Scenarios for Games 6 & 7

Posted by Pat Gallen, Tue, November 03, 2009 04:29 PM

Here is what we know: Pedro Martinez will start Game 6, going up against Andy Pettitte, who will pitch on three days rest. Martinez is fully rested, having pitched Game 2 on Thursday.

Beyond that, it’s a crapshoot and Charlie Manuel will likely wing it from here on out. However, Cole Hamels and his regrettable comments have thrown a wrench into any plan Manuel would put together. Does he have confidence in the lefty to put his quote in the past and pitch should there be a seventh game?

I say put Hamels in relief for these last two games of the year. In Game 6, should Pedro have to be removed early (say prior to the fifth inning) bring Hamels in to pitch two or three frames. That will save the likes of Happ, Blanton, and some of the tattered bullpen being run out there currently.

It’s a longshot here, and Manuel probably won’t do it, but I think it would be best for Hamels not to start. He’s under the microscope and to have him start the seventh game of the World Series is not the ideal situation. Cliff Lee – should the Phillies get that far – HAS to be the starting pitcher. If Charlie wants to throw Lee out for three innings to get it started, and then use Hamels in relief for that game, so be it. But he cannot stick to a plan regarding Hamels at this time.

As far as starting Lee, the old “all hands on deck” adage is getting a workout, although it is spot on. He can rest on Friday until spring training begins, so throwing 50 more pitches isn’t going to pull his arm out of its socket.

Back to Hamels; I want to see Charlie use him in one of the final two games, but I would feel a bit more comforted knowing it was not on the grandest stage in all of baseball, starting Game 7. Plus, Hamels has looked good early on in his starts, only to lose focus, have a play go awry, and have things snowball against him. If Manuel prepares him by letting him know he needs him in relief in the one of the final two games, it will take loads of pressure off of him and may allow him to positively contribute.

On the other side, it had been said by Joe Girardi that the Yankees will go with Pettitte. Interesting to see how that old left arm will hold up.

Should the Phillies start Lee and put Hamels in the bullpen to be available for either game? Or should Hamels get that start?

Pat Gallen can be reached via email at Pat@Philliesnation.com

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177 Responses to “Scenarios for Games 6 & 7”

Francisco Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:36 pm
Go Yankees
dc Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:37 pm
I’ve said all along that the Phillies can’t win this series without Hamels pitching at least one gem.

Why not Game 7? (is it even OK to talk about Game 7?)
josh Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:46 pm
i think they should give happ the start
Jeff G. Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:47 pm
The Yankees represent whats bad about baseball. The HIGH PAYROLL. Please bring in a cap for these teams. I understand they are allowed to do what they want. Over paying for the pie bashing Burnett who got killed last night. Lets face it the only reason he won the first game, the ump gave him 6 inches off the plate to throw the curve. CC’s contract is bigger then his pants. Then you have Aroid who cheated on baseball and lied about the stupid story how he used steroids. He is a liar and a cheat to his wife. As far as I am concerned he will never make the hall of fame. There there is good ol boy Andy. Mr. Roids himself who threw Clemons his pal under a bus. Andy is a joke. Jeter is still a cluthc hitter but cant field for his life. They overpaid for tex message. You wonder why we HATE THE SPANKEES.
Ed R. Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:48 pm
I said yesterday that Lee could pitch on Thursday if it gets that far. He could start, or come out in relief and he could be limited to what would normally be a bull pen session. I don’t see why you can’t let Hamels start the game, maybe go 2-3 innings and then throw Park/Happ/Banton for an inning or 3 and then Lee get some work in. Might be able ot pull it off. But once again, let’s win game 6 first.
Mostone Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:51 pm
Hammels will start Game 7 but will be on a very short leash. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Lee in relief.
Chutley Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:53 pm
worry about wednesday first
Cliff Lee Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:54 pm
if we get to game 7 just start me, i’ll give you at least 5 good innings then you can go to hamels. thats a good 1-2 puch
Johnny Tee Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 4:57 pm
I feel that we do depends on Cliff Lee. If Lee begs for the ball, which I would want him to do, then I say we give it to him. If Lee, does not ask for the ball at the biggest stage of his career, then we have to go with Cole. I know I don’t like the comments he made, but I say we send him out there with a very short leash and have Happ ready. I just feel sending a rookie out there to pitch game 7 of the World Series vs the Yankees will be difficult especially when he hasn’t started a game in awhile.

I feel that Happ, Blanton, Park, Durbin, Erye can combined pitch a solid amount of innings like 7 if Cole can not make it past the 2nd. That still allows us to have Madson/Lidge for the close depending on who Charlie chooses.

Regardless of my opinion, I feel that Charlie goes with Cole in game 7 just because Charlie knows that Cole got him that ring last year and Charlie hasn’t forgot that even if we all have..
Steve-o Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:00 pm
I’m really not comfortable with everyone talking about Game 7 right now. Can we win game 6 first?
Ed R. Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Agreed Steve O.
Pat Gallen Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:03 pm
I agree Steve-o, just mapping it all out though. Game 6 should be very very interesting to say the least.
Marty Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:04 pm
You will not see Hammels throw another pitch this year..his comments have alienated himself from the team inciting a near fistocuffs last night in the locker room between he and Brett Myer`s as myer`s walked past his locker after the game saying “what are you doing hear? i thought you quit?” to whick hammels in the middile of putting on his “feetie pajamas’ returned with an F-U…..they had to be seperated….
U Gotta Believe Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:08 pm
“Boots On” (Philly remix)

“Boots On: Philly Style”
Man, we’ve been workin too hard
4 hour games and we’re tired
Damn this knuckle busted’,
back breakin’, million dollar job
Know where I’m goin from here
Hot headed Yanks, cold beer
Kick up some dirt for a little while
and do it Philly style

[Chorus]
In my freash red hat
with my crooked little grin
Pine tarred bat
and these calloused hands
Some new uniforms
Those red pinstripes
No need to change a thing, hey y’all
We’re goin to the Bronx to Stomp the Yankees.

How we keep catching Kate Hudson’s eye
Man, we keep wondering why
Ain’t nothing special ’bout
some “awe shucks” Philly boy
Lord, Kate’s sure lookin’ good
Like something from Hollywood
She got me thinkin’ that we just might
Take her from A Rod tonight.

[Chorus]

‘Cause we are who we are and that’s
the team we’re gonna be, yeah
And when the hall comes callin’,
well, they ain’t gonna have
to holler, y’all
There’ll be no trouble finding us

[Chorus]

Can’t wait for Tomorrow Night!!!! Don’t stop believing…Hamels will start game 7…and will pitch a gem….not a solid start…that’s right a gem!!!!!!
CZ Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Marty – You could not be more wrong. There was no argument whatsoever between Myers and Hamels. How about you listen to the comments from people who were actually there and not Ny reporters trying to stir the pot.

Hamels WILL start game 7.
George Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:09 pm
Happ hasn’t been right since his injury. Might get one-two innings from him without a run scoring, but maybe not even that. Two days rest for Lee means he’s strictly an emergency option. No one else is really rested, either. At least with Hamels, the team might get four or possibly five decent innings. Even this year, he’s thrown a couple of shutouts.

As badly as he’s been of late, Hamels almost has to get the start, but should be yanked as soon as he looks even slightly shaky.

