Zack Wheeler had his way with the Phillies and led the New York Mets to a win in the series opener, 4-1.
Buchanan vs. Wheeler
-David Buchanan was OK. He dealt with trouble most of the evening, but kept the Phillies within striking distance. Over 6 2/3, Buchanan allowed four runs, three of them earned, while walking two and striking out two. For a call-up, fifth starter, you can’t ask for much more.
-Zack Wheeler was much better. He did not walk a batter and struck out nine Phillies over 6 1/3 innings. The only damage inflicted was off the batt of Marlon Byrd. Other than that, there’s certainly a reason why he’s highly thought of. Wheeler hit 94-96 with his fastball and even K’d Chase Utley looking with a sick, 90 mph, 3-2 slider. With Matt Harvey and Wheeler, plus Noah Syndergaard in the minors, the Mets rotation could be deadly in time.
The Runs
Not much else went on in this game. Chris Young’s 4th homer of the year gave the Mets all they needed as the Phillies didn’t put up much of a fight against Wheeler.
-Marlon Byrd went opposite field on his 7th homer of the season in the 7th inning. Playing the on pace game with Marlon: .284 avg, 28 HR, 98 RBI, 51 doubles. You’d sign up for those final numbers.
Cesar or Not?
-Cesar Hernandez committed another error at third base and also made a boneheaded play by throwing to second base when he could have stepped on third base in the 5th inning. I can tell you this: the Phillies are probably itching to see if Maikel Franco is ready for prime time. It could happen soon. He’s just a better player than Hernandez, can actually play third base, and allows for the Phillies to not rush Cody Asche back. Asche hasn’t yet restarted baseball activities yet. And this is no knock on Hernandez who could be a valuable utility player.
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