2010 Preview: Houston Astros

This is a preview of the 2010 season. We will look at the different divisions, teams, and players. This is also featured on Phillies Nation, as part of their 2010 preview.

In 2009, the Houston Astros went 74-88, placing fifth in NL Central.

Five years ago, the Houston Astros painfully knocked the Phillies out of playoff contention. Time flies. No more Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, or Roger Clemens. Despite having an entirely different core, the Astros have plenty of experienced players. In 2009, the Astros relied on Lance Berkman, Hunter Pence, and Carlos Lee.

Although they had power hitters like Berkman and Lee, the Astros finished towards the bottom in runs scored. Their pitching was not much better, collecting a 4.54 team earned run average. Roy Oswalt, who was once a Cy Young candidate, had a poor year that was plagued with injuries. The only consistent pitcher was Wandy Rodriguez, who surprised us all with 14 wins and a 3.02 ERA.

The Astros made several moves this off-season, giving them a familiar look. Ed Wade, the Phillies former general manager, signed Pedro Feliz and Brett Myers, who join former teammates Michael Bourn and Jason Michaels.

The Astros weren’t done. With the departure of Jose Valverde, the Astros traded for Matt Lindstrom and found a new closer in Brandon Lyon. Lyon was given a very pricey three-year, $15 million contract.

The Astros made a significant amount of changes, but still have plenty of question marks. Does anybody know who Tommy Manzella is? He’s their shortstop. J.R Towels was once a highly touted prospect and will be given the opportunity to catch everyday. However, the 25-year old’s hasn’t been able to reach the Mendoza line during his time in the majors.

Berkman and Oswalt have both been bothered with injuries this spring. In addition, Wandy Rodriguez will have to prove that 2009 was not a fluke.

The outfield is set with Lee, Bourn, and the emerging star Pence, but they will not be enough to carry the Astros towards playoff contention.

Prediction: 79-83

Moyer Tabbed as 5th Starter

As seen on Phillies Nation.

General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. said that Jamie Moyer will be the fifth starter headed into spring training.

Moyer, who had two surgeries this off-season, told Amaro that he would be ready to pitch once the season starts.

“It’s his spot to lose,” Amaro also said. If Moyer is unable to keep his job, Kyle Kendrick, Andrew Carpenter, or another minor leaguer could win the job. Moyer, 47, is in his last year of his contract.

If your still thinking about how awesome the Phillies rotation would be with Cliff Lee, then you should know that Lee just had minor surgery on his foot. Lee should not miss a significant amount of time, however.

Year In Review: Ut-Lee Keep Phils Alive

Swing and a Long Drive will be looking at some of 2009's top moments. We had a similar "Year in Review" last year, but instead of month-by-month, we'll look at some of the top games. They are also a part of Phillies Nation's Top 25 Moments of 2009.

It wasn't a situation that the Phillies wanted to be in. After a heartbreaking loss, the Phillies found themselves trailing 3-1 in the World Series. However, the Phillies had their ace on the mound and a star second baseman that would tell the New York Yankees whose house they were in.

After a slight postseason slump, Chase Utley turned around his struggles in the World Series. He already hit three home runs, but he was far from done. A.J Burnett was Utley's next victim, greeting him with a three-run bomb. Burnett was unable to recuperate as the Phillies tacked him for six runs in two innings.

Utley still had more in the tank. In the seventh inning, Utley's short, quick swing sent another baseball into the outfield seats. This home run made history. Utley's five World Series home runs tied Reggie Jackson's 1977 record. Utley's homers and a later Raul Ibanez's solo shot were big reasons why the Phillies led 7-2 after seven.

In the mean time, Cliff Lee was cruising. Lee gave up five runs in seven innings, but he pitched better than his line indicated. The Yankees put up a fight, scoring three runs in the eighth inning, cutting the Phillies lead in half. But it wouldn't be enough.

Chan Ho Park and Ryan Madson finished the game, securing the 8-6 win. Under the circumstances, it was the biggest win of the year, sending the series back to the Bronx and giving the Phillies high hopes.

Other Top Moments: Cliff Lee's first start as a Phillie, Eric Bruntlett's unassisted triple play, clinching the National League East.

Braves Exchange Vazquez for Melky

And... the Phillies biggest competition in the National League East just got weaker! The New York Yankees traded Melky Cabrera to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for Javier Vazquez.

Melky is a career .269 hitter and has a career .716 on-base plus slugging percentage. He has five major league years under his belt, and he is only 25.

Vazquez, a former Yankee, is 142-139 with a 4.19 career ERA. Vazquez pitched excellently with the Braves last season. He went 15-10 with a 2.87 ERA in 219.1 innings pitched. He struck out 9.8 batters per nine.

