- The Phillies offense clearly didn’t make the drive up the 5 freeway for this series with the Dodgers. 8 runs in 3 games is not going to get the job done, and runners being stranded in scoring position continues to be a problem.
- I was willing to let Lidge off the hook for last night because of Pedro’s error and Brad’s pitches were hitting their spots, but today is inexcusable. How the hell do you give up a game tying solo shot to RAFAEL FURCAL?!? Give Brad a few days off to clear his head, and if he blows another save take more drastic action (temporary AAA demotion, or let Madsen take over the closer role for a little while.)
- Remember when people were concerned about the Phillies starting pitching? Since Cole’s 6 ER stinker against the Nats the Phillies starters have given up 3 runs or less in 7 straight games. Joe Blanton looked terrific again today, giving up just 5 hits in 6 strong innings. If the starters can keep this up Ruben Amaro Jr. may not be quite so desperate to acquire another arm before the trade deadline.
- It looked like Jimmy Rollins had turned it around and busted out of his slump, but now his average is dipping back towards the Mendoza line. I can’t think of one big hit he’s had up to this point this season.
Another game, another Ryan Howard strikeout with runners on. (ESPN)
- Ryan Howard needs to learn to lay off high fastballs and low breaking pitches. He is still hitting for power, but every at bat either ends in a homer or a strikeout for him lately.
- While these two losses have been tough to swallow it could always be worse. I would have been happy with a split before the series started and I still would be if we can win tomorrow. Also, the Mets are getting crushed by the Nats 7-0 in the 8th as of 6 PM pacific time, so at least the Phils won’t lose ground in the East. Then there’s this little bit of trash talk between the Mets and…the Pirates?!? If your team is so much better Carlos how come you got swept?
