For the first time since July 28th, Cole Hamels won a game.
For the first time in his career, Cole Hamels stole a base.
For the Phillies, it’s obvious which one is more important: the fact that Cole has finally come around as a baserunner. He now only trails the Big Piece, Ryan Howard, by four steals.
In all seriousness, Cole Hamels pitched a great game for the second straight start, a very good sign for the Fightins. He struck out 9 batters while allowing 2 hits and one walk (in the 9th inning) to get the complete game shutout win. Hamels hadn’t really been pitching too great, but his last two starts have been very impressive. He pitched 8 strong innings in a no decision at Pittsburgh before going the distance against the Giants.
After tonight’s start, Hamels is riding a string of 19 straight scoreless innings. This is the Hamels that the Phillies need in order to get back to the World Series.
If Hamels has truly finally come around, this pitching staff is incredible. Cliff Lee is putting on a pitching clinic right now, except for that last start, but everyone is entitled to an “Adam Eaton Day” every once in a while. J.A. Happ has been impressive all season and remains the favorite for the National League ROTY. Joe Blanton has been Mr. Consistent this season and has been a vital part of the Phillies since coming over last summer.
WIth the relievers all finallay starting to come off of the disabled list and Brad Lidge looking like he too has finally come around to 2009, this team is starting to look scary good.
Can you imagine a playoff rotation of Lee, Hamels, and either Happ or Blanton, depending on the matchup? Then having the bullpen back to it’s ‘08 form? Wow.
Good luck to the Giants, Rockies, Dodgers, and Cardinals. The Phillies pitchers are on a roll, watch out.
Now, about that offense…..that’s another story.
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