Today's News
September 30, 2007
| By Dennis Bakay
| 
Discuss
Division Champs!
The Phillies make the playoffs for the first time since '93 with a 6-1 victory over Washington
They have finally done it! The Phillies did what many thought could not be done. And, it came down to the wire. Down to the final day.
They are your National League East Division Champs.
Not much else to say. They will play either the Rockies or Padres on Wednesday.
Even The Hater is choked up over this.
Congratulations Phillies! You deserve it. What a ride and the best hasn't even begun yet.
Playoff baseball is back in Philadelphia!
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Money Man
Hamels delivers a performance for the ages with 13 K's as Phils take division lead
In the biggest game of his young-career Cole Hamels delivered like a Hall of Fame ace. This was a performance that resembled the likes of Curt Schilling in game 6 against the Yanks in 2004, Roger Clemens (insert any # of big game performances), and countless other performances over the years.
Here's the line:
8 innings
13 K's
1 walk
6 hits (just 2 allowed after the 2nd inning)
116 pitches and 82 strikes-good for a 71% strike percentage.
Hamels, much like Donovan McNabb on Sunday, was in the zone. His change-up is un-hittable when he's on the money.
My Dad used to tell me about the big-game players and he called them "money players." That's just what King Cole is; a money player. I was in total agreement with Charlie Manuel bringing Hamels back slowly and keeping him on that pitch count in his first two starts back. Not only do they want to be careful with the franchise pitcher, the one who will anchor this rotation for the next 10 years, but they needed to get him back to 100% for big game like this.
That was Charlie Manuel's best move of his coaching career in my opinion, bringing Hamels back slowly. He didn't have any rehab assignments in Clearwater; his 3 inning and 5 inning starts against St. Louis and Washington (a week ago) were his rehab starts.
I would be remiss to give Hamels all of the credit, but like a franchise QB a franchise pitcher gets most of the credit when the team wins and Hamels should get most of the credit for last night's win.
The big guns stepped up as well. Rollins, Utley, Howard, and Burrell all chipped in by going 5 for 16 and knocking in 5 of the 6 Phillies' runs.
It was a nail-biter for the first 4 1/2 innings. But, the flood gates opened up in the 5th thanks to a clutch single by Jimmy Rollins, which brought in Dobbs and Ruiz for the first two runs of the game. And, then Utley nearly homered to deep right field (ending up with a double) and scored Rollins to make it 3 to zip.
And, all they needed because Hamels was just sick last night.
After the game as Mitch Williams and Michael Barkan were doing the Comcast postgame show on the field, there were still some fans up in the stands doing scoreboard watching and then Mitch and Barkan announced that the Mets lost.
And, now the Phillies for the first time all season are in first place by a game.
With 2 to play all the Phillies have to do is win today and have the Mets lose. If that happens then they will be division champs for the first time since 1993.
Adam Eaton is on the hill today and he will be on a short leash. If he (expletive deleted) the bed in the first inning, look for him to get pulled quick.
Gametime is 3:55. Eaton goes up against Matt Chico.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Tied Up
Phils knock around John Smoltz in 6-4 win and tie the Mets for the division lead
Remember some years back when it was the Braves who killed the Phillies? The year 2001 really comes to mind-Larry Bowa's first season. The Phillies had a huge lead in the beginning of the year only to squander it over the summer. Then, they ultimately blew the division in the final weeks as the Braves stuck a dagger in the collective hearts of the Phillies fans.
Now, the chickens have come home to roost as the Phillies officially eliminated the Braves from postseason play last night after knocking John Smoltz around to the tune of 6 runs in just 4 innings of work.
The Rhino hit his 44th homer last night. And, Pat Burrell got in on the action as well, by belting his 30th homer in the 3rd inning. The MVP Jimmy Rollins had a quiet evening going 1 for 4.
The 10th man on the field, the fans were also a factor last night. John Smoltz can blame it on the “bandbox” factor all he wants, but that crowd with the white banners is a huge distraction for any opposing team. As Ron Costello says in his column today, "them white things distracted his boys" according to Bobby Cox.
And, the Mets, who are doing their best impression of the '64 Phils (the team that collapsed in the final two weeks of the season) lost again and fell into a tie with the Fightins for the division lead.
Now, for the first time all year the Phillies can utter the words “magic number.” For their magic number is 4-and I’ll get to that in a minute.
And, here comes the insanity that's called the National League. Not one team has clinched a playoff spot yet with just 3 games to play. I'm sure if you go back in history this might be the first time something like this has ever happened and it's certainly the first time something like this has occured since the advent of the new playoff format.
Now, the Phils play the Nationals this weekend who just knocked off the Mets. Also this weekend the Mets play the Marlins. The Padres, whom lead the Phillies by a game in the wild card play the Brewers who are fighting for the Central Division, so look for them to bring it against the Pads. And, the Rockies, who are tied with the Phillies are playing the Diamondbacks for a chance to win the West. But, if the Rockies knock off the Dbacks and the Pads lose to the Brewers then the Phillies would still need to win this weekend to ensure a shot at the wild card. Therefore, the Dbacks and not the Pads could be in a deadlock with the Phillies. But, if they sweep the Nats then they'll have a one-game playoff against the Mets on Monday. Therefore, they need to win four games to take the division or just have the Mets lose one and sweep the Nats.
Got all that?