Remember, this only applies if there really is a game seven. Martinez may do very well in game six, but won’t throw a complete game, and the Phils suspect bullpen could easily cough up a fairly large lead.
Mr. Calm Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:09 pm
The big chatter out of NY today is that all their pitchers other than Rivera are spent, and it’s up to the bats to get this one done.

A slugfest from here on out?

I like Martinez’s chances in game 6. Pettitte said he had “nothing” going into game 3. How much less does he have now?

It will then be pitching pot luck for both sides if it gets to 7.

One win at a time, folks.
Marty Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:14 pm
P.S.; look at hammels since Lee arrived…..he has totally lost the mental tuffness to pitch at a high level….you can not put Hammels on the mound in game # 7 . What has he done in the home stretch and playoffs to make you think he can hang…..rememeber his famous interview where he stated ‘ he will do better when the playoffs start because there is more on the line” are you kidding me.coupled with his open disgust for Utley in the Colorado series when utley mis handled a ball and hammels threw his arms up in the air.
He imploded in the LA series and left the game giving up three runs leaving the bases loaded in 4 1/3 and Charlie pulled rthe plug……he imploded when he did not get the strike call on texshiera and gave up the HR to Arod..and continued to implode the following inning…..he`s like the guy who is even par after five holes and triples number six and is still talking about it ion the eleventh tee !! he is a mental case over thinking everyting instead of pitching…….he shook off ruiz several times to throw his curve ball during his implosion……….i do not want to see him again………hey toronto hammles for halladay ???
Phillie South Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Start Hamels and have Lee ready to close.
George Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:17 pm
All the Yanks pitchers are spent? They haven’t even used Gaudin, and CC could probably out pitch a lot of people with his left arm in a cast.

The press will elevate a wart on a pitcher’s arm to a dangerous tumor, and will mistake a yawn for a death rattle. It’s called “selling newspapers.”
Phillie South Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:20 pm
I am a lifelong Phillie but it has always annoyed me when people whine about the Yankees buying a pennant. The Yankees revenues are obscene. Why should they be faulted for putting the money back into the product rather than in their pocket?

Phillies fans castigated current management for years for doing just that.
CZ Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:21 pm
Marty – you used the word ‘tuffness’…just stop

George – If Girardi had any intention of using Guadin at all in this series he would have used him last night. In my mind the fact that he didn’t speaks pretty clearly of the amount of confidence they have in him.
Marty Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:22 pm
CZ………….LA Times reporter in locker room……Not NY reporter……..
Marty Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:32 pm
CZ……what`s up with the “man Love’ for Cole ? he is a p–ssy that cant handle his mistakes………a playoff ERA .689 Instead of tuffness does Pu–ssy work for you……..take your pick……..just my opinion……
Mike Bishop Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:33 pm
I agree with all of the above
Roy Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:39 pm
I dunno how comfortable I am with game 7 talk… and I say we cant go wrong with Lee starting and Hamels and Madson relieving. As long as Lidge doesn’t get his arm in these last two games.
Andrew Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:50 pm
How long do i have to hear about chambles?
I said day 1 series 1 vs rockies he sucks and is a cancer
Out of the debate
move on people. He isnt factored in to game 7
Andrew Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:55 pm
<<>>>

This is the kind of crap that just says to me you are losers.
There are the Cubs. They would embrace all that he is. Open arms.
I am still shocked at how accepted he is here. You all expected game 2. of every series. you expect what now? well if he pitches he will suck.
Who does he have photos of? The Chambles mafia is so strong. Ill take crap for stating the obvious. Like I did game 2 vs the rockies. When you all mauled me.
He is glad its over. Let him pitch again and it will be. you people kill me.
CZ Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 5:55 pm
No one was calling Cole Hamels a pu*sy after he blew through the postseason last year and locked down the WS MVP.

I’m not naive enough to think he’s quite the same guy right now but the truth is he isn’t far off. His confidence is clearly very thin but when he starts a game he has been very solid for 3+ innings. That would be all that would be required of him should a game 7 occur. Someone on SI.com actually wrote an article before the WS started that quoted Mike Scioscia as saying he thought the best way to beat the Yankees was to not let them see multiple at bats against any given pitcher in any given night. I’d be on board for a 3-2-2-1-1 type of inning distribution with everyone being available except for Pedro.

Its been a tough year for Hamels but let me be the first to say that regardless what happens the rest of this season he will have a HUGE year next year.
Andrew Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:03 pm
Am I out of whack here? Its inconcievable to me.
I could beat my head in with a shoe. I could put my junk in a door and slam it. But its not happening.
BUT real actual human people consider Chambles.
Its some biazarro world were he starts a game in every series and sucks and then people justify and defend him. And want to see more.
If i am out of line please tell me.
Manny Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:08 pm
We gotta win game 6 first… I hope they figure this out soon so that at least the players know who’ll start a potential game 7.

Also, don’t forget about Blanton… In my opinion, he pitched very well in game 4 and I hope he’s in the mix… He’d be on 3 days rest, not bad.
Ed R. Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:14 pm
CZ I completely agree with you in that if we need to do a pitching format of 3-2-2-1-1 I would not hesitate to do it. Including using guys like Eyre and Happ for maybe a batter or two in a lefty situation.
joedad Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:16 pm
“I say put Hamels in relief for these last two games of the year. In Game 6, should Pedro have to be removed early (say prior to the fifth inning) bring Hamels in to pitch two or three frames. That will save the likes of Happ, Blanton, and some of the tattered bullpen being run out there currently.”

You need your full arsenal available to win game 6 so you can’t save anyone. Hope for a Pedro gem but prepare for the worst. The only pitcher that should not be available in game 6 is Lee. Hamels should be an option out of the pen in game 6. He was great the first time through the lineup so if he can get 2 or 3 innings if needed, it could be huge.

The Yankees are not in that situation so they can put Gaudin in there to eat up innings if needed to save pitchers for a possible game 7 if they fall behind big early.

I am really looking forward to tomorrow’s game. I’d love to see Pedro stick it to them, to see Howard awaken, to see Pettitte on the ropes early like Burnett, to see fear in the eyes of their fans.

LET’S GO PHILS!!
CZ Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:16 pm
I might get skewered for this because people just don’t like to think beyond what they can see with their own two eyes, but consider this. Also, this is not an attempt to exonerate Cole’s performance in the postseason it is simply meant to point to the statistical anomaly that was his entire year and to illustrate he is likely to bounce back next year.

First off, Cole was extremely ‘lucky’ last year – his BABIP was .270 (well below his career average of .295. This year that number was .325. All those dinks and dunks drove this number up. BABIP almost always normalizes to career averages so next year he should regain some of that luck. His FIP is 0.07 higher than it was last year. His K/BB is better than last year and his HR/FB ratio is identical. His WHIP balooned thanks to all of those hits falling in.

Now, don’t get me wrong, like I said this does not exonerate him but I think we have to take a step back and understand that Cole isn’t going anywhere and he again will be a 1/1A starter on this team. Its that simple. He has lost his composure a lot this year and that is alarming but can any of you tell me that constantly making your pitch and having it barely miss gloves, hit the lines, creep over the fence would not frustrate you? I think he will learn to deal with that, develop another pitch and be fine next year.

If he gets the right breaks he could very well throw a gem if needed in game 7. If not the rest of the staff will be there to pick him up because that is what this team does. You don’t think, Howard, Rollins, Ibanez sympathize with him? They have all been horrible slumps at times and as a team they stick together. If you think for a second that they forget what he did for them last year you are sorely mistaken.
joedad Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:22 pm
Andrew, can you admit that Hamels was dominant the first time through the lineup?
Scott in D.C. Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:44 pm
If Hamels works on his composure and curveball, he’s right back to ‘08. Talk of trading him is insane.
Jeff of Nova Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:55 pm
Lets focus on Game 6! All Hands on deck for this game! One game at a time!

