This one got ugly real fast. Ryan Howard quickly put the Phillies ahead 2-0, but boy did this game escalate quickly.
With Howard's two-run home run, it seemed like the Phillies were starting the second half on the right foot. Howard later homered in the ninth inning. Unfortunately, those two home runs runs weren't nearly enough.
Aramis Ramirez smacked a two-run double off Jamie Moyer to tie the game at two. Later, Starlin Castro stole home to give the Cubs a lead, and that was pretty much the game. Moyer blew up for six earned runs in three innings. He gave up two home runs; one to Derek Lee, another to Alfonso Soriano.
The game really came out of reach when Jose Contreras pitched in relief. Contreras surrendered five earned runs in just 2/3 of an inning, including a Geovanny Soto three-run shot.
Poor pitching led to the 12-6 defeat. It was certainly not a way the Phillies would have liked to start the second half, but tomorrow is a new day.
Showing posts with label Moyer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Moyer. Show all posts
Phillies Start 2nd Half at Wrigley
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Philadelphia Phillies (47-40) at Chicago Cubs (39-50)
Jamie Moyer (9-8, 4.51 ERA) vs. Ryan Dempster (7-7, 3.61 ERA)
The Phillies closed the first half with a four-game sweep over Cincinnati. The Phillies would like to begin the second half with a victory, extending the win streak. During this time last year, the Phillies found themselves a hot streak, ultimately winning ten in a row. Of course, that team had a comfortable first place lead, while this team battles back to first. The Phillies have been a second half team for the past few years, and hope this year is no different.
Jamie Moyer will take the hill against the team that he debuted with in the 80's. Overall, Moyer is 3-2 with a 4.46 ERA against his former club. Moyer will be facing an underachieving Cubs offense. Aramais Ramirez and Derek Lee have struggled all season. Alfonso Soriano has been very streaky, although he has picked it up after a slow start.
Ryan Dempster has been the Cubs' most consistent starter. Dempster is 4-3 with a 5.15 ERA against the Phillies in his career, but the collective lineup is batting .221 against him. He last faced the Phillies in May, surrendering four runs in six innings.
Both teams are 1-1 head-to-head this season, and both are well rested. It's been a few days since either team has swung a bat or threw a baseball. Will they start off slow to try and regain their rhythm? Or will they look fresh with a new boost of energy?
Philadelphia Phillies (47-40) at Chicago Cubs (39-50)Jamie Moyer (9-8, 4.51 ERA) vs. Ryan Dempster (7-7, 3.61 ERA)
The Phillies closed the first half with a four-game sweep over Cincinnati. The Phillies would like to begin the second half with a victory, extending the win streak. During this time last year, the Phillies found themselves a hot streak, ultimately winning ten in a row. Of course, that team had a comfortable first place lead, while this team battles back to first. The Phillies have been a second half team for the past few years, and hope this year is no different.
Jamie Moyer will take the hill against the team that he debuted with in the 80's. Overall, Moyer is 3-2 with a 4.46 ERA against his former club. Moyer will be facing an underachieving Cubs offense. Aramais Ramirez and Derek Lee have struggled all season. Alfonso Soriano has been very streaky, although he has picked it up after a slow start.
Ryan Dempster has been the Cubs' most consistent starter. Dempster is 4-3 with a 5.15 ERA against the Phillies in his career, but the collective lineup is batting .221 against him. He last faced the Phillies in May, surrendering four runs in six innings.
Both teams are 1-1 head-to-head this season, and both are well rested. It's been a few days since either team has swung a bat or threw a baseball. Will they start off slow to try and regain their rhythm? Or will they look fresh with a new boost of energy?
Moyer Takes On Lowly Pirates
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Philadelphia Phillies (41-36) at Pittsburgh Pirates (28-51)
Jamie Moyer, LHP (6-6, 4.30 ERA) vs. Ross Ohlendorf, RHP (0-6, 4.90 ERA)
The Pirates are a team that the Phillies should sweep, but with last night's 3-2 loss, they will have to settle with a series win, if in fact they can win the next two. Nothing is certain for the Phillies, especially with the amount of injuries.
Jamie Moyer continues to amaze at 47 years of age. In addition, a team like the Pirates are the exact types of teams he has success against: young, free swinging, impatient hitters.
On the other hand, Ross Ohlendorf has yet to win a game this year. Of course, he plays for the Pirates who have one of the worse records in baseball. Ohlendorf has had success against the Phillies throughout his career, but the Pirates haven't always backed him with defense or run run support.
Philadelphia Phillies (41-36) at Pittsburgh Pirates (28-51)
Jamie Moyer, LHP (6-6, 4.30 ERA) vs. Ross Ohlendorf, RHP (0-6, 4.90 ERA)
The Pirates are a team that the Phillies should sweep, but with last night's 3-2 loss, they will have to settle with a series win, if in fact they can win the next two. Nothing is certain for the Phillies, especially with the amount of injuries.
Jamie Moyer continues to amaze at 47 years of age. In addition, a team like the Pirates are the exact types of teams he has success against: young, free swinging, impatient hitters.
On the other hand, Ross Ohlendorf has yet to win a game this year. Of course, he plays for the Pirates who have one of the worse records in baseball. Ohlendorf has had success against the Phillies throughout his career, but the Pirates haven't always backed him with defense or run run support.
