In this post, I answered questions presented by Pat Gallen of Phillies Nation. Click the link to see answers from other bloggers. If you have a question, please e-mail me at amanda@swingandalongdrive.com.
On a scale of 1 to 10, how worried are you to face the Giants (10 being most worried, 1 being least worried)?
I'd give it an 8. Comparing offenses, the Reds are superior to the Giants. However, when it comes to pitching, there is no argument; the Giants have one of the best staffs in the league. They led the majors with a 3.36 team ERA, .236 batting average against, and 1331 strikeouts.
Tim Lincecum had a "down year," but his 14 strikeouts/complete game shutout in the NLDS indicate what he is capable of. He'll remain a top pitchers for several years. It goes beyond Lincecum, though. Actually, Matt Cain was better, posting a 3.14 ERA and 1.08 WHIP. The pitching doesn't stop there. Jonathan Sanchez, another strikeout pitcher, had a 3.07 ERA this season. The Phillies arguably have the edge with a 1-2-3 punch of Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt, and Cole Hamels, but the Giants are not too far behind.
The Phillies clearly put up the better offensive numbers. The Giants no longer have Barry Bonds, or anybody that puts up a huge power display, although they do have a good core of players that can hurt opposing pitchers. This year's Giants offense is much improved as opposed to the past few years. Pablo Sandoval didn't live up to his expectations this year, but he is always a threat. Aubrey Huff had a very good year. Rookie Buster Posey has yet to let anybody down. While the Giants may not have the best offensive numbers as a team, they do have guys then can cause some damage.
What one player do you fear the most?
Tim Lincecum is an obvious pick, but I'll go with Jonathan Sanchez who is 3-1 with a 2.86 ERA in nine career games against the Phillies. He has 40 strikeouts in 34.2 innings. As a whole, the Phillies have collected a batting average of .175 against Sanchez.
Showing posts with label Giants. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Giants. Show all posts
Phillies Aim To Sweep Giants
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San Francisco Giants (67-54) at Philadelphia Phillies (68-51)
Jonathan Sanchez (8-8 3.60 ERA) vs. Cole Hamels (7-9, 3.33 ERA)
Two days ago, the Philadelphia Phillies trailed the San Francisco Giants in the National League Wild Card. Now, the Phillies are on the verge of sweeping them.
Too many times, Cole Hamels has fell a victim of lack of run support. Hamels is coming off an outing in which he only allowed one run, however the Phillies only managed one hit off R.A Dickey. It has been a reoccurring theme for Hamels. The Giants have a tremendous pitching staff, and have another solid starter today, but the Phillies have been tacking on runs throughout this series. Hamels hopes to get more run support so he can get a win for a change. He is in the midst of a hot streak, posting a 1.82 earned run average in his last five starts.
Sanchez has had a decent year for the Giants. Recently, he has had some trouble making it through six innings, but he still has good numbers for the year. He is a strikeout pitcher, but occasionally can get wild.
San Francisco Giants (67-54) at Philadelphia Phillies (68-51)
Jonathan Sanchez (8-8 3.60 ERA) vs. Cole Hamels (7-9, 3.33 ERA)
Two days ago, the Philadelphia Phillies trailed the San Francisco Giants in the National League Wild Card. Now, the Phillies are on the verge of sweeping them.
Too many times, Cole Hamels has fell a victim of lack of run support. Hamels is coming off an outing in which he only allowed one run, however the Phillies only managed one hit off R.A Dickey. It has been a reoccurring theme for Hamels. The Giants have a tremendous pitching staff, and have another solid starter today, but the Phillies have been tacking on runs throughout this series. Hamels hopes to get more run support so he can get a win for a change. He is in the midst of a hot streak, posting a 1.82 earned run average in his last five starts.
Sanchez has had a decent year for the Giants. Recently, he has had some trouble making it through six innings, but he still has good numbers for the year. He is a strikeout pitcher, but occasionally can get wild.
Halladay Tries to Stop the Bleeding vs. Giants
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The Philadelphia Phillies (11-7) face the San Francisco Giants (10-8). Roy Halladay (4-0, 0.82 ERA) starts vs. Jonathan Sanchez (1-1, 1.86 ERA)
The Phillies are coming off a frustrating loss, and hope that Roy Halladay can stop the bleeding. He's done it a few times this year. Halladay will open the series in San Francisco against Jonathan Sanchez and the Giants.
The bullpen has been shaky of late, however Halladay likes to give the bullpen a rest. Including his last few starts in Toronto, Halladay is 6-0 with 0.53 earned run average, four complete games, and three shutouts in his last six starts. The Giants have scored a few runs off Halladay thus far, but Halladay has proven that he can settle down and pitch a gem.
Ryan Howard is fresh off his 5-year, $125 million contract, and would like to show fans why he's worth that amount. Howard has faced Sanchez 12 times in his career, collecting a .250 average against him.
Overall, Sanchez is starting the year off on the right foot. He's been collecting strikeouts right and left. Sanchez has a tendency to become wild though. Working the count and drawing walks will be key for the Phillies against Sanchez.