If Pedro gets it done, then I think you go with Cole. Have him on a short leash.

The bats will need to be really alive tomorrow, then its all guts for the glory of repeating!
TrappedInNYC Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 6:57 pm
Hamels will be starting game 7…just deal with that…but he will be on a short leash…we just need 3 from him and then it will be Happ/Park/Madson…I have no problem talking about game 7…
John K Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 7:16 pm
Hamels had the best K:BB of all but 12 starters in all of baseball this year. If it gets to 7 I’ll be thrilled but you have to go Hamels on a short leash. Not sure why it matters if Cliff Lee gets in in the first 2 innings or the 6th and 7th. If it’s a high leverage situation it’s a high leverage situation. I guess the hope is that he goes out for two innings to start and he’s throwing 92 with good command on his curve so you keep him out there through 5? Two days rest. Ridiculous.
John K Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 7:19 pm
PS why not move Werth to cleanup for this game? No one hits lefties like Werth and Howard seems to have no clue against a breaking ball from a southpaw. Somehow too unconventional?
j reed Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 7:22 pm
CZ – the problem with the BABIP stat in this particular case is that it can’t determine what a pitcher does to improve or worsen his odds….for example the inning of doom in game three. I have always adovacated that Hamels use his curveball, but more a spot pitch. But after he threw a nice curve to Swisher, he then proceeds to shake off Ruiz and throw two more, one of which get hit down the 3rd base line. Nick Swisher is the only batter in that line-up that is filler….he’s hitting below the Mendozza line in the post season and you throw him your worst pitch three times? Then the ulimate dumb ass move of the WS was throw that curveball to Petite. Granted Vic should take some blame for his poor defensive positioning but this is outweighed by the fact that with 1 out man on 2nd with Derek Jeter up you don’t throw a curveball cookie to a 38 year old pitcher who hasn’t swung a bat in 2 years. And even more infuriating was he shook of Ruiz. Also look at the foul ball fiestas this year. Why? Because second time thru the line-up when you know either it a straight arrow 4 seam fastball or change-up swing at anything that looks like a strike in 2 strike count. A viable third pitch will help keep batters off balance. The league finally caught up to him. and he has also had some bad luck . If he gets the right breaks he might make thru that line-up for 3 or 4 innings. The Yankees have his number. If he could get it up to 92-94 mph I think he would have more success, but a 88-90 mph 4 seamer and change-up against this line-up…luck wouldn’t be the issue because he’ll be giving up bombs once the line-up turns over. Remember, this was the first time the Yanks saw him inawile…that grace period is gone because now they can make adjustments. Look how they made adjustments against Cliff Lee. The only way he could catch them off guard is by powering it past them with something in the 92 -95 mph range.
j reed Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Andrew – your disdain for Hamels is so great I think that you secretly really like him…just foolin’
Hal Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 7:54 pm
Jamie Moyer??
Ken Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:16 pm
My opinion, I think that you have a good point: Game 7 – Have Lee start and Hamels as relief. Lee can start a game in a great way and that would take serious pressure off of Hamel. At the same time, I’ll add that we should also use Happ. He really hasn’t been used during this series and I think that him coming out strong would lead to a strong victory… unless of course Manuel uses him for relief in Game 6.
RiVLez Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:31 pm
this is what someone wrote on yahoo

“Posted by Mr. Bojangles Tue Nov 03, 2009 7:32 am EST Report Abuse
Victorino is the most annoying person in baseball. I give him 3-4 more seasons before his testes are shriveled and nerves are shot from the roids and greenies he’s slamming. Just another prematurely balding over-caffeinated blow-hard on a team full of trash-talkers.”

I agree with this guy on Victorino. I can’t stand the guy, he talks all this crap about celebrating but he does it more than anyone. Not everyone on the Phillies is a trash talker.
christopher Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:31 pm
no point in talking game 7 right now. let’s talk about what they need to do to win tomorrow night.
Stee Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:34 pm
Yeah, game 6 is going to be difficult and if we can force a game seven i’ll be pretty thrilled whoever they start. That said, I’d start Happ on a very short leash, with Hamels backing up. But definitely Happ over Hamels at this point, and i don’t think they’d seriously consider starting anyone other than Happ or Hamels. Lee on 2 days rest seems unlikely if Manuel decided already decided against pitching him on 3 days rest. And I wouldn’t really consider pitching Blanton on 3 days either.

For me the arguable advantage that we have now is that Sabathia has thrown a lot over the past couple weeks, and we can potentially get to him more than we have in either of his prior 2 starts. I feel like trying to rush Lee on 2 days gives away that advantage. Happ’s a gamble, but i think he’s our best shot at throwin 6+ innings of 3 run or less ball. i.e. keeping us in the game.

That said, if it happily gets to this point, my guess is that Manuel would do the reverse and start Hamels on a really short leash.
RiVLez Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:37 pm
Hey guys lets just talk about game 7 because game 6 is already over!
Andrew Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:46 pm
The first sign of trouble he folded.
Regardless of my opinion on him I dont think he will be around. Compared to alot of the fans I am rational.
The comments and the way he is carring himself dont play here. they do in LA though.
christopher Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:50 pm
the team clearly had a gameplan for burnett last night and it worked like a charm. what will the approach with pettitte be after they handled him fairly well last time around? will it be better to be patient with him pitching on short rest for the first time in so long, trying to wear his arm out early… or should they try to jump out on him like they did with AJ?
Andrew Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:52 pm
Im really more upset that when I posted before series 1 that he hadnt earned it i took a ton of crap. There is a Hamels mafia that is protective of him unlike say J roll.
How dare I say he not be pitching. where is the Happ mafia? Happ earned starts and hasnt gotten them. And you read this column and they want to see Chambles. I dont. He is glad its over i thought?
I want to win. to me he doesnt accomplish that. If OJ simpson could come in and win id support him. Or charles manson. I am not about bashing anyone. I just see him as a no win situation.
Stee Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 8:54 pm
To RiVLez, it’s possible the discussion about who they should start in game 7 is because we all know who’s starting in game 6. I don’t think anyone’s taking game 6 for granted, but we know roughly what it’s going to look like at the start of the game.

If they lose game 6 then they lose game 6, but to win the world series they’ve got to win two games… no harm in thinking about how those could play out.
j reed Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 9:12 pm
Andrew- i don’t want to see Hamels but we may not have a choice to use him in some capacity if we go to a game 7.
joedad Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Andrew, just say , “Hamels dominated the first time through the lineup in game 3.” It may be therapeutic.
Papa Thompson Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 9:42 pm
A friend of mine suggested Myers starting in 7. That kind of blew my mind, if only for the possible Myers v. CC ABs. Nine-pitch walk, anyone?

I personally can’t see Charlie going with anybody but Hamels though.