The Yankees got the better end of the deal. Melky's decent, but the Braves are losing a solid pitcher, who pitched well for them last year. A good pitcher is arguably more valuable than an average outfielder, at best. Pitching can be hard to come by; there is a lot of outfield depth throughout the league.

With Tommy Hanson, Jair Jurrjens, and Derek Lowe, the Braves have a solid rotation, but it won't be as strong without Vazquez. The Yankees, on the other hand add Vazquez to a rotation that already involves CC Sabathia and A.J Burnett.

This could open the gate for a return of free agent Johnny Damon. Right now, the Yankee outfield consist of Nick Swisher and Curtis Granderson. Brett Gardner would be the next best on the depth chart, but knowing the Yankees, they would want to do better.

In other MLB news, the Blue Jays acquired Brandon Morrow from the Seattle Mariners. Morrow would have been a great piece in the deal for Cliff Lee. Morrow is somebody that the Phillies need -- a reliever. Even if it wasn’t Seattle, plenty of teams would have listened on a Lee offer, so the Phils could have gotten more in return.

Speaking of the Lee trade and relievers, the Phillies are interested in Fernando Rodney. Rodney is seeking a 2-year $12 million deal. If that deal goes down, I won’t be happy. Some of that money could have belonged to Lee. The Angels are also interested.

Farewell Clifton Phifer Lee

This is goodbye, Clifton Phifer Lee. Philadelphia loves you, and will miss you.

It didn't take long for the average fan to fall in love with Lee in the five months that he was here. His 5-0 start, his postseason dominance, complete games, shutouts, and even his hitting will always be remembered.

Nobody is upset about getting Roy Halladay. We look forward to watching him pitch in red pinstripes in 106 days. It's the fact that the Phillies could have both Halladay AND Lee -- Ruben Amaro practically admitted it.

It was a "baseball decision." Amaro wanted to restock prospects after losing seven of the top Phillies prospects.

Refilling the farm system is understandable, and the Phillies seemed to have gotten talented prospects in return, but they could have done better. How about a major league reliever, something the team needs now? Or maybe better prospects? There are plenty of teams that could use Lee, and would be willing to give something up for him. But what doesn't make sense is the fact that the Phillies would not part with Kyle Drabek in July, but dealt him now. Why not just trade him for Halladay in July and we wouldn't be in this mess? The Phillies would still have three or four more of those top prospects.

Another reason for the trade is money. Lee thought that the Phillies were working on a long term deal with him. "I thought that I was going to spend the rest of my career there. This goes to show this is a business, and you never know what’s going to happen until you have a full no-trade clause." David Montgomery later said that the Phillies were "in red" as far as salary goes. Yes, the payroll has reached $140 million, but three million fans supported the team in 2009. Merchandise flies off the hook. The Phillies could absolutely afford Lee. Lee will only make $9 million in 2010. If he couldn't be signed long term, it would make sense to ride him for one more year, and let him walk, get two draft picks, and have Halladay for the long run.

Lee truly thought that he would be a Phillie in 2010, and had no notice what-so-ever of being traded. He was "shocked" and in "disbelief" when he found out about the trade.

Lee comment's were saddening to the everyday Phillies fan. He accepted his new team, the Mariners, and never put them down, despite wanting to "make a third run" at a World Series. He had great praise for the Phillies: "Those guys are the real deal. It was a true team and I can’t say enough about them."

We'll miss you Cliff.

The Fightins recently provided audio of Lee's conference call.

Minor Leaguer Fails Physical, But Deal Done

UPDATE (4:00 PM): Nevermind, the deal is done, officially! Press conference at 5:00 PM to introduce Roy Halladay.

The Roy Halladay/Cliff Lee blockbuster is now on hold. Apparently, somebody failed their physical, and it is not Lee or Halladay.

The likely targets are Phillippe Aumont and Kyle Drabek. Both have had a histroy of injury problems, however the latest reports are stating that Aumont passed. Chances are that it is Drabek or even Michael Taylor. Ruben Amaro is confident that a deal will still get done, but talks will likely extend into Thursday.

Blogs of Note: Help get a Harry Kalas Memorial Statue! Also, the We Should be GM's boys created a Phillies Phantastic Phour!

Halladay Blockbuster Complete

It looks like the deal is complete. It’s two separate trades. Cliff Lee goes to Seattle. The Phillies get Phillippe Aumont, Tyson Gillies and Juan Ramirez for Lee. For Halladay, the Phillies trade Kyle Drabek, Michael Taylor, and Travis D’Arnaud to Toronto. The Phillies also get $6 million.

The Phillies and Halladay have agreed to an extension. The contract is an average of about $20 million per year, taking Halladay through 2013.

