Philadelphia Phillies (63-69)
Cliff Lee (3-7, 3.67) vs. Tim Hudson (13-4, 3.57)
Time: 4:05, Turner Field
TV: Fox
Weather: Partly Cloudy, 88
Media: Twitter and Facebook
After pulling out a very impressive win against a tough Atlanta bullpen last night, the Phillies now find themselves eight games back of the second Wild Card spot. Wins like last night’s make it difficult to push away those thoughts in the back of your mind–the ones that tell you, “Sure it’s a long shot, but this team has had miracle runs in September before. Why not this year?” The thoughts you know you shouldn’t be having, but that you can’t quite help. A long shot, for sure. But an impossibility? Not quite.
Those slight tinges of hope could become a fully-developed feeling should the Phillies continue to find magic in this Braves series like they did last night. The Phils will have to win around 24 of their last 30 games to have a chance, and sweeping the Braves would be a good start. But beating the the Braves has been no easy task for the Phillies this season. Their 4-9 record against Atlanta makes for the worst winning percentage against any divisional opponent.
Surprisingly, today’s starter, Cliff Lee, has not contributed to that at all. He has yet to face the Braves this season. For his career, however, Lee has gone 3-3 with a 3.83 ERA against Atlanta. His ERA when pitching at Turner Field is a full run higher. However, if he can find a way to spin a gem today, and run that personal win count to four, that tinge of hope you’re feeling we’ll grow, ever-so-slightly.
LINEUP: Rollins SS, Pierre LF, Utley 2B, Howard 1B, Mayberry CF, Nix RF, Frandsen 3B Kratz C, Lee P
Your Gameday Beer: Victory Golden Monkey
Is there any activity more synonymous with celebrating our troops than relaxing with a few beers over a long weekend? Treat yourself today by enjoying a Golden Monkey by Victory. Based in Downington, PA, Victory brews their beers right in the Cradle of Liberty’s backyard. The beer also happens to be stellar, with a slight sweetness and a strong banana presence. This golden Belgium style beer is a perfect way to close out another summer. -RD
Go Phillies!