The bigger question for 6 and 7 might be, what happens if Shane doesn’t play? I’d think either Raul or Werth would move to the 2-hole, but I think you could make an argument for Chooch hitting there. And you’d definitely have leeway to get Howard out from behind Utley, without hurting any feelings.
Papa Thompson Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Rollins SS
Ibanez LF
Utley 2B
Werth CF
Howard 1B
Chooch C
Feliz 3B
Stairs DH
Ben Fran RF

I know Stairs against the lefties makes little sense, but neither does Bruntlett, Dobbs or a Mayberry call-up. So I’ll take a shot with Stairs down in the line-up.
Heidi Hamels Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 10:01 pm
I would rather see Jamie Moyer start Game 7 then Hamels. He has NO value as a pitcher right now.
j reed Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 10:17 pm
Heavy B. could go on three days rest esp. as he had a little more rest during the post season in the pen. He never gets the props he deserves. Had it not been for Ut’s attempted glove flip he would have held them to 3.
NLEastFan Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 10:25 pm
When we get to game seven, I think Chuck should let Lee pitch the first trip through the line up, Cole the second JA the third. A new pitcher every time up for the Yankee batters regardless of how well he is pitching. It will keep the hitters off kilter because they wont get a second look at any one pitcher’s stuff. Who cares if the bullpen works allot. From Friday on they can rest.
chuckS Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 10:28 pm
I think that if there is a game 7 Cole should start. I believe that Cole has the talent to pitch in big games. I like the idea of having Cole start with Lee in the pen, if Lee startes do you really feel good with Cole coming in relief.
Foul Hal Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 10:46 pm
Hamels should start game 7, with a very short lead. We should have Blanton ready to roll, along with Myers for an inning or two. Martinez will pitch well in game 6 but will need relief around inning 7. Hopefully we will get to Pettitte. Game 7 could also see Lee pitch an inning or two.
j reed Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 11:04 pm
MLB Network Poll has 54% for Petite, 46% for Pedro. I don’t put any stock in this of course but its funny 37 yr. old on 3 days rest didn’t have much in the tank last start and yet….i like being underestimated. Howard’s swing is coming back and his eye is much better. Alot of check swings on the junk in the dirt. Still he struggled but i saw signs…
Mike Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 11:06 pm
I think we would see a starter by committee approach in game 7. Happ, Hamels, Myers and Lee could each go 1-3 innings. No way Charlie should count on a quality start from Hamels in that game. His body of work this postseason is always the same…a few quality innings followed by implosion. No reason to expect it will change now.
Joe Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 11:15 pm
@Papa – don’t forget we’re playing that game in an AL park, where pitchers don’t bat.
j reed Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 11:17 pm
joedad – Hamels did dominate the line-up thru three innings but he also had the benefit of not being seen for awhile.
Mazinman Says:
November 3rd, 2009 at 11:44 pm
Management of starting pitchers has suddenly become a very big deal in these World Series and its creating doubt on what should have been an easy win for the Yankees after a 3-1 lead.

Going to a three man rotation has put the Yankees in danger. While Sabathia did a good job on Sunday he did not look as good as he did in game 1. Burnett dominated the Phils in game 2 but then got rocked in game 3. Now they are in a position of having Pettitte on short rest against a Pedro Martinez who has looked good in the playoffs on full rest. If we can pull that one off the Yanks will have to throw out Sabathia on short rest again. Kinda ironic that game 4, the most infuriating game in this post season for us, might end up being what wins us this thing. We need to learn from this lesson and not rush to pitch Lee, even as tempting as it is, if there are any doubts.

Ok, enough game 7, back to thinking about game 6.

Pedro vs. Andy is a battle of two veterans of the post season. Pedro has an advantage in that he has his full rest. Utley is in one of those zones he gets into when he hits homers like they were nothing. However I think the key will be to finally stop handicapping ourselves. Throughout this World Series we have been playing with one arm tied behind our back with Howard’s struggles. If he can pick it up then we can that game and what lies beyond.

Winning 3 straight with two being on the road is not impossible, the Yankees just did that to us. All we need to do is return the favor. Early scoring is always early but especially so in this game. If we can score early it puts more and more pressure on the Yankees.
Manny Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:01 am
In 24 hours we’ll know if the dream will still be alive….

AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
goosebumps Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:20 am
Game 7
Gets posponed due to inclimate weather.

Hamels pitches 3 innings.
Blanton/happ come in for 4 more.
Park/eyre/madson come in.

Lidge comes in to close…puts the go ahead run on.

Charlie makes an unbeLEEvable move and has Lee finish out the game!!!

WOOO
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:48 am
Maziman – i think howard’s about to turn the corner….to me where we have hanicapped ourselves the most is in the field. Ut’s muffed play in game and the inexcusable failure to cover 3rd in the 9th inning of that game of pain, Ibanez missing that flyball and J-Roll’s hiccup on that groundball last night which extended Yankees rallies. Also Werth getting picked off in game 2.
Rob Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:14 am
You cannot pitch Hamels out of the pen. If this season has told us anything it is that he is not a reliever. I don’t like the idea of bringing him in with runners on base and the New York crowd rocking. He does not have the mental toughness to handle that. Maybe if you can bring him in to start and inning and then go a couple, but if he has to pitch, and he probably does, then I’d rather see him start. But the bottom line is that we gotta win tomorrow or it is a moot point…and we gotta score runs……lots of them.
Rob Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:20 am
Goosebumps- That would be really cool, but really, if game 7 is postponed a day, then you HAVE to pitch Lee. Not using him until the bottom of the 9th? Are you serious?
Andrew Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:05 am
OK
Just saw Coles apology on MLB network. It is concievable he could be used without me having a hemmorage. I may even possibly want him used.
Andrew Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:06 am
Thats all I wanted. Want to pitch want to be good. When yuo catch a bad break be a man. I mean there are 2 games left.
Brian of CO Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:20 am
Game 7, what game 7? Lets get through Game 6 first and IF the Phillies take them, then we discuss that other game. The Phillies need to play for today, today, and worry about tomorrow, tomorrow, because if they forget about today, there wont be a tomorrow, and I think we should route for the team the way they NEED to play. As for using hamels, I have seen some people say “tuffness” (toughness). Um, I dont think Cole Hamels has been accused of Toughness this season at all. Maybe Brett Myers starting the little spat in the locker room will help foster some toughness, but Cole has been called “Hollywood”, “Queen” and “Princess” for a reason this season. Also is it really possible to say Cole “WILL” have a huge season next year and say this because of how he pitched last season? 08 was 08, he was WICKED in 08, 07 he was also good, but I wouldnt say he was as great. So it shows he improved from 07 to 08, and then worse 08 to 09. The point is, the sample size IMO is too small to say he will be back or now. Brad Lidge has a sample size MUCH larger. That sample size says last year at being “perfect” was a bit of an anomaly, however it also says his HORRID 09 season also is a bit of an anomaly.
Brian of CO Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:24 am
Ive been one of the most critical of Hamels this year because after everystart whether BAD or GREAT, it was the same “man love” and I got REALLY tired of it. But now after he opened his mouth about wanting it over, and his team mates took him to task, whether joking or not, I think is not PISSED, and I think this is a good way to test him and see if he has any “toughness” or “cajones” at all. Problem is, if he used, and pitches the same way he did in the 4th or 5th inning of game 5, he might not make it back into Philly alive. Same goes for Lidge, if he blows a save opportunity, I wouldnt be surprised if something changed.
tbone Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:32 am
listen, we get to a game seven its a toss up….girardi may give us this series yet!!! The Lee thing on two days rest is nuts
tbone Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:33 am
by the way can we get the time stamp to work with daylights saving time? come on alreadyt
Andrew Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:50 am
Lidge is kind of a sad figure. I cannot get mad at him like i do cole.
the way Coles carried himself all year just rubs me wrong.
Lidge just is terrible. I dont dislike Brad the way i can Cole.
Brian of CO Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:04 am
WOW, Alert the Media Andrew, we agree on something! LOL.
Brooks Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:04 am
Nobody on the Phils can look at game 7 now, it has to be 1 game at a time, so focus on game 6.