Hamels is on the hill against Tim Redding tonight at The Bank at 7:05.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Lohse's Night
Kyle Lohse delivers a big-time performance in out-pitching Tim Hudson
Ultimately the final score was 5-2, but this was all Kyle Lohse. He went 7 innings (first time a Phillies starter has done so in 2 weeks) and gave up just 2 runs and struck out 5. Added to that, he out-pitched Tim Hudson, one of the aces of the Braves.
And, if you saw the game last night you would have seen the impact the fans had on the game. They were great and very much into the game the whole way.
This was reminiscient of '93. Anyone who says the Phillies fans don't support their team is naive and/or ignorant. Some fans may boo when they aren't performing up to par and that's your prerogative if you're a paying customer and a supporter. However, they will get behind them when they're in big games like this. Even the other night the crowd was behind them when they were down.
What a clutch game for the Fightins. And, with the Mets losing last night, they find themselves just a game behind the floundering Mets. And, with 4 to play I'm putting my money on the Phils to run the table and the Mets to be the team to fight for a Wild Card in a three-way tie scenario as has been discussed recently.
There is a good chance three teams will be in a tie for the Wild Card at season's end. It could very well be the Phillies or Mets and the Padres and Rockies.
However it ends up, expect the Phils to run the table.
Tonight Kyle Kendrick is on the hill against John Smoltz. ESPN had incorrectly stated Eaton would go on the hill and you know as they say, the shit rolls down hill.
Knowing that Kendrick is up against Smoltz, I like their odds much better tonight.
Check out Ron Costello's latest Phillies column right here as he stays on top of the action daily!
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Out Hit
Braves light up the Phils pitching as they lose 10-6
This was the night they needed to come out with guns-a-blazing. And, for the first 5 innings they did so. It was tit-for-tat.
The Braves led off the game with 3 in the top of the first and then J Roll answered back with a solo shot in the bottom of the first. Atlanta took a 4-1 lead in the 4th with another run and then the Phils answered back with 3 runs to tie it up at 4 a piece. And, they took the lead in the bottom of the 5th.
The Braves then lit up Moyer and the bullpen for 4 runs in the top of the 6th and that's all they needed.
Face it Jamie Moyer is just about cooked. He's 44 years old and has thrown for 200+ innings umpteen times in his career. He is gassed at this point of the year.
The matchups in this series don't bode well for the Phillies and they had better bring their A-game on offense in the next two games. They are outmatched tonight with Lohse on the hill against Hudson. And, they will be BRUTALLY overmatched tomorrow night with Adam Eaton up against Smoltz, the ace of the Braves' staff.
And, now the Phils find themselves a game behind the Padres in the wildcard and tied with the surging Rockies. The Mets did lose, so they're 2 games behind them for the division lead.
The Braves still are mathematically in it so they'll give a Hurculean effort to try and make it in. And, they would love nothing more than to spoil it for the Phillies.
Does this mean I don't think the Phillies can do it? No, not at all. I think they should get in. They have 5 to go at home. And, they've been clutch all season winning come-from-behind games.
It's do or die time now. And, I expect them to run the table in these next 5 games, but it's going to be tough. Make no mistake about it.
Game starts at 7:05 at The Bank and Lohse is up against Hudson tonight.
For more coverage on the Phils check out Khristian Peel's latest column here and Ron Costello's latest column right here.
---------------------------
Gillick not returning after '08
Well all those rumors about Gillick leaving after this season turned out to be half-truths. He is however "possibly" going to leave for Seattle after his contract runs up in 2008, but not for the Mariners job.
But now, he's unsure if he's leaving or not. Haven't we heard this before from this organization?
Myers might be out a few weeks and it turns out to be a month.
Gordon was just getting some routine check-up, but it turned out they knew he was hurt.
Now Gillick says the reporter got a little over zealous in regards to his comments about leaving.
Is he or isn't he leaving? That is the question.
I wonder if Pat ever heard the song, "Should I stay or should I go?"
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
All Square
Phillies tied for the Wild Card lead with 6 to play starting tonight
This is what it's all about folks. The final week. Down to the wire.
Insert numerous other cliches here.
Think of another cliche sentence about cliche sentences and insert that right here.
Forget that this team has let us down time and time again. This is a different squad. They were left for dead on several occasions and have been like a cat on it's 9th life all season long.
Get Ron Costello's take right here.
Jamie Moyer takes the hill against Atlanta's Chuck James. This my friends is Must See TV. Don't miss it. 7:05 is the gametime at The Bank.
---------------------------
Bunkley and Cole are for real, but Kearse is the invisible man
Brodrick Bunkley didn't show up in the stat sheets in the first game, but really displayed that explosiveness on Sunday that made him a first-round pick in 2006.
And, it showed in the stats as BB had 4 tackles and 2 sacks. And, "The Cole Train" Trent Cole had 3 sacks against the Lions and he now has 4.5 on the year.
In fact, Cole has 17.5 sacks in his career over 34 games. Jevon Kearse on the other hand has 19 sacks in his last 34 games. But, remember Cole was just a 5th round pick.
And, G Cobb gives his endorsement.
However, like G says, Jevon Kearse has been an invisible man. Come on after three games he hasn't even recorded a tackle. Can you say, "Dead Man Walking?"
Give the Eagles this much credit. They did make a splash in free agency in 2004 and most people, myself included were elated at the signing of Kearse. He made a major impact in '04 despite only recording 7.5 sacks. He affected the game in other ways and it was best displayed on that Monday Might game against the Vikings when Jim Johnson had him play "The Joker" position all night long as he disrupted Daunte Culpepper's rythm.
He was on a roll last year after a game and a half, but then was injured for the season during the OT of that Giants' debacle.
