off the mat last night, coming back to rally for two runs in the 9th to beat the Phils, 4-3. Pedro Feliz's error cleared the way for Andre Ethier to play hero, as he doubled in Casey Blake and James Loney. The loss gave the Dodgers the edge in the season series, 3-2. The teams close out their season series Sunday in LA.

The Pitching Matchup:

• Philadelphia: RHP Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.86 era) Blanton enters action Saturday having won his last three decisions. Blanton is 1-0 with a 3.32 era in three career starts vs. LA. Blanton's last start vs. the Dodgers came last October in the NLCS. Blanton allowed 3 runs over 5 innings in the infamous, "Matt Stairs game".
• Los Angeles: RHP Hiroki Kuroda (1-1, 2.53 era) Kuroda has made just 2 starts this season due to missing two months with an injury. He has thrown just 10.2 innings on the year. Kuroda is 1-0 with a 1.38 era in his career against the Phillies.  In the NLCS, Kuroda threw 6 innings and allowed 2 earned runs in the Dodgers game 3 win. He infamously threw over Shane Victorino's head in the game.

The Phillies Probable Lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, ss
2. Shane Victorino, cf
3. Chase Utley, 2b
4. Ryan Howard, 1b
5. Raul Ibanez, lf
6. Jayson Werth, rf
7. Pedro Feliz, 3b
8. Carlos Ruiz, c
9. Joe Blanton, p

This afternoon's game time is 4:10pm. The game can be heard on 1210 wpht, and viewed live nationally of Fox. 

Later.

Friday in the NL East

The Phillies saw their seven game win streak end Friday night, blowing a one run lead in the bottom of the ninth. The Phillies were one out from the win, when Casey Blake singled off of Brad Lidge. Lidge walked James Loney, and things got worse from there. Russell Martin hit a hard grounder to normally sure-handed third basemen Pedro Feliz, which bounced off of the heal of his glove and extending the game. The next pitch, Andre Ethier doubled down the right field line winning if for the Dodgers. The Phillies missed a boat load of chances, stranding 11 runners on the night, and were shut out after Dodgers' starter Eric Milton was lifted in the fifth inning. The Phillies also saw shortstop Jimmy Rollins again go 0-for-5, dropping his average to .219.

• The series continues with game three, Saturday at 4:10et. The Phillies will send Joe Blanton (4-3, 5.86 era) against Hiroki Kuroda (1-1, 2.53 era).

The Mets gained a game on the first-place Phillies tonight, defeating the Nationals, 3-1 in 10 innings. David Wright led the Mets, going 4-for-5 including a go ahead two-run double in the 10th. Francisco Rodriguez recorded his 15th save of the season, retiring the Nationals in order in the 10th.

• In game two of the series, the Mets send John Maine against John Lannan.

Yovani Gallardo threw 8 innings of 2-hit baseball, shutting out the Braves tonight 4-0. Jair Jurrjens allowed 4 runs in 7 innings for the Braves. Mat Gamel went 2-for-4 with a 3 rbi for the Brewers. Nate McClouth went 0-for-4 in his Braves debut.

• In game two, Javier Vazquez faces Jeff Suppan.

The Giants took down the Marlins 2-1 at LandShark Stadium. Barry Zito allowed a run over 5 innings, to get the W. Pablo Sandoval went 2-for-4, with a 2-run homer.

• In game two, Andrew Miller faces the Giants' Jonathan Sanchez.

After all that, the Phils still hold a 3 game lead in the division over the shorthanded Mets.

Game No. 53

Tonight the Phillies go for eight in a row as they battle the Dodgers in LA again tonight. Last night Cole Hamels threw a complete game shutout. He allowed just 5 hits in the game. The Phillies snuck out three runs for him, which was all the offense Cole needed. 

The Pitching Matchup:

• Philadelphia: LHP Jamie Moyer (4-5, 6.75 era) Moyer is 3-5 with a 5.46 era in 11 career regular season starts against the Dodgers. The Dodgers tagged Moyer for 6 runs in and inning and a third last year in the postseason. Moyer won career win #250 in his last game, which was a 4-2 win Sunday vs. the Nationals.
• Los Angeles: LHP Eric Milton (2-0, 3.14 era) The ex-Phil has resurrected his career with LA this year. He has started three games this year for Dodgers, but hasn't gone past the 5 1/3 inning mark.