Michael Taylor will likely be traded to Oakland for Brett Wallace.

I'm not a fan of this trade. The Phillies barely got anything in return for the ace they gave up: Cliff Lee. Aumont, a reliver, doesn't macth Drabek. Plus, I thought Drabek was "untouchable." If Drabek was going to be in the deal, why not trade him last July for Halladay?

The Mariners are the clear cut winners of this deal. If the Blue Jays get Wallace, that doesn't put them too far behind. Wallace is projected to be bettert than Taylor. Halladay is great; he's better than Lee and it'll be scary to see what he does switching from the American League to the National League. However the Phillies -- well, they gave up way too much.

Is it True: Lee for Halladay?

A couple days ago, Ken Rosenthal "had a hunch" that Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee could be traded in the same deal. Either he knew what he was talking about, or he had one lucky guess. Ken Rosenthal's hunch appears to be 100% accurate.

The Phillies are reportedly close to getting Roy Halladay. Cliff Lee would go to the Seattle Mariners for prospects. Those prospects would go to Toronto. The Phillies don't appear to be going anywhere with a Cliff Lee extension; Lee might require $23 million per year, and might want to test the free agency market. On the other hand, Halladay may sign for the Phillies cheaper, due to the chance to contend. Halladay wants around $20 million per year. He would want a contract extension before waving his no-trade clause. The Phillies have been rumored to offer him 3-4 years as of now.

But the deal is not official.

The Phillies may have to give another prospect for the deal to be complete. Michael Taylor seems to be the appropriate choice: major league ready, a great prospect, but not the Phillies top prospect. The Phillies are already losing their ace (granted, they get a better ace in return), but they shouldn't have to give up their best prospect, Drabek, who is now rumored to be involved in the deal.

But if Drabek is dealt, does that mean that Lee still goes? We have yet to find out. There are so many rumors surrounding this trade, that it's almost impossible to keep track of.

Michael Taylor, Travis D'Arnuad, Dominic Brown, Kyle Drabek, J.A Happ, Joe Blanton, Cole Hamels, the Phillie Phanatic, a Schmitter, the Liberty Bell, the bat boy, a dead Veterans Stadium jail cell rat, Chase Utley's hair gel, Ruben Amaro himself, a cheese steak, 6 beer men, FIVE World Series rings, Chris Wheeler's toupee, two beat writers to be named later, and a partridge in a pear tree have all been rumored to be in the deal (well, not the last few!).

We'll see what happens, but one thing is official: the Red Sox and John Lackey agree to a five-year deal. Why is this important? Because the Angels have now lost Chone Figgins and Lackey. If the Mariners do land Lee, watch out. They've made some improvements and could be a surprise after finishing last year at the bottom of the American League West.

Rosenthal: Halladay for Lee Deal?

As seen on Phillies Nation.

I originally wasn't going to post this because there is "no proof" that the Phillies are considering this. However, there seems to be a lot of talk regarding this topic.

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports wonders if Cliff Lee and Roy Halladay could be traded in the same deal. It sounds absurd, but if you read into it more, it makes a little bit of sense. It would not be a straight up exchange; it would be a part of a three or four team trade. Basically, Lee would be traded for prospects. Those prospects would be sent to Toronto for Halladay. If the Phillies send more prospects, there is a chance that the Blue Jays would eat some of Halladay's salary. Remember, "it's just a hunch."

Most of you are thinking: the idea is to have Lee AND Halladay. Todd Zolecki of MLB.com also breaks down the idea. Money is the issue. Moving Lee would free up about $2 million. The Phillies aren't making much progress on a contract extension with Lee, who might want to test free agency next year. Halladay, also a free agent next season, would most likely require a contract extension for him to wave his no-trade clause. Then, the Phillies would have Halladay long term instead of Lee. If Lee and Halladay are on the same team, and even if the Phillies are able to lower their payroll (Joe Blanton would probably be the first one to go), it's unlikely that the Phillies would be able to keep both Lee and Halladay past 2010.

With that being said, I do not think trading Lee for Halladay is a good idea. I'd take the risk of having Lee and Halladay on the same team for one year; a year that instantly makes the Phillies World Series favorites. If that can't happen, I'm perfectly fine with signing Lee long term.

What do you think? Is trading Lee for Halladay a good or bad idea?

Phils Pick Up Lee's Option; Other Notes

The season just ended, but the Phillies kicked off the offseason with their first move.

The Phillies picked up Cliff Lee’s $9 million option for the 2010 season. No surprise here. There is still a possibility that Lee will be signed to a long term deal. The Phillies have not made a decision about Pedro Feliz’s $5 million option for next season.