All the chatter seems to indicate that all of us (OK, me too) think that Pedro will pitch well. We certainly hope so but, just like a shift on Texiera, what is the contingency plan? If Pedro does not do well, who comes out of the pen?

Bullpen possibilities for game 6:
Meyers – has not fared well
Chan Ho – possible
Eyre – always tough for up to an inning
Durbin – ??
Bastardo – (I don’t know if he is on the roster for the WS)

Can these 5 guys muster a decent 5 or 6 innings?

It’s all up to the offense – Nobody can expect more out of Chase – we need to see Howard, Werth, Ruiz & Raul step up in the spotlight. The offense needs to take care of this game for the Phils to continue.
Brian of CO Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 8:17 am
I agree about Chase. We can NOT rely on him anymore. He has carried the Offense for most of the series(what happened to the idiots that wanted to get rid of Ultey after his poor field play in the game 1 and 2 of the NLCS? LOL). If Utley continues, AWESOME, but we do need Howard to find that home run stroke again. If Howard can find that Home Run stroke and any of the 1-3 hitters reach base, the Phillies will be tough, if Howard continues on what he has done thus far Sadly, I think the series tonight. Like we said after game 2. It doesnt matter who pitches if youre offense only scores 1 run.
Chase Ultley - U R the Man Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 8:30 am
What a great series this has been! I have a new found respect for the Yankees. Two very evenly matched teams with a ton of heart <3 The Phillies will win the series Thursday night in the Bronx!

I am already planning ahead to the parade which will probably be Sat Nov 7. Hotel rooms, restaurants, and barrels of ice cold beer ;^)

GO PHILLIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 8:41 am
Vicente! You’re alive! And you’re a terrible shot…
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 8:46 am
hahahaha, you beat me to it Chuck P. Well done.
JBW Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 9:24 am
At High Noon today, let’s all take a moment, close our eyes, and silently join Richie, Tug, and Harry, as we put our hearts and heads together to help our Phils make history. The power of good forces working together can’t be disproved…this just might work. Anybody in?
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 9:39 am
Noon according to what time zone?
christopher Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:00 am
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/hiestand-tv/2009-11-03-world-series-tv-ratings_N.htm

“Philadelphia’s local TV ratings have topped all other markets for every Series game, including its 41% rating for Game 5 compared to New York’s 28.7%”
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:04 am
Probably because Met’s fan’s refuse to watch. Can’t say I blame them.
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:21 am
Consider this guys (heard Krukker say this today)… and I think that this is something that Chollie has to consider.

Vic is questionable… Chase is in an otherworldly groove… Pettitte is a lefty… Howard has been pretty awful… Werth has been phenomenal…

Why not switch up the lineup?

Lead off with J-Roll, Utley 2nd, Werth 3rd (for protection), Howard 4th, Ibanez 5th (DH), Vic 6th, Feliz 7th, Ruiz 8th, Ben Fran 9th (LF).

You’ve split up the lefties and provided better protection for Utley…

Re: their approach tonight…

I think that we have to attack Andy Pettitte… I think that he’s entering this game with big question marks hanging over his head and he’s going to want to throw strikes early and often. There’s a good chance that he’s not going to be sharp and if we can tater ball a few hangers early, we can keep him from finding his rhythm.

Pedro has to be very careful… this Yankee lineup is going to be anxious and he can use that to his advantage. He doesn’t necessarily have to throw strikes… get them to chase some balls and use the changeup to keep them leaning.

Today is going to be a very non-productive workday!
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:34 am
Chuck P, you didn’t split up the lefties per say. You went from having Utley and Howard back to back to Howard and Ibanez back to back.

Now I don’t disagree with Kruks thinking at all but I don’t see him making a lineup change. You saw what fluctuating lineups can do to a team when Torre put out a new lineup what seemed like every game.

That being said, if I were Charlie and were considering changing it up I would go Rollins, Utley, Werth, Howard, Francisco, Ibanez, Victorino, Feliz, Ruiz.

Now you are looking at S, L, R, L, R, L, S, R, R. Have fun trying to match arms with that.

I do agree we need to attack Pettitte and try and jack his pitch count up early. Their bullpen, like ours is dead tired. If we can get to it in the 6th then that is a god thing. Girardi does not have to go all in tonight like Charlie does so we really need to try and get ahead early.

If I was Pedro I would not pitch to Matsui at all, dude owns Petey.
bfo_33 Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:38 am
Chuck P – I agree with approach, one minor change in the BA – squeeze Chooch between Rollins and Utley. While not a burner, he’s got enough speed for 2nd, can bunt, tends to hit the opposite way (move the runner), and has a better chance to have guys in scoring position for the heart of the order vs a hurtin Vic. I doubt Petite throws Utley anything, love the idea of having him on base in front of Werth. Based on Monday, Howard is seeing the ball better, but his swing still wasn’t right. Game 2 killed him when the strike zone was moved 4″ over, but I think he breaks out tonight. Go Phils!
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:51 am
Krukker actually suggested Vic bat 5th… I did not feel like that was the best move. I think that you still have to protect Ryan Howard. I also feel like it’s not advisable to jostle the order too much… true, you’re not completely splitting up the lefties but it’s better than going Utley, Howard, Werth… regardless, that’s not the primary reason for making this switch. The primary reasons would be to protect Chase Utley and to not be relying on Shane Victorino and his sore hand. At some point, the Yankees are going to start pitching around him, especially if there are two outs. If you have Jayson Werth behind Utley and a lefty pitching, they might give Utley some pitches to hit.
Manny Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:56 am
No need to worry about our lefties in a row. Last time I checked, Utley and Ibanez hit two bombs against a lefty. Don’t forget their strong numbers against LHP all season long. Leave the lineup as it is. You don’t want them to try to do things different from what they’re doing right now.

GO PHILS!!!!!!!!!
Mike Bishop Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:56 am
I think the thing we all have to remember through the next 36-40 hours of our lives that will be completely emotionally draining, is that Charlie will less likely to do something crazy like switch Howard & Werth in the line-up, or do some crazy pitching stuff. I think we can all agree that there’s some stuff he needs to think about and probably do, but at the same time he’ not going to blow up his clubhouse. It’s a delicate balance in this situation and there are A LOT of tough decisions to make, but that’s his job I guess. If we win this thing, he’ll walk on water, if not, we’ll burn him at the stake.

So, I’ll say this: Good Luck Charlie.
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:57 am
I just need Howard to hit one ball hard and then I can feel like he is going to come out of it sometimes soon…like in the 3rd inning.
Ben Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 10:59 am
it tics me off how all these former phillies now are suggesting ways to improve the line up. mitch was on 97.5 saying how cole should not pitch the rest of this year then krukker is suggesting moving the lineup around. there is a reason they are in the booth and not in the dugout.

its just frustrating b/c its easy to get in front of a mic and say “this is what should be done” in an isolated environment, but in real life things don’t work like that and they should know that. cole will start game 7, why? b/c you can’t start a guy who has started once in 30+ days in the biggest game of the year. no one likes it, i don’t feel comfortable about it, but thats what you do b/c thats the only thing you can do.

charlie won’t move the order b/c you don’t make drastic order changes this late in october. maybe move a guy up or down a slot, but vic batting 5th! he hasn’t done it all year. guys succeed in roles b/c they are in those roles. ruiz is on fire, but he is partly on fire b/c he hits in the 8/9 hole. werth is on fire partly b/c of the slot he hits in, you move him to 3rd i guaruntee he gets jumpy and strikes out more.

sorry for the rant, its just frustrating b/c when guys like that say stuff and a lot of people listen and think it makes sense because of who they are.
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:17 am
hahahaha

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/10315258/Chamberlain
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:33 am
jreed, great minds think alike. I think Howard’s better eye last game shows that he is seeing the ball better and clobbering time is soon to follow.