Phillies/Yankees Rematch
Philadelphia Phillies (32-30) at New York Yankees (41-23).
Jamie Moyer, LHP (6-6, 5.03 ERA) vs. A.J Burnett, RHP (6-3, 3.86 ERA).
The losing ways continue. With last night's 8-3 loss to the Yankees, the Phillies dropped to 8-17 in their last 25 games. Not only is that the second worst record in the majors, but they've only averaged 2.6 runs per game.
The offense has been pathetic, but the Phillies are still more than capable of putting up crooked numbers, especially at Yankee Stadium. Just 314 down the right field line, the Phillies left-handed power bats could use a short-porch, like Mark Teixeria's homer last night.
The Phillies will have to get to A.J Burnett in order to for them to do anything offensively. Burnett is 5-8 with a 4.75 ERA in his career against the Phillies. In the 2009 World Series, he went 1-1; he was terrific in his 3-1 victory, but was lit up in his 8-6 loss.
Even if the Phillies can put up big numbers, Jamie Moyer will have to keep the Yankees' bats in tact. Moyer is coming off a start in which he could not get an out in the second inning. Against the Yankees, Moyer is 4-3 with a 5.37 ERA in his career.
Tonight's Lineup:Victorino (CF), Polanco (3B), Utley (2B), Howard (1B), Werth (RF), Ibanez (LF), Dobbs (DH), Schneider (C), Valdez (SS), Moyer P.
Jamie Moyer, LHP (6-6, 5.03 ERA) vs. A.J Burnett, RHP (6-3, 3.86 ERA).The losing ways continue. With last night's 8-3 loss to the Yankees, the Phillies dropped to 8-17 in their last 25 games. Not only is that the second worst record in the majors, but they've only averaged 2.6 runs per game.
The offense has been pathetic, but the Phillies are still more than capable of putting up crooked numbers, especially at Yankee Stadium. Just 314 down the right field line, the Phillies left-handed power bats could use a short-porch, like Mark Teixeria's homer last night.
The Phillies will have to get to A.J Burnett in order to for them to do anything offensively. Burnett is 5-8 with a 4.75 ERA in his career against the Phillies. In the 2009 World Series, he went 1-1; he was terrific in his 3-1 victory, but was lit up in his 8-6 loss.
Even if the Phillies can put up big numbers, Jamie Moyer will have to keep the Yankees' bats in tact. Moyer is coming off a start in which he could not get an out in the second inning. Against the Yankees, Moyer is 4-3 with a 5.37 ERA in his career.
Tonight's Lineup:Victorino (CF), Polanco (3B), Utley (2B), Howard (1B), Werth (RF), Ibanez (LF), Dobbs (DH), Schneider (C), Valdez (SS), Moyer P.
BoSox Crush Moyer
As seen on Phillies Nation.Welcome to third place, Philadelphia. That was ugly. The Boston Red Sox destroyed the Phillies, 12-2 at Fenway. There really is not much to say about Moyer’s awful performance and the same old slacking offense.
Moyer, who came off a complete game, couldn’t get an out in the second inning. Lasting just over an inning, Moyer surrendered nine runs, all earned. At least the Red Sox hit their way on. Moyer gave up six doubles and one home run, but only walked one.
The Red Sox added three more runs off David Herndon. Antonio Bastardo and Kyle Kendrick both got work in out of the bullpen.
It was the usual offense (meaning, the offense that we’ve seen for the past month) for the Phillies. No, they did not get shut out, but they only scored two runs off John Lackey. Both runs came on ground outs, so the Phillies weren’t exactly driving runners in.
Lately, the pitching has clicked, but today neither the pitching or offense found a rhythm. The game was terrible, and there is no other way to put it. This slump is getting old.
Moyer's Gem Can't Make Up for Bats
As seen on Phillies Nation. There aren’t too many complaints about the Phillies’ pitching of late. The starting pitchers and bullpen have dazzled hitters over the past couple of weeks. Jamie Moyer continued his success against the Florida Marlins, but unfortunately wasn’t perfect.
Moyer limited the Marlins to just one run on four hits over six innings of work. He struck out two.
The lone run came off the bat of Ronnie Paulino, who singled on a ground ball to right field, bringing in Hanley Ramirez. The sixth inning run broke the tie, but the Phillies were never able to produce runs offensively.
Anibal Sanchez limited the Phillies to just three hits over 6.2 innings. He struck out seven. The Phillies did not have any luck against the Florida bullpen either.
The Phillies left eight men on base, and were 0-for-6 with runners in scoring position. The 1-0 loss makes it the fifth time the Phillies have been shutout in the last eight games.
The Phillies still managed to take two out of three from the Marlins, but they are still lost offensively. The Phillies despertely need to find their bats.
Moyer Looks to Continue Filet-ing of Fish
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Philadelphia Phillies (28-20) at Florida Marlins (24-26).
Jamie Moyer (5-4, 4.55 ERA) vs. Anibal Sanchez (4-2, 3.23 ERA).
No, it wasn't a dream. That really happened. Roy Halladay pitched a perfect game!. It's still unbelievable.
Many would assume that the Marlins would be bummed after getting no-hit, but Cody Ross had a different approach to the perfect game. "It's the best pitcher in baseball. It's not embarrassing," Cody Ross said. The Marlins are probably going to come out swinging today.
