Brett Myers pitched seven strong innings yielding only one unearned run as the Phillies defeated the Washington Nationals 2 to 1 in Washington.  Chase Utley provided Myers all the run support he would need as he popped a two run home run to right field in the third inning scoring Jimmy Rollins who had reached base on a single.  Myers only allowed four hits to the light hitting Nationals.   J.C. Romero and Chad Durbin collectively pitched the eighth inning to earn holds.  Brad Lidge pitched the ninth inning to earn his 25th save of the season.

Pat Burrell and Utley each had two hits in the game as Nationals starter Collin Ballester pitched six strong innings as well and combined with his bullpen to limit the Fightins to only eight hits.  With the Mets also winning the Phillies kept pace 1/2 game behind the New Yorkers in the National League East standings.

Chatter

Adam Eaton was optioned to Triple A on the off day prior to this contest.  Left hander J.A. Happ was added to the major league roster.  Pedro Feliz was placed on the 15 day disabled list prior to the game and infielder Mike Cervenak was recalled to replace him.  Rumors still circulate about potential trades for the Phillies, Manny Ramirez, Ron Mahay, Jason Bay, John Grabor, Arthur Rhodes, etc. are amongst the names mentioned as potentials coming to the club.  It is a wait and see as the deadline is 4 pm on 7/31.  Rumblings are that Cole Hamels has a small fracture in his left elbow. Also that Chase Utley may have an injured hip.  If either were to miss extensive time the team would indeed be in serious trouble!