Sunday, May 06, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Coming off consecutive losses the Phils needed to win tonight's game to earn a split of their series with the Giants, and to right their suddenly sinking ship. Once again just like the last two games the phils got off to a quick start with Shane Victorino hitting a 2 run homer in the first inning. This time, however, Cole Hamels made sure that there would be no Giants comeback. Hamels went 7 strong innings, striking out 9, while allowing only 5 runs on 8 hits. Meanwhile, the Phils pounded out 6 more runs on 6 hits, including another 2 run homer by Ryan Howard, a doubles by Chase Utley and a triple by Jimmy Rollins. Heck, even Hamels doubled and scored what turned out to be the winning run in the 6th inning. Even more impressive though, was the almost unassisted insurance run scored by Micheal Bourn in the 7th inning, as he stole second and third base, and then somehow scored on a hard hit ground ball right to SS Omar Vizquel, as he somehow slid through the plate block of Bengie Molina. For the second time in as many Phils wins Brett Myers entered in the 9th and got the save for an 8-5 Phils win, improving their record to 14-17. Life is somewhat beautiful again.
Saturday, May 05, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Just like yesterday the Phils scored first and just like yesterday they still lost. Jon Lieber was ineffective in 6 innings of work as he allowed 4 runs on 7 hits including Barry Bond's 744th career homer. The Phils meanwhile managed only 2 runs in through innings and although they tacked on a couple late runs it was too late. The Giants countered with 5 late runs including homers by Eliezer Alfonzo and Pedro Feliz, to win again 9-4. Once again a tough loss for the Phils as they fall to just 13-17 on the year. Life Still sucks.
Friday, May 04, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
With Jamie Moyer on the mound for tonight's game if seemed like there was a good chance that the Phils would win their second in a row over the Giants but it wasn't to be. The Phils went up early 2-0 in the first inning and Moyer coasted through 6 scoreless innings to open the game. However, in the 7th inning the wheels came off. Moyer walked Barry Bonds to start the inning then allowed singles to Bengie Molina and Pedro Feliz, loading the bases with 2 outs for pinch hitter Eliezer Alfonzo who of course cleared the bases with a double, to put the Giants up 3-2 and well they never looked back, and wound up winning 6-2. Tough loss for the Phils, and tough luck for Jamie Moyer. Life sucks again.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Wet, wacky and wild that's what tonight's game in San Fransisco was. The Wet was annoying intermittent rain showers that kept slowing down the game and reeking havoc on pitcher's throwing motions and hitter's swings. The Wild was 9 runs scored by the Phils through the first 4 innings on two triples by Jimmy Rollins, doubles by Chase Utley and Pat Burrell, 3 singles by Shane Victorino and even a bloop single by Carlos Ruiz. The Wild was also 5 runs scored by the Giants in the 8th inning, cutting a 9-2 Phillies lead all the way down to 9-7. The Wacky was 300+, yes 300+ combined pitches thrown by the two teams, as neither got much out of their starters, with the Giant's Matt Cain lasting 3 innings, and the Phils Adam Eaton lasting just 5 innings. Neither got too much out of their bullpens either, particularly San Fransisco whose bullpen allowed 2 runs on 5 hits. Still, the most significant of those 300+ pitches were the final 16 thrown by Brett Myers who came in to close it in the 9th, replacing Tom Gordon at least for the moment, as Gordon remains back in Philly getting x-rays and treatment on his arm which is once again tightening up like it did during spring training. Anyway, those 16 pitches, produced 0 hits , 0 runs, 0 walks, 1 strikeout, and the 1st save of Brett Myer's career. Not bad for a first timer and further evidence that he and not Tom Gordon, should be the Phils closer. So there you have it, wet, wild, wacky, and a big 9-7 win for the Phils improving their record to 13-15. Life is beautiful.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles signed free agent defensive tackle Luke Scott today to a 1 year deal. Scott spent last season with the Chicago Bears and should compete for playing time on the Eagles along with Broderick Bunkley, Monte Reagor, and Sam Rayburn among others.
Wednesday, May 02, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
One word describes tonight's game, frustration. Freddy Garcia hasn't exactly been at his best thus far this season, as he has yet to get past the 6th inning in any of his starts, and tonight was no exception. Garcia lasted only 5 innings, but he battled pretty well and managed to hold the Braves to 3 runs through those 5 innings. Meanwhile, Ryan Howard crushed a 3-run homer in the top of the 6th inning to knot at 3. You'd think that would give Garcia even more resolve to come out strong in the bottom of 6th, but he wasn't even able to record an out in the inning, instead loading the bases with one out, before being replaced by Geoff Geary. Geary managed to get out of the inning but not before giving up a run, for a 4-3 Braves lead. Still, only trailing by a run with 3 innings to play, you'd think the Phils would still be able to make a run at it, think again. In the final 3 innings the Phils had exactly one baserunner, and the that was Greg Dobbs after a single in the 9th inning with two outs. Of course, Rod Barajas, followed the single by swinging at the first pitch he saw and flying out to end the game. Yeah, it doesn't get much more frustrating than that, as the Phils are now 1-5 against the Braves this season and just 12-15 overall. Life Sucks.