The Philadelphia Phillies (11-7) face the San Francisco Giants (10-8). Roy Halladay (4-0, 0.82 ERA) starts vs. Jonathan Sanchez (1-1, 1.86 ERA)The Phillies are coming off a frustrating loss, and hope that Roy Halladay can stop the bleeding. He's done it a few times this year. Halladay will open the series in San Francisco against Jonathan Sanchez and the Giants.
The bullpen has been shaky of late, however Halladay likes to give the bullpen a rest. Including his last few starts in Toronto, Halladay is 6-0 with 0.53 earned run average, four complete games, and three shutouts in his last six starts. The Giants have scored a few runs off Halladay thus far, but Halladay has proven that he can settle down and pitch a gem.
Ryan Howard is fresh off his 5-year, $125 million contract, and would like to show fans why he's worth that amount. Howard has faced Sanchez 12 times in his career, collecting a .250 average against him.
Overall, Sanchez is starting the year off on the right foot. He's been collecting strikeouts right and left. Sanchez has a tendency to become wild though. Working the count and drawing walks will be key for the Phillies against Sanchez.
Mets Sign Bay; Giants Sign DeRosa
With the holidays, there was a lack of baseball news throughout the week. When Eric Bruntlett signed a minor league contract with the Washington Nationals, that was the biggest headline in Philadelphia sports. With the new year approaching, a few more moves were made.The New York Mets signed free agent Jason Bay to a four year, $66 million contract. The Mets were desperately in need of a left fielder. They got one. However, like so many major league contracts, Bay was given too much money.
Bay is a great player, but has been extremely over rated since his departure from Pittsburgh. The money shows.
In addition, Bay was a better fit for Boston. Bay, not known for his defense, will go from a very small left field in Fenway to a very spacious outfield in Citi Field. In addition to potential defensive struggles, Bay's power numbers will go down. Citi Field has taken a damper on home run numbers; just look at David Wright's decrease in home run totals from 2008 to 2009.
In other baseball news, the San Francisco Giants signed Mark DeRosa to a two year, $12 million deal. DeRosa, an extremely versatile player, will likely spend the majority of his playing time at third base, with Pablo Sandoval moving to first. DeRosa may spend time in the outfield as well.
The Giants need a bat badly. DeRosa probably won't be the answer, although he will help a very weak hitting ball club. The Giants have pitching, but if they can improve their hitting, they could be the favorites in the National League West.
There's not much left of the free agent market. Matt Holliday seems to be the only big name remaining. The Cardinals are rumored to have offered him a $100 million contract.
In minor moves, the Arizona Diamondbacks signed Kelly Johnson and the Oakland Athletics signed Justin Duchscherer.
Lincecum Wins NL Cy
For the second consecutive year, Tim Lincecum wins the National League Cy Young Award, and deservedly so. Lincecum helped anchor the San Francisco Giants' pitching staff, which was one of the best in baseball.Lincecum is the eighth pitcher in major league history to win back-to-back Cy Young Awards. The 25-year earned 100 points, edging Chris Carpenter (94 pts.) and Adam Wainwright (90 pts.).
Lincecum started 32 games (225.1 innings pitched). He went 15-7 with a 2.48 earned run average. He led the National League in strikeouts, with 261 (10.5 strike outs per nine). He had a 1.05 WHIP. Opponents batted .206 against him.
Lincecum faced a lot of controversy since the season ended, but not for what he did on the field. Lincecum was cited earlier this month for possession of marijuana. (Dock Ellis, anyone?) Lincecum says that he regrets his actions, but will have a hearing in December. In the meantime, he'll be celebrating his Cy Young Award and prepare for 2010.
The Old Goat Beats The Freak
As seen on Phillies Nation.
Pedro Martinez is a three-time Cy Young Award winner. In his young career, Tim Lincecum already has one and is a legitimate contender for the award this season. Both pitchers proved why they have trophies on their mantles, but the Old Goat out-dueled The Freak.
On the very first pitch of the game, Eugenio Velez sent a fly ball into the right-center field seats. The Giants don't need much run support when Tim Lincecum is on the mound, who previously shutout the Phillies.
In the second inning, Jayson Werth hit his 30th home run of the year, an upper deck moonshot to left. The pitching took care of the rest.
Pedro struck out seven betters through the first three innings. He finished with nine strikeouts in seven innings. He allowed only one run on five hits. He did not walk a batter.
Lincecum was just as impressive, striking out eleven in seven innings. He gave up four hits and walked one, but Ryan Howard came up with the biggest hit of the night.
Chase Utley was plunked, which was followed by Howard's double into the right-center field gap. Utley hustled around the bases, scoring the go-ahead run.
It hasn't been easy when the game is left to the back end of the bullpen. Ryan Madson pitched a quick eighth inning, and it was up to Brad Lidge.
Lidge was able to get two quick outs and jump ahead 0-2 against Randy Winn, but Winn squeaked a single past the glove of a diving Chase Utley. Juan Uribe walked, and all of a sudden the go-ahead run was on base. Fred Lewis chopped a ball to second, but Utley played it perfectly and tagged out Uribe. Lidge secured his 28th save of the year, and third in a row.
The game flew, lasting only two hours and eight minutes. If you prefer pitchers' duels over slug-fests, then this was the series for you. Thanks to a stellar performance from a future Hall of Famer, the Phillies took the rubber-match of the series, 2-1. The Phillies only scored three runs during the entire series, but it was enough to take two out of three games.
