All Stars + Blanton = Victory

The All Star syndrome is contagious. First it was Raul Ibanez and Chase Utley. Then, Ryan Howard. Next, Shane Victorino was voted in. Now, Jayson Werth is added. Several of those All Stars played a key role in today’s win and Joe Blanton pitched an All Star-type performance.

In 7.1 innings, Blanton allowed one earned run; a Garrett Jones moonshot over the centerfield bricks. He allowed four hits and one walk. He struck out six.

In the third, Utley’s single scored Victorino. The play at the plate was close, but Victorino’s textbook slide tied the game at one. The Phillies took a 3-1 lead on Werth’s two-run double that scored Utley and Howard.

Like Blanton, Zach Duke was also dealing. In eight innings, he allowed three runs on five hits and three walks. He struck out six. However, the Pirates weren’t able to support him.

Despite giving up a solo home run to Brandon Moss and allowing the tying run to reach base, Brad Lidge converted the save by striking out Delwyn Young after falling behind in the count, 3-0. With the 3-2 win over the Pirates, the Phillies have won seven of eight.