Ruben Amaro has notified Brett Myers that he will not play for the Phillies in 2010. The right hander is officially a free agent.

There will be no coaching changes. Rich Dubee, Milt Thompson, Davy Lopes, Sam Perlozzo and Pete Mackanin will all stay on Charlie Manuel’s coaching staff. Again, no surprise here. This staff has done a phenomenal job.

Eyre is undecided if he will play next year, but will definitely need surgery to remove a loose body from his elbow. Lidge will be getting checked to see if he has the same injury. Ibanez will have an MRI on his groin, but he may also need surgery for a tear in his abdomen.

The Phillies contacted Chan Ho Park's agent about returning next season. Park was terrific out of the bullpen. But does he still have his eyes on starting?

Staying Alive: Series Headed to NY

As seen on Phillies Nation.

The World Series is headed back to the Bronx! Facing elimination, Chase Utley and Cliff Lee led the Phillies to an important 8-6 victory.

Red-hot Alex Rodriguez quickly put the Yankees on the board. A-Rod's World Series slump is history, but Chase Utley made history of his own. Utley's first inning three-run bomb started a long night for A.J Burnett. Utley was far from done.

The Phillies tacked on runs in the third inning via Jayson Werth, Raul Ibanez, and Carlos Ruiz RBI's. Burnett was the complete opposite from game two. He lasted two innings and gave up six runs. In the meantime, Cliff Lee was cruising.

Lee wasn't lights out, but he pitched better than his line indicated. He pitched seven innings, but tired as he approached the 100+ pitch mark. Three of the five earned runs he allowed came in the eighth inning, including one inherited run.

Once again, it was A-Rod with the big hit. Shane Victorino was hit by a pitch in the first inning, so Charlie Manuel opted to rest him with a commanding lead. It was controversial since Raul Ibanez was unable to make a tough catch and Ben Francisco, Victorino's replacement, could not make a strong throw on a sacrifice fly. The Phillies six-run lead was cut in half.

Chase Utley's second home run and Ibanez's solo shot were a big reason why the Phillies put together a large lead. Utley has five home runs in the World Series, tying Reggie Jackson's record in 1977. The home runs proved to be key since the Yankees continued to fight back.

Chan Ho Park pitched a solid inning, and Ryan Madson was asked to close. Jorge Posada's double and Hideki Matsui's single were the beginning of another potential ninth-inning nightmare. Instead, a run was traded for a double play and Madson struck out Mark Teixeira to end the game.

Breathe a little easier, but there are still two more games that the Phillies need to win. They'll have to do that on the Yankees' turf, but they play their best with their backs against the wall.

World Series Preview: Pitching

Two of the best teams in baseball will face head to head for their chance to win the Commissioner’s Trophy. The Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees have two of the top offenses in baseball, but pitching will play a factor in who becomes the 2009 World Champions.

The Yankees pitching staff can be praised with the numbers they’ve put up in the American League. The pitching staffs match up closely. During the regular season, the Phillies posted a 4.16 earned run average. The Yankees had a team ERA of 4.26, but right now they have some hot hands; the Yankees posted a 2.46 ERA during the playoffs. The two teams have an identical WHIP: 1.35. Both bullpens have posted a 3.91 ERA.

Lee vs. CC

Former Cleveland Indians and Cy Young winners Cliff Lee and CC Sabathia will duel in game one. Unlike the 2008 NLDS, Sabathia will not be pitching on three days of rest. Like Alex Rodriguez, Sabathia has been a much better player during this postseason than in the past. CC is 3-0 with a 1.13 ERA this postseason. Either way, CC vs. Shane: Part II, will be exciting.

Lee’s 0.74 ERA this postseason is self-explanatory. However, he is 4-4 with a 5.02 ERA against New York.

The Other Starters

After CC, the Yankees rotation is set for A.J Burnett followed by Andy Pettitte. Burnett struggled in the ALCS, giving up eight runs in 12.1 innings against the Angels. Burnett, an offseason acquisition, will allow a lot of base runners (1.40 WHIP). Pettitte has a 2.37 ERA this postseason.

Pedro Martinez, the Yankees’ “daddy,” will start game two. Cole Hamels gets pushed back to game three after an inconsistent season. Joe Blanton or J.A Happ could start, but look for them in the bullpen.

Closer

Is there even an argument here? Mariano Rivera is one of the best closers of all time. Brad Lidge has improved during the postseason, but he is no Mo.

Set-Up Man

Joe Girardi put Rivera in for a six-out save in the final game of the ALCS. That shows his lack of confidence in his bullpen. Girardi said that he was going to stick with Phil Hughes, despite his struggles. The 23-year old has given up 3 runs and allowed eleven base runners in 4.2 innings during the playoffs.