Pedro Martinez is a three-time Cy Young Award winner. In his young career, Tim Lincecum already has one and is a legitimate contender for the award this season. Both pitchers proved why they have trophies on their mantles, but the Old Goat out-dueled The Freak.On the very first pitch of the game, Eugenio Velez sent a fly ball into the right-center field seats. The Giants don't need much run support when Tim Lincecum is on the mound, who previously shutout the Phillies.
In the second inning, Jayson Werth hit his 30th home run of the year, an upper deck moonshot to left. The pitching took care of the rest.
Pedro struck out seven betters through the first three innings. He finished with nine strikeouts in seven innings. He allowed only one run on five hits. He did not walk a batter.
Lincecum was just as impressive, striking out eleven in seven innings. He gave up four hits and walked one, but Ryan Howard came up with the biggest hit of the night.
Chase Utley was plunked, which was followed by Howard's double into the right-center field gap. Utley hustled around the bases, scoring the go-ahead run.
It hasn't been easy when the game is left to the back end of the bullpen. Ryan Madson pitched a quick eighth inning, and it was up to Brad Lidge.
Lidge was able to get two quick outs and jump ahead 0-2 against Randy Winn, but Winn squeaked a single past the glove of a diving Chase Utley. Juan Uribe walked, and all of a sudden the go-ahead run was on base. Fred Lewis chopped a ball to second, but Utley played it perfectly and tagged out Uribe. Lidge secured his 28th save of the year, and third in a row.
The game flew, lasting only two hours and eight minutes. If you prefer pitchers' duels over slug-fests, then this was the series for you. Thanks to a stellar performance from a future Hall of Famer, the Phillies took the rubber-match of the series, 2-1. The Phillies only scored three runs during the entire series, but it was enough to take two out of three games.
No Rain In Forecast For Rubbermatch
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San Francisco Giants (73-60) at Philadelphia Phillies (76-54)
Tim Lincecum (13-4, 2.33) vs. Pedro Martinez (2-0, 4.50 ERA)
Pedro Martinez will be glad to hear that there is no rain in tonight's forecast. However, with Tim Lincecum on the mound, a long rain delay doesn't sound like a bad idea.
The Phillies bats need to wake up for the rubber match of the series. They've scored only one run during the entire series, and 11 in the last six games. It will not be easy to manufacture runs off, arguably, the best pitcher in the National League. Like Brad Penny last night, Lincecum pitched eight scoreless innings against the Phillies this season.
Ryan Howard has two home runs in his career against Lincecum. Randy Winn is 6-for-9 with 4 RBI against Pedro since 2004.
In case you have not seen David Wright's ridiculous looking helmet that is mandatory for all minor leaguers next season, don't be surprised to see Shane Victorino sporting a large, "Great Gazoo" type helmet. Victorino will be trying out the new helmet tonight. As usual, Shane will bat second in the lineup. Victorino is batting .267 with a home run in 15 at-bats against Lincecum.
San Francisco Giants (73-60) at Philadelphia Phillies (76-54) Tim Lincecum (13-4, 2.33) vs. Pedro Martinez (2-0, 4.50 ERA)
Pedro Martinez will be glad to hear that there is no rain in tonight's forecast. However, with Tim Lincecum on the mound, a long rain delay doesn't sound like a bad idea.
The Phillies bats need to wake up for the rubber match of the series. They've scored only one run during the entire series, and 11 in the last six games. It will not be easy to manufacture runs off, arguably, the best pitcher in the National League. Like Brad Penny last night, Lincecum pitched eight scoreless innings against the Phillies this season.
Ryan Howard has two home runs in his career against Lincecum. Randy Winn is 6-for-9 with 4 RBI against Pedro since 2004.
In case you have not seen David Wright's ridiculous looking helmet that is mandatory for all minor leaguers next season, don't be surprised to see Shane Victorino sporting a large, "Great Gazoo" type helmet. Victorino will be trying out the new helmet tonight. As usual, Shane will bat second in the lineup. Victorino is batting .267 with a home run in 15 at-bats against Lincecum.
Offense Can't Buy a Run
As seen on Phillies Nation.
What comes around goes around. Last night, Cole Hamels pitched a complete game shutout against the San Francisco Giants. Tonight, the Giants shutout the Phillies, 4-0.
You know your offense is going bad when the telecast finds a shot Jupiter before any runs are scored. Perhaps that is where the Phillies offense went. They've scored only 11 runs in the last six games. They were shutout for the fifth time this season. The last time they were shutout was on August 1, against tomorrow's starter, Tim Lincecum.
J.A Happ didn't necessarily pitch poorly, although he did give up four runs for the first time since July 24, when he allowed five runs against St. Louis. He played Houdini for the first four innings, but ran into trouble in the fifth and sixth.
Andres Torres did what the Phillies did not do: drive in a runner in scoring position. In the fifth inning, the Giants took a 1-0 lead with his RBI single up the middle. Juan Uribe and Aaron Rowand hit back-to-back home runs in the sixth extending the lead to 4-0.
Happ's line: 6 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 7 SO.
