Gameday: Phillies (26-19) at Mets (24-23)
Philadelphia Phillies (26-19) at New York Mets (24-23)
Cole Hamels (5-2, 3.92 ERA) at Mike Pelfrey (6-1, 2.86 ERA)
Time: 7:10, Citi Field
Weather: Partly cloudy, 68
TV: MyPhl 17
Twitter: @philliesnation
Not sure there is really all that much to say in this spot. The Phillies need to score runs, and that’s all there is to it. They haven’t scored a run since Sunday and haven’t scored a meaningful run since Friday! They’ve beaten up Mike Pelfrey once this year and they’ll need to do it again to break out of this awful slump they’re in.
Cole Hamels toes the rubber in the quest for his 6th victory. He’s been very good lately, however, the Mets are a pesky club at home that can make it hell on opposing pitchers. Just ask Moyer and Blanton. The love to wreak havoc on the basepaths, so Cole might be firing to first base a lot tonight with that pickoff move.
Offensively, it’s not as if the Phils aren’t getting guys on base. They’ve managed 24 hits the last three games combined. It’s just what they do with those guys on base that is so unsavory. This trend of stranding runners is a bit unnerving to say the least. They’ll need a pick-me-up tonight.
Tonight’s Lineup: Victorino CF, Polanco 3B, Utley 2B, Howard 1B, Werth RF, Ibanez LF, Ruiz C, Valdez SS, Hamels P
I’m going with my favorite beer for tonight’s must win. Yeah, I said it – must win. Yards ESA is a hearty amber ale with a malt body and aromatic hop finish. It’s got some kick to it, 6.0% by volume, but is one of the best beers around, in my opinion. Plus, it’s made in Philly, so what’s not to love. Enjoy it with a porterhouse and mashed potatoes and be sure to scream at the TV all night. The Phillies need all the help they can get. – By Pat
GO PHILLIES!
