Bat Explosion, Johan Implosion Lead to Series Win
It never did rain, however, within the confines of Citizens Bank Park, it surely poured on Mets Ace Johan Santana. The Phillies struck for nine runs in the decisive 4th inning off of Santana, giving Jamie Moyer all the padding he needed for an 11-5 Phillies victory.
The self-proclaimed “best pitcher in the NL” put together this line: 3 2/3 innings, 8 H, 10 R, 10 ER, 2 BB, 1 K, 71 pitches. As it now stands, the Phillies clearly own him. Shane Victorino hit his second career grand slam in that frame as the Phils sent 13 batters to the dish. Chase Utley also went yard two batters later. Moyer himself was part of the fun offensively, as well.
With the bases full and with nowhere to go, Santana looked rattled as Moyer stepped to the plate. With a 2-0 count, the ballpark erupted into a playoff-like cheer. Moyer would eventually draw a walk, and you’d think he’d hit a granny of his own. One batter later it happened. And in the process, it put a stamp on who the best team in the NL East was.
Moyer’s pitching performance left something to be desired, as he was tagged for two home runs and five earned altogether. In his post-game interview, the elder statesman said he was “OK” with how he pitched, but it’s the “big innings that are killing me.” Today he was helped by the offense, something that seems to be the norm. Moyer is now 3-2 with a sky-high 5.70 ERA.
More thought’s VIA video are coming soon…
