Gameday: Phillies (29-32) at Orioles (33-26)
Cliff Lee (0-0, 2.92) vs. Jason Hammel (6-2, 2.97)
Time: 1:35, Oriole Park at Camden Yards
TV: PHL 17
Weather: Sunny, 95
Media: Twitter and Facebook
The Phillies take on the Orioles again today in the rubber match of their three-game series. The weather is expected to be a sweltering 95 degrees and sunny, and, as Charlie Manuel loves to say, “this is hittin’ weather”. However, even if it is favorable weather for the hitters, there is something that will not be very favorable to any hitters today, and that is the starting pitching of both teams.
For the Phillies, winless Cliff Lee will take the mound with his 2.92 ERA–16th among staters in the NL, and 6.00 strikeout-to-walk ratio–first among starters in the NL. Despite his outstanding pitching this year, he has yet to record a win. Today, he and the Phillies hope that will change. Over his career, he’s 4-2 with a 4.25 ERA against the Orioles, and 2-1 with a 5.26 ERA at Camden Yards.
Jason Hammel gets the start for Baltimore, and he’s having an equally great season. He’s 6-2 with a 2.97 ERA, which is good for 9th among AL starters. He’s 1-2 with a 6.75 ERA against the Phillies in his career. But with the way both of these pitchers are pitching right now, those stats don’t hold much weight. Today will be a treat if you like pitching.
Lineup: Rollins SS, Pierre LF, Pence RF, Thome DH, Victorino CF, Ruiz C, Wigginton 3B, Luna 1B, Martinez 2B, Lee P
GAMEDAY BEER: Pilsner Urquell
This Czech pils is just strong enough and tasty, just the way I like my beer. It’s not quite as light as other lagers, but it has a crisp look to it. Don’t be pushed away by it’s slightly bitter aroma, it’ll go down smoother than you think. There will be a slight, slight aftertaste to it, but don’t be alarmed. It’s quite refreshing. -By Pat
Go Phillies!