Ryan Madson has struggled at times, but his changeup accompanies his high-velocity fastball nicely. We may see others in the eighth, but right now Madson is the go-to guy.

The Rest of the Bullpen

Joba Chamberlin has been shuffled from starter to reliever, but the bullpen is the place he is most effective. The ‘pen is also anchored by Phil Coke who has yet to allow a run in the postseason.

Chad Guadin, Damaso Marte, Alfredo Aceves and David Robertson will also be in the ‘pen.

Chan Ho Park has pitched well since his return from a hamstring injury. Brett Myers is back after being left off the NLCS roster, but Myers likes to use his struggles as motivation.

Chad Durbin, Scott Eyre and Antonio Bastardo will also be in the ‘pen, but also having a few starters gives the Phils an advantage.

Prediction

In 2007, I predicted that the Phillies would beat the Rockies in the NLDS. I haven’t made a playoff prediction since. It worked out in 2008, and so far in 2009, so why change that? Cliche? Superstition? You bet – but also take it as a favor. That’s what a fan does: stick with what is working.

With that being said, I’ll be sitting in the same seat. I will make one exception: the series goes six games.

The Games That Got Us Here

As seen on Phillies Nation.

They’re back for seconds! The Philadelphia Phillies won the National League pennant, and are headed to the World Series for the second consecutive year. Their opponent will be the New York Yankees, the winningest team in sports history.

The Phillies finished their roller coaster season with 93 wins, but their never-say-die attitude in the playoffs has made for the most memorable postseason in franchise history.

The Phillies kicked off the postseason by beating the Colorado Rockies in four games during the National League Division Series. Cliff Lee’s nine superb innings set the tone for the playoffs. The Phillies took the first game, 5-1, but it was not the most exciting highlight of the series.

Colorado snow postponed the third game of the series, but at 2:14 a.m on a Monday morning, the Phillies took a 2-1 series lead in a game for the ages. Tied at five in the ninth inning, Ryan Howard hit a sacrifice fly to give the Phillies a 6-5 lead. It wasn’t Howard’s biggest moment of the series.

“Just get me to the plate, boys,” Howard said to his teammates, who were trailing 4-2 with two outs in the ninth. It appeared as if the Rockies tied the series, but two runners reached base to keep the Phillies’ hopes alive. Howard didn’t disappoint, smashing a game-tying double. Jayson Werth followed with a run batted in. Brad Lidge closed the doors to send the Phillies to the National League Championship Series.

The series against the Los Angeles Dodgers was filled with Carlos Ruiz clutch hits, Chase Utley throwing errors, another stellar performance from Lee, poor outings from Cole Hamels, and an 11-0 blowout. In addition, Howard tied Lou Gehrig’s eight game postseason RBI record. However, Howard, the NLCS MVP, didn’t get the biggest hit.

Once again, the Phillies were down to their last out, with a familiar nemesis on the mound: Jonathan Broxton. In game four of the 2008 NLCS, Matt Stairs famously hit a game-winning home run off Broxton. This time around, Broxton didn’t want any part of Stairs, and walked him. It proved to be costly for L.A, because Jimmy Rollins delivered with the biggest hit of his career. The Phillies stunned the Dodgers by winning, 5-4. Rollins’ game four walk-off made for one of the most unbelievable endings in postseason history.

A day later, the Phillies clinched the pennant. For the first time in franchise history, the Phillies won back-to-back National League championships. They can make more history by giving us another parade.

NLCS Game 3 Preview

For full gameday, visit Phillies Nation.

In game three of the NLCS, the Los Angeles Dodgers (1-1) will play the Philadelphia Phillies (1-1) . Hiroki Kuroda, RHP starts vs. Cliff Lee, LHP .

The National League Championship Series moves to Philadelphia after the Phillies and Dodgers split the first two games. The first game featured home runs from Carlos Ruiz and Raul Ibanez. Despite a stellar performance by Pedro Martinez, the Phillies blew a 1-0 lead thanks to a throwing error by Chase Utley. After an off day, the series returns with Hiroki Kuroda and Cliff Lee on the mound.

From one extreme to another, weather will be a factor. The weather was beautiful in Los Angeles; 93 degrees and sunny. It’ll be the complete opposite in Philly: cold and rainy. The frigid temperatures didn’t seem to bother Lee in game four of the division series. “I think that affects the hitter more than the pitcher,” Lee said.

Lee has been streaky since joining the Phillies. He went a perfect 5-0 with an ERA under one in his first five starts, but scuffled towards the end of the year posting an ERA over six. Right now, he’s in a hot streak. In 16.1 innings during the NLDS, Lee allowed only two earned runs. Lee’s only start against the Dodgers came in his Cy Young year. He pitched seven shutout innings before exiting after allowing a one-run single.

