Atlanta Braves (13-16) at Philadelphia Phillies (15-12)
Javier Vazquez (2-3, 4.19 ERA) vs. Joe Blanton (1-2, 6.48 ERA)
Time: 3:40 p.m. at Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
Weather: Partly cloudy, 81
TV: FOX
Twitter: Phillies Nation
After Cole Hamels came back with a vengeance, Joe Blanton takes the hill to prove he ain’t no fluke.
Blanton pitched very well against Saint Louis Monday night, so he’ll hope to carry that today on national television against a team that has already bloodied him in 2009. Back on April 8, Atlanta tagged Blanton for seven runs on nine hits in four innings. That night was highlighted by a monster home run by Brian McCann, who has returned from injury and carries a career 1.000 average against Blanton.
Facing Blanton that day was Javier Vazquez, and he’s back again today for this contest. The Phils got to him a little that day, tagging him for three runs on five hits in six innings. Raul Ibanez homered off him that day, part of a .375, 3 HR clip against Vazquez for his career.
Brad Lidge, who surrendered a home run last night, has already given up three more home runs this season than in all of 2008. To be fair, in just two of his appearances he’s given up runs have the Phils had an advantage of two runs or fewer. One of those two? That April 8 game against Atlanta — he got the save.
Your gameday beer: The Duvel made me do it. At happy hour last night, I spotted the local haunt carried Duvel. The barkeep poured one, then alleged that it exploded. Sure. Whatever the case, I was drinking two Duvels for one, a large price to pay for balance. Today I bring Duvel to you. This crisp, blonde strong ale. Fruity, biting, but overall smooth and refreshing, this Belgian treat is one to hold high. You’d better have a fresh serving of fries and clams with you, my friend.
Go Phillies!
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