Brad Penny returned to the National League in grand fashion, pitching eight scoreless innings. He gave up five hits, walked one, and struck out two. He was able to get the Phillies to ground out 13 times, including two double play balls. Penny, who was cut by the Red Sox, has not lasted eight innings since 2007.
There's no denying that the Phillies offense is in a major funk. Luckily, the pitching has kept them close during the rough patch. It's cliche, but you can't win if you don't score.
What comes around goes around. Last night, Cole Hamels pitched a complete game shutout against the San Francisco Giants. Tonight, the Giants shutout the Phillies, 4-0.You know your offense is going bad when the telecast finds a shot Jupiter before any runs are scored. Perhaps that is where the Phillies offense went. They've scored only 11 runs in the last six games. They were shutout for the fifth time this season. The last time they were shutout was on August 1, against tomorrow's starter, Tim Lincecum.
J.A Happ didn't necessarily pitch poorly, although he did give up four runs for the first time since July 24, when he allowed five runs against St. Louis. He played Houdini for the first four innings, but ran into trouble in the fifth and sixth.
Andres Torres did what the Phillies did not do: drive in a runner in scoring position. In the fifth inning, the Giants took a 1-0 lead with his RBI single up the middle. Juan Uribe and Aaron Rowand hit back-to-back home runs in the sixth extending the lead to 4-0.
Happ's line: 6 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 7 SO.
Brad Penny returned to the National League in grand fashion, pitching eight scoreless innings. He gave up five hits, walked one, and struck out two. He was able to get the Phillies to ground out 13 times, including two double play balls. Penny, who was cut by the Red Sox, has not lasted eight innings since 2007.
There's no denying that the Phillies offense is in a major funk. Luckily, the pitching has kept them close during the rough patch. It's cliche, but you can't win if you don't score.
Phils Have Advantage Against Penny
Visit Phillies Nation for full gameday.San Francisco Giants (72-60) at Philadelphia Phillies (76-53)
Brad Penny (7-8, 5.61) vs. J.A Happ (10-3, 2.63 ERA)
The Giants newest acquisition, Brad Penny, will be making his first start since August 21. In his last start with the Red Sox, Penny was roughed up by the Yankees for eight runs in four innings. Bruce Bochy, the Giants manager, said he would be satisfied with five innings from the righty.
In 20 games against the Phillies, Penny is 8-4 with a 3.72 ERA and 1.18 WHIP. Most of that success came with the Marlins before he was plagued with injuries. The Phillies only scored one run last night. It was enough for the win, but the Phillies need to score more runs than that. The offense has a perfect opportunity to explode against a struggling Penny.
Cole Hamels threw a complete game shutout last night. J.A Happ has a couple of those on his resume. He would like to become the first Phillies rookie to win 11 games since 1980. Happ has never faced the Giants in his career, but if he continues his consistency he should be able to handle the Giants weak lineup.
Cole's Back
As seen on
Phillies Nation
He’s back. It has been a roller coaster season for the lefty, but the 2008 version of the NLCS and World Series MVP showed up today. Cole Hamels pitched a complete game shutout en route to a Phillies 1-0 victory over the San Francisco Giants. It is the first time all season that the Phillies won a one to nothing game.
In a game that lasted only two hours and twenty minutes, Hamels and Jonathan Sanchez worked a pitchers’ duel, but it was Hamels who won the battle.
About 46% of the time, the Phillies rely on the long ball. Tonight, they played small ball. Shane Victorino flared a single, stole second, and advanced to third on a ground out. Ryan Howard’s RBI double down the right field line scored Victorino. It was plenty of support for a dealing Hamels.
In most of his starts, Hamels lacked location of his fastball. Tonight, he was in complete control, getting ahead of hitters. With the command of his fastball, he was able to throw his changeup effectively, and boy was it effective. He struck out nine, and at one point retired 21 straight. He allowed only two hits, a career best. He walked one.
Heck, Hamels even stole a bag, becoming the first pitcher since Curt Schilling in 1997 to do so.
Hamels has been working on his pick-off move. Practice makes perfect and the hard work payed off. Rich Aurilia greeted Hamels with a single in the ninth inning. With a big hacker in Pablo Sandoval at the plate, pinch runner Fred Lewis attempted to steal. Hamels had him picked off, but it was up to Howard to make a perfect throw. Howard normally has trouble throwing, but this time he threw a strike to second base, gunning down Lewis.
Edgar Renteria popped up to Howard in foul territory to end the game and secure Hamels’ fourth career complete game shutout.
Hamels has now thrown 19 scoreless innings. As it gets closer to the postseason, this is the Cole Hamels the Phillies need and the Cole Hamels we all expect to see.
Phillies NationHe’s back. It has been a roller coaster season for the lefty, but the 2008 version of the NLCS and World Series MVP showed up today. Cole Hamels pitched a complete game shutout en route to a Phillies 1-0 victory over the San Francisco Giants. It is the first time all season that the Phillies won a one to nothing game.
In a game that lasted only two hours and twenty minutes, Hamels and Jonathan Sanchez worked a pitchers’ duel, but it was Hamels who won the battle.