The Phillies Lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, ss
2. Chase Utley, 2b
3. Jayson Werth, cf
4. Ryan Howard, 1b
5. Raul Ibanez, lf
6. Pedro Feliz, 3b
7. Eric Bruntlett, rf
8. Chris Coste, c
9. Jamie Moyer, p

Tonight's game starts at 10:10pm. It can be heard on 1210 wpht, and seen on CSN.

Later.

Jimmy Fallon is Chock Full of Phillies Goodness

Skip to 6:20 in.... great knock on the Mets

Hank Baskett's Offseason

Baskett was held on a strict training regimen in this.

Thursday in the NL East

The Phillies got a complete game shutout from lefty phenom, Cole Hamels. To describe just how good he was, he faced 29 batters, just two more than the minimum. Raul Ibanez stayed hot, with an rbi double and Ryan Howard had a sacrifice fly rbi. It's the Phils 7th straight win, and it evens the season series with LA 2-2. 

• In game two tomorrow night the Phillies send Jamie Moyer (4-5, 6.75 era) against former-Phil Eric Milton (2-0, 3.14 era).
  

The Mets were swept by the Pirates this afternoon in the rain shortened 3-game series. Mike Pelfrey allowed 9 runs in 3 2/3 innings for the Mets. Carlos Beltran homered and doubled in his first game back since his illness. The final was 11-6.

• The Mets head to Washington and will send Tim Redding against Shairon Martis in game one.

Atlanta was rained out in their series finale with the Cubs. No make-up has been announced. Nate McClouth was in tonight's lineup, and batting third, before the game was postponed.

• Atlanta welcomes Milwaukee for three games. The Braves will send Jair Jurrjens against Yovani Gallardo. 

Florida got a home run from pitcher Josh Johnson to beat the Brewers 4-3. Johnson didn't stop there, as he went 7 2/3 innings allowing just two Brewer runs. Florida took 3 of 4 from the first place Brewers. 

• Florida will now host the Giants for four games starting tomorrow as Chris Volstad will face Barry Zito.

The Nationals were swept in twinbill this afternoon and night by the Giants. Randy Johnson got win #300 in game one, winning 5-1. In game two the Giants won a rain-shortened 5 inning game 4-1.

• The Nationals host the Mets now this weekend. 

More tomorrow, kids.

Jesus Walks

Mets SS Reyes Out Through All-Star Break

The Mets injury issues continued tonight, as word has come out that shortstop Jose Reyes has a torn hamstring. The plan currently is for the loudmouth shortstop to be relevaluated in the next few days in New York. Matthew Cerrone of Metsblog.com, reported the news about an hour ago. Yesterday, Jerry Manuel said he felt Reyes would be in the lineup next week for when the Phillies visit Citi Field. In the interim the Mets will use Wilson Valdez and Alex Cora at SS. The news comes on the heals of J.J. Putz announcing he has been having elbow pain, and will also be re-evaluated. He has bone spurs in his elbow, and some believe he will opt to have surgery on the elbow. The Mets were swept out of Pittsburgh today, losing their third straight in what was a rain-shortened series. 

The Mets just got CF Carlos Beltran back today. Carlos Delgado, Ryan Church, Angel Pagan, and Oliver Perez are all currently out. 

Other news: The Phillies will not start Shane Victorino tonight, who left last night's game with a hip injury. He will be available to pinch hit. Jayson Werth will play CF, with Eric Bruntlett playing right. 

Brett Myers has successful hip surgery today in New York by Dr. Brian Kelly. Myers will begin rehabbing the hip Saturday. The early prognosis has it possible for Myers to return in mid-September.

Feel free to leave your get well wishes for Jose in our comments section.

Game No. 52

Tonight, the Phillies begin a four-game series with the Dodgers, at Chavez Ravine in Los Angeles. The Dodgers took 2 of 3 at CBP last month. The Phillies enter the series winners of six straight, and owners of baseball's best road record (19-6). Last night, J.A. Happ was again tremendous for the Phillies, throwing 7 shutout innings. Ryan Howard homered for the 16th time as well for the Phils. The Dodgers have the best record in baseball, despite missing suspended left fielder Manny Ramirez. They have won 4 of 7 and have a 9 1/2 game lead in the NL West entering play today. 