Now, it's pretty apparent he's shot. Think David Bell, but about $40 million richer and 6 inches taller.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
He's Back!!!
Donovan McNabb torches the Lions enroute to a 56-21 victory
First off, I never saw this one coming or anything close. And, nobody did. I said going in this would be a 31-28 nail-biter. There were some less positive then me and even some ready to right off the Eagles all together. Hugh Douglas said before the game the Lions would win 21-7 and those in the national media all picked the Lions. 
Everybody on the Fox Pre-game panel picked them.
Well, that's why they play the games. The McNabb-Curtis Airshow was a site to see.
Let me be Captain Obvious here; Donovan McNabb was in the zone yesterday. He started off the game by going 19 of 20 for well over 300 yards and 4 scores.
Andy Reid claims the team was starting to click in the 4th quarter of the Monday Night loss. I say that's nonsense, but he's gotta stick to his spin.
Some claims it's the shedding of the brace.
And, others feel it's the focus brought on by the controversy surrounding his interview on HBO.
I'm inclined to agree with Ray Didinger and say it's a combination of losing the brace and being focused while under fire.
And, the result was some of the most beautifully played football you'll ever see between a quarterback and his receiver. McNabb and Curtis did what he and TO could never do and that's top 200 and 3 scores in a half. It was arguably the most dominant offensive display ever seen in a half of any NFL game.
Ever.
And, I shall eat crow for ripping Kevin Curtis. I really was beginning to doubt him in this offense. I ripped him on Friday. A lot of difference a game makes. He was matched up against a zone defense, so he had a cushion to work with, but even so he was incredible. The guy can play. You don't get 11 catches for 220 yards and 3 TD's on luck or a good matchup. That takes some serious skills.
I certainly put this up there with that shallacking of Green Bay in 2004 when McNabb, TO, and Westbrook were poetry in motion; just electric. McNabb was perfect as perfect can be that day as he was yesterday, finishing with the 158.3 perfect QB rating.
Brian Westbrook silently had a great game of his own, by getting over 100 yards rushing and receiving (220 total yards) and 2 touchdowns.
And, the defense was no slouch either notching 9 sacks. Jon Kitna did have 446 yards, but it was garbage yardage. In other words, he had a great fantasy game. I know-he got me over 30 points on my one team.
More importantly this means the Eagles aren't dead. They are very much alive and we can relax now. Yes it was against the Lions, but you play who you play.
Quote of the day-by Shawn Andrews:
"It's kind of sad to have people booing Donovan,'' guard Shawn Andrews said. "He's been loyal here and he's done a great job for this organization. It's sad but we have to play for us. We have to play for our fans and everybody, but the people that don't believe, we just have to push them away.''
For more on the Eagles' game, check out Bill Neri-Amadeo's take right here.
---------------------------
Karma is a bitch; Milton Bradley out for the season with torn ACL
Remember when Milton Bradley was last at Citizen's Bank Park. He was acting like an ass and threw a bat in the direction of the Phillies' dugout, taunting them after a homerun?
Well he got his comeuppance. It was learned today that he will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL.
I say good for him. He's classless and to blow his ACL in a stupid incident (he was being restrained during an argument and fell down) serves him well. It's justice served.
This will be a heavy blow to the Pads' playoff chances as well.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Set Up
McNabb being set up for failure by the front office
Aside from dealing with the gauntlet from the media, who are systematically trying to run McNabb out of town, he has another battle to deal with. And, that's with the front office, who are setting him up for failure.
It's now apparent that going for the cheaper alternative in Kevin Curtis is hurting them. He's being forced to play the x-receiver position after playing slot his whole career in St. Louis with great receivers around him. Now, he's being put in a position to have to go over the middle to make plays and he's just not big enough. Stallworth could do that; he had the size to play that position.
L.J. Smith is killing the team in the middle of the field. He's not healthy and that can be attributed to bad luck. His injury occurred over the summer and he re-aggravated it in training camp.
Reggie Brown is off to a poor start and some of it is due to McNabb's failure to get him the ball on Monday Night. With that said, he's still the only reliable receiving option aside from Westbrook who is the Eagles' offense.
And, with Reid placing high demands on McNabb at this juncture is foolish. He shouldn't be in a position where he has to throw 46 times. That is inexcusable and ridiculous. It's time for Reid, et al. to emphasize a run-heavy attack and it must start on Sunday with or without Westbrook. Tony Hunt needs to get on the damn field too. For him to not even dress for the game against the Redskins is a travesty after the playing time he received in the preseason. Just what the hell does he have to do? Run a two-back set and allow the other back to worry about blocking if he can't figure out their blocking schemes yet.
The Eagles seem to have this problem with rookies every year. They can't get them on the field. Is this system that complicated? Maybe they should dumb it down for them and work them in gradually like they did with Westbrook in his rookie year. If you recall he did play a little and made small contributions during the '02 season.
And, after the controversy this week it is clear that the media is running McNabb out of town. If you don't believe that then just listen to them pour it on and continue kicking him for a few comments in an interview.
Who the hell cares what he says? I personally agree with his stance. If you listen to commentators they'll always say a white athlete does it on intelligence, but if a black athlete does the same thing, then it's on athletic ability.
Our culture is inherently racist and it's real subtle.
Personally I'm disgusted with the media and many of the fans after this week. They're writing McNabb off for a poor start after everything he has done for this team and this city over the past 8 years. You'd think he was Rodney Peet for Christ's sake.
Let's remember it takes a year to fully recover from an ACL tear. McNabb was well ahead of schedule, but he's not all the way back yet. And, yes he played like Akili Smith on Monday night and in the Green Bay game.