While we are all still thinking about perfection, Jamie Moyer will take the hill against a team he has had so much success against. Moyer is 13-5 with a 3.18 ERA against Florida. At Sun Life Stadium, his ERA is a minuscule 1.66.
Moyer will be opposed by Anibal Sanchez, who has a no hitter on his resume. Sanchez has struggled against the Phillies, going 2-5 with a 5.70 ERA against the Phillies. When he is on, Sanchez has no-hit material, but is wild when he is off. The way the Phillies offense has been going, the edge could go to Sanchez.
This would be a perfect time for the Phillies to turn around their offensive struggles. It would also be a nice time for a sweep.
Philadelphia Phillies (28-20) at Florida Marlins (24-26). Jamie Moyer (5-4, 4.55 ERA) vs. Anibal Sanchez (4-2, 3.23 ERA).
No, it wasn't a dream. That really happened. Roy Halladay pitched a perfect game!. It's still unbelievable.
Many would assume that the Marlins would be bummed after getting no-hit, but Cody Ross had a different approach to the perfect game. "It's the best pitcher in baseball. It's not embarrassing," Cody Ross said. The Marlins are probably going to come out swinging today.
While we are all still thinking about perfection, Jamie Moyer will take the hill against a team he has had so much success against. Moyer is 13-5 with a 3.18 ERA against Florida. At Sun Life Stadium, his ERA is a minuscule 1.66.
Moyer will be opposed by Anibal Sanchez, who has a no hitter on his resume. Sanchez has struggled against the Phillies, going 2-5 with a 5.70 ERA against the Phillies. When he is on, Sanchez has no-hit material, but is wild when he is off. The way the Phillies offense has been going, the edge could go to Sanchez.
This would be a perfect time for the Phillies to turn around their offensive struggles. It would also be a nice time for a sweep.
Phillies, Flyers, Share Spotlight
As seen on Phillies Nation. Tonight, at least in Philadelphia, the center of attention was not on the Phillies. Philadelphia sports fans were mainly focused on the Flyers, who miraculously came back from a 3-0 deficit in both the series and tonight’s game. The impressive comeback led to a large celebration in Philadelphia, a similar glory that the Phillies experienced over the past few years, and hopefully again this upcoming October.
The Phillies weren’t going to step aside and let the Flyers steal the spotlight. The Phillies also made highlights with their 9-5 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Ryan Howard finally broke out of his power slump by putting the Phillies on the board with a two-run first inning home run. In the second inning, Wilson Valdez chipped in with a RBI double to give the Phillies a 3-0 lead.
Jamie Moyer became a victim of the the long ball in the second. Prince Fielder, Jim Edmonds, and George Kottaras each hit solo home runs to tie the game at three. Moyer finished the night after 6.1 innings. He surrendered five runs (four earned), struck out three, and walked three.
The Phillies and Flyers seemed to score simultaneously. When Howard hit his home run, the Flyers scored. When Simon Gagne scored the Flyers’ fourth and ultimately game winning goal, Raul Ibanez drove in the Phillies’ fourth run with a solo home run seconds prior.
The Phillies continued to pour on runs. Shane Victorino (3-for-5) drove in three runs with a triple and a single. In the ninth inning, Chase Utley accidentally hit a home run on a very short and compact swing. The bullpen held the Brewers to 2.2 scoreless innings, securing the first win of the series.
Whether you are a hockey fan or not, there is no denying that what the Flyers did tonight was impressive. Their never-say-die attitude is similar to the mentality that the Phillies display. The Phillies may have been somewhat overshadowed by the Flyers’ amazing comeback tonight, but the Phillies played well tonight and have been in that situation before. Regardless, it was a great day to be a Philadelphia sports fanatic.
Blanton Looks to Continue Trend Vs. Braves
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The Atlanta Braves (12-17) play the Philadelphia Phillies (18-11). Kris Medlen (1-1, 2.55 ERA) starts vs. Joe Blanton (0-1, 5.40 ERA).
The Phillies couldn't have asked for more out of Jamie Moyer last night. The 47-year old tossed a two-hit complete game shutout against the Atlanta Braves. Moyer painted the corners and kept hitters off-balanced all night.
Overall, the starting rotation has really picked it up as a whole. With the exception of Roy Halladay, every starter struggled. The last time around the rotation has been a different story. In the last four games, Phillies starters have combined for 32 innings pitched and have given up only 3 earned runs. That is a 0.84 ERA! The entire staff has a 1.83 ERA this May. Joe Blanton looks to continue that trend tonight.
Blanton made his first start of the season last Monday, and pitched much better than his lined indicated (6.2 IP, 4 ER). Brian McCann continues to have eye troubles, but returns to the lineup just in time to face Blanton, who has struggled against the Braves in his career. McCann has Blanton's number; he is batting .375 with two home runs and six runs batted in against Blanton.
Blanton will be opposed by Kris Medlen, who has not made a start since July 12, 2009. The Phillies offense, like the rotation, has picked it up over the last week. They'll try to make Medlen the next victim.
Tonight's Lineup:Victorino (CF), Dobbs (3B), Polanco (2B), Howard (1B), Werth (RF), Ibanez (LF), Schneider (C), Valdez (SS), Blanton (P)
Don't panic. It's just an off day for Chase Utley.