The Pitching Matchup:

• Philadelphia: LHP Cole Hamels (3-2, 5.21 era) Hamels threw 7 innings and allowed just one earned run against the Dodgers in a no decision earlier this season. Hamels pitched 14 innings vs. LAD in the NLCS last year, and only allowed 3 runs. For his career in the regular season against LAD, Hamels is 1-0 with 2.14 era in 3 starts.
• Los Angeles: LHP Clayton Kershaw (3-3, 4.34 era) The 21-year-old left hander is 0-2 with a 7.80 era in 3 career starts against the Phillies. Kershaw appeared in two games in last years NLCS, allowing a run over two innings pitched. 

The Phillies Lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, ss
2. Chase Utley, 2b
3. Jayson Werth, cf
4. Ryan Howard, 1b
5. Raul Ibanez, lf
6. Pedro Feliz, 3b
7. Eric Bruntlett, rf
8. Carlos Ruiz, c
9. Cole Hamels, p

Tonight's game time is 10:10pm. It can be heard on 1210 wpht, and seen on CSN.

Thank you, Pirates

Flyers reach agreement with goalie Ray Emery

Numerous reports in the past 24 hours have stated the Flyers have reached an agreement to sign former Senators goalie Ray Emery. A deal can not be officially signed until free agency begins on July 1st.

Emery led the Senators to the Stanley Cup finals in 2007, but was eventually released from his contract the next season, mostly due to his temper. He then went on to play in Russia last year, where apparently he cleaned up his act.

I'm hoping the Flyers did their due diligence. This is the epitome of a high-risk, high-reward situation. The talent is definitely there as he was once considered one of the NHL's rising young stars, but he could also just as easily meltdown as he did in Ottawa.

Westbrook to have ankle surgery

Eagles RB Brian Westbrook is having surgery in order to clean out bone spurs in his ankle. When thinking of a bone spur, I originally thought that meant something sharp attached the bone that could possibly rip and tear soft tissue. After some research, however, I found that it is simply extra bone the body creates when repairing itself. It is usually smooth but can put extra pressure on soft tissue such as tendons and if a lot of running incurs, tears can happen.

I have taking the liberty of copying the typical bone spur removal surgery rehabilitation from a post on bleeding green.

Week 1

• Healing of surgical incision
• Gameready® unit to control pain and swelling
• Intermittent compression unit to decrease swelling (after incisions were fully healed)

During the five day non-weight bearing period, table exercises for the hip and knee were performed and included straight leg raises, terminal knee extensions, ball squeezes and glute extensions.

Weeks 2 to 4

• Weight bearing exercises
• Ankle strengthening exercises

• • Ankle tubing
  • Single leg balance
  • Toe curls & pick-ups
  • Heel & toe walking
  • Shuttle calf raises

Week 4: Return to activity

• Functional activity
  • Jump rope
  • Single leg bounding on the shuttle
  • Treadmill running
  • Position specific drills on the field

Overall, it's not out of the question Westy will be ready for training camp. Overall this will just give more valuable time to LeSean McCoy in the OTA's and could end up being a blessing in disguise.

Drabek Deals In Reading Debut

Phillies #5 prospect Kyle Drabek, took the next step last night. Drabek, who had thrown in Clearwater this year finally made his much anticipated debut in AA Reading. Pitching before Phillies GM Ruben Amaro Jr., Drabek was outstanding. The 21-year-old  right hander went 7 innings, giving up just three hits and shutting out the Akron offense. Drabek probably would've been here sooner, but Tommy John surgery shut him down much of last season.

Drabek's performance proves that the Phillies minor league system is alive and well again. This year the big club has gotten big time contributions from left handers J.A. Happ, and Antonio Bastardo. Bastardo wasn't even ranked in the top-10 in the Phillies prospect list entering the season. That hopefully is a sign of depth this team has to look forward to.

The Phillies have also done a great job finding mid-round picks and making them superstars in the farm system. Former 20th round pick, Dominic Brown is currently ranked as the #1 prospect and is hitting .320 in Lakewood. He also has 8 HR, and 38 rbi. Michael Taylor is another big time corner outfielder the Phils may look to either trade now, or be the teams next right fielder. Taylor is in Reading currently hitting near .340. He is the same height as John Mayberry, but weighs 20 lbs. more. 

In triple A, the Phillies have Mayberry, C Lou Marson, and SS/3b Jason Donald. Carlos Carrasco has pitched better of late. He is going to be a guy the team looks at strongly in 2010.

Later.

Love Jim Cramer...Skip to 20 minutes in

Wednesday in the NL East

The Phillies won their 6th straight, sweeping the Padres, 5-1. J.A. Happ was again tremendous, working 7 shutout innings and giving up just four hits. Ryan Howard homered in the first. J.C. Romero worked 1 1/3 innings, allowing a run, but did a nice job settling in after that. The Phillies now head to Los Angeles with a four-game set with the best team in baseball.