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
It started out as a shaky night but once Cole Hamels got settled it was all she wrote. Hamels began the night by allowing 3 runs in the first inning including a two run homer by Chipper Jones. The Phils picked Hamels up though and came right back in the 2nd inning with 4 runs of their own. A passed ball scored one run, a ground out by Jimmy Rollins scored another, a single by Aaron Rowand scored a third and a bases loaded walk by Pat Burrell capped it off by scoring a 4th run. Aaron Rowand made it 5-3 with an RBI single in the 3rd inning that scored Jayson Werth and Rod Barajas slammed a homer in the 7th to make it 6-3 and that's all Hamels would need. Following the first inning Hamels then went 6 scoreless innings in a row, until Chipper Jones homered again in the 8th to cut the lead to 6-4. Brett Myers then replaced Hamels and finished off the 8th, turning it over to Flash Gordon in the 9th who actually got a 1-2-3 save in the 9th, clinching a 6-4 Phils victory to improve their record to 12-14. Like I said, there's always tomorrow.
Monday, April 30, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
If you blinked , you might have missed tonight's game in Atlanta which lasted just over 2 hours as fast working pitchers Jon Lieber and Tim Hudson got locked in a pitcher's duel. Lieber went 7 innings, allowing just 2 runs on 7 hits, while striking out 2. Hudson was just a bit better going 8 innings, while allowing just 2 runs on 4 hits. The two teams scratched a couple runs in the 5th and 6th innings and thus found themselves tied going into the 9th inning. The Phils went down in order in the top of the inning at the hands of interim closer, Mike Gonzalez, in place of veteran Bob Wickman who was recently placed on the DL. For the Phils Antonio Alfonseca came in to pitch the 9th after Brett Myers survived the 8th inning without incident. Alfonseca got one out but then walked the next batter and allowed Chipper Jones to single, putting two on with only one out for slugger Andrew Jones. After getting one strike on Jones, Alfonseca fired a high fastball right down the middle and Jones didn't miss it. You probably know what happened next, the ball landed in the seats about 5 rows back and that was it, game over , 5-2, thrilling victory for the Braves ,and agonizing loss for the Phils.
EAGLES NEWS
Well, they did it, Dhani Jones is gone. With the free agent signing of Takeo Spikes it was just a matter of time before this happened. Basically, the Eagles released Dhani Jones today, and have now penned in Chris Gocong whom they drafted last year as his replacement on the strong side. Spikes will start on the weak side and Jeremiah Trotter will likely start in the middle, although Omar Gaither who filled in on the weak side at the end of last season is likely to compete with him for the spot.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
With the 3rd largest crowd in the history of Citizen's Bank Park on hand for today's game, the always popular Phanatic's birthday game, they needed to have something good to watch and Jamie Moyer gave it to them. For 6 and 2/3rd innings Moyer no-hit the Marlins, who had pounded Phillies pitching for 2 days. Unfortunately, just 7 agonizing outs from history, Moyer gave up a double to Miguel Cabrera which just barely flew over the outstretched glove of 3rd baseman Abraham Nunez. Moyer stayed positive though and wound up going 7 and 2/3rds scoreless innings while striking out 5 and allowing just 2 hits. For their part the Phils lineup did just enough to win. Chase Utley had an RBI single on the 1st inning, Jayson Werth starting in place of Pat Burrell, had a 2 RBI single in the 6th inning with the bases loaded, and Greg "Roy Hobbs" Dobbs had a pinch hit bases clearing double in the 8th inning, which scored 3 runs. In all the Phils scratched out 6 runs, enough to win easily 6-1 and improve their record to 11-13. So, once again when the Phils really needed it, they got a gem out of Jamie Moyer to recover from yesterday's embarrassment.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles finished their draft today with two picks in the 5th round, one in the 6th, and one in the 7th. With the 159th pick of the 5th round the Eagles finally got a safety, C.J Gaddis, from Clemson, the same school from which the Eagles drafted perennial pro-bowl safety Brian Dawkins. Gaddis proved to be a very versatile while at Clemson playing at both safety positions, cornerback, kick-returner, and even quarterback for their scout team. Basically, he's the kind of guy that the Eagles can plug in anywhere and get good production out of, and obviously that's what they're looking for out of him. Three picks later the Eagles took Cincinnati TE Matt Celek with the 162nd pick in the 5th round. In his career Celek had 91 career receptions for 1,135 yards and 14 touchdowns, numbers good enough for him to be the Eagles 3rd tight end behind L.J Smith and Matt Schobel. In the 6th round with the 201st pick the Eagles took CB Rashad Barksdale out of division 1-AA Albany. Barksdale is a physical specimen at 6-2 210 Lbs and with a time of 4.38 in the 40 yard dash. Hopefully, he'll give the Eagles the depth at CB that they didn't have last season. Finally, with their last pick, the 236th pick in the 7th round, the Eagles took Hawaii FB Nate Ilaoa. In 37 career games Ilaoa rushed 1,689 yards and 20 touchdowns on 222 carries, while taking in 151 receptions for 1,694 yards and 9 touchdowns. Those are pretty good numbers for a fullback and although the Eagles already have capable Thomas Tapeh at FB, Ilaoa could fit in with the Eagles somewhere and just give them one more weapon on offense.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