The Atlanta Braves (12-17) play the Philadelphia Phillies (18-11). Kris Medlen (1-1, 2.55 ERA) starts vs. Joe Blanton (0-1, 5.40 ERA).The Phillies couldn't have asked for more out of Jamie Moyer last night. The 47-year old tossed a two-hit complete game shutout against the Atlanta Braves. Moyer painted the corners and kept hitters off-balanced all night.
Overall, the starting rotation has really picked it up as a whole. With the exception of Roy Halladay, every starter struggled. The last time around the rotation has been a different story. In the last four games, Phillies starters have combined for 32 innings pitched and have given up only 3 earned runs. That is a 0.84 ERA! The entire staff has a 1.83 ERA this May. Joe Blanton looks to continue that trend tonight.
Blanton made his first start of the season last Monday, and pitched much better than his lined indicated (6.2 IP, 4 ER). Brian McCann continues to have eye troubles, but returns to the lineup just in time to face Blanton, who has struggled against the Braves in his career. McCann has Blanton's number; he is batting .375 with two home runs and six runs batted in against Blanton.
Blanton will be opposed by Kris Medlen, who has not made a start since July 12, 2009. The Phillies offense, like the rotation, has picked it up over the last week. They'll try to make Medlen the next victim.
Tonight's Lineup:Victorino (CF), Dobbs (3B), Polanco (2B), Howard (1B), Werth (RF), Ibanez (LF), Schneider (C), Valdez (SS), Blanton (P)
Don't panic. It's just an off day for Chase Utley.
Howard's Smash Backs Moyer
As seen on Phillies Nation.
Sporting a uniform that was worn by the Phillies in the year he was born, Jamie Moyer cruised along retiring the first eight batters he faced. Moyer had a comfortable four run lead with the opposing pitcher due up, and was bound for another easy inning.
Instead, Felipe Paulino doubled and the wheels fell off. Moyer struggled to get a single out as the next eight batters reached base. Jason Michaels' and Hunter Pence's home runs tied the game. Michaels' homer was the Astros' first home run of the season. The Astros' 2010 firsts did not end there. They took their first lead of the season on a sharp ground ball that was mishandled by Placido Polanco.
You could go on and on about how bad that inning was for Jamie Moyer and the Phillies. But you could also go on and on about how ridiculously hot the Phillies offense is right now. They're only averaging 8.2 runs per game.
The Phillies played a little small ball to score the first four runs. The fact that the Phillies aren't relying on the home run ball is an excellent sign. They are drawing walks, getting on base any way they can, and bringing those runners home to score.
But it's always nice to hit the long ball. Trailing 5-4, Ryan Howard provided the smash. Howard cranked a two-run homer off the concrete wall in deep left-center field. The Phillies took a 6-5 lead, and did not look back.
Jayson Werth went 3-for-4 with 3 runs batted in. Shane Victorino joined the fun with a RBI single and a ninth inning home run. Victorino hit into tough luck all week, but finally found a hole.
Moyer settled in after a rough third inning, and was able to make it through six. He earned the win in the Phillies 9-6 victory over the Houston Astros. It will be a battle of the Roy's (Halladay-Oswalt) tomorrow as the the Phillies go for the sweep against the win-less Astros.
Sporting a uniform that was worn by the Phillies in the year he was born, Jamie Moyer cruised along retiring the first eight batters he faced. Moyer had a comfortable four run lead with the opposing pitcher due up, and was bound for another easy inning.Instead, Felipe Paulino doubled and the wheels fell off. Moyer struggled to get a single out as the next eight batters reached base. Jason Michaels' and Hunter Pence's home runs tied the game. Michaels' homer was the Astros' first home run of the season. The Astros' 2010 firsts did not end there. They took their first lead of the season on a sharp ground ball that was mishandled by Placido Polanco.
You could go on and on about how bad that inning was for Jamie Moyer and the Phillies. But you could also go on and on about how ridiculously hot the Phillies offense is right now. They're only averaging 8.2 runs per game.
The Phillies played a little small ball to score the first four runs. The fact that the Phillies aren't relying on the home run ball is an excellent sign. They are drawing walks, getting on base any way they can, and bringing those runners home to score.
But it's always nice to hit the long ball. Trailing 5-4, Ryan Howard provided the smash. Howard cranked a two-run homer off the concrete wall in deep left-center field. The Phillies took a 6-5 lead, and did not look back.
Jayson Werth went 3-for-4 with 3 runs batted in. Shane Victorino joined the fun with a RBI single and a ninth inning home run. Victorino hit into tough luck all week, but finally found a hole.
Moyer settled in after a rough third inning, and was able to make it through six. He earned the win in the Phillies 9-6 victory over the Houston Astros. It will be a battle of the Roy's (Halladay-Oswalt) tomorrow as the the Phillies go for the sweep against the win-less Astros.
Fifth Spot: Kendrick or Moyer?
As seen on Phillies Nation.Entering spring training, Ruben Amaro Jr. said that the fifth spot in the rotation was Jamie Moyer’s to lose. While Kyle Kendrick has made his case for the fifth spot, Moyer has done nothing to lose it.
In 19.2 innings this spring, Kendrick has a 1.37 earned run average. In that span, he has given up 12 hits, walked four and struck out seven. He has yet to allow a home run.
Kendrick made his last start against the Astros. In 5.2 innings, he allowed one earned run on five hits.