• In game one in LA, the Phils send Cole Hamels (3-2, 5.21 era) against Dodger LHP, Clayton Kershaw (3-3, 4.34 era).

The Mets were rained out in Pittsburgh. The game will be made up July 2nd in Pittsburgh.

• In the series finale the Mets send Mike Pelfrey against Jeff Karstens for the Pirates.

The Marlins lost to the Brewers Wednesday night, 9-6. Sean West was hit around 4 1/3 innings, giving up 5 runs. Ryan Braun went 2-for-5, hitting a 2 run home run. The teams close out their four-game set Thursday at 7:10pm.

• In the series finale, the Marlins send Josh Johnson against the Brewers' Dave Bush.

The Braves again rallied to tie the Cubs late before Micah Houffpauir put the Cubs ahead in the 11th, with a pinch hit single. Derek Lowe and Ted Lilly each had quality starts, but received no decisions.

• In the series finale, the Braves send Jair Jurrjens against Chicago's Carlos Zambrano.

The Nationals were also rained out against the Giants. Randy Johnson will go for win #300, as the teams will meet twice Thursday in a double header.

• In game one, Jordan Zimmermann will try to keep Randy Johnson from winning #300.
• In game two, Ross Detwiler faces Matt Cain.

Later.

Game No. 51

Tonight the Phillies welcome back LHP J.C. Romero, who has been reinstated following his 50-game suspension for a bunch of bullshit. The Phillies have taken the first two games of the series with the Padres, and look to sweep San Diego tonight. The Phillies lead the season series 3-2. Last night, Antonio Bastardo got his first career win, going 6 innings. Raul Ibanez had 2 home runs, and drove in 5 for the Phils. 

The Pitching Matchup:

• Philadelphia: J.A. Happ (3-0, 3.00 era) Happ's only appearance in his career against the Padres came this year in relief. He went 3 innings and didn't allow a run.
• San Diego: Chris Young (4-3, 4.45 era) Young is 2-1 with a 4.50 era in four career starts against the Phillies.

The Phillies Lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, ss
2. Shane Victorino, cf
3. Chase Utley, 2b
4. Ryan Howard, 1b
5. Raul Ibanez, lf
6. Greg Dobbs, rf
7. Pedro Feliz, 3b
8. Chris Coste, c
9. J.A. Happ, p

Tonight's game begins at 10:05pm. It can be heard on 1210 wpht, and can be seen on CSN.

PIAA Playoffs Continue Thursday With Quarterfinals

The PIAA state baseball playoffs are down to eight teams and will continue Thursday afternoon across the state. Let's take a look at the match-ups and give some predictions on to who will advance to the final four on Monday.

• West Chester East vs. St. Joseph's Prep, 4pm at Glen Mills
• Parkland vs. Wyoming Valley West, 6pm at Pine Grove
• North Penn vs. Council Rock North, 3pm at Boyertown
• North Allegheny vs. Pine-Richland, 6pm at Robinson Twp.

Alright, my picks for the quarterfinals are: West Chester East, Wyoming Valley West, North Penn, and North Allegheny. As always, check back for the results later on tomorrow. The state championship is next Friday at 7pm in Altoona's Blair County Ballpark. 

Later.

Tuesday in the NL East

Johan Santana reacts to allowing a HR to the Pirates C Jason Jaramillo.

Last night the Phillies jumped on Jake Peavy for 4 runs in the first inning, knocking the Padres ace out of the game. Antonio Bastardo was tremendous in his debut going 6 innings and just surrendering a run on four hits. Raul Ibanez drove in 5 runs, homering twice on his birthday.

• In the final game of the series, the Phillies send J.A. Happ(3-0, 3.00 era) against the Padres' Chris Young(4-3, 4.45 era).

The Mets lost their second straight to the Pirates, as Zach Duke out-pitched Johan Santana. Duke went 7 innings, allowing just one run. The Pirates scored the go-ahead runs in the 6th inning on rbi doubles from Nate McClouth and Adam LaRoche. 

• The Mets send Mike Pelfrey to the hill to face the Pirates' Ross Ohlendorf in game 3 of the 4-game set.

The Marlins tagged Manny Parra for 10 runs in just 4 innings as they beat the Brewers again, 10-3. Dan Uggla homered for his 100th time in his career, making him the quickest second basemen to reach the milestone ever. 