Lee has benefited from the hometown crowd, posting a 2.52 ERA at Citizens Bank Park. However, Lee will have to watch out for Manny Ramirez. Ramirez is 6-for-14 (.429) with two home runs against the lefty.

Kuroda will make his second postseason start against the Phillies, with the last coming in 2008’s NLCS. Kuroda will forever be known as the pitcher who threw at Shane Victorino’s head, but also leading the Dodgers to their lone NLCS victory that year. He pitched six innings allowing two runs in 08’s NLCS, but that is only a small portion of his success against the Phillies. In three starts, Kuroda is 1-0 with a 0.95 ERA, 0.58 WHIP and .100 BAA against the Phillies in his career. He has struck out 17 Phillies in 19 innings.

Kuroda tossed six shutout innings against the Phillies earlier this year, but there is uncertainty surrounding this start. Kuroda will be pitching for the first time in over three weeks due to a herniated disk in his neck. Kuroda also suffered an oblique injury and was hit in the head with a line drive this season.

While Manny is always a threat for the Dodgers, Ruiz has been the biggest threat this postseason. Ruiz is 7-for-18 (.389) with a home run, six RBI, and a stolen base during the 2009 playoffs.

“I’ve got all the faith in the world in our team. It’s going to be a good series, guys. This series by no means is over. It’s going to be a tough series,” Charlie Manuel said.

Break out the rally towels. Home-field advantage starts now.

Tonight’s Lineup: Rollins (SS), Victorino (CF), Utley (2B), Howard (1B), Werth (RF), Ibanez (LF), Feliz (3B), Ruiz (C), Lee (P).

Phillies Stun Rockies, Clinch NLDS

Take a deep breath Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Phillies clinched the National League Division Series with their 5-4 victory over the Colorado Rockies. Just when all life was sucked out, the Phillies dramatically rallied in the ninth inning.

Cliff Lee was spectacular. In 7.1 innings, Lee allowed three runs (1 earned). He gave up five hits, walked three, and struck out five. However, his dominant performance diminished when Ryan Madson came into relieve in the eighth.

Shane Victorino statred the scoring with a solo shot in the first inning. Jayson Werth's home run in the sixth inning made it 2-0. Troy Tulowitzki cut the lead in half with a RBI double against Lee in the bottom half of the sixth.

Lee started the eighth inning, but was replaced by Ryan Madson after the circus came to town. Dexter Fowler reached with a walk. Todd Helton hit a soft grounder to Chase Utley. Utley reached out to tag Fowler, who went airborne, leaping over Utley. Utley flipped to Rollins at second, but he missed the catch. Everybody was safe, and Madson entered with one out as part of a key double switch. Ben Francisco entered the game for Raul Ibanez. Francisco made a terrific diving catch, robbing Tulowitzski.

With two outs, Madson could see his way out of the inning. How quickly a stellar performance from Lee and an amazing catch were erased. Jason Giambi's RBI single tied the game.

Yorvit Torrealba caused the Phillies a lot of trouble, homering off Cole Hamels earlier in the series. He struck again, ripping the hearts out of Philadelphia fans all across the country with a two-run, go-ahead double.

The game was over. Get ready for game five. The Phillies stranding the bases loaded twice proved to be costly. The offense didn't show up against Ubaldo Jiminez. Why didn't Charlie Manuel keep Lee in? Not so fast. The Phillies led the league in come from behind wins in 2009. Once again, they showed their resilience.

With two outs in the ninth inning, Utley drew a walk against closer Huston Street. Then, Ryan Howard clobbered Street's 2-1 offering over the head of Carlos Gonzalez. Victorino rounded third, but missed the bag. He went back to tag, with Utley on his heels. Victorino and Utley scored, tying the game at four. Werth followed with a RBI single, giving the Phillies a 5-4 lead.

It was not Brad Lidge who started the ninth, but Scott Eyre. Eyre rolled his ankle on Sunday night, but that did not stop him from getting two quick outs. He allowed two runners, and it was up to Lidge to seal the deal. He did. Tulowitzski chased a nasty slider to end the game.

This game, and this entire series, will go down in the books as one of the greatest in Phillies franchise history. The Rockies played the Phillies tough, but luckily the Phillies finished on top. Los Angeles Dodgers, we'll meet again on Thursday.

As seen on Phillies Nation.

Part III: NLDS Preview: Starting Rotation

This is Part III of the NLDS Preview. Read Part II here. The full preview is on Phillies Nation.