On the other hand, Moyer has a 0.77 earned run average in 11.2 innings. The 47-year old has only allowed six hits and has yet to walk a batter. He has also struck out 12.
Moyer spent a majority of spring pitching in “B” games, but perhaps he sealed the deal with 6.2 shut out innings against the New York Yankees. Tossing 74 pitches against the Bronx Bombers, Moyer struck out six.
Charlie Manuel and Rich Dubee have yet to name the fifth starter. So, who will the fifth rotation spot belong to? Kyle Kendrick or Jamie Moyer?
The Three Biggest Concerns
As seen on Phillies Nation.
That time of the year is quickly approaching, folks. Pitchers and catchers report in just two days. On paper, the 2010 Phillies look better than they did at this point in 2009. The lineup is set, the bench is improved, but there are still a few question marks headed into spring training.
It’s unsure how Placido Polanco will transition to third base. It’s also unknown who will be the left-handed specialist if J.C Romero is not ready by the beginning of the season. But here are the three biggest concerns headed into spring training:
Brad Lidge
By now, we know his 2009 numbers — an earned run average over seven and eleven blown saves. He had one of the worst seasons as a closer, ever. Lidge had two surgeries this off-season, and his status for Opening Day is unknown.
Lidge may not be ready by the start of the season, but he should not miss a significant amount of time. In the occasions that Lidge had an off year, he followed it up with a decent year. If the pattern continues, Lidge is due for a good season.
Cole Hamels
Last year, Hamels pitched average for a major league pitcher. For Cole Hamels, it was a subpar season. As the 2008 NLCS and World Series MVP, Hamels had plenty of off-season distractions last off-season. It’ll be interesting to hear how Hamels prepared for the 2010 season. Hopefully, he had more time to focus, but the biggest concern is improving his curveball.
Hamels’ curveball problems were easily noticed in last year’s division series. If Hamels is unable to improve his curveball, he should immedietly switch to a slider or cut
-fastball. As a two-pitch pitcher, it is important for Hamels to develop a third pitch. Adding another pitch will make him that much scarier of a pitcher.
Jamie Moyer
Ruben Amaro Jr. already proclaimed that the fifth spot in the rotation is Moyer’s to lose. However, Moyer had multiple surgeries and health problems this off-season. The 47-year old remains optimistic that he’ll be ready to pitch this spring, and was also open to the idea of pitching in 2011!
If Moyer does not win the fifth starter’s job, it’ll be interesting to see who wins it: Kyle Kendrick? Andrew Carpenter? Or somebody else?
It’s unsure how Placido Polanco will transition to third base. It’s also unknown who will be the left-handed specialist if J.C Romero is not ready by the beginning of the season. But here are the three biggest concerns headed into spring training:
Brad Lidge
By now, we know his 2009 numbers — an earned run average over seven and eleven blown saves. He had one of the worst seasons as a closer, ever. Lidge had two surgeries this off-season, and his status for Opening Day is unknown.
Lidge may not be ready by the start of the season, but he should not miss a significant amount of time. In the occasions that Lidge had an off year, he followed it up with a decent year. If the pattern continues, Lidge is due for a good season.
Cole Hamels
Last year, Hamels pitched average for a major league pitcher. For Cole Hamels, it was a subpar season. As the 2008 NLCS and World Series MVP, Hamels had plenty of off-season distractions last off-season. It’ll be interesting to hear how Hamels prepared for the 2010 season. Hopefully, he had more time to focus, but the biggest concern is improving his curveball.
Hamels’ curveball problems were easily noticed in last year’s division series. If Hamels is unable to improve his curveball, he should immedietly switch to a slider or cut
-fastball. As a two-pitch pitcher, it is important for Hamels to develop a third pitch. Adding another pitch will make him that much scarier of a pitcher.Jamie Moyer
Ruben Amaro Jr. already proclaimed that the fifth spot in the rotation is Moyer’s to lose. However, Moyer had multiple surgeries and health problems this off-season. The 47-year old remains optimistic that he’ll be ready to pitch this spring, and was also open to the idea of pitching in 2011!
If Moyer does not win the fifth starter’s job, it’ll be interesting to see who wins it: Kyle Kendrick? Andrew Carpenter? Or somebody else?
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.
Hot Stove Commentary
Here is the latest Hot Stove news and rumors, and some unnecessary commentary:
Roy Halladay said that he would approve a trade to the New York Yankees. Traitor! Going to a division rival!? The Blue Jays want a pitcher and a hitter for him.
The Marlins might be looking to deal Josh Johnson. Typical Marlins: draft a good player. Bring him up through the farm system. Have a successful first few years in the big leagues. Then, trade him away for some prospects. Have those prospects come up and put together a successful team. Possibly win, then trade those players away. Repeat the process.
The Cubs are looking for an outfield bat. They still have to get rid of Monopoly-- errr, Milton Bradley.
Pirates would like to bring Mike Gonzalez back, but would it matter? They also might be looking at Blalock and Ankiel. Iwamura, Gonzo, Blalock, Ankiel, are they trying to be contenders?
The Baltimore Orioles would consider Erik Bedard and Ben Sheets. This is not much of a risk. Orioles probably won't contend in 2010 and both these guys have health issues. It would be worth a shot, as long as it's not too expensive.