• The Brewers' Braden Looper faces the Marlins' Sean West in game 3 of the four game series.

The Braves rallied back to beat the Cubs in 12 innings, 6-5. Chipper Jones broke up Randy Wells' bid at a no-hitter in the seventh inning, and then singled in Yunel Escobar to win the game in the twelfth. 

• Derek Lowe goes for the Braves in game 3, against Chicago's Ted Lilly.

The Nationals rallied for a 10-6 win to beat the Giants. The win ended a six-game losing streak the Nats were reppin'. The Nationals plated six runs in the home-half of the 8th inning to win the game. Josh Bard went 3-for-4 with a home run for the Nats.

• In game two, Randy Johnson goes for win #300 in his career against Nationals rookie, Jordan Zimmermann.

He's BAAAAAAAAACCCKKKKK

Welcome back, JC.

Bastardo, Ibanez shine on Raul's Birthday

It was Raul's 37th birthday and Antonio's career debut as both players carried the Phils to their 5th straight victory.

Raul blasted 2 HR's as he went 3-5 with 5 RBIs. Bastardo pitched 6 strong innings, allowing just one earned run. While it was the lowly Padres, it still is a great sign.

Bastardo's next start will give him the chance to show the league what he's made of (apparently, a 95 mph fastball), as it will be the Sunday Night Baseball game on ESPN against the potent Dodgers offense.

The Phils are now 30-20 and lead the NL East by 2.5 games

Game No. 50

The Phillies play the Padres in the middle game of their three game series at Petco Park in San Diego. The Phils evened the season series last night at two defeating the Padres, 5-3. Ryan Howard and Chase Utley each homered for the Phils. 

The Pitching Matchup:

• Philadelphia: LHP Antonio Bastardo (0-0, no era) Bastardo is making his major league debut tonight for the Phils. He was 3-2, with a 1.89 in 11 appearances this year he made with AA Reading and AAA Lehigh Valley.
• San Diego: RHP Jake Peavy (5-5, 3.67 era) Peavy is 2-2 with a 3.21 era lifetime against the Phillies.

The Phillies Lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins, ss
2. Shane Victorino, cf
3. Chase Utley, 2b
4. Ryan Howard, 1b
5. Raul Ibanez, lf
6. Jayson Werth, rf
7. Greg Dobbs, 3b
8. Carlos Ruiz, c
9. Antonio Bastardo, p

First pitch is scheduled for 10:05pm. The game can be seen on Comcast Sports Net, and heard on 1210 wpht.

Is This The Jimmy Of 2009?

Its been no secret that throughout the 2009 season Jimmy Rollins has had his fair share of ups and downs. He's hit just .230 this year out of the leadoff spot for the Phillies. After hitting .207 in April, Rollins came back in May a little bit hitting .238. His numbers are certainly down this year, and suffered last year after injuring his ankle at Shea Stadium in early April vs. the Mets. The question I have been mulling over is, are the Phillies okay leaving Rollins in the leadoff spot this year if all he is going to be is a .230 hitter with and on-base percentage below .275?

I'm not recommending the Phillies pull the plug on where Rollins is in the lineup because I still think Jimmy can turn things around. However, you have to start wondering how much of the season he had in 2007 we will see again. 

Jimmy's issues at the top of the order have sort of been masked the past few weeks since Shane Victorino has begun producing again in the two-hole, and getting the Phillies running game going again. Rollins is also too valuable to sit because of how well he plays defensively and how much this team values his leadership. But, there has to be a point where the Phillies worry Rollins is just going to be a .230 hitter this season. Hopefully Rollins can get things back in the near-future, and help lead the Phillies as we get later into the season. Rollins began June well last night, going 2-for-5 with a double for the WFC.

I'll have a preview of tonight's Phillies-Padres game up shortly. Later.

Shane Victorino is Calvin Borel

For those of you who don't know who Calvin Borel is, he is a jockey who is attempting to become the first one to win the Triple Crown on different horses (Rachel Alexandra, Mine that Bird). However, I recently discovered his true identity: Phillies' centerfielder Shane Victorino!

I deduced this after he guaranteed victory at the Belmont Stakes: "We're gonna win, no questions asked"- the Flyin' Hawaiian's catch phrase!

Can't you see the resemblance?