But, give him more than 2 games. He deserves more than that after his body of work, which has clearly made him the best QB in franchise history.
---------------------------
Phils win another dramatic game, defeating Washington 7-6
They're back at it again. After falling behind 6-2 early on they managed to come back with the some heroics from Jayson Werth who helped the Phillies attain their major league-leading 47th comeback victory.
And, with the Mets collapsing like a game of Jenga they find themselves just 1 1/2 games out. The Padres just keep on winning though and are 2 1/2 up in the wildcard.
Now, you can add Bill Conlin to the list of people on the Charlie Manuel bandwagon.
Manuel is just having a good time right now and enjoying the ride.
"I just sit there and watch and concentrate on pitchers getting people out," manager Charlie Manuel said.
"It's fun, and it's about time for everything to even out," he added, referring to how his team fell just short of qualifying for the playoffs in 2005 and 2006.
---------------------------
Ed Wade gets Astros' GM job
Ok, Nelson from The Simpsons just yelled "Ah ha" when the word hit that the Astros hired former Phils GM Ed Wade.
What the hell are they thinking? Or, maybe not.
Maybe Wade wasn't that bad after all. Think about this. The current team is comprised of many of his players: Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, Brett Myers, Shane Victorino, and Cole Hamels.
Aside from his largess of Aaron Rowand, just what has Gillick given them? I'd be willing to say J.C. Romero is the best one out of the bunch.
Remember Wade was maligned for not making moves at the deadline. That was because Montgomery didn't give him the purse strings to add payroll. And, Gillick is going through the same thing.
While Jim Thome was a disaster ultimately and Howard should have been their guy instead, Wade maybe wasn't that bad. His signings were terrible, but you have to give him credit for putting that core group of players together. I give him a C+ in retrospect.
That's more than I'll give Gillick.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Under Fire
McNabb under fire for HBO interview and responds on his blog
Donovan McNabb has responded to the windfall of criticism on his blog regarding his interview with Bryant Gumbel on HBO's "Real Sports" program.
He won't back down from the comments, but rather explained himself clearer after stumbling through his press conference yesterday and ultimately walking out of it.
He summed up his statement on his blog by stating the following:
All I did was answer the questions that were asked of me honestly and
truthfully. I had no agenda. The people of Philadelphia have criticized my
coach for not answering questions. Now I'm criticized for answering
questions. I understand if people have a different opinion or view point
than I do, I really do. I think if there is one thing I understand better
than most people - it's okay to be different.
After giving it some thought yesterday and absorbing everything he should have abstained from the topic. The main reason is that it just gives fuel to the haters. And, being that they are off to an 0-2 start and he hasn't played well at all, it puts him in a precarious position.
Now, you have the pundits talking about how '07 is his final year with really no evidence to back it up. I heard Sal Palantonio on Glen Macnow's show on WIP last night and he said there is no chance McNabb returns next season.
And, Mark Eckel has been speaking of the beginning of the end of the McNabb/Reid era for a while now.
Garry Cobb doesn't even think McNabb will return.
What this week has shown us is that no matter how well the Phillies are playing, the Eagles reign supreme in this region. It's been McNabb 24-7 on talk radio, in print, and on the tube.
Already the rumormongering is beginning about McNabb's exit to Chicago. Let's just wait until this season plays out before writing him off.
---------------------------
Phillies fall in 10 innings to Cards, losing 2-1
Finally the Cardinals won a close game against the Phils. And, they nearly lost this one 1-0. This is one of those grind-it-out games that the Phillies really needed to win. It's certainly understandable that they fell short. They have been clutch lately, won 6 games in a row; 6 close games, and were coming off a 14-inning win. It takes it's toll after a while.
That's also what concerns me about those 47 come-from-behind wins. They might make the playoffs, but could be out of gas by then because of everything they had to do in order to get there. This team is making a Herculean effort to make it to the postseason.
The Mets and Padres both won last night. Heck, it seems like the Padres win every night now. Hence, the Phils are now 2 1/2 behind both teams in the division and wildcard race respectively.
Jamie Moyer had a nice start last night going 6 innings and allowing just one run. It was overshadowed by his 5 walks though and 12 total baserunners.
JC Romero (can you say the new Rheal Cormier) continued his torrid pitching by going an inning and not allowing a run. Romero leads the team in ERA with a 1.53.
Brett Myers blew a save for the second straight night by allowing the game-winning single to Yadier Molina. He seems a little bit off right now and could use a few nights off.
The Phils have to pick it back up tonight in Washington as they begin a 4-game series against the always difficult Nationals.
Lohse is on the hill against Bergmann at 7:05.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Cardiac Kids
Phillies win another thriller in 14 innings
Allow me to be the 5,683rd person today to say, "I couldn't stay up to watch the whole game last night."
I hung in there until the 11th inning though. As I was being texted for score updates by my friend in Arizona I was at the edge of my seat.
The Phillies are a hell of a team though. In one week after losing the first 2 of 3 in the series against the Rockies they've gone from the outhouse to the penthouse. Having gone 13-14 from August 14-September 13; I was close to writing them off. And, then they managed to split against the Rockies.
Added to that, they've now strung off 6 in a row to reach a season-high 13 games over .500. And, they're just 1 1/2 back of the Mets.
The Cardiac Kids now have a whopping 47 come from behind victories. And, of course they lead the majors in that category.
Last night's hero was Rod Barajas, who singled home the tiebreaking run with two outs in the top of the 14th. And, Jayson Werth topped it off with a two-run triple.
