Two-Run Eighth Lifts Phils Past Reds

Cliff Lee pitched a good game, but a home run given up by Antonio Bastardo in the top of the eighth inning not only stripped Lee of a win, but in my opinion severely lowered the Phillies chance at a win. Fangraphs had the win probability at 50/50 after Joey Votto‘s home run, but the game looked like it was headed for extras, and with a diminished bullpen, the Phils would’ve been in a tough spot.

But an eighth inning rally by the Phils propelled them past the Reds, 5-3. The win is a big one, considering the Reds were 25-16 coming into tonight’s game and had already smacked around the Phillies this year. Additionally, at the time of the last out, the Phillies were three game back in the NL East.

LEE SOLID AT THE PLATE AND ON THE MOUND

Cliff Lee pitched well–a line of 7 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 2 BB, 7 K–but he also hit well. He got on base twice via a fielder’s choice and a double, and scored both times. Sometimes, you get the feeling that Lee is seeing the ball better than some of the full-time hitters in the lineup. Or that he’d be a viable option to pinch hit at times. The man is a treat to watch.

His opposition, Tony Cingrani, pitched just OK. He tossed five innings while giving up three runs and scattering five hits. The 23 year old lefty held the Phillies hitless in the first two innings, and, aside from J-Roll’s home run, actually threw the ball well.

J-ROLL HEATING UP

Jimmy Rollins extended his hitting streak to six games with a two run home run in the third inning. He’s hitting .375 over that span (24 AB) with 8 RBI. A significant improvement over his previous 40 at-bats where he hit .150 with just two RBI.

He also scored his 1200th run of his career with the home run.

Michael Young, arguable the Phillies best hitter so far this year, was 1-1 with a double and three walks. If J-Roll, Young, and Chase Utley can all get (and stay) hot at the same time, the top of the order will actually be something to fear again.

BROXTON HELPS THE PHILS AGAIN

We remember 2008. We also remember 2009. And Friday night, Jonathan Broxton again came up short in a big situation against the Phillies. With one out and runners on first and second, in a tie game Broxton came in to try and get out of the jam created by Sean Marshall. He then plunked Delmon Young, and gave up a ground ball up the middle that resulted in no outs when the play at second was bobbled.

Then he gave up a sac fly to Carlos Ruiz (that was admittedly a blown call at the plate). Thanks, buddy. 🙂