Utley didn’t look good against Pettitte the first time around, but then again he didn’t look too good against Burnett the first time around. I like the idea of moving Werth behind Utley especially since Werth took the rested Pettitte deep twice in game 3.

The lineup of Rollins, Utley, Werth, Howard, Ibanez, Victorino, Francisco, Feliz, Ruiz makes sense. The first 3 in this lineup are getting on base. Rollins OBP is .417 in the WS. He is hitting like a leadoff guy, fouling pitches off, taking walks. It is a thing of beauty. If they pitch around Utley, they need to deal with the lefty-crusher Werth. If they pitch around Werth, they get Howard, then Raul, then a pissed off Victorino.
Bonezy Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:33 am
WHEN there is a game seven, I wouldn’t put that whinny little prick in at all. who knows what you are going to get. I say start Lee for 2-3 Innings, then Blanton, 2-3 innings, then the kitchen sink, and maybe the stove until we get to LIGHTS OUT LIDGE!. It is going to happen, we have the “Ghost of Harry the K” with us… DESTINY!
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:36 am
Ed R, as much as I hate the Yankees, I feel bad for the guy. He is pitching in the World Series and his mom does this??? Look at her mugshot and try not to hurl.
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:37 am
Can we please for the love of Christ stop talking about game 7? Please.
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:37 am
Padilla’s a stupid thug. Got what he deserved. Idiot..

_______

As for tonight…..I agree…we need to get to Pettitte early….he’s gonna come out throwing strikes (ahem….Ryan Howard???….). The lineup changes that are being suggested are appealing…..but Cholly probably isn’t going to mess with it. Same approach as Monday. Get runners on early and get to the meat of the order for some RISP action. Give Pedro a lead to work with and he’ll be fine.
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:38 am
You make solid points, Ben… normally I would agree with you 100% and this is not like me to suggest somehting unorthodox but I’m worried about Vic. He’s still day to day and I’m not so sure that he’s ready to swing a bat… I would hate to see him that high up in the order if he’s not able to grip a bat. Chollie has went with order before… I don’t see a reason why he wouldn’t do it again. It’s not crazy… it’s not that far fetched and I don’t think that it’s that disruptive.
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:39 am
Ed R. ……

I agree….Guys… no more Game 7 talk. Like I’ve been preaching all week…ONE GAME AT A TIME
Ben Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:43 am
the phils need to selectively agressive. they need to attack pettite’s strikes, but also when he gets wild let him get wild. we can’t bail him out by swinging at bad pitches.

for the most part the phils have been doing this, htey just need to continue it. i agree that we can probably look for early meatballs from him.

interesting, but pettite had to be sat down in august or september due to a tired arm. now he’s pitched an extra month, and he looked not so great on extra rest in game 3. again, get his count up and pound him early.
Ben Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:46 am
original, if its his hand than thats a different scenario and i agree with you. then i say you move him down to 7 or something. if its an issue with his hand he should not be higher than that.

also, keep in mind he’s swinging right handed today to start. less pressure on his right hand on the right side.
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:48 am
I feel bad for the guy too, no one should have to deal with that as a distraction as well as most likely defend his mother to the media. But at the same time, what is mother did is somewhat laughable. Pathetic as it may be.
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:51 am
By the way, I only suggest a lineup change if Victorino isnt 100%. If he is at 75%, he is still a better option than the bench.
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:52 am
You have to respect Joba for what he has been able to overcome… his mom’s a drug addict, his dad is confined to a motor scooter (polio), he took a year off after high school to work to help pay bills and started his collegiate career at a Nebraska satellite campus. Interestingly, the Yankees drafted him 41st in the 2006 MLB draft… a pick they received as compensation from the Phillies for Tom “Flash” Gordon.

With that being said, I wouldn’t be that upset if this news serves as a temporary distraction for Joba.
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 11:56 am
I agree Original. I would never wish bad things on anyone even A-Rod but while this series is going on and we have guys like Hamels saying what he is and guys like Myers being idiots then its about time some news that is less than flattering hits the Yankees.

And while we are at it, how does a complete and total douche like Nick Swisher get someone like Joanna Garcia? At least Jeter is a stand up guy who is actually good at what he does. Swisher? What has he ever done besides wear an awful mohawk and take part in some gross tongue ritual with Johnny “I would never play for the Yankees” Damon?
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
Johnny Damon’s a Neanderthal…..ever hear the guy talk?….He makes the Geico cavemen seem like Albert Einstein.
JD Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Will the real Ryan Howard please stand up. And shave that damn beard its not working for you!!
Manny Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:49 pm
haha JD… I was thinking the same! Shave that beard and he’ll be back getting some key hits!
Georgie Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:52 pm
Since I’m not a big fan of facial hair, my husband decided to shave his beard late Sunday night after that nasty game. Imagine how thrilled I was to wake up to a porn ’stache Monday morning, but given the results of Monday night’s game, I told him he has to keep it as is until the series is over. I’m not sure how much longer I can live with (My Name Is) Earl…
Mike D. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 12:57 pm
The real Ryan Howard was doomed for the series when he ended up on the cover of SI.
Ed R. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Well given that excellent with by the Rams, your husband might be inclined to keep the porn ’stache for a little longer.
Seth Lempert Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
I think what your saying is right Pat. Hamels is very good early on, and if there is a game 7 is all or nothing at that point. Game 7 is still a long shot away, so will see what happens.
Georgie Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:04 pm
Ed, don’t even SUGGEST that, I didn’t think about that until you brought it up, so I’m not mentioning it to him. Hopefully, HE hasn’t linked the two together, that thing’s GOT to go!
Mike D. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:14 pm
@Georgie, I believe that if you are a fan, you will live with whatever good-luck behavior anyone else exhibits for as long as necessary, so long as it isn’t unhygienic. Lucky shirt, shoes, and pants, but underwear must be washed. That’s my philosophy.

Come on PHILS! Get this!
beta sigma shag Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:20 pm
All this crap about game seven, Can we win tonight first! It is going to be a bull pen game if the Phillies are going to have a chance is this one. If you let AP settle down he could go 7, the bats have to stay strong and chase him after 3 or 4 at the most. If Pedro can go 6 strong and give up 2 runs while the phillies score 4 or 5 I think that is all you can realistily expect. Would love to see them break out the whipping stick and put up double digits in the first 5 or 6 innings and leave no doubt about game 7.
And all the Cole Brett stuff is a joke, Brett did not hear Cole’s comments before he told a reporter who asked him where Cole was and he said “he quit” Cole heard him and said FU. they did not get into a fight, and Listen or read the whole interview before you jump down a guys throat. The question was what if there is no game 7. When asked about game 7 he said he wanted the ball. THis is a media story, this team has his back they know him, and know he did not quit on them. So get over it and win tonight
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:21 pm
Unhygienic? Eff that… I’ve been wearing the same pair of vinegar smelling drawers for almost two years!
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:29 pm
My socks are starting to get sticky..hopefully, I won’t be changing them til Friday…
Michael Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
Anyone nervous but me?
Bruce Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:10 pm
Why be nervous Michael? As the song says..Que sera, sera (whatever will be, will be). Usually the better team wins. And the Yankees have never lost a World Series with a 3 games to 1 lead ( 8 times). Just enjoy the World Series. I’m rooting for Utley to win the MVP. And if the Phillies lose, it would be only the second time in history that a player won the MVP for a losing team. Name the other player, team and year.
bob Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:13 pm
@ Michael

Damn right I’m nervous. I get butterflies before each playoff game and I’m not the one on the field.