About 46% of the time, the Phillies rely on the long ball. Tonight, they played small ball. Shane Victorino flared a single, stole second, and advanced to third on a ground out. Ryan Howard’s RBI double down the right field line scored Victorino. It was plenty of support for a dealing Hamels.
In most of his starts, Hamels lacked location of his fastball. Tonight, he was in complete control, getting ahead of hitters. With the command of his fastball, he was able to throw his changeup effectively, and boy was it effective. He struck out nine, and at one point retired 21 straight. He allowed only two hits, a career best. He walked one.
Heck, Hamels even stole a bag, becoming the first pitcher since Curt Schilling in 1997 to do so.
Hamels has been working on his pick-off move. Practice makes perfect and the hard work payed off. Rich Aurilia greeted Hamels with a single in the ninth inning. With a big hacker in Pablo Sandoval at the plate, pinch runner Fred Lewis attempted to steal. Hamels had him picked off, but it was up to Howard to make a perfect throw. Howard normally has trouble throwing, but this time he threw a strike to second base, gunning down Lewis.
Edgar Renteria popped up to Howard in foul territory to end the game and secure Hamels’ fourth career complete game shutout.
Hamels has now thrown 19 scoreless innings. As it gets closer to the postseason, this is the Cole Hamels the Phillies need and the Cole Hamels we all expect to see.
September Starts With Giants
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San Francisco Giants (72-59) at Philadelphia Phillies (75-53)
Jonathan Sanchez (6-10, 4.27 ERA) vs. Cole Hamels (7-8, 4.52 ERA)
The calender turns to September 1. The dog days of summer are coming to a close, but the pennant races are just getting started. Before we know it, we'll be breaking out the rally towels. It's crunch time.
A team could make a magical run like the Rockies in 2007, or an embarrassing collapse like the Mets did that same year. With a comfortable lead, the Phillies are in a good position, but anything can happen. On the flip side, the Giants are fighting for a playoff spot, tied with the Rockies in the Wild Card.
The Giants took three games out of four when these two teams met about a month ago. The Giants pitching was able to silent the Phillies offense. The offense still is having problems driving in runners in scoring position.
Sanchez gave up two runs in 5.2 innings against the Phillies. Since he threw his no-hitter on July 10, he is 4-2 with a 3.02 ERA and opponents are batting .168 against him. Chase Utley is 3-for-6 in his career against Sanchez, including a home run off him.
Hamels got lit up when he faced the Giants earlier this year. He gave up seven runs (6 earned) on ten hits in five innings. However, Cole will try to build consistency coming off an eight inning shutout against the Pirates.
San Francisco Giants (72-59) at Philadelphia Phillies (75-53)Jonathan Sanchez (6-10, 4.27 ERA) vs. Cole Hamels (7-8, 4.52 ERA)
The calender turns to September 1. The dog days of summer are coming to a close, but the pennant races are just getting started. Before we know it, we'll be breaking out the rally towels. It's crunch time.
A team could make a magical run like the Rockies in 2007, or an embarrassing collapse like the Mets did that same year. With a comfortable lead, the Phillies are in a good position, but anything can happen. On the flip side, the Giants are fighting for a playoff spot, tied with the Rockies in the Wild Card.
The Giants took three games out of four when these two teams met about a month ago. The Giants pitching was able to silent the Phillies offense. The offense still is having problems driving in runners in scoring position.
Sanchez gave up two runs in 5.2 innings against the Phillies. Since he threw his no-hitter on July 10, he is 4-2 with a 3.02 ERA and opponents are batting .168 against him. Chase Utley is 3-for-6 in his career against Sanchez, including a home run off him.
Hamels got lit up when he faced the Giants earlier this year. He gave up seven runs (6 earned) on ten hits in five innings. However, Cole will try to build consistency coming off an eight inning shutout against the Pirates.
Phils Drop 2nd Straight To G-Men
Originally posted on Phillies Nation.Cole Hamels is supposed to be the stopper. The Phillies offense is supposed to score many runs. It didn't work out in the series finale with the San Francisco Giants.
In the bottom of the second, Aaron Rowand's RBI triple gave the Giants a 1-0 lead. Jimmy Rollins tied the game with a solo home run down the left field line. Jayson Werth's infield single led to a throwing error by second baseman Freddy Sanchez. On the play, Chase Utley scored to give the Phillies the lead. Carlos Ruiz's RBI single made it 3-1 in the fifth inning.
It appeared that the Phillies were in good position to win, but the Giants fought back and scored six unanswered runs. Sanchez, who was making his first start since being traded by the Pittsburgh Pirates, doubled in a run which tied the game at three.
With two outs in the fifth, Hamels could see his way out of the inning. Pablo Sandoval placed the ball perfectly in between the mound, first, and second. Since Sandoval is a slow runner, Ryan Howard had a chance to throw him out because he fielded the ball cleanly. Instead, he threw the ball away and the go-ahead run scored. The Giants did not look back.
Hamels pitched five innings and allowed seven runs, six earned, on ten hits and two walks. He struck out two, but it was not a pretty line for Hamels.
Hamels was not backed by his offense either. During the current road trip, the Phillies have had trouble hitting with runners in scoring position. Today, they could barely get runners into scoring position.
