PHILLIES NEWS

The Phils finished their series with the Nationals this afternoon. Jamie Moyer got the start once again going for career win No. 250. This time at last thanks to improved control and a good bullpen behind him he got it. Of course the fact that the Phils were playing the Nationals also probably had something to do it. Anyway Moyer allowed just 1 run on 3 hits in 6 strong innings in getting the win. The Phils meanwhile, didn't offer him much run support but it was enough to give him a lead he would not relinquish. In the bottom of the 1st Chase Utley doubled in a run for a 1-0 lead. In the bottom of the 2nd Chris Coste launched a solo homer for a 2-0 lead. In the top of the 4th Josh Willingham slammed a solo homer to cut it to 2-1. In the bottom of the 4th Raul Ibanez tripled and scored on a fielder's choice for a 3-1 lead. In the top of the 7th Willingham slugged another homer to cut it to 3-2. In the bottom of the 7th Ryan Howard tripled to knock in a run for a 4-2 lead. From there Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge got through the 8th and 9th innings as usual to close out the 4-2 win. On the whole it was a good night for Phils in all areas the so there's really nothing extra about the game to talk about. However, it seems the Phils have made a decision on the Brett Myers situation, calling up Antonio Bastardo, who's been tearing up AAA, to replace him for now. Beyond a few starts from Bastardo, if he does not pitch well the Phils may have to consider acquiring an established pitcher through free agency or a trade. It would probably take a lot of prospects for them to do so, but Jake Peavy, Roy Oswalt, and others are there for the taking if the Phils are interested. Personally I think they need to give Bastardo a chance to show his stuff first. If he pitches well enough, then there's no reason make a trade or sign a free agent. If he falters however I am afraid they'll have no choice but to acquire a better pitcher. Hopefully he'll pitch well. Anyway so the Phils move to 28-20 overall with the win today and remain 1st in the NL East by half a game over the Mets.