I think the time has come for the Phils to jump out early for once, give Pedro a little breathing room. I really think Pedro has what it takes to keep the Yanks off balance. If he can turn in another 6+ 3R performance, we are gonna be in damn good shape to force game 7.

The Yankees have an advantage having the lead and being at home, but anything positive the Phils do puts the pressure on them. If they can jump out early it should suck the life out of Yankee Stadium, maybe the Yanks tighten up a bit.

I think we need to take the same approach as we did against Burnett, do not let Pettite pump in first pitch fastballs for strikes. He made Utley look silly with 2 strikes in Game 3.
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:52 pm
bob….

You’re right with the “jumping out early” approach…..but we DID that with Hamels on Saturday in Game 3…only to have him sh!t the bed…hopefully Pedro will take better advantage of that..
Keith Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 2:55 pm
we need to score more than one run for Pedro.
Georgie Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:07 pm
Mike D., I washed my Ryan Howard Reading Phils t-shirt after he went on that hot streak, and all of a sudden he went cold as ice, I KNEW it was a bad thing to do, I think I’ll dirty it up for tonight’s game!

Bruce, love that song, my mom used to sing it to me when I was little…

And yep, I am nervous as sh!t.

GO PHILLIES!!!!!!!
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:15 pm
Be nervous but don’t forget to appreciate this for what it is because this is as good as it gets. Pedro Martinez versus Andy Pettitte at Yankee Stadium… Game 6 of the World Series… the New York Yankees against our Fightin Phils, the defending World Champs… Top dogs in both leagues squaring off for a chance to make history!

I couldn’t feel any better… sure, I’m nervous but this is awesome. Rewind the clocks 5 years and just IMAGINE how you would respond to the suggestion that one day Pedro Martinez would be pitching a pivotal game 6 of the World Series for our Phillies in Yankee stadium… seriously, you couldn’t have dreamt this up if you tried. When we signed Pedro, we all hoped and suggested that his tenacity and experience could help us win another title… this is it, fellas. Pedro Martinez in PHILLIES RED pinstripes pitching for our chance to make history. After all, the Phillies have NEVER played in a game 7 in postseason history.

All the pressure is on them and we’re simply playing the roles we’ve been playing since day one; home wreckers and party spoilers. Don’t ever count this team out… they won’t disappoint.
Manny Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:17 pm
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! CAN’T F*CKING WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
shag beta sigma delta Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
I have been saying it all WS, I feel good about this game tonight, and game 7 is what it is if we get there.
But win tonight or not win tomorrow night or not. This team has defended it title well, and will be back next year and for years to come so appreciate that, I know that is not like some of you on here, and it is hard to do.
Lets make this a classic and go to game seven,
I am nervous and I have to work till like 9:30- 10 pm, but I will be very derelict in my managerial duties because I will be standing in the bar watching the game.
GO PHILLIES
bob Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
@Chuck

very true about Cole. I think with Pedro on the hill and an early lead may send some shock waves through Yankee Stadium and maybe the Yankees themselves. We’ve all seen their recent history with the pressure on in the postseason. On the road, most teams tend to play looser and that’s what you saw from the Yankees in Games 3-4.

There is not as much pressure on the Phillies, barely anyone that is not associated with the Phillies expect them to come out and take this game or a potential game tomorrow night.

With the Yankees their 27th championship is expected and if things don’t go their way early their fans will clam up and their team might grip those bats a little bit tighter, ala Game 1.
christopher Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
i am nervous for the first time really this entire WS. last postseason (and the year before) i had big time butterflies for just about every game. this year it’s been different now that they’ve won the big one. i’ll get a bit on edge for a game here and there, but this WS in particular i’ve been laid back. tonight though… i can feel the butterflies already, and we’re 5+ hours away! but it’s a good feeling, it’s the type of excitement that keeps me coming back for more every year.
SpinJamin Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:29 pm
GO PHILLIES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! CAN’T F*CKING WAIT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I’m right there with you Manny.

I haven’t been able to concentrate at work for weeks. Today is no exception. It is less nerves than anticipation. I wanted a clean sweep but a win tonight gives us at an even more exciting conclusion.
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:43 pm
Looks like Manny and joedad are nervous…well……SO AM I!!!!!!!!!!!!
TrappedInNYC Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:50 pm
I am not worried…I work here in NYC and all the Faux Yankees fans are crapping in their bloomers…the Phils will just take care of business and pound Pettitte…even the dumbest Yankee fans know what they are up against
U Gotta Believe Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 3:51 pm
does anyone else see it as ironic that our song High Hopes repeats the phrase “Oops there goes another rubber tree plant” 3 times…since we have to win 3 straight games from the Yanks…High Hopes baby…Phillies will win this game and tomorrow’s game.

Espn commerical: Colin Cowherd ask J Roll if the Phillies are going to win tonight.
Rollins response: Please!

Rollins set the tone and BIG PIECE is have a game tonight….Pedro silence the whose your daddy chants…and tell them: “I like it when you call me big Poppa!”

U Gotta Believe: HK you will never be forgotten and this one is for you!
HK Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 4:11 pm
Thank you everyone..Thank you for not forgetting me.
Richie Ashburn Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 4:12 pm
Looks like you’re still really popular, Harry.
HK Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 4:14 pm
You’re right, Whitey.

That’s because you have to have…..

High Hopes!!
Pat Gallen Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
I love it. No one can concentrate at work, everyone is on a phillies high. And even though they are down, doesnt it make it feel even more special? People are still positive and I love that, it’s awesome.

Tonight will be a huge night in Phillies history, and I can’t wait to be watching.
shag beta sigma delta Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 4:16 pm
Anticipation more than worried, This is a great Phillies team, I think one of the best of all Phillies’ teams, I am proud of them, and know they will be in contention for years to come, now lets blow this game up and shut them down early.
Harry Kalas Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 4:44 pm
Sorry HK, put please stop.. I changed the name to Harry Kalas after we lost to the Brewers on Sat nite during the regular season for Good Luck. And guess what? We’re still here… No offense dude, but please don’t post as HK anymore for the rest of the 2009 season. Thank you.

-Food for thought. The Yankees are trying to win what would be their 27th World Series title. Who has been the biggest thorn in their side this WS? Even more so than Cliff Lee?…. Chase Utley. And what number does Mr. Chase “Reggie Jackson” Utley wear?? _ _……..
Manny Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:00 pm
I need to edit this long-a$$ paper for work but I can’t… I just can’t.
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:06 pm
Yeah, there is only room for one HK here.

Who knows how Joe West calls balls and strikes?
U Gotta Believe Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Harry Kalas:
More Food for thought:

Right now, the Yanks have 0 world series titles in their new stadium…

The average IQ of yankee fans is 1.

