Gameday: Phillies (47-40) at Cubs (39-50)
Jamie Moyer (9-8, 4.51 ERA) vs. Ryan Dempster (7-7, 3.61 ERA)
Time: 8:05 p.m at Wrigley Field
Weather: Sunny, 87
TV: MY PHL 17
Twitter: Phillies Nation
The Phillies closed the first half with a four-game sweep over Cincinnati. The Phillies would like to begin the second half with a victory, extending the win streak. During this time last year, the Phillies found themselves a hot streak, ultimately winning ten in a row. Of course, that team had a comfortable first place lead, while this team battles back to first. The Phillies have been a second half team for the past few years, and hope this year is no different.
Jamie Moyer will take the hill against the team that he debuted with in the 80’s. Overall, Moyer is 3-2 with a 4.46 ERA against his former club. Moyer will be facing an underachieving Cubs offense. Aramais Ramirez and Derek Lee have struggled all season. Alfonso Soriano has been very streaky, although he has picked it up after a slow start.
Ryan Dempster has been the Cubs’ most consistent starter. Dempster is 4-3 with a 5.15 ERA against the Phillies in his career, but the collective lineup is batting .221 against him. He last faced the Phillies in May, surrendering four runs in six innings.
Both teams are 1-1 head-to-head this season, and both are well rested. It’s been a few days since either team has swung a bat or threw a baseball. Will they start off slow to try and regain their rhythm? Or will they look fresh with a new boost of energy?
I was looking for a good summer beer with some Chicago flair for today’s recommendation and I think I’ve found it. Goose Island is a major player in the Windy City brew scene and its IPA has been referred to as “bottled sunshine.” This no doubt refers to its bright amber color and hoppy, citrus flavors. So this evening imagine soaking up the rays in the Wrigley Bleachers, catching Phillies home runs, and not throwing them back. Eat a sausage sandwich with it, just don’t spill any on Shane. – By Brian
GO PHILLIES!