All I can say is thank God I had the draft to distract me from having to watch too much of this game. Yeah, it was that ugly and you could tell it was going to be from the start. Phils starter Adam Eaton got roughed up in the first inning allowing the Marlins to take an early 3-0 lead, not good when the starting pitcher in the visitor's dugout is Dontrelle Willis. Even worse when your big bopper, Ryan Howard, has the night off because "uncle Charlie" doesn't want to start him against the nasty lefty. At any rate despite Eaton's struggles, he gave up 7 runs on 10 hits in just 4 and 1/3rds innings, the Phils managed to hang around, as Aaron Rowand singled and scored in the 1st inning and Rod Barajas hit a solo shot in the second inning, his first homer as a Phil. Incredibly, thanks to those RBIs and two RBIs from Chase Utley, the phils managed to enter the 6th inning only trailing the by 3 with the score at 7-4. After reliever Fransisco Rosario quickly got two outs it seemed like it would at least stay that way into the 7th inning, but then the wheels came lose. Rosario allowed consecutive singles to Miguel Cabrera and Mike Jacobs, then Josh Willingham stepped up and crushed a 3 run homer and suddenly the Phils were down 10-4. Unfortunately, they never recovered from the shock of Willingham's homer, as Miguel Cabrera added a solo homer in the 8th inning and the Marlins won going away 11-5, dropping the Phils record to 10-13. Oh well, better luck next time guys.
EAGLES NEWS
Well, it finally here, draft day, so let's see which safety did the Eagles draft in the first round, oh wait they traded out the first round. Okay, so which safety did they draft in the second round with their first pick of the draft, oh wait they didn't draft a safety, they drafted..... a quarterback? okay, well there were still plenty of good ones left, maybe it's Trent Edwards, or John Beck, or maybe even Pennsylvania's own Drew Stanton. No? its not one of them then who is it?, Kevin Kolb out of Houston, who the H*** is he? and why the H*** did they draft him? say the Eagles fans as they boo the pick. Well, according to the Andy Reid the Eagles didn't having any pressing needs to address in this draft(yeah, tell that to Brian Dawkins when he looks at the depth chart this summer, and realizes there's no one behind him, at least not until tomorrow anyway), and thus rather then fill a need they simply selected the best player available, which was apparently Kolb. Now in fairness Reid also said that this pick had nothing to do with the Eagles being worried about Donovan Mcnabb's return from his knee injury at the beginning the upcoming season. Still, until I get a chance to see Kolb play, I can't say whether this was a bad pick or not. Going strictly by his college numbers, Kolb sounds like he might not be half bad. All told, in his career at Houston, Kolb passed for 12, 964 yards and 85 touchdowns and was conference USA player of the year last season with 3,809 yards and 30 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions. He is also the only player in the history of Houston university to pass for 3,000 yards in 3 straight seasons, pretty impressive when you consider that they once harbored Heisman trophy winning QB Andre Ware, and the 12,964 yards rank 4th all time in division 1-A, behind former Eagles Timmy Chang of Hawaii and Ty Detmer of BYU, and N.C state's Philip Rivers now of course with the Chargers. Oh and by the way, Kolb his 6-3 218 Lbs, pretty good size for a QB. So while none of us have heard of him, Kolb has put some pretty good numbers, so I think we should cut Andy Reid some lack before we call this draft a waste. Anyway, as a consolation for trading out of the first round, the Eagles had 3 more picks on the first day of the draft. With the 57th pick of the 2nd they selected Notre Dame's DE Victor Abiamiri to sure up their depth at that position, not that they didn't already have crap load of DEs on their roster, but it never hurts to have another. The Eagles followed that in the third round by taking Nebraska Linebacker Stewart Bradley with the 87th pick in the 3rd round. I know, what kind of football name is Stewart, but hey he lead Nebraska last year with 76 tackles, and he's 6-5 254Lbs so he should provide nice depth for their linebacking core. Finally the Eagles finished the day 3 picks later by taking Penn State RB Tony Hunt with the 90th pick in the 3rd round. At 6-1 233 Lbs Hunt could be the bruising short yardage back the Eagles have been looking for since losing Duce Staley to free agency, or he could just be another in a long line of Penn state RB busts, you know like Blair Thomas, Curtis Enis, and Ki-jana Carter. Yeah I know I don't remember them either, but let's hope that Hunt turns out to be the former.