Now, that's baseball.
Cole Hamels lasted just 3 innings in his first game back and didn't look good in the process, but it didn't matter. The Cardiac Kids have done it.
---------------------------
McNabb says black QB's get more heat
Uh oh, #5 is talking again. This time he's talking race and did it on the HBO show "Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel."
McNabb stated that black QB's get more criticism than their white counterparts. Added to that, he brought up the criticism he undergoes in Philly.
I happen to agree with him to a certain degree. There are a lot of people (racist) that I've come across who say a "black quarterback can't win it all." Well, that's BS because Doug Williams won it all with the Redskins. And, I've also met many people who say "McNabb will never win it." You hear these numbskulls who call into WIP all of the time. They offer up no facts, but just make that blanket statement.
McNabb has been beaten down in Philly by fans and a lot of people in the media. Up until this season Angelo Cataldi was relentless in his criticism of McNabb. He's come to his senses and become more objective about him, but there are plenty others-fans and people in the media who just dismiss him no matter what.
McNabb had this to say in regards to Manning and Palmer.
"Let me start by saying I love those guys," McNabb said. "But they don't get criticized as much as we do. They don't. I pass for 300 yards. Our teams wins by seven. [They say,] 'He could have made this throw. They would have scored if he did this.'
"Every year I'm part of some criticism. . . . How do you respond? I try to handle myself with class. I try to handle myself with dignity."
Now that he's addressed the issue of race and the criticism in Philly, this will likely stir up a fecal-storm akin to a sandstorm.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Bird Droppins
Eagles lay nothing but turds in Monday Night loss to Skins
Ok. Before you all tell me how I said this team would start out 11-0 I'll just get it out of the way now. I over-evaluated this team. I obviously thought they were a better team and am prepared to abort with my preseason predictions of them making it to the Super Bowl. Right now, this team isn't even playing like an 8-8 team.
This is why preseason predictions are pretty much a waste of time and worthless in my opinion. After all, you really can't gauge how good a team is until week 4-5. That's how it's been since I could pronounce the word "football." Sometimes you can't tell who is a contender or pretender until later than that. Just remember the 2000 Ravens were 4-4 before stringing off 12 straight wins. And, the Colts were horrific down the stretch last year on the defensive end before going on a run.
Now that we got that out of the way, the Eagles were abominable last night. And, I lay the blame at the feet of Andy Reid. McNabb stunk and is not fully recovered yet. That's why there is no reason in hell he should be throwing the ball 46 times and they should be running it just 20 times. That's piss poor coaching.
McNabb should be getting the support of a running game, and I'm not talking about some token running game where they rush for only 25 times. I'm talking running it 35-40 times. Then, you let McNabb throw maybe 20-25 times a game.
That's it. It's not brain surgery. They have the offensive line to do it. They are mashers, road graders, and punishers.
And, because of Andy Reid's foolish decisions involving neglecting the punt returner position and passing at an alarming rate, they are now 0-2 for the first time since 2003. Only this team is not the team from 2003.
That team had Dawkins in his prime, Bobby Taylor, Troy Vincent, Darwin Walker (when he was good), Corey Simon, McNabb (before the recent injuries), and the three-headed attack of Duce, Westbrook, and Buckhalter.
This sure as hell isn't that team. But, they do have an incredible offensive line. And, their defense is playing much better than expected.
Had it not been for Andy Reid's bone-headed decision to ice the kicker before the half they would have only given up 16 points. They are currently ranked 6th overall in the NFL in total defense after two games.
0-2 hardly constitutes a lost season, but it will be lost if Reid continues to go about his pass-aholic ways.
And, who said Jason Campbell wasn't ready? Aside from overthrowing his receiver for an easy TD, which would have given them a 27-12 advantage, he played extremely well. He's mobile, has an NFL arm, makes great decisions, is accurate, and is very efficient. He looked like a 9-year vet last night, not McNabb who looked like Akili Smith last night.
Reid's brilliant offense resembles the 1991 Seattle Seahawks' anemic attack led by the likes of Kelly Stouffer and Stan Gelbaugh. They have just one offensive touchdown in 8 quarters of play at this juncture.
The 2-0 Detroit Lions come in town this Sunday and shit had better change or the season may very well be lost.
---------------------------
Phillies outlast the Cardinals despite nearly blowing 11-run lead
Now onto a more positive story, the Phillies. This is a team that's showing some life, a lot of life.
They gave us another thriller last night after jumping to an 11-run lead. The Mets lost again and they are now just 2 1/2 behind the Mets. However, the Padres kept their winning streak alive and are still ahead by a game and a half in the wildcard chase.
This game would have gone down in the pantheon of famous Phillies' collapses had it not been for Aaron Rowand's game-saving catch in the 8th when they were up 12-11. Ultimately they held on for a 13-11 victory.
These are the types of games contenders must win.
Quote of the night:
"That was unreal," Philadelphia manager Charlie Manuel said. "I'm telling you, you never have enough runs."
This game was all offense, 24 combined runs, 26 hits, 6 homeruns, and lots of adrenalin. If the Eagles game didn't make you lose your dinner, this roller coaster of a game sure should have.
Jimmy Rollins, the MVP continued his torrid play by belting his 28th homer of the year. And, Ryan Howard hit his 39th and 40th homers.
They face off again tonight, same time, same place at 8:10. Tonight is a must-see game with Cole Hamels returning to the hill.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
SWEEP!!!