Like their offenses, the Phillies and Rockies pitching staffs match up fairly equally. Both teams are known for their offense, but it would not be surprising to see a low scoring game.

The Phillies pitching staff collectively has a 4.16 earned run average, sixth in the National Legaue. The Rockies pitching staff ranked eighth, posting a team ERA of 4.22. Their starting rotation posted a 4.10 ERA, beating the Phillies’ 4.29 ERA. Despite blowing the most saves in baseball, the Phillies bullpen collected a 3.91 ERA. On paper, the Rockies bullpen appears to be stronger, however their ‘pen posted a 4.53 ERA.

The Phillies hit a lot of home runs, but they also allow a lot. The Phillies gave up 189 home runs, second most in the National League. The Rockies kept the ball in the yard, surrendering 141. Both staffs allowed an opponents batting average of approximately .330.

The Phillies caught a break by not facing Jorge De La Rosa, the Rockies’ leader in wins. Cliff Lee and Ubaldo Jiminez were handed the ball in game one. Jiminez’s velocity was impressive, topping in the high 90’s. The 25-year old went 15-12 with a 3.47 ERA during the season. Lee was a perfect 5-0 with a 0.68 ERA when he first came over from the Cleveland Indians. Then, Lee went on a cold spell, but he returned to form yesterday. Unlike Jiminez, Lee previously did not have any postseason experience. In addition, he threw a career high in innings pitched, but that did not prevent him from throwing a complete game. Jiminez has made it a habit of struggling against the Phillies. In the regular season, he allowed nine runs and fourteen hits in ten innings. Lee allowed one run in seven innings against the Rockies in August, and one run again on Wednesday.

Aaron Cook and Cole Hamels will pitch in game two. Cook was bothered by a sore shoulder throughout the season, but is still an effective ground ball pitcher. At Citizens Bank Park, Cook is 1-1 with a 3.75 ERA. Cole Hamels, last year’s NLCS and World Series MVP, hopes for another postseason run. Hamels’ roller coaster season ended with a 4.32 ERA and 1.28 walks and hits per innings pitched.

Joe Blanton and J.A Happ will start the postseason in the bullpen, but will likely start in games three and four respectively. Happ is a top candidate for the Rookie of the Year Award. He recorded the most wins of any Phillies rookie since the 1980’s. Blanton has been an inning eater, and rebounded from his 0-2, 8.41 ERA start.

The Rockies rotation also includes Jason Marquis, who quietly had a solid season. He went 15-13 with a 4.04 ERA. Marquis allows a lot of hits; 218 in 216 innings. However, the Phillies lineup batted .208 against him this season. The Rockies final starter will be either Jose Contreras or Jason Hammel. Since coming over from the Chicago White Sox, Contreras is 1-0 with a 1.59 ERA in seven games. As a starter, Hammel is 10-8 with a 4.45 ERA.

Long Delay, but Phillies Beat Braves

As seen on Phillies Nation.

An hour and fifty-one minute rain delay halted play, but it did not prevent the Phillies from beating the Atlanta Braves, 4-2. With the win, the Phillies took the series, 2-1.

Cliff Lee pitched four innings before it poured. Phillies-killer Matt Diaz drove in the only run against Lee, who allowed five hits and struck out two.

It looked like Lee would pitch after a 45-minute delay, but the tarp was put back on before play could resume. The bullpen was busy during the Atlanta series. Thanks to the rain and a couple injuries, no starter pitched beyond four innings. Once again, it would be up to the bullpen to hold the lead.

Prior to the delay, the Phillies scored four runs. Trailing 1-0 in the third, Ben Francisco's RBI double tied the game. Francisco entered the game after Shane Victorio was ejected. Victorino was caught stealing. He slammed his helmet and had a few kind words for Chad Fairchild before being tossed.

Raul Ibanez and Pedro Feliz each drove in a run. Chase Utley's RBI triple in the fifth inning extended the Phillies lead to three.

The bullpen was excellent. Tyler Walker pitched two shutout innings. Ryan Madson struck out the side in the eighth inning. The ball was handed to Brad Lidge in the ninth, and he saved his 31st game of the season. He allowed a run, but struck out two in the save.

The bullpen will be able to rest during tomorrow's off day. The Phillies head to Florida where they could possibly clinch the division. The magic number lowers to six.

Phils/Braves Meet for Final Time in '09

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Philadelphia Phillies (86-61) at Atlanta Braves (79-69)
Cliff Lee (14-11, 3.00) vs. Tommy Hanson (10-3, 2.65)

The Phillies and Braves face each other for the final time of the 2009 season. The Braves won the season series, but the Phillies would like to add one more win with their ace on the mound. The Phillies are 7-10 against their division rivals.