Friday, April 27, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils didn't play their best tonight by any means. Starter Freddy Garcia lasted just 4 and 2/3rds innings while allowing 4 runs on 7 hits, the Phils as a team left 14 men on base, and Tom Gordon blew another save. In the end on this wild friday night, none of that mattered. Aaron Rowand homered to extend his hitting streak to 16 games and the Phils scored 3 runs in the 2nd inning to go up early 3-1. However, for the next 4 innings it was all Marlins, as the Phils went scoreless and the Marlins put up 3 runs to grab a 4-3 lead heading into the 8th inning. The Phils refused to go down though, and staged a dramatic rally in the bottom of the 8th. Jimmy Rollins homered with one out to tie at 4, and Chase Utley homered with 2 outs to put the phils ahead 5-4. Unfortunately, as noted Tom Gordon blew the save in the top of the 9th, and Phils found themselves tied with Marlins again at 5 , heading into the bottom of the 9th inning. Once again, they refused to give up and loaded the bases with no outs in the 9th. Carlos Ruiz then hit a hard ground ball that Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez couldn't handle, allowing the winning run to score, as the Phils finally defeated the marlins 6-5, to improve to 10-12.
Thursday, April 26, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Sometimes good pitching trumps good hitting and that's what happened to the Phils today. The Phils lineup had been red hot, pounding to 5 wins out of their last 6 games, today however, none of that mattered. Cole Hamels was also on the mound for the Phils today, and he had been there best starting pitcher thus far this season, striking out 15 in his last start, but again none of that mattered as he allowed 4 runs on 8 hits in only 5 and 1/3rd innings of work. In the end, nothing the Phils did today was any match for the mastery of Nationals starter Shawn Hill. Hill is by no means the ace of the Nationals staff, but today he pitched like he was. Through 8 strong innings of work he allowed the red hot Phils to score only 2 runs on 4 hits, one of which was a solo homer by Aaron Rowand which his extended his now league best hitting streak to 14 games, funny how that sort of thing keeps happening to Phillies players. Anyway, no matter what the Phils did today, they simply couldn't figure out Hill, and succumbed to the Nationals, after a furious 9th inning rally against closer Chad Cordero, by a score of 4-2. So, for one day at least the streaking Phils got a little side-tracked, as their record dropped back to 9-12. Still, if they keep playing like this, and consistently win 2 games out of 3, there's no reason they won't be able to get back to the top of the standings sometime soon.
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
One name, Chase Utley, that's all you need to hear about tonight's game for the Phils. All told Utley had 5 hits(2 doubles, 3 singles) and knocked in 3 runs. Even without his teammates that would have been enough tie the Nationals, who as a team scored just 3 runs on 7 hits on night. The Phils meanwhile with Utley's help pounded out 9 runs on 12 hits, including two, two run homers from Ryan Howard in the 3rd inning and Jimmy Rollins in the 8th inning. The Pitching was also well in the Phils favor. For the nationals starter John Patterson lasted just 5 and 1/3rd innings allowing 6 runs on 8 hits. Meanwhile for the Phils Jon Lieber went 6 innings allowing just 2 runs on 5 hits for his first win of the season in two starts. Finally, the bullpen was again far better for the Phils. For the Nationals the bullpen combined for 4 and 2/3rd innings, but in those innings allowed 3 runs on 2 hits. Meanwhile for the Phils, Matt Smith, Geoff Geary, Brett Myers, and Francisco Rosario combined for 3 strong innings, while allowing just one run, on 2 hits. So, once again tonight's win was a team win just like it should have been, and it was the Phils 5th in a row, meaning they have now improved to 9-11. Not too shabby if you ask me.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
4, that's how many games in a row that the Phils have won now. Tonight's win just like the others was a team victory. The Phils trailed 3-1 until the 6th inning, but it would have been more if not for 6 strong innings by Jamie Moyer, striking out 5, while allowing just 3 runs on 6 hits. Meanwhile, the Phils suddenly came to life in the bottom of the 6th, as Pat Burrell doubled in a run to cut the lead to 2-1. In the bottom of the 7th Aaron Rowand homered to tie it at 3, then the wheels fell off for the Nationals in the 8th. Chase Utley led off by getting hit by a pitch, then after Ryan Howard struck out, Pat Burrell worked a walk, and Wes Helms singled scoring Utley and Burrell after a Ryan Church throwing error. Then with the Phils up 5-3 Carlos Ruiz singled to score Helms, who had advanced to second on the throwing error, and that was all she wrote. Flash Gordon came in for the 9th, and actually closed the door for once, giving the Phils the 6-3 win. In all, it was as I said a team win. The Phils got a good start from Moyer, the timely hitting they needed, and 3 more scoreless innings out of their bullpen. I don't why, but for some reason everything is just clicking for the Phils right now, and its fun to watch. I just hope it continues for a long while, so the Phils can continue to improve on their now 8-11 record.