Phillies complete 3-game sweep and 2nd consecutive sweep of the Mets with 10-6 win
Make it 8 straight wins against the Mets for the Fightins. Yesterday's hero was Greg Dobbs, who hit a grandslam homer in the 6th to lead the Phils to a 10-6 victory.
The Mets were horrific yesterday, making 6 errors, and walking 11 batters. And, they hit a batter too.
It's almost as if they were trying to help the Phillies into the postseason. Their collapse to the Phillies in their past two meetings is reminiscent of the Phillies' collapses to the Braves, Marlins, and Astros in recent years.
When you hear the quotes from the Phillies players they seem mentally ready for any challenges ahead as the regular season winds down.
This is courtesy of Todd Zolecki's column in the Inquirer:
"I don't think there's going to be a lapse this time," shortstop Jimmy Rollins said. "Everything is coming down to an end, and we don't have time to take a break."
"That was a different situation," centerfielder Aaron Rowand said. "We were trying to get back in it. There were a lot of games left. We're getting down to the wire now. I don't think it's an issue right now because of the importance of every game."
The Phils are still 1 1/2 games back though. That's about the only downside to things right now, because the Padres have been matching them tit-for-tat in the wins. They are 2 games behind the Pads in the loss column and 1 game back in the win column.
Something tells me the Phillies won't go on to lose 5 of 7 like they did after their 4-game sweep of the Mets.
They are hungry and ready. Their road trip will continue in St. Louis tonight. Kyle Kendrick is on the hill against Mike Maroth at 8:10 PM.
It's must-see TV people; this is what it's all about in September!Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Phils Win!
Phillies win dramatic game against the Mets 5-3 to win the series
MVP front-runner Jimmy Rollins delivered a clutch triple in the 8th inning to deliver the game-winning hit.
Rollins was maligned early on for proclaiming that the Phillies were the team to beat in the NL East before the season, and when the Phillies went up to Shea and were beaten two out of three times in early April.
Now, the proverbial worm has turned, as the Phils have taken 7 straight from the Mets, who have once again come up more lame than a two-pump chump.
The Phillies may not catch the Mets for the division, but they are now just a 1/2 game back in the wild card, and are the ones who are surging in the wild card chase.
For more details on the game, go here.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
See-saw
Phillies romp the Rockies 12-4 to split the series
Win. Lose. Win. Lose. They're on again. They're off again.
That's been the story with the Phillies over the past month, who have gone 14-14 since August 14th.
J.D. Durbin lasted just 44 pitches and an inning last night before being put out of his misery by Uncle Charlie. And, I'm kicking myself for once again starting him on my fantasy baseball team. Yes, I have him on there, and it's only because the guy I'm up against also has 20-some pitchers (including some fellow duds) on his roster; it's a quantity thing if you get my drift.
At any rate, Geoff Geary came in and saved the game essentially by pitching three scoreless innings.
The rest of the bullpen stepped up big-time by tossing 5 innings and allowing just one earned run.
And, it helped that the Phils spotted them an 8-3 lead after 4 innings. And, that's all they needed as they cruised to a 12-4 win.
The Phils will begin a 10-game road trip tonight in Shea Stadium against the Mets who have won 10 of 12 since their debacle against the Phillies. The Phillies meanwhile, have been mediocre, winning 6 of 13 along the way.
If they will get into the postseason it will have to be done by performing on this roadtrip, that will take them from New York to St. Louis to Washington. And, each of those teams is always a tough match-up for the Phils.
Tonight Jamie Moyer is matched up with Tom Glavine. It seems that Moyer is always pitted up against the elder statesman of the opposing team's pitching staff.
The game starts at 7:10 in Shea.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Cursed
Kyle Kendrick gets hurt in the 4th inning and the Phillies unravel
It's official. The Phillies are cursed this season. First, Ryan Howard, then Brett Myers, then Jon Lieber, then Chase Utley, then Shane Victorino and Michael Bourn, then Ryan Madson, then Cole Hamels, and now Kyle Kendrick.
I saved Gordon and Freddy Garcia from this list since they were hurt heading into the season. Not to mention, both of them weren't much to begin with. Garcia was a horrific bust of colossal proportions (maybe the biggest bust in franchise history) and Gordon was cooked at the end of last year.
With that said, they have lost several valuable players including their duo-MVP's and their franchise pitcher in Hamels.
Now, they're only reliable option in Kendrick is on the mend after getting kneecapped by a line drive.
That was a kick in the balls to both the fans and the team. Where does it all end?
Maybe now.
Maybe they have run out of gas, because after that ball ricocheted off Kendrick's knee, the Phillies' unraveled like a cheap prom dress by giving up 6 runs, to make the score 9-0 on the way to a 12-0 loss and probably their worst loss of the year considering the circumstances and stakes.
The game started out great after Burrell missed a fly-out by letting it drop in front of him when the Phils turned their second triple play of the year. Then at the bottom of the inning they left the bases loaded.
It was a ballgame until the 4th when it was 3-0 and Kendrick became the latest casualty. Kendrick's x-rays came back negative and he thinks he won't even miss a start. Of course, whenever the team tells us a pitcher might not miss any or much time we know what that turns into. Look at Gordon, Myers, and Hamels as examples.
The Philies have one more game against Colorado tonight, but it may be too late. They are on the ropes.
Even Charlie Manuel agrees.
"There's no sense in me sugarcoating it," Charlie Manuel said after last night's 12-0 loss to the Colorado Rockies at Citizens Bank Park. "It's kind of a 'show me' time. It's kind of like, 'Let's go. If we have it, let's see it.' That's kind of how I look at it. We've got 17 games left. That's what it's come down to. It's no time to talk. Let's do it."
