Redding Stymies Phils Again
The Phillies lost 4-0 to the Nationals Monday, thanks to their inability to hit with runners in scoring position. Tim Redding wasn’t as dominant as his first start against the Phils this season, giving up seven hits and walking two. But yet again the Phils couldn’t drive anyone home. Ryan Howard went 0-for-4, leaving four men on. Pat Burrell went 0-for-4, leaving four men on. Pedro Feliz went 0-for-4, leaving three men on.
As it stands Howard is still toiling, at .187. Feliz is hitting .227. Carlos Ruiz is at .235. This is all unacceptable, and as we near June, it’s cause for tremendous concern.
Brett Myers went six innings, giving up three runs on eight hits and three walks. He looked better than his last start but is not quite where he should be. At least he kept it close. Still, from your supposed “ace,” this is not nearly good enough.
Ryan Madson surrendered another run in fringe time. Despite an OK 4.24 ERA, he’s been a sore spot from the bullpen.
It’s as if everything that was clicking two weeks ago is now dead completely. The Phils have lost three straight and are just two games over .500. Nobody is picking up the team on a consistent basis; worst of all, the big bats are floundering. Should we harp on Howard any more? Is it worth it?