Monday, April 23, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Delayed from last Monday, the Phils finally had their Jackie Robinson night and they made it count. Early on it didn't look it would be a good night for the Phils, as Craig Biggio led off the night by sending Adam Eaton's first pitch into the seats for a 1-0 Astros lead. Fortunately for the Phils, Jimmy Rollins was ready to answer. Rollins answered by leading off the bottom of the 1st inning with a homer of his own, en route to a 4 hit, 2 RBI, 4 runs scored night, that saw him come a double shy of becoming the first Phil to hit for the cycle since David Bell back in 2004. Although he would be all the Phils would need on the night, Rollins wouldn't be alone. In all, the Phils pounded out 11 runs and 20 hits, including a 3 run homer by Chase Utley that went 460 feet, and 3 hits, 3 RBIs, and 2 runs scored by Shane Victorino. Pat Burrell and Wes Helms also chipped in with 3 hits and an RBI each. For his part, starter Adam Eaton wasn't too shabby either, going 6 innings, and striking out 7 while allowing only 4 runs on 7 hits. The Phils bullpen also chipped in with 3 scoreless innings to finish off the game. Still, as well they played the Phils needed a 3 run 4th inning that gave them a 7-4 lead after having traded the lead back in forth through the first 3 innings, to finally put Houston away. All in all, it was a team win for the Phils, and their 3rd in a row. All of which means that we can officially say that the Phils are now on a roll, as they have now improved to 7-11.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
He struggled in his first start, but today Freddy Garcia was everything advertised. He only lasted 5 innings, but they were all good ones, as he allowed just 2 runs on 4 hits. Also for once the Bullpen closed the deal for him, as they allowed just one run the rest of way and issued only two walks. Of course, they had plenty of breathing room to work with as Ryan Howard returned to the lineup early and homered and knocked in 3 runs, Wes Helms had 3 hits, and Chase Utley collected 2 more hits and scored 3 runs. In all, although 4 came in the top of the 9th inning when they were no longer needed, the Phils put up 9 runs ,their best output of the season, and won going away 9-3. Thus, the Phils have successfully won back to back games for the first time this season, and 3 out of there last 4 and have now improved to 6-11. Of course, they are still only in 4th place, in the NL East, but that's better than last place, and who knows maybe after today, the Howard can finally get going and the Phils can continue this roll that they are currently on. Well, that's all I have for today, I guess I ma just too excited for words today, for some reason, oh well.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
With their record at only 4-11 the Phils desperately needed some kind of spark t oget them going and today they go it from Cole Hamels. Hamels went the distance against the Reds striking out 15, one shy of the franchise record for strikeouts by a lefty in a single game, held by you know who, and allowed just one run, on 5 hits. Meanwhile, the phils offense continued to struggle as well, but it managed to scratch out just enough runs for a victory, as Chase Utely homered and knocked in 3 runs, and Aaron Rowand homered in the 8th inning to put the Reds away for good for 4-1 win. In fact, as a symbol of the Red's futility against Hamels the Reds managed to put two on with nobody out and David Ross at the plate in the bottom of the 5th inning, with the Phils clinging to a 2-1 lead. With the way the Phils have been playing so far this season, you just knew something bad was about to happen, instead with one swing of the bat Ross got the Phils out of trouble hitting a ground ball that allowed the phils to turn their first triple play since 1999 , and they did it around the horn, with Abraham Nunez fielding the ball tagging third base, and throwing to Chase Utley at second who tagged the base and fired to Wes Helms at first, beating Ross by a step. Now, although Ryan Howard probably won't be back in the lineup until at least Monday, it seems as if the Phils at 5-11 are ready to get on a roll, and they can if they can just get some more pitching performances like the one they got from Hamels today.
