The Phillies marched into Atlanta tied for the wild card lead and only 1/2 game behind the division leading Mets, they also entered the contest with a perfect 6 and 0 record in Atlanta thus far this season. That being said you knew it wasn’t going to be easy in this one as nothing has this season.
Veteran Jamie Moyer started for the Fightins in this one and albeit he struggled with command did manage to go 5 and 2/3 innings. Moyer was tagged for six hits and six runs and left the game trailing. Ryan Howard provided the big offensive push for the Fightins as he had four hits in the game including a triple in the seventh and a home run in the eighth. Howard had three RBI’S in the game. Jayson Werth and Carlos Ruiz also homered in the contest. Ryan Madson was huge in this one as pitched perfect seventh and eighth innings to shut down the Braves who had erupted for four to take the lead in the sixth inning. Jimmy Rollins had two hits in the game and Shane Victorino had a three hit game. Howard’s home run came in the top of the eighth and gave the Phils a one run lead to protect.
Brad Lidge earned his 37th save in 37 tries albeit it was not an easy one as he walked the bases loaded before striking out the last hitter! Phillies took over first place with the win!
Chatter
The Mets were shutout in Washington and lost 1 to 0. At least they can’t blame that one on the bullpen! J.A. Happ will start tommorrow night in the fifth starters spot. He was given the nod over veteran Adam Eaton and struggling Kyle Kendrick. Scott Eyre has voiced a wish to resign with the Phils next season, Eyre is a free agent at end of season, he has been very effective since coming over from the Cubs and in my opinion should be welcomed back. Moyer did not have location in this one but remember that he threw on three days rest last start and on four days in this one, during the summer the team has tried to give him extra rest if possible. He is a pro though and will not turn away the assignment !
If Phillies win the division Ryan Howard is gonna be the MVP again ! He can’t be denied if he keeps up this pace !
