Down But Not Out
The Phillies head to Colorado on the brink of elimination after a 10-5 loss to the Rockies. Game 2 coupled with Game 1 have showcased the inconsistency that Phillies fans have come to expect in the team. Some players are performing, some are not. Jimmy Rollins continues to make a case for the NL MVP award as he opposes fellow-front runner Matt Holliday, even though the playoffs technically do not count for voting. J.C. Romero pitched another solid inning, but that is pretty much where the story ends. Kyle Kendrick was rocked for five earned runs early, Chase Utley, although he had two hits yesterday, has been ineffective at the bat. Then there’s Jose Mesa, who must be sleeping with David Montgomery because there is no logical reason why he should be in a Phillies uniform.
But it’s far from over, this is why they play a five-game series. Since the inception of the divisional series only the 2001 New York Yankees have won a series after losing the first two at home. I believe one of those comeback games involved the Derek Jeter grab-and-toss relay throw to nail Jason Giambi at home. And that’s what needs to happen in Colorado. Someone has to put this team on their shoulders and finish the job. With the Rockies offensive JRoll can’t do it alone and in this case the job seemingly falls on Jamie Moyer. After his outing on Sunday, we all have supreme confidence in the guy but at the same time we know our Phillies. Yesterday I had the chance to talk with the guys over at Bleacher Bloggers about the keys to the Phillies must-win Game 3
. You should really click on the link and watch the video – I sent them a ridiculous picture of myself which I hope will inspire fans and the team (I come on with 2:10 remaining).If I come across as overly confident, it’s because we taped the show before Game 2. But still, the Phillies are not going to roll over and play dead. Even though they made it to the playoffs thanks to a Mets collapse, they’re not showing up with video cameras like it’s the All-Star game. They’re there to take care of business and reclaim their authority over Coors Field. Go Phils!