Friday, April 20, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Coming into tonight's game against the Reds the Phils had played 14 games on the season, and had yet to win back to back games even once ,in those 14 games. Tonight, however, they had a rare opportunity to do just that, get their first back to back win of the season, and for a while it looked like they would. Although the Phils could only manage to scratch out one run one the night, John Lieber, in his first start of the season in place of Brett Myers(now in the bullpen), made it stand up tossing 5 and 2/3rd's scoreless innings. Then with 2 out and 1 on in the 6th, Lieber was yanked in favor of Geoff Geary, and Matt Smith, who each faced a single batter, and failed to get them out, loading the bases. Fortunately, Antonio Alfonseca then came in the game and bailed them out, forcing a ground out to end the inning. Alfonseca, then quickly retired the side in the 7th inning. In the 8th innings Brett Myers, now in bullpen as the Phils set up man, fanned two Reds, and quickly retired the side again. Then in the 9th Flash Gordon came in to finish off the shutout, and well it didn't quite work out. After 2 quick outs, Gordon fell behnd Scott Hatteberg 3-1, and served up fast ball right down the middle, to avoid walking him, and Hatteberg promptly deposited it in the seats to tie at 1 through 9 innings. Then in the 10th with Flash forced to pitch a second inning, since most of the bullpen was used up back in the 6th, he quickly got himself in a jam, loading the bases with one out. Of course, Gordon couldn't get out of it, allowing Brandon Phillips to slap a game winning single into left field. I guess I should be surprised that the Phils couldn't hold on and win this one, but sadly I am not. At this point, the Phils desperately need something to bring their lineup back to life, because right now it's not getting the job done. Also they should really make Brett Myers their closer and not their set up man, because he just has better stuff than Fash right now and they simply can't afford to have Flash in there at the end of games if he' s always going to be so shaky. Anyway, just in case you were wondering, the final score was Reds 2, Phils 1, which is about as crushing as it gets as the Phils are now just 4-11.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Coming today's 1:00 game things didn't look so good for the Phils. The Bullpen was all used up from last night's 13 inning downer, Ryan Howard was to sit out the game due to injury suffered in last night's 13 inning downer, and their record stood at only 3-10. Thus, today was about as close as you can get to a must win game at the beginning of the season. Fortunately, for the Phils Jamie Moyer was on mound for today's and he knew he had to get the Phils some innings, so he did just that. Moyer went 8 scoreless innings, striking out 5 and allowing just 2 runs on 4 hits, with both runs being scored in the 9th after he had left the game. Meanwhile, the Phils offense, struggled again, but managed to scrap enough runs to get win, as Aaron Rowand homered in the second inning, Jimmy Rollins had 2 hits an RBI and a run scored, and Shane Victorino had 3 hits, an RBI, and a run scored. In all the Phils put up just 4 runs, but it was enough to win 4-2, despite another shaky save and 9th inning for Flash Gordon, who had to get out of a bases loaded jam. Seriously, for a minute there I thought the Phils were going to blow it, but Flash pulled Mitch Williams and got out of it somehow. So the Phils are now 4-10, which still isn't very good but it is better than 3-1, and who knows maybe this will finally get them on a roll.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
Well, it took 13 innings, but the Phils finally lost again. Seriously, I know it's still the beginning of the season but do you even remember the last time they won. I mean I am not going to lie, but I really thought they were going to win. They were down 3-1, and then 4-1 for most of the game, but in the 7th inning, Greg "Roy Hobbs" Dobbs singled to score 2 runs and cut the lead to 4-3. Then Micheal Bourn scored on a sac fly in the 9th inning to tie it at 4, and I thought man there going top pull this one out. As the extra innings dragged on through the 10th, 11th, 12th, and then 13th, innings my expectancy a Phils win only grew deeper, as it seemed that every time they appeared down and out, they were able to make a great play and keep the game going. Unfortunately, despite playing just about as hard as they possibly they could, it was not enough. A bloop single, followed by a double, and sac fly wound up scoring the Nats Matt snelling with the winning run in the bottom of the 13th. I would say I am deeply disappointed and utterly sick to my stomach at this point, but honestly I am getting used to this sort of thing now, and just does not have that same effect on me anymore. Basically, the Phils at 3-10 now, have truly become the symbol of the vanitas that has engulfed the whole of the Philly sports theme. You know what I mean, that belief, that sense of hopelessness that no matter how hard you cheer for your team and no matter how much you believe in them, whether it be the Flyers, Sixers, Eagles, or the Phils, they are still inevitably going to find away to lose, whether it be in Game 7 of the world series, or in the super bowl, or in a simple regular season game, they will lose no matter what, just like no matter what you or I do, we are still going to die at some point in the future. Okay so maybe I am overreacting a little, but you get the idea.
