Vance Worley (3-3, 2.80) vs. Jeff Francis (0-1, 12.46)
Time: 7:05, Citizens Bank Park
TV: CSN
Weather: Upper 90’s, sunny
Media: Twitter and Facebook
When the Phillies take the field for tonight’s game against the Rockies, they’ll have a chance to do something they haven’t done yet in 2012–sweep a series of three games or more. The timing couldn’t be better for a team that came into this ten-game homestand with just a 12-19 record at home, and looking to make up some ground in the standings.
Despite my fear of jinxing the team, you have to like their chances of winning their third straight when you look at tonight’s pitching matchup.
Vance Worley hasn’t skipped a beat since returning from the DL. In his last three starts, he’s posted a 2.12 ERA. The team has lost all three of those starts, but that was more the product of a lack of run support than bad outings from Vanimal. He has never started against the Rockies.
Worley’s counterpart tonight will be veteran left-hander, Jeff Francis. 2012 has been a struggle for Francis since the Rockies signed him. His ERA of 12.46 accounts for just two starts. Looking to build on the slight improvement he had in his second start, Francis may find himself in trouble pitching against the Phils. He has a career 6.84 ERA in five career starts against them. Pitching at CBP, that ERA jumps up to 10.80 in two starts.
One thing to note: Aside from the pitcher’s spot, manager Charlie Manuel has drawn up the exact same lineup as last night. That’s something he’s rarely done this season.
Lineup: Rollins SS, Pierre LF, Pence RF, Ruiz C, Victorino CF, Polanco 3B, Mayberry 1B, Martinez 2B, Worley P
It’s the start of summer. What better way to ring in the hottest of the seasons than with a beer/lemonade combo? Leinenkugel’s Summer Shandy is just that. With a malted wheat and barley beginning, and a tart lemonade finish, this beer just tastes like summertime. The real beauty in it is that the lemon flavor doesn’t overpower the taste of the beer. It’s remarkably well-balanced. Whether you’re tailgating in the parking lot, enjoying an evening down the shore, or watching the game on your couch, this is the perfect beer for a sweltering summer night. Have it with some barbecued pulled pork and a side of baked beans. – by Ryan
Go Phillies!