Monday in the NL East

The Phillies got another strong performance from Fat Joe Blanton, as they beat the Padres 5-3. He went 7 innings, allowing 3 runs. Ryan Howard and Chase Utley hit back-to-back home runs for the Phillies who now lead the division by a game and a half. Brad Lidge recorded his 4th save in four days.

• Antonio Bastardo makes his major league debut against Jake Peavy in game two of the series.

The Mets blew a 5-0 lead to the Pirates in Pittsburgh. J.J. Putz recorded his second blown save as he allowed 4 runs in the 8th inning before recording an out for the Mets. The Mets were unable to score from the 4th inning on, as they fell to 28-22 on the season.

• Johan Santana faces Zach Duke of the Pirates in game two.

The Marlins beat the NL Central leading Brewers by a score of 7-4. After Andrew Miller came out in the 5th, the Marlins bullpen threw 4 2/3 innings of shutout baseball. Hanley Remirez went 3-for-5 for the Fish, who improve to 24-28.

• Manny Parra faces Anibal Sanchez of the Marlins in game two.
• San Francisco sends Tim Lincecum against the Nationals' Craig Stammen.
• The Cubs will go with Randy Wells against Atlanta's Kenshin Kawakami.

Later.

Monday's PIAA Baseball Results

As I mentioned yesterday, today was the first round of the PIAA baseball playoffs. Sixteen teams entered today's play with the hopes of reaching next Friday's state championship game at Blair County Ballpark in Altoona. Now, on to the results:

• West Chester East defeated Warwick, 6-1.
• St. Joseph's Prep beat Garnet Valley, 4-3.
• Parkland beat Pennridge, 3-2, in 8 innings.
• Wyoming Valley West beat Central Dauphin, 5-4.
• North Penn beat Chambersburg, 6-0.
• Council Rock North beat Central, 6-2.
• North Allegheny knocked off Hollidaysburg, 9-0.
• Pine-Richland beat Allderice, 9-0.

I'll have the match-ups for the quarters up as they become available later this week. If your keeping score at home, I went 6-2 today in my picks for the tournament.

That's all for now.

The Natural is also now tweeting

Follow me on www.twitter.com/TheNaturalEHM

Yes, Lou Brown Has Done It

and is now "tweeting". Follow me on there at www.twitter.com/theLouBrown.

Lou.

My Sixers 5-Year Plan

Let's face it, the Sixers are hopeless. They can't shoot, can't win a playoff series, and can't sell tickets. They finish with a mediocre record every year, hurting their chances of drafting a stud. While I really like Ed Stefanski, I don't think this team is heading in the right direction under his guidance. Thus, I have taken it upon myself to usurp his GM power. Here are my plans for this team:

1. Cut or trade every player. Yes, everyone. This team has no identity whatsoever, and we absolutely need to simply start over. We don't have one player that we could build our future around. Igoudala is not a star who can lead a team. He has no jump-shot and is very inconsistent. This team has sunk far too much money into Igoudala, Brand, and Dalembert. I like Brand as player to build around, but he doesn’t fit into my rebuilding plan as he will be too old. Dalembert sucks. Willie Green sucks. Lou Williams is turning into a bust. I know a lot of people like Thaddeus, but he is the exact same player as Igoudala. The only player I want to keep is Reggie Evans because he is such a valuable defensive asset.

2. Fire every employee. The Sixers have no indentity whatsoever, and a lot of that falls on the people working behind-the-scenes. They are a major reason that the Sixers have 3 season-ticket holders. They need a complete makeover, and I think that includes the team’s employees. Too harsh? Too bad, this is my blog.

3. Sign a few scrubs and throw the next three seasons. The NBA is a league that highly rewards its biggest losers. The Sixers are never going to get quality draft picks if they finish 8th in the East every year. However, if we claim the worst record for the next three seasons, we’re guaranteed to get a top-5 pick each draft.

4. Build a young core via the Draft. Since I’m going to get rid of everyone, we’re going to need a lot draft picks. Hopefully I’ll be able to obtain a few extra picks after I deal Iggy, Thad, and Brand. Clearly, the draft is the best way to find players to build a future around.

5. Year 4, start playing for real. After 3 years of top-draft picks, we will have a strong enough core to start contending in the East. Making the playoffs would be a major goal this year.

6. Year 5, sign a major free-agent. After a few years of watching my young core develop, I should be able to identify our biggest needs. Considering our whole team will still be pretty young, I should have plenty of cap room to sign whoever I want. This guy will be the player that puts us over the top and makes us championship contenders for years to come.

See? Simple enough. Do it.