Phils Need to Split Series

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Philadelphia Phillies (89-65) at Milwaukee Brewers (77-78).
Joe Blanton (11-7, 3.82) starts vs. Dave Bush, RHP (5-8, 6.22).

After dropping the last two games to the Milwaukee Brewers, the Phillies will try to rebound with Joe Blanton on the mound. However, even if Blanton pitches well, the back end of the bullpen is still a major question mark.

Blanton will try to extend his 13 consecutive scoreless innings streak. Blanton started the 2009 season poorly, but May 21 was his turning point. Since that date, Big Joe Blanton is 9-4 with a 2.78 ERA in his last 21 starts. Blanton pitched a quality start in his last outing against the Brew Crew.

Conestoga graduate Dave Bush will make his second start against the Phillies this season. On April 23, the right-hander took a no-hitter into the eighth inning. Matt Stairs homered to break up the no-no and the shutout. In his last start, Bush gave up five earned runs in 1.1 innings.

This is a big game for the Phillies as they try to split the series. With the Braves and Marlins still in the picture, Blanton can put the Phillies in better position to clinch this week. The Brewers have nothing to lose. All they have to do is player spoiler.