Gameday: Braves (12-17) at Phillies (18-11)
Kris Medlen (1-1, 2.55 ERA) vs. Joe Blanton (0-1, 5.40 ERA)
Time: 3:10 p.m at Citizens Bank Park
TV: FOX
Weather: Partly cloudy and windy, 76
Twitter: @philliesnation
The Phillies couldn’t have asked for more out of Jamie Moyer last night. The 47-year old tossed a two-hit complete game shutout against the Atlanta Braves. Moyer painted the corners and kept hitters off-balanced all night.
Overall, the starting rotation has really picked it up as a whole. With the exception of Roy Halladay, every starter struggled. The last time around the rotation has been a different story. Phillies Nation’s Pat Gallen pointed out that in the last four games, Phillies starters have combined for 32 innings pitched and have given up only 3 earned runs. That is a 0.84 ERA! The entire staff has a 1.83 ERA this May. Joe Blanton looks to continue that trend tonight.
Blanton made his first start of the season last Monday, and pitched much better than his lined indicated (6.2 IP, 4 ER). Brian McCann continues to have eye troubles, but returns to the lineup just in time to face Blanton, who has struggled against the Braves in his career. McCann has Blanton’s number; he is batting .375 with two home runs and six runs batted in against Blanton.
Blanton will be opposed by Kris Medlen, who has not made a start since July 12, 2009. The Phillies offense, like the rotation, has picked it up over the last week. They’ll try to make Medlen the next victim.
UPDATE: No Chase Utley in the lineup, but fear not fans, it’s just a day off. No Charlie Manuel either, he’s out due to personal reasons, but we we’re told it is not health related for him. Enjoy! – By Pat
Tonight’s Lineup:Victorino (CF), Dobbs (3B), Polanco (2B), Howard (1B), Werth (RF), Ibanez (LF), Schneider (C), Valdez (SS), Blanton (P)
Don’t panic. It’s just an off day for Chase Utley.
Your gameday beer:The Trippel Belgian Style Ale from the New Belgian Brewing Co. of Colorado is a nice American version of the tripel. There might be a little too much banana flavor in it, but it’s worthy of a drink or two with its sweetness. I’d enjoy some barbecued chicken and corn on the cob with this. –By Tim
Go Phillies!