The game that may decide the Phillies' season is tonight at 7:05.Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Cheaters
NFL acknowledges Patriots stole defensive signals from the Jets on Sunday
Usually I cover Philly stories and stick with that. Well, this is like ignoring the B52 bomber that's sitting in your driveway.
The NFL is investigating the Patriots after it's been acknowledged they stole defensive signals from the Jets by using a video camera. Added to that, this same cameraman who was thrown out of the stadium on Sunday was thrown out of a game last year when they played the Packers.
Not only does this throw into question how good the Patriots have been, but whether their Super Bowls are even legitimate.
And, you guessed it. Did they get a fugazi Super Bowl win over the Eagles in 2005?
We really don't know. Was Charlie Weis' play-calling so brilliant in the second half when they ran all those screens against the Eagles' defense? Or, was it the result of knowing what to expect?
Afterall, if they recorded the signals and figured them out they had all of that halftime to make the proper "adjustments" when the Eagles held them to 7 points in the first half.
I'm not saying the Patriots stole a Super Bowl, but they say once a thief, always a thief.
---------------------------
Phillies' 3-game winning streak comes to an end with 9-2 loss to Rockies
Adam Eaton gave up 3 gopher balls to the Rockies, which buried them. They were done before they even had a prayer of winning this game.
That's what poor pitching does for a team.
Adom Eaton has now gone three months without having a quality start at home. He came close with a 5 2/3 inning performance against the Mets, by allowing 2 earned, but close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades. That's not somebody you should be putting out there in a wildcard chase. Manuel should have looked ahead and shuffled the rotation.
The Phillies wrap up their series with the Rockies tonight. I like their chances more as Kendrick goes on the hill against Bautista (who has a 19.06 ERA).
---------------------------
Birds sign Mahe
I called it. Well, many others and myself called it. Reno Mahe was signed by the Eagles and will take over punt return duties.
Never before has a player like Mahe been so well received when returning. Fans have been clamoring for him in recent days following Sunday's "Muff Gate" debacle up in Green Bay.
I personally never had a problem with Mahe and don't understand why he was so maligned and vilified. He's a great story and somebody whom fans should embrace. He went undrafted, is very undersized, and works on the side at Chickie's and Pete's. He epitomizes an underdog and still maintains some humility by working a part-time job on the side even though he earns enough money where he doesn't need to.
Isn't that enough reason to like him?
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Reno 911
Could Reno Mahe be the Eagles' new punt returner come Monday night?
My Andy Reid translator has now translated the following:
Not necessarily = most likely
When asked at his press conference if Mahe would be brought back, Reid said "not necessarily." It turns out Mahe was contacted a few hours later and they told him they'd fly him in to Philly for a work-out.
"I just got the call about a half-hour ago," Mahe said from his cell phone around 5 p.m. "All they said was we're flying you out here and we'll see you soon. I'm just excited to come back."
Who would've thought that Mahe would be the Eagles' savior? A lot of difference a year makes.
I'm personally in favor of them going out and trading for someone who can play safety or corner and return punts, but Mahe is better than the alternative.
Reno 911 is on the way from Utah to save the Eagles.
I called it yesterday on my blog and will say boo yah, when he's in an Eagles uni come Monday night.
---------------------------
Burrell and Howard lead Phillies to a 6-5 win over the Rockies
Who said Pat Burrell couldn't hit in the clutch? He hit a game-tying 3-run shot in the 7th to tie the game up.
Then, The Rhino struck again, but got a little help from the corner of the outfield, which seemed to swallow up Rockies outfielder Matt Holiday, who spun around looking for a ball hit by Howard. Chase Utley then had enough time to get home, thus scoring the winning run in the 10th.
The seesaw continues. I haven't given up on the Phils (77-67) like many people have. They were making me a little nervous by dropping two straight series', but have now won 3 straight to within a game and a half of the Padres (77-65) who are 2 up in the loss column, but have just one more win than the Phillies.
It was a good win for the Phils, with Kyle Lohse had another quality start, going 6 innings, and giving up 3 runs, while striking out only 5. He was out-pitched by Rockies stud prospect Ubaldo Jiminez, who gave up just 2 runs in 6, but neither got the decision.
Tonight, Adam Eaton goes up against another stud pitching prospect in Franklin Morales.
Sixers acquire rebounding specialist Reggie Evans
Yesterday the Sixers made another trade with the Denver Nuggets, by moving Steven Hunter to get rebounding phenom Reggie Evans who has led the NBA in rebounds per minute over the past several seasons.
The Sixers also moved Bobby Jones in the deal, and also received forward Ricky Sanchez.
Evans gives the Sixers a serious rebounder, which was a glaring weakness on the team last season. He has averaged 7 rebounds in just 20 minutes of action in his career, but a whopping 9.3 in 23 minutes back in ’04-’05. He has averaged roughly 8 rebounds a game in the past 3 seasons in 20 minutes of action.
With the Sixers he’ll probably play 30 minutes a night since noone else can play the type of defense or rebound like he can. This guy has been a sleeper for years and will give them a George Lynch/Tyrone Hill type of presence. Make no mistake about it.
Great trade for the Sixers.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Muff Gate
Greg Lewis and J.R. Reid fumble away the game
Well there's one thing for certain about the Eagles; they even make losses interesting. This loss will live in infamy. It's forever to be known as "Muff Gate", well at least on Phillypurge.com.
