Gameday: Marlins (87-74) at Phillies (92-69)
Josh Johnson (15-5) vs. J.A Happ (12-4)
Time: 1:35 p.m at Citizens Bank Park
Weather: Partly Cloudy, 64
TV: MY PHL 17
Twitter: Phillies Nation
This is it. Game number 162. The final game of the regular season. It will be the Phillies final tuneup before facing the Colorado Rockies in the National League Division Series on Wednesday.
J.A Happ will make his final campaign for the Rookie of the Year Award, but he may also be pitching for a spot in the postseason rotation. “When I think about it, you want him in [the rotation] because he is a starter, but missing [J.C] Romero … if [Happ] pitches one inning in three days, he could come back and pitch on his regular turn. I’m not saying we’re going to do that, but that does enter my mind,” Charlie Manuel said.
It is unlikely Happ will pitch more than six innings today. He’ll pitch long enough so he doesn’t become rusty, but short enough to avoid an injury. It will also allow relievers to audition for a spot on the playoff roster. Happ pitched seven shutout innings when he last faced the Marlins.
Happ will be opposed by the Marlins’ ace, Josh Johnson. Johnson is 1-1 with a 2.50 ERA against the Phillies this year. In 18 innings, Johnson has struck out 24 Phillies. Phillies hitters are batting .212 against him.
It is Fan Appreciation Day at Citizens Bank Park. The fans would really appreciate a win, ending the season on a positive note. Being swept is not a good way to enter the postseason.
Today’s Lineup: Cairo 2B, Dobbs 3B, Werth RF, Stairs LF, Francisco CF, Tracy 1B, Bruntlett SS, Bako C, Happ P
We’re going with an easy drinker for what hopes to be an easy Sunday. This Italian Pilsner has a crisp golden pour and similarly light flavor. It’s both bubbly and hoppy and since neither are overwhelming it makes for a nice party in your mouth. Keep it going with your favorite hoagie. – By Brian
GO PHILLIES!
