Gameday: Diamondbacks (54-66) At Phillies (67-49)
Dan Haren (12-7, 2.50 ERA) vs. Cliff Lee (10-9, 2.86 ERA)
Time: 7:05 p.m at Citizens Bank Park
Weather: Partly Cloudy, 88
TV: Comcast Sportsnet
Twitter: Phillies Nation
In game two of the series, two of the top pitchers in the game will go head to head: Daniel John Haren and Clifton PhiferLee. Even though the humidity carries the ball at Citizen’s Bank Park, expect a pitchers’ duel.
Since joining the Phillies, Lee is a perfect 3-0 with a 1.13 earned run average and 0.92 WHIP. Against the Phillies this season, Haren pitched five innings and gave up three runs (two earned). The Diamondbacks’ defense was unable to back Haren. If the defense continues to be sloppy, the Phillies have a great shot to win their third consecutive game.
Lee will pitch in front of a sold out crowd on Brad Lidge Bobble Head Night. After being a perfect 48-for-48 in save opportunities in 2008 (including the postseason), Lidge has been one of the worst pitchers in baseball this season. He has blown eight saves and his ERA is 7.21. As long as he doesn’t blow a save tonight, everyone hould go home happy. With the way Lee has been pitching, the Phillies may not even need to use the bullpen.
Tonight’s lineup: Rollins (SS)/ Victorino (CF)/ Utley (2B)/ Howard (1B)/ Werth (RF)/ Ibanez (LF)/ Feliz (3B)/ Bako (C)/Lee (P).
From the hometown Victory Brewery, Hop Wallop packs a mean punch. If you can stand the overwhelming hops aroma and bitter flavor, you’ll be treated to a mighty 8.5% pale ale. This might be more of a sipping beer, but certainly one worth trying. Limburger cheese is recommended alongside to really sock it to your senses. – By Brian
GO PHILLIES!