Cliff Lee rebounded from a few shaky outings, throwing a complete game shutout against the Washington Nationals. Lee would like to carry over his success, however one of his poor outings was against the Braves. In five innings, Lee allowed six earned runs on ten hits.

Lee will be opposed by the rookie phenom, Tommy Hanson. Hanson can help his Rookie of the Year campaign, especially since his main competitor, J.A Happ, missed a couple starts. Hanson has allowed only two runs in the last 24 innings he has pitched. Hanson was tacked with the loss in his rain-shortened start against the Phillies in August. Ryan Howard homered off him.

A Healthy Offensive Mix

As seen on Phillies Nation.

Brad Lidge’s struggles are well documented. Before the game, Charlie Manuel discussed Lidge’s fate. Unsure if Lidge would pitch in the next save opportunity, Manuel said he would go with his gut feeling. It was not the prettiest game, but the Phillies edged the Nationals 6-5. The Phillies played small ball and long ball to beat the Nationals.

Cliff Lee looked like Cy Young during his first five starts with the Phillies. Since, he has cooled off. He was not as bad as he was in his last two starts, but he was not the Cliff Lee that we’re accustomed to seeing. He pitched seven innings and did not walk a batter. On the other hand, he gave up five runs (four earned) on ten hits. Five hits went for extra bases.

Adam Dunn’s RBI single gave the Nats an early lead, but Jayson Werth quickly tied it with a single of his own. The Phillies have been struggling getting the little-big hit, but leave it to Lee to help his own cause. Lee singled, collecting his first career RBI. It gave the Phillies a 2-1 lead in the second inning.

Raul Ibanez continued his Nat swatting. His RBI double gave the Philliesa 4-1 lead. Ibanez is now 5-for-9 with three runs batted in during this series.

They are already eliminated from playoff contention, but the Nationals don’t quit. Phillies/Nationals games are always close. As expected, the Nationals fought back. Dunn’s RBI single made it a one-run game. Jorge Padilla’s bunt single barely stayed fair, and all of a sudden the Nationals had runners at the corners with one out. Christian Guzman looked like he had grounded into the inning-ending twin killing, however Chase Utley was unable to handle the late flip from Jimmy Rollins. Tie game.

Jayson Werth has displayed his power throughout the year, reaching the second deck at Citizens Bank Park and Rogers Centre. Once again, he reached new heights. Werth hit a towering drive to straight away center field to give the Phillies the lead. Pedro Feliz immediately followed with a solo home run of his own, to make it back-to-back jacks.

Trying to make his job easier, Manuel tried to stretch Lee through eight innings. However, the first two batters reached base, forcing Manuel to go to Chan Ho Park. Park allowed a walk, loading the bases with nobody out. Pete Orr’s sacrifice fly put the Nationals within one. That was all Park would give up, avoiding further damage.

Ryan Madson was called on to close. Although he converted Tuesday’s save, Madson previously struggled as a closer. Justin Maxwell greeted him with a single and stole a base. Madson was firing 98 mph fastballs, and struck out Guzman. Maxwell was dancing off second when Dunn lined a shot to Utley. Utley caught it, and flipped to Rollins covering second base. Maxwell was doubled off, ending the game.

With the victory, the Phillies have not only won their second game in a row, but clinched the series. Manuel’s gut feeling worked. They’ll look to sweep the Nationals tomorrow.

A Baseball Date

Philadelphia Phillies (78-58) at Washington Nationals (47-91)
Cliff Lee (12-11, 3.06 ERA) vs. Garrett Mock (3-7, 5.63 ERA)

It's a perfect date for baseball: 9/9/09. Nine innings. Nine men on the field. Who knows, maybe Miguel Cairo (#9) will come up clutch off the bench.

Cliff Lee would like to get all 27 outs, something he has done twice in a Phillies uniform. Lee's first five starts raised his expectations through the roof. However, Lee has been roughed up in his last two starts, allowing 12 runs in eight innings. Lee has a chance to rebound against the NL East bottom-feeders.

Lee will be opposed by Garrett Mock. In five innings in relief, Mock has allowed five earned runs against the Phillies this season.

Last night, Brad Lidge almost blew another save. Charlie Manuel said that he was going to stick to his closer, but if the Phillies are in another save situation, we may or may not see Lidge. Manuel said he is uncertain that Lidge will close in team's next save situation. "I'll just go with how I feel," Manuel said, regarding who will close.

Tonight's Lineup: Rollins (SS)/ Victorino (CF)/ Utley (2B)/ Howard (1B)/ Ibanez (LF)/ Werth (RF)/ Feliz (3B)/ Bako (C)/ Lee (P).

Call of the Day: 12 years ago today, Richie Ashburn passed away.