The Giants won, 7-3, taking three out of four games against the Phillies. The west coast is no joke, as they are surprisingly one of the stronger divisions in baseball.
Phils Need to Even Series
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Philadelphia Phillies (59-43) at San Francisco Giants (57-47)
Cole Hamels (7-5, 4.42 ERA) vs. Barry Zito (6-10, 4.54 ERA)
The Phillies will try to even the series in the four game finale. The Phillies will send Cole Hamels to the mound, who has shown that he is a second half pitcher.
In his past five starts, Hamels is 3-0 with a 2.45 earned run average. In addition, he has thrown at least seven innings in two consecutive outings. It is very key for Hamels to go deep into a game, something the Phillies starters have been doing a lot lately.
Hamels will be opposed by Barry Zito, who has had an up and down year. There is no doubt that Zito is not the same pitcher he was in 2002 when he won the American League Cy Young award with the Oakland Athletics. He never lived up to his expectations when he signed a seven year, $126 million contract with the Giants in 2006. Zito is 2-1 with a 3.50 ERA in his career against the Phillies.
The Phillies need to start hitting with runners in scoring position. On the road trip, the Phils are hitting .103 (6-for-56) with RISP.
Philadelphia Phillies (59-43) at San Francisco Giants (57-47)Cole Hamels (7-5, 4.42 ERA) vs. Barry Zito (6-10, 4.54 ERA)
The Phillies will try to even the series in the four game finale. The Phillies will send Cole Hamels to the mound, who has shown that he is a second half pitcher.
In his past five starts, Hamels is 3-0 with a 2.45 earned run average. In addition, he has thrown at least seven innings in two consecutive outings. It is very key for Hamels to go deep into a game, something the Phillies starters have been doing a lot lately.
Hamels will be opposed by Barry Zito, who has had an up and down year. There is no doubt that Zito is not the same pitcher he was in 2002 when he won the American League Cy Young award with the Oakland Athletics. He never lived up to his expectations when he signed a seven year, $126 million contract with the Giants in 2006. Zito is 2-1 with a 3.50 ERA in his career against the Phillies.
The Phillies need to start hitting with runners in scoring position. On the road trip, the Phils are hitting .103 (6-for-56) with RISP.
Lincecum Wins Pitchers' Duel
Originally posted on Phillies Nation.
It was a treat on Friday night to watch a reigning Cy Young winner. From a Phillies standpoint, Saturday night wasn't as fun with a different reigning Cy Young winner on the mound.
The Phillies were shutout for the second time in four days, but Tim Lincecum deserves loads of credit. He pitched eight scoreless innings and allowed seven hits and one walk. He struck out eight and his ERA lowered to 2.18. Tonight further proved why Lincecum is one of the best, young pitchers in the game, silencing a potent Phillies lineup.
Joe Blanton didn't pitch badly and kept pace in the pitchers' duel. He gave up two earned runs in seven innings. He allowed seven hits, but majority were bloop hits. He allowed only one extra base hit and did not walk a batter. He struck out five. He was the tough-luck loser as the Phillies continue to slump with runners in scoring position. On the current road trip, the Phillies are hitting .103 (6-for-56) with RISP.
Juan Uribe has quietly been trouble. He broke up Cliff Lee's no-hitter (double) and shutout (run scored) last night. Tonight, his two sacrifice flies put the Giants ahead, 2-0. Aaron Rowand scored on the first sac fly at a close play at the plate. Matt Stairs caught a shallow fly and fired home, but the throw was a tad wide and Rowand slid past Paul Bako, who could not apply the tag. (Injuries to Shane Victorino, knee, and Carlos Ruiz, thumb, made room for Stairs and Bako in the lineup).
Tim Lincecum doesn't need much support. Two runs were plenty. Brian Wilson closed the game with an easy 1-2-3 save as the Giants moved past the Phillies, 2-0. The Giants took a 2-1 series lead over the Phils, who hope to even it out tomorrow.
It was a treat on Friday night to watch a reigning Cy Young winner. From a Phillies standpoint, Saturday night wasn't as fun with a different reigning Cy Young winner on the mound.The Phillies were shutout for the second time in four days, but Tim Lincecum deserves loads of credit. He pitched eight scoreless innings and allowed seven hits and one walk. He struck out eight and his ERA lowered to 2.18. Tonight further proved why Lincecum is one of the best, young pitchers in the game, silencing a potent Phillies lineup.
Joe Blanton didn't pitch badly and kept pace in the pitchers' duel. He gave up two earned runs in seven innings. He allowed seven hits, but majority were bloop hits. He allowed only one extra base hit and did not walk a batter. He struck out five. He was the tough-luck loser as the Phillies continue to slump with runners in scoring position. On the current road trip, the Phillies are hitting .103 (6-for-56) with RISP.
Juan Uribe has quietly been trouble. He broke up Cliff Lee's no-hitter (double) and shutout (run scored) last night. Tonight, his two sacrifice flies put the Giants ahead, 2-0. Aaron Rowand scored on the first sac fly at a close play at the plate. Matt Stairs caught a shallow fly and fired home, but the throw was a tad wide and Rowand slid past Paul Bako, who could not apply the tag. (Injuries to Shane Victorino, knee, and Carlos Ruiz, thumb, made room for Stairs and Bako in the lineup).
