This One Got Uggla Real Quick

In what we can call the worst loss of the year, the Phils continued to lose their grip on first place with a 6-2 loss to the Marlins. The last four runs came at once, a 2-out, ninth inning grand slam by Dan Uggla, breaking the tie, winning the game, sending Tom Gordon’s ERA back over 5.00 and pushing the Fish closer to the Phils.

This one was a real shame, considering Cole Hamels’ spectacular performance. He struck out 13 in eight innings, giving up only three hits and two earned runs (both Jorge Cantu home runs). Hamels was fantastic, and yet again nothing helped him get the win.

The offense sputtered against a dealing Andrew Miller. Give credit to the youngster, who really pitched well. The Phils mustered two runs thanks to two Chase Utley RBIs (a single and a groundout Utley legged out to keep the game alive). Eric Bruntlett also became a key player, stealing third base after pinch running for Greg Dobbs.

In that ninth the bases became loaded, and in one of the most bonehead ideas I’ve ever seen, Jayson Werth laid down a squeeze attempt. Horrible. Werth is the most patient hitter on the team. He can hit for power and can be relied on for an extra-base hit. Moreover, Kevin Gregg wasn’t exactly throwing strikes — he actually hit Pat Burrell on one pitch right before Werth came up. And they go for a bunt?

The move cost them dearly. Instead of a run scoring and Brad Lidge coming in for the bottom, Gordon had to work against the Fish. He didn’t have it. At all. After walking Wes Helms it should’ve been inevitable. Uggla rocked it. And he rocked the Phils’ world in an absolutely horrible loss.

Associated Press photo