SIXERS NEWS
Well, the Sixers finished out there season today, and actually looked pretty good doing, defeating the playoff bound Raptors 122-119. Willie Green poured in a career high 37 points, Andre Miller dropped 29 ,with 8 assists, Joe Smith dropped 26 with 11 boards, and Bobby Jones and Louis Williams again scored in double figures, with Jones putting up 14 points and Williams chipping in 12 off the bench. So I guess with this win and their 35-47, third place finish in the Atlantic division, there's some hope for the Sixers heading into next season. As for the Raptors, well they finished 45-37, first in the Atlantic division, and are headed to the playoffs as the 3rd seed in the Eastern Conference. If only, the Sixers could be in that position right now, but who knows with three first draft picks coming, maybe the Sixers can be like the Raptors next season and get back to the playoffs. Well, until next season so long, Sixers fans.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
0 for 14, that's what the Phillies were tonight with runners in scoring position. In fact, the only run they scored was even batted in. It was forced in by Ryan Howard with a bases loaded walk in the 3rd inning. He is still technically credited with an RBI but I mean come on is that not pathetic or what. Oh and Freddy Garcia's debut as a Phillie, not quite everything advertised, as although he struck out 6, he still allowed 3 runs on 8 hits and lasted all of 4 and 2/3rd innings. Obviously that's what the Phillies were hoping for when they traded for him. As far as the Mets are concerned one name comes to mind, and its not Tom Glavine. No, its 40 year old geezer Moises Alou, yes, he's still playing, and no he hasn't slowed down a bit. On the night, he homered twice, first off Freddy Garcia in the 2nd inning, and then again off Geoff Geary in the 6th inning when it was still only 3-1 Mets and the Phils actually still had a chance. As if those Homers weren't enough Alou went on to ruin the rest of the night, by thwarting the Phils last comeback attempt, with a diving catch of a line drive, that was oh so close to dropping and scoring two badly needed Phils runs. So basically, the Phils lost big 8-1, and are now just 3-9, dead last in the NL East.
SIXERS NEWS
Tonight's game meant absolutely nothing to the Sixers and absolutely everything to the Cavs who could've moved into the 2nd seed in the East with a win. So guess who won? that's right the Cavs, 98-92. Larry Hughes poured in 22 and Lebron James dropped in 18 with 6 assists and 5 rebounds to help them pull it out. Still, as you can tell from the close score the Sixers didn't play too badly tonight either, despite once again being without Andre Iguodala and Kyle Korver. Willie Green poured in a game high 24 points, Samuel Dalembert dropped 11 with 10 rebounds, Andre Miller dropped 12 with 7 assists, and youngsters Louis Williams and Bobby Jones, both scored in double figures again with 13 points a piece. Unfortunately for them it wasn't enough tonight, but there's always next year I guess and besides this game didn't really matter to them anyway. Well, that's all I have for today, and there's just one more game left for the Sixers this season, so here's hoping that one goes well or something.
Monday, April 16, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils got rained out again, yes that's two rain outs in a row for the first time since 1998. Anyway, tonight's game with the Mets has been rescheduled as part of a day-night doubleheader on Friday June 29. Yesterday's game was also rescheduled for Monday April 23, that's this coming Monday, which was apparently an open date on the schedule for both teams. Finally, as result of all this Freddy Garcia will and I mean it this time, make his long awaited Phils debut tomorrow night against Tom Glavine and the Mets. Should be a good game if it doesn't get rained out.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
SIXERS NEWS
In a game that meant nothing to both teams, as the Sixers had already been eliminated from the playoffs, and the Pistons had already clinched the top seed in the Eastern conference, young players getting a look in preparation for next season ruled the night. Detroit native, Willie Green, playing in front of his hometown, poured in a game high 26 points and dished off 7 assists, last year's 2nd round pick Bobby Jones scored a career high 13 points, and recent NBDL call up Louis Amundson scored 8 points ,including his first NBA field goal, and pulled down a game high 11 rebounds. The Pistons were not without a couple young stars of their own, as Philly's own Ronald "Flip" murray finished with 7 points and 6 assists, and Jason Maxiell poured in 10 points off the bench. Still, in the end the determined Sixers pulled out the win by the final score of 102-91. I would talk about this game a little bit more now, but like I said it didn't mean anything, so I don't have anything else to say.