Tim Lincecum is looking for a one year deal. Probably smart for him because when he wins another Cy Young, he'll be able to get another contract that makes even more money.
Jamie Moyer is doing well after minor surgery. Moyer had surgery to wash out a small collection of blood cells that could have been infected.
“The surgery is not likely to impact his rehab schedule and is likely to have minimal impact on his spring training schedule,” said Michael Ciccotti, the team doctor. Moyer will remain hospitalized until Monday.
Roy Halladay said that he would approve a trade to the New York Yankees. Traitor! Going to a division rival!? The Blue Jays want a pitcher and a hitter for him.
The Marlins might be looking to deal Josh Johnson. Typical Marlins: draft a good player. Bring him up through the farm system. Have a successful first few years in the big leagues. Then, trade him away for some prospects. Have those prospects come up and put together a successful team. Possibly win, then trade those players away. Repeat the process.
The Cubs are looking for an outfield bat. They still have to get rid of Monopoly-- errr, Milton Bradley.
Pirates would like to bring Mike Gonzalez back, but would it matter? They also might be looking at Blalock and Ankiel. Iwamura, Gonzo, Blalock, Ankiel, are they trying to be contenders?
The Baltimore Orioles would consider Erik Bedard and Ben Sheets. This is not much of a risk. Orioles probably won't contend in 2010 and both these guys have health issues. It would be worth a shot, as long as it's not too expensive.
Tim Lincecum is looking for a one year deal. Probably smart for him because when he wins another Cy Young, he'll be able to get another contract that makes even more money.
Jamie Moyer is doing well after minor surgery. Moyer had surgery to wash out a small collection of blood cells that could have been infected.
“The surgery is not likely to impact his rehab schedule and is likely to have minimal impact on his spring training schedule,” said Michael Ciccotti, the team doctor. Moyer will remain hospitalized until Monday.
Surfin', Beltre, Moyer, and MLB News
Looks like Jimmy Rollins found a new hobby. Rollins, who recently attended Shane Victorino's wedding, was caught surfing in Hawaii.
In Phillies related news:
The Phillies are targeting free agent Adrian Beltre. Money could be an issue; Beltre, 30, could be seeking a four-year deal. Additionally, Beltre is represented by Scott Boras.
Mark DeRosa, a personal favorite of Charlie Manuel, is still an option as well as Placido Polanco, Chone Figgins, and Pedro Feliz. A friend of Feliz says that he would like to sign elsewhere, possibly Seattle.
The Phillies signed DeWayne Wise and Wilson Valdez to minor league contracts. Both had a significant amount of major league playing time in 2009, but they will most likely spend most of 2010 in Triple-A.
Wise, an outfielder, is known for saving Mark Buehrle’s perfect game in July. The 32-year old spent most of the season as a defensive replacement. He batted .225 in 142 at-bats with the White Sox in 2009.
Valdez, a utility infielder, batted .256 in 86 at-bats for the New York Mets in 2009.
Jamie Moyer has been hospitalized at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital with recurring symptoms from his September groin surgery. Dr. Michael Ciccotti, the team doctor, said that Moyer is not seriously ill, however the pain in the area where he had surgery has increased since the weekend.
Moyer, 47, is being evaluated. “He’s completely comfortable and fine. We’re just taking appropriate precautions and also wanting to do what we can to make sure he’s on track for spring training,” Ciccotti said.
Around MLB, the Chicago White Sox signed Andruw Jones. Jose Lopez is likely to remain in Seattle. The Minnesota Twins are looking at Rich Harden.
The Red Sox might be making a push for Roy Halladay. They are also interested in Marco Scutaro and Kelvim Escobar.
Call of the Day: Travis Lee hits a walk-off home run in 2001.
"Well hit! Game over! 3-run homerun Travis Lee! Can you believe it? What a
tremendous comeback from the Fightin' Phils! A 10 to 8 win!"
Game 3 Postponed
Game three of the National League Division Series between the Philadelphia Phillies and Colorado Rockies has been postponed due to snow.The game is rescheduled for Sunday night at 10:07 p.m EST. Game four has been moved to Monday.
The postponement could turn out to be a good thing for the Phillies. Pedro Martinez was originally slated, but J.A Happ will start tomorrow. Also, Cliff Lee will have enough rest to make him a possibility to start on Monday.
Jamie Moyer will be released from the hospital today. Moyer has been in the hospital since Wednesday due to a type of blood infection. Ruben Amaro Jr. said that Moyer is okay.
Blog of Note: We Should be GM's celebrated the end of the decade by putting together the "Team of the 2000's."
Call of the Day: Jimmy Rollins' first major league hit.
"Jimmy Rollins is going to have his first major league hit. Off the fence and
watch him fly! It's going to be a triple! Rollins... heading for third... Head
first slide. He's there with a triple!"
Sloppy Defense Leads to Walk-Off Loss
As seen on Phillies Nation.
When Jimmy Rollins failed to make a basket catch in the sixth inning, Jamie Moyer put his hand over his face. It summed up the night for the Phillies. Sloppy defense was the biggest issue in the 7-5 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.
Paul Bako opened the scoring with a two-run shot in the second inning. By the third inning, the Phillies led 4-0. In addition, Ryan Howard hit an upper-decker in the fifth inning.