Tim Lincecum doesn't need much support. Two runs were plenty. Brian Wilson closed the game with an easy 1-2-3 save as the Giants moved past the Phillies, 2-0. The Giants took a 2-1 series lead over the Phils, who hope to even it out tomorrow.
Lincecum a Tough Task for Phils
For full gameday, visit Phillies Nation.
Philadelphia Phillies (59-42) at San Francisco Giants (56-47)
Joe Blanton (7-4, 4.11 ERA) vs. Tim Lincecum (11-3, 2.30 ERA)
Last night, the reigning American League Cy Young award winner was on the mound. Tonight, the reigning National League Cy Young winner is on the hill.
Tim Lincecum is making a run for another Cy Young Award. The 25 year old is 11-3 with a 2.30 ERA, 183 strikeouts, 1.05 WHIP and he has limited opponents to a .214 average. Lincecum is 1-0 with a 4.68 career ERA in 25 innings against the Phillies.. However, in two starts last season, he was 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA against the Phillies.
Joe Blanton may not have a Cy Young trophy sitting on his mantle, but he has been pitching extremely well as of late. He is coming off a spectacular month of July where he gave up only four runs in 29.1 innings. He'll look to continue his dominance into August. Blanton has struggled in his career against the Giants, though. He is 1-2 with a 5.74 ERA against San Francisco.
The Phillies are having a tough time hitting with runners in scoring position, and it won't be easy for them to turn around those struggles tonight. With Lincecum and Blanton pitching, the last thing expected is a high scoring game.
Philadelphia Phillies (59-42) at San Francisco Giants (56-47) Joe Blanton (7-4, 4.11 ERA) vs. Tim Lincecum (11-3, 2.30 ERA)
Last night, the reigning American League Cy Young award winner was on the mound. Tonight, the reigning National League Cy Young winner is on the hill.
Tim Lincecum is making a run for another Cy Young Award. The 25 year old is 11-3 with a 2.30 ERA, 183 strikeouts, 1.05 WHIP and he has limited opponents to a .214 average. Lincecum is 1-0 with a 4.68 career ERA in 25 innings against the Phillies.. However, in two starts last season, he was 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA against the Phillies.
Joe Blanton may not have a Cy Young trophy sitting on his mantle, but he has been pitching extremely well as of late. He is coming off a spectacular month of July where he gave up only four runs in 29.1 innings. He'll look to continue his dominance into August. Blanton has struggled in his career against the Giants, though. He is 1-2 with a 5.74 ERA against San Francisco.
The Phillies are having a tough time hitting with runners in scoring position, and it won't be easy for them to turn around those struggles tonight. With Lincecum and Blanton pitching, the last thing expected is a high scoring game.
A Complete Game For Lee
After a 4-6-3 game ending double play, Cliff Lee was handed the baseball and stuck it in his back pocket. In his much anticipated Philadelphia Phillies debut, Lee absolutely dominated the San Francisco Giants. There is a reason why he won the American League Cy Young award last season, and there is a reason why the Phillies picked him up. He did it all in the Phillies 5-1 win.
The very first pitch he threw was a called strike and that was a sign for good things to come. He struck out the lead-off batter and had an easy 1-2-3 first inning. It wasn’t the only 1-2-3 inning he had. Lee had a no-hitter through 5.1 innings.
Before Lee allowed a hit, he got a hit of his own. Lee singled in the fourth inning. He later doubled off the left field wall in the eighth inning, just missing a home run. He also scored a run before he allowed a run.
Juan Uribe ruined Jonathan Sanchez’s perfect game earlier in the month by making an error. He ruined Lee’s no-no in the sixth inning with a double. He would later ruin Lee’s shutout by scoring a run on Aaron Rowand’s sacrifice fly.
The Phillies offense managed enough run support for Lee. The Phillies scored early on Jayson Werth’s solo home run, but went 0-for-11 with runners in scoring position until the seventh inning. Raul Ibanez drew a bases loaded walk and Werth’s two run single broke the hitless streak. The other addition, Ben Francisco, hit a sac fly that made it a 5-0 game. It also gave Lee a five run cushion.
Lee didn’t need all the runs, but it was a nice change of pace after receiving minimal support in Cleveland. In the complete game, he allowed one run on four hits. He walked two and struck out six. He located and mixed his pitches very well and wasn’t afraid to throw any pitch in his repertoire. He kept his pitch count down to 109 and fielded his position extremely well. Lee put on a show that kept everybody on the east coast awake.
The very first pitch he threw was a called strike and that was a sign for good things to come. He struck out the lead-off batter and had an easy 1-2-3 first inning. It wasn’t the only 1-2-3 inning he had. Lee had a no-hitter through 5.1 innings.
Before Lee allowed a hit, he got a hit of his own. Lee singled in the fourth inning. He later doubled off the left field wall in the eighth inning, just missing a home run. He also scored a run before he allowed a run.
Juan Uribe ruined Jonathan Sanchez’s perfect game earlier in the month by making an error. He ruined Lee’s no-no in the sixth inning with a double. He would later ruin Lee’s shutout by scoring a run on Aaron Rowand’s sacrifice fly.
