Utley’s Blast Lifts Phils To Series Win

It was a game the Phillies really needed, and they got it, thanks to their best hitter.

Chase Utley hit a two-run home run in the seventh, breaking a 3-3 tie and ultimately giving the Phils a 6-3 win over the Pirates. With the win and a Mets loss, the Phils are now in first place by two games over the Mets and 2.5 games over the Marlins.

Jamie Moyer surrendered three runs on seven hits and two walks in six innings, a pretty standard outing for Moyer, who lately has been pretty unstoppable. A four-man collective patched up the win with Brad Lidge sitting out with shoulder problems — new pickup Scott Eyre got the win after getting one out.

It was also a patchwork game offensively. Carlos Ruiz had two hits and scored on a crazy, error-filled bunt by Moyer.  Jimmy Rollins added an RBI sac fly, and Greg Dobbs knocked an RBI double — yet another pinch hit and pinch-hit RBI by Mr. Hobbs.

Moyer’s start is the fifth consecutive quality start for the Phillies. Suddenly a potent five-man group is building in the rotation; hopefully this stretch will continue, or at least, stay on course.

Associated Press photo