Kyle Kendrick made a spot start for an ailing Pedro Martinez. In four innings, Kendrick allowed three runs (2 earned). Moyer pitched four innings in relief, and gave up two runs. Braden Looper allowed five runs (3 earned) in six innings.
The game was highlighted with four errors, two committed by each team. Raul Ibanez couldn’t keep a ball in front of him. Kendrick made an overthrow. Jayson Werth and Chase Utley miscommunicated on a blooper down the right field line. To top it off, Craig Counsell’s flair bounced off Rollins’ leg, tying the game at five.
The ninth inning must be cursed. Tyler Walker hoped to send the game into extra innings. With a runner on, Walker threw a meatball down the middle of the plate. That’s not something you want to do with Ryan Braun batting. Braun’s walk-off home run cleared the right center field wall.
The bad news doesn’t end. The Atlanta Braves and Florida Marlins each won, cutting the division lead to five. The magic number remains at four. Monday is the earliest the Phillies can clinch.
This ball club has been looking lifeless. They need to stop worrying about clinching. Instead, take it game by game and clean up their act. They’ll try to rebound tomorrow with Joe Blanton on the mound.
When Jimmy Rollins failed to make a basket catch in the sixth inning, Jamie Moyer put his hand over his face. It summed up the night for the Phillies. Sloppy defense was the biggest issue in the 7-5 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.Paul Bako opened the scoring with a two-run shot in the second inning. By the third inning, the Phillies led 4-0. In addition, Ryan Howard hit an upper-decker in the fifth inning.
Kyle Kendrick made a spot start for an ailing Pedro Martinez. In four innings, Kendrick allowed three runs (2 earned). Moyer pitched four innings in relief, and gave up two runs. Braden Looper allowed five runs (3 earned) in six innings.
The game was highlighted with four errors, two committed by each team. Raul Ibanez couldn’t keep a ball in front of him. Kendrick made an overthrow. Jayson Werth and Chase Utley miscommunicated on a blooper down the right field line. To top it off, Craig Counsell’s flair bounced off Rollins’ leg, tying the game at five.
The ninth inning must be cursed. Tyler Walker hoped to send the game into extra innings. With a runner on, Walker threw a meatball down the middle of the plate. That’s not something you want to do with Ryan Braun batting. Braun’s walk-off home run cleared the right center field wall.
The bad news doesn’t end. The Atlanta Braves and Florida Marlins each won, cutting the division lead to five. The magic number remains at four. Monday is the earliest the Phillies can clinch.
This ball club has been looking lifeless. They need to stop worrying about clinching. Instead, take it game by game and clean up their act. They’ll try to rebound tomorrow with Joe Blanton on the mound.
Moyer Starting Game 2
Visit Phillies Nation for full gameday.New York Mets (62-79) at Philadelphia Phillies (80-59).
Mike Pelfrey (10-10, 4.83 ERA) starts vs. Jamie Moyer (12-9, 4.98 ERA).
With tomorrow's double header and J.A Happ's oblique injury, Jamie Moyer will make his 23rd start of the year. On Monday, the crafty veteran filled in for Happ nicely, despite the short notice. Since his bullpen demotion, Moyer is 2-0 with a 1.41 ERA. However, Moyer is 1-1 with a 7.08 ERA in 20 innings against the Mets this season. Mets hitters have batted .342 against the lefty.
Moyer will be opposed by Mike Pelfrey. Pelfrey is 3-0 with a 3.70 ERA in four starts against the Phillies this season. Ryan Howard is batting .400 with a home run in his career against Pelfrey. Chase Utley has a .300 average and three homers off Pelfrey.
The Mets elimination number is four. The Phillies can officially eliminate the Mets from the division this weekend.
Call of the Day: Chase Utley makes a potential game saving play.
"Ground ball... oh, great diving play Utley. Utley saved a lot of
trouble there, with a fine play diving to his left."
Astros Sweep Phillies
As seen on Phillies Nation.
Four years ago, Craig Biggio sent Billy Wagner's offering into the left field seats, diminishing the Phillies' Wild Card hopes. The Astros completing a four game sweep isn't as devastating, but it is still tough to take in.
J.A Happ was a late scratch due to a mild oblique strain suffered during batting practice. Jamie Moyer was penciled in, but the short notice worked to his advantage. Moyer pitched six innings, giving up two runs, three hits and one walk. The only damage came on Hunter Pence's 413-foot blast. Beat that, Ryan Howard.
Howard's RBI single gave the Phillies a 1-0 lead before Pence's bomb. Next, Howard hit an estimated 445-foot opposite field moonshot. Howard and Raul Ibanez went back-to-back. It was Ibanez's second home run in 123 at-bats. The Phillies led 3-2 headed into the seventh.
In a crucial situation in the sixth inning, Charlie Manuel opted to leave Moyer in, even though Michael Bourn was on base. Moyer escaped the jam, something Chan Ho Park failed to do an inning later. Miguel Tejada and Pence hit back-to-back doubles, tying the game at three. Park, who normally does not walk many batters, walked three in a row (one intentional), bringing home the go-ahead run. Manuel waited too long to make the call to Scott Eyre, who ended the inning without further trouble.
The Phillies were lucky it wasn't worse. But once again, the offense wasn't able to do much. They were 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position and left eight men on base. The small ball in the first inning worked, thanks to Shane Victorino's steal and Howard's single. If they do more of this, they'll see themselves putting up more runs.