PHILLIES NEWS
The Phils and the Astros got rained out today, and as yet their game has not been rescheduled although it is expected that it will be. All of which means that Freddy Garcia will make his Phillies debut tomorrow night instead of today as originally planned.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
After opening the season with two stellar starts you would think that the Phils' Cole Hamels would be 2-0 on the season or at least 1-0, but alas the Phils bullpen brokedown in the both games, blowing leads after Hamels left the game with a chance to win. Thus, instead of two wins he was left with two no-decisons and basically nothing to show for his efforts. This time however, it would be different. Jimmy Rollins hit his NL leading 6th homerun, Chase Utley homered and drove in a run in the 6th inning which wound up being the game winner, the Phils bullpen pitched 3 scoreless innings although the last one was pretty shaky (Flash Gordon got in a jam in the top of the 9th and nearly blew the save) , and the Phils hung for an 8-5 win, their first, yes first, win at home on the season. Ironically, out of his 3 starts thus far this was Hamels worst as he allowed 5 runs and 8 hits in 6 innings, and twice allowed the Astros to come from behind just after the Phils had given him a lead. In fact, he won only because of Chase Utley's RBI double in the bottom of the 6th inning, just after he had left the game. Still, a win is a win and the Phils need every one they can get at this point as they have now improved to only 3-8. In other exhilerating news, Freddy Garcia has finally been activated from DL by the Phils, and will make his first start as a Phil tomorrow, provided the game doesn't get rained out by the noreaster that's supposed to hit town tomorrow, but that's another story alltogether.
SIXERS NEWS
Well, it's official the Sixers will not be going to the playoffs this season. Coming into today's game against Orlando they trailed the magic by 3 games with 4 to play for the 8th and final playoff spot in the east. Dwight Howard poured in 35 points and ripped down 11 rebounds as the Magic won going away 104-87. The win gave the Magic the season series over the Sixers, thus even if the Sixers were to somehow finished tied with Magic, which they still could, the tiebreaker would go to Orlando. Still, considering how bad the Sixers were earlier this season, its quite an accomplishment that they were able to stay in the playoff picture this late in the season, so cheers to that. Of course, with the Sixers officially eliminated from the playoffs, it's now time for them to start getting ready for the draft lottery, so here's hoping they get that first pick.
Friday, April 13, 2007
PHILLIES NEWS
It started just like their last game. This time, instead of Tom Glavine it was the Astros Roy Oswalt who struggled through the first inning, allowing 3 runs on 2 infield hits and 3 walks, all with two outs in the inning. Unfortunaltely for the Phils Oswalt settled in and ptiched 5 innings for the win, as supposed Phils ace Brett Myers failed to deliver for the 2nd time in as many games. Myers lasted only 3 and 1/3rd innings, allowing 7 runs including a grand slam to Carlos Lee, just after the Phils had gone ahead 3-0, and 3 run homer by Morgan Ensberg. Lee wound up with two more homers on the day and helped to thwart any Phils comeback attempts, as the Astro hung on to win 9-6. The Phils had their chances to get back in the game, but poor situational hiiting and bad base running erased all of them. Still, the biggest problem for the Phils right now are the continued struggles of Chase Utley(.220 BA) and Ryan Howard (.243 BA). Until those guys get going this team will continue to struggle as it is now at just 2-8.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
PHILLIESS NEWS
He'd been booed mercilessly for two days by the city that never sleeps. Apparently, they weren't too happy with what he had said during spring training. After all, who was he to say that their team wasn't as good as his and wouldn't win the division like they had the past season. Tonight, though was going to be different, tonight he was going to quiet them. His team had beaten theirs the night before, but he hadn't much to do with it, with only one hit all night long and a strikeout at the end to their delight. Tonight, if his team was going to get a win he was going to be one to get it for them and he nearly did. He hit not one, but two titanic blasts, off the future hall of fame pitcher he was facing and his team had led for 3 and 1/2 innings, but it all came a part in the 4th inning. His pitcher, although he competed well, lasting 6 innings and striking out 6, including the 2000th of his career, had been unable to keep his team ahead, but he kept them close, with their deficit being only 4-3. Now they began booing the misstalker again, and now he could do nothing to stop them, going o for 2 the rest of night. As he was falling from grace, they tacked on another run. and then it was over. The Mets had beaten the Phillies 5-3, Jamie Moyer had his 2000th strikeout, and Jimmy Rollins had two more homers, but the chorus of boos continued to reign down on him. That's what happens when you predict a division title and your team starts out 2-7.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)