0 + 1 = 1.

Chase Utley is number 26 and he’s handing it to the Yanks right now.

2 + 6 = 8.

1 combined with 8 is 18.

There were 18 terrorists participating in the attacks during 9/11

Therefore, the yankees and their fans are terrorists!

Just kiddin Yankee fans…buddy at work thought this up…I thought it was pretty funny!
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:18 pm
I was thinking about what pitches Pedro brought to the last game…the one pitch that I didn’t really see was that two seamer with that late movement he was dealing against the Dodgers. I am hoping to to see it tonight. Pedro knows he has to bring something different to the table tonight. I hope there is no bad blood between him the ump Joe West. If he can get good sink on that two seamer and throw it for strikes we could see alot of groundball outs (praying). Plus, Pedro, for having such a late start is at a point where he could be peaking. I also think he has an extra gear….I heard Kruk talking about how Petite was saying that we was making up pitches towards the the later innings of his last start because he had nothing left. Aside from all the hoohaw about sign stealing which supposedly was the reason for all the mound visits I think they were stalling to give Petite a little more rest between pitches. I feel that Howard and Ibanez unleash hell tonight….like Howard, Ibanez has been taking those swings that looked like he was playing badminton, until that moonshot. I think those guys struggled to time the loopy offspeed stuff from Petite and they try to compensate by slowing down there bat speed….And let’s face it they are HULK SMASH BALL guys…leave the blooper swings and chipshots to Juan Pierre’s and Jeter’s. I think their timing has come around. HULK SAYS PHILLIES SMASH LITTLE WHITE BALL
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:22 pm
Joedad – Joe West Info
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/a-zone-of-their-own
Scroll down towards the end if you don’t want to plod thru the article
Scott in D.C. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:23 pm
I’ve got a prediction for tonight: Whoever scores the most runs will win.

Now I’m going to go throw up from neurasthenia.
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:35 pm
Thanks j reed. I saw John finger’s tweet complaining about him. Good to hear he should have a fair strikezone.
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:36 pm
Scott – What’s ” neurasthenia” ….nervous stomach?
oaklandphilsphan Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
lineup just posted

Rollins (S) SS
Victorino (S) CF
Utley (L) 2B
Howard (L) 1B
Werth (R) RF
Ibanez (L) DH
Feliz (R) 3B
Francisco (R) LF
Ruiz (R) C
Ben Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:43 pm
whats the rocky video that they put up during the games? its starts with adrian telling him he has to fight i think. i looked on youtube and couldn’t find it.
ViennaPhilliesFan Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:44 pm
I’m not overly confident about tonight’s crucial game but I am hopeful and will be cheering like awesome for a Phillies victory and then a Game 7!! I can’t contribute any better analysis than already has been written by the Phillies Nation experts but I like listening to music before games to help ease the anticipatory tension and get stoked for the game. Today I have been listening to the Austrian emo-rock singer Son of the Velvet Rat and his awesome song “Sleeping Stars” in honor of the Phillies. The lyrics have in them about putting the ghosts of the past to rest and waiting for the night to come alive like sleeping stars to shine brightly in the sky. I sure hope our Phillies stars shine supernova bright tonight in the New York sky.
(attaching a link to the song in case anyone else wants to listen and wait for this star filled night)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zCbhTEbRRWc
Scott in D.C. Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
J reed — I’m exaggerating. It’s a rather serious debility — nervous-breakdown-type stuff.
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:46 pm
VIC IN THE LINEUP = THANK EFFING GOODNESS…
Lei Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:47 pm
At this point, I just want to win the game tonight. Go Phils!
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:54 pm
Joedad – Apparently though the Phillies teams in the ’90’s didn’t get along we’ll with West. Don’t think it’s an issue now, but could be at home…Doubt that to but all it could take is a handful of hecklers recalling the 90’s years… I’m sure St. Pedro knows his umps as does Petite. I can’t help think that Pedro’s due…I mean sporting that Jheri-Curl, Yankees stadium, Ut on the verge of “you know undoing that thing done by that other guy” Can’t say it out loud …Baseball Gods and alll. But don’t you think Petite is nervous about being the guy how throws the pitch to Ut that you know breaks something and in their house.
Manny Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
Vic’s in the lineup… phewwww!
karen Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:57 pm
I just cannot see the Yankees losing tonight. Trust me, I want to believe. I want to believe that this team that we have loved for so long and watched since march will pull it off but this is the Yankees. Once again, look at the payroll………that may not mean everything but Arod’s salary is about the same as the entire pirates salaries. it is just not balanced which will lead to inequality. Yes, the yankees fans and bandwagoners will just call us whiners but I think there is a geenral consensus that there needs to be some cap.
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 5:58 pm
Esp with that 314 ft fence out in right field…
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:06 pm
Alright Bowa is really pushing it…first with the sign stealing crap and talking about how Pedro does pitch in the cold …something about skipping starts in Denver….Didn’t Pedro play in MONTREAL, the wonderful trropical climate of Boston. Bowa I now your an old school gamer and your loyal to your team your working for right now so your just not gonna give an inch against a rival but just keep it to yourself.
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:08 pm
Whoops my 314 ft cooment goes with the comment I made right before Manny’s comment
The Original Chuck P Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:10 pm
Bowa = Sour Ex-Employee of the World Champion Phillies
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
“I just cannot see the Yankees losing tonight.”

Well……I CAN!!!!!

If you want to believe and DO believe…..that’s good. The more positive energy flowing the Phillies way (yeah, I know that sounds really wifty..) then the better chance they have.
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
Saturday, November 3, 2001, Yankees hold a 3 games to 2 lead on the Diamondbacks. The legendary Andy Pettitte is on the mound for the Yankees with a chance to clinch. Final score, Diamondbacks 15, Yankees 2.
Andrew Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:17 pm
Talk about going full circle. I want Cole to start tomorrow nights game.
Thats called being a fan you can change your mind and be an irrational retard at any time LOL
Joedad great stat I like our chances tonight

I posted this on my facebook. It is the speech from animal house

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q47bpOCTcaY
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
joedad….that just gave me chills, dude.
christopher Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:34 pm
Ben, probably this montage:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVdbuNpsryI
Manny Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:45 pm
HOWARD SHAVED/TRIMMED HIS BEARD!!!!!!!!!!
Andrew Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 6:46 pm
And I stopped shaving after game 4. what should i do?
joedad Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 7:01 pm
Andrew, wow that is full circle. You may turn out to be the good luck charm.
Chuck Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
What’s a better sign…..Vic being the line-up or Howard shaving??

Andrew…..DON’T shave til it’s over…..cause they WON Game 5 with you NOT shaving.
psujoe Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 7:22 pm
I give Cole the ball but on a tight leash. I have to go with what Joe Kerrigan said the other day. Hamels is solid for 50-60 pitches and that’s it. These numbers will shock you, but they are right to the point:

Hamels 2009
1st inning .228 (32 games)
2nd inning .238 (32 games)
3rd inning .258 (32 games)
4th inning .320 (31 games)
5th inning .294 (29 games)
6th inning .315 (23 games)
7th inning .318 (12 games)
j reed Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 7:57 pm
whoops i misheard the stuff about Bowa on Pedro…it was Bowa interviewing Kerrigan talking about Pedro and Hamels. Mea Culpa Bowa
Scooter Says:
November 4th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
The Phillies will win game 6 & 7 and repeat as world champions!!!

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