Since 2004, the Astros have given the Phillies trouble. They are 24-11, the highest winning percentage (.686) of any National League club against the Phillies. The last time the Astros swept the Phillies in a four game series was September 6-9, 1999. It must not be a good time to face the 'Stros.
Four years ago, Craig Biggio sent Billy Wagner's offering into the left field seats, diminishing the Phillies' Wild Card hopes. The Astros completing a four game sweep isn't as devastating, but it is still tough to take in.J.A Happ was a late scratch due to a mild oblique strain suffered during batting practice. Jamie Moyer was penciled in, but the short notice worked to his advantage. Moyer pitched six innings, giving up two runs, three hits and one walk. The only damage came on Hunter Pence's 413-foot blast. Beat that, Ryan Howard.
Howard's RBI single gave the Phillies a 1-0 lead before Pence's bomb. Next, Howard hit an estimated 445-foot opposite field moonshot. Howard and Raul Ibanez went back-to-back. It was Ibanez's second home run in 123 at-bats. The Phillies led 3-2 headed into the seventh.
In a crucial situation in the sixth inning, Charlie Manuel opted to leave Moyer in, even though Michael Bourn was on base. Moyer escaped the jam, something Chan Ho Park failed to do an inning later. Miguel Tejada and Pence hit back-to-back doubles, tying the game at three. Park, who normally does not walk many batters, walked three in a row (one intentional), bringing home the go-ahead run. Manuel waited too long to make the call to Scott Eyre, who ended the inning without further trouble.
The Phillies were lucky it wasn't worse. But once again, the offense wasn't able to do much. They were 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position and left eight men on base. The small ball in the first inning worked, thanks to Shane Victorino's steal and Howard's single. If they do more of this, they'll see themselves putting up more runs.
Since 2004, the Astros have given the Phillies trouble. They are 24-11, the highest winning percentage (.686) of any National League club against the Phillies. The last time the Astros swept the Phillies in a four game series was September 6-9, 1999. It must not be a good time to face the 'Stros.
Rain Delay Specialist Earns the Victory
As seen on Phillies Nation.
Call him the "Rain Delay Specialist." It was deja vu for Jamie Moyer, who relieved after Pedro Marinez's start was shortened due to rain. Thanks to Moyer, two Ryan Howard home runs, and a 1-2-3 Brad Lidge save, the Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves, 4-2.
After Martinez completed two scoreless frames, Howard hit an opposite field home run through the rain drops. With the rain falling at a steady pace, the tarp rolled out. After a brief delay, the tarp was removed even though it was raining heavier. The remainder of the inning was finished, but the tarp was put back on. A total of one hour and 48 minutes were delayed because of inclement weather.
Rain continued to fall throughout the evening, but not enough to pause play. Out of the bullpen, Moyer did his job. He pitched 4.1 innings, allowing one run on Matt Diaz's RBI double. He gave up four hits and struck out five. Since being demoted to the bullpen, Moyer has given up one run in 10.1 innings. He has struck out ten and hasn't walked a batter.
Howard (3-for-3) homered again, his 37th of the year. This time it was a two-run shot to center field. Pedro Feliz added a RBI bloop single in the seventh inning. With a 4-1 lead, Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge would have to close it out.
Ryan Madson got into a jam. He surrendered one run after allowing three hits and a walk. Adam LaRoche flied out for the final out of the inning, and the birthday boy escaped the bases loaded threat. There was only hope that Lidge would not blow his Major League leading tenth blown save.
With two quick outs, Lidge fell behind 2-0 to Diaz. He came back firing. Diaz chased the 2-2 slider, ending the game. Lidge secured his 26th save of the year. The win over the Braves extended the Phillies lead in the division to eight games.
Call him the "Rain Delay Specialist." It was deja vu for Jamie Moyer, who relieved after Pedro Marinez's start was shortened due to rain. Thanks to Moyer, two Ryan Howard home runs, and a 1-2-3 Brad Lidge save, the Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves, 4-2.
After Martinez completed two scoreless frames, Howard hit an opposite field home run through the rain drops. With the rain falling at a steady pace, the tarp rolled out. After a brief delay, the tarp was removed even though it was raining heavier. The remainder of the inning was finished, but the tarp was put back on. A total of one hour and 48 minutes were delayed because of inclement weather.
Rain continued to fall throughout the evening, but not enough to pause play. Out of the bullpen, Moyer did his job. He pitched 4.1 innings, allowing one run on Matt Diaz's RBI double. He gave up four hits and struck out five. Since being demoted to the bullpen, Moyer has given up one run in 10.1 innings. He has struck out ten and hasn't walked a batter.
Howard (3-for-3) homered again, his 37th of the year. This time it was a two-run shot to center field. Pedro Feliz added a RBI bloop single in the seventh inning. With a 4-1 lead, Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge would have to close it out.Ryan Madson got into a jam. He surrendered one run after allowing three hits and a walk. Adam LaRoche flied out for the final out of the inning, and the birthday boy escaped the bases loaded threat. There was only hope that Lidge would not blow his Major League leading tenth blown save.
With two quick outs, Lidge fell behind 2-0 to Diaz. He came back firing. Diaz chased the 2-2 slider, ending the game. Lidge secured his 26th save of the year. The win over the Braves extended the Phillies lead in the division to eight games.