The Phillies offense managed enough run support for Lee. The Phillies scored early on Jayson Werth’s solo home run, but went 0-for-11 with runners in scoring position until the seventh inning. Raul Ibanez drew a bases loaded walk and Werth’s two run single broke the hitless streak. The other addition, Ben Francisco, hit a sac fly that made it a 5-0 game. It also gave Lee a five run cushion.
Lee didn’t need all the runs, but it was a nice change of pace after receiving minimal support in Cleveland. In the complete game, he allowed one run on four hits. He walked two and struck out six. He located and mixed his pitches very well and wasn’t afraid to throw any pitch in his repertoire. He kept his pitch count down to 109 and fielded his position extremely well. Lee put on a show that kept everybody on the east coast awake.
This post was originally shown on Phillies Nation.
Cliff Lee Making Phillies Debut
For full gameday, visit Phillies Nation.Philadelphia Phillies (58-42) at San Francisco Giants (56-46)
Cliff Lee (7-9, 3.14 ERA) vs. Ryan Sadowski (2-3, 4.81 ERA)
Tonight's the night Cliff Lee will be making his much anticipated Phillies debut. He'll also try to halt the Phillies two game skid.
The reigning American League Cy Young winner is having a terrific season with a 3.14 earned run average and 1.30 WHIP in 152 innings with the Tribe. He had a 7-9 record, but lacked run support. The Phillies failed to support their pitchers over the last two games. They've only scored two runs in last two games, very uncharacteristic for the Phillies.
Ryan Sadowski started his Major League career by throwing 13 consevutive scoreless innings. Since, he has allowed 13 earned runs in the last 11.1 innings he has pitched. However, he has pitched well at AT&T Park. His ERA at home is 1.50 in 12 innings.
Defense Can't Support Lopez
Rodrigo Lopez most likely made his last start as a Phillie. Not because he didn’t pitch well, but because of new additions to the Phillies rotation. If he had pitched well, the Phillies may have considered Lopez differently, but he could not handle his own pressure. Also, poor defense did not factor in well.Lopez allowed seven runs, three earned, in four innings. In the first, the Phillies had a 1-0 lead, but the Giants went ahead 2-1 in the bottom half of the inning. Jayson Werth misjudged a line drive, and that opened the gates.
In the fourth inning, Pedro Feliz made a throwing error which led to two runs. At the last second, Feliz decided to go for the force out at second base instead of the easy play at first. Assuming Feliz was throwing to first, Chase Utley was off the bag and the ball tipped his glove, scooting to right field.
Pablo Sandoval must have been very unhappy with Charlie Manuel’s All Star selections. He showed Manuel what he missed. He went 2-for-4 with a home run and four runs batted in.
The Phillies weren’t able to provide any offense other than Ryan Howard’s RBI double and Utley’s solo homer. Sanchez threw a pitch that sailed over Utley’s head. Utely clearly had a problem with it and stared him down. On the next pitch he called time before he homered down the right field line.
The Phillies were 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position. The three fielding errors didn’t help either in the 7-2 loss.
Philis/Giants Open Series
For full gameday, visit Phillies Nation.Philadelphia Phillies at San Francisco Giants
Rodrigo Lopez (3-0, 3.09 ERA) vs. Jonathan Sanchez (3-9, 4.92 ERA)
The Phillies open up a four game series against the San Francisco Giants. The Giants are a better team than in previous years. They are well over .500 and lead the National League Wild Card by a half game.
This is most likely Rodrigo Lopez’s last start because of the additions of Cliff Lee and Pedro Martinez. A great outing would make a tough decision for the Phils. He is pitching for his job so he has not choice but to step it up.
Jonathan Sanchez threw a no-hitter against the San Diego Padres on July 10, but he barely became a starter. Moved from the rotation to the bullpen, he found himself back in the rotation due to injuries. Other than the no-no, Sanchez has struggled with an ERA close to 5.
Shane Victorino will not be in the lineup due to a knee contusion. Tonight’s lineup: Rollins (SS)/ Utley (2B)/ Werth (RF)/Howard (1B)/ Ibanez (LF)/ Francisco (CF)/ Feliz (3B)/ Ruiz (C)/ Lopez (P)
Pirates Sellers At Deadline
With all the hoopla surrounding Cliff Lee, the Pittsburgh Pirates moves were overshadowed.The Giants just finished a three game sweep of the Pirates. Moments later, a Pirate switched clubhouses, joing the G-men.
The Pirates traded Freddy Sanchez to the San Francisco Giants for minor league pitcher Tim Alderson. The 20 year old Alderson was ranked the Giants fourth best prospect and 26th best prospect in all of baseball according to Baseball America.
Because of a knee injury, Sanchez proposed a 3 year $20 million offer to the Pirates, which they turned down.
Sanchez is batting .296 with 6 HR and 34 RBI. He won the 2006 batting title.
It wasn't the only move the Pirates made. The Pirates and Seattle Mariners made a seven player deal.
The Mariners acquired Jack Wilson and Ian Snell for Ronny Cedeno and minor leaguers Aaron Pribanic, Brett Lorin and Nathan Adcock. The Pirates will also pay almost all of Snell's and Wilson's contract for the remainder of the season.