By now you've probably seen the replays and read the columns and endless accounts of yesterday's game. I won't regurgitate it and say the same thing you've read already.
You know that Greg Lewis and J.R. Reid impersonated Phillies' outfielder Chris Roberson in superb fashion by dropping the ball.
That's the obvious thing about yesterday's game. Why bother reciting it. They stink and the Eagles need anybody in there with experience right away. This means that Reno Mahe will probably get a call sometime today.
Aside from the horrific special teams, the offensive line was quite offensive. Donovan McNabb was running for his life all day long. Lest you think he's not going to run anymore, or can't move anymore think again. If you watched the game yesterday you can see he showed very little ill effects of that torn ACL from last November.
McNabb had barely any time to get off his throws yesterday. And, he did make some terrible throws, like the interception and that throw in the third quarter, which was 15 yards away from a receiver.
However, he had no time to throw throughout much of the game, especially the fourth quarter.
The silver lining in yesterday's loss to a clearly inferior team is that the defense played exceptionally well. Jevon Kearse had a sack and a fumble recovery. And, Mike Patterson had a monster game, notching 10 tackles and recording a sack. Brodrick Bunkley also played very well even though it didn't show up in the box score.
Well, so much for my 11-0 prediction to start the season. I still stand by my preseason prediction, of 14-2, and feel this is an elite team in the NFL. Many fans and people in the media will say this team isn't even playoff-worthy.
Let's not go overboard. Remember, the Eagles are just 3-6 in the first game of the year under Andy Reid. They are habitual slow starters.
You can't blame this one on the coach. Sure, he made the decision to put Lewis and Reid in there, but he wasn't out there catching the punt returns. And, he sure as hell wasn't blocking for McNabb. Nobody could have prevented this loss yesterday, not even TO himself in 2004. I don't care what "The Hater" says.
Next Monday they will get a much needed remedy in the form of the Washington Redskins at the Linc, on Monday Night. I'm expecting a blowout. No way the Eagles lose that game.
Yesterday will sting for a while. Like I said, "Muff Gate" will be remembered forever in Eagles lore like the Matt Bryan 62-yard field goal last year, the Monday Night fiasco against Dallas in '05 when they blew a 13-point lead in the final minutes, the loss to a Martay Jenkins TD in the last second in 2002, and many other crushing defeats. When you think of "Muff Gate" you won't think of a porno movie, you'll think of the Eagles' folly of a game on 9/9/07.
The good thing is this was only the first game. And, they play the Redskins next week. Expect a different team out on that field next Monday night.
And, don't be surprised if Reno Mahe takes the field with that team.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
No Love?
With the Eagles' season upon us, suddenly there is no love
Ok. It's that time of the year, my preseason prediction for the Eagles. It seems like popular opinion of late is to say this team is a 9-win team at best. In fact, the bandwagoners are even picking the Green Bay Packers to win this weekend.
Even Hugh Douglas has been turned to the dark side by the negative Nancys. No, not Hugh!
Sure, the Eagles' defense hasn't exactly resembled the 2000 Ravens in preseason, but it's a long season and many times teams won't hit their stride until midway through. And, back on the Ravens, remember they started out 4-4 and were staring the January couch in the face when they went on that run finishing up 12-4 and winning 4 straight in the playoffs to win it all.
Lets get down to brass tacks and look at the schedule.
1 Sun, Sep 9 at Green Bay
2 Mon, Sep 17 Washington
3 Sun, Sep 23 Detroit
4 Sun, Sep 30 at NY Giants
5 BYE WEEK
6 Sun, Oct 14 at NY Jets
7 Sun, Oct 21 Chicago
8 Sun, Oct 28 at Minnesota
9 Sun, Nov 4 Dallas
10 Sun, Nov 11 at Washington
11 Sun, Nov 18 Miami
12 Sun, Nov 25 at New England
13 Sun, Dec 2 Seattle
14 Sun, Dec 9 NY Giants
15 Sun, Dec 16 at Dallas
16 Sun, Dec 23 at New Orleans
17 Sun, Dec 30 Buffalo
As you can see, the schedule is soft in the first 4 weeks. And, it doesn't get much harder for the next 6 weeks. With the opening stanza against the Packers, Redskins, Lions, and Giants, I have them at 4-0 heading into the bye. Then, they come off the bye and head back up to New York to face the Jets. It's an unusual set of circumstances to go away to the same stadium for two consecutive games, but the fact that a bye separates it leads me to give them a win in both visits.
Then, they host Chicago at home and head to Minnesota to face another NFC North opponent. They'll beat both teams and be at 7-0. Their first real test will be in the following week against the Cowboys in South Philly. I know you're thinking the Bears are a true test, but I see them suffering a Super Bowl loss hangover this season and not being very good.
Look for the Eagles to go to 8-0 after they defeat the Cowboys. They then head to Washington and then host Miami. Win and a win. They'll be 10-0 and head to New England for a show down at Gillette Stadium on November 25th. This game will be a game for the ages. I have them winning there and going to 11-0.
And, then will come the undefeated talk. Chris Berman will be talking about the vaunted '72 Dolphins and "if they'll be popping the cork to the champaigne." Well, next week they'll lose to Seattle at home.
Insert wha wha wha music here.
I know it's insane that they'll start out 11-0 including a win up at New England, but it's probable. The first 10 games are all very winnable and New England is over rated if you ask me. Moss and Stallworth, the two big time so-called acquisitions get hurt more often then Lindsay Lohan gets coked up at clubs.
Ok, back onto point here (got off on a bit of a tangent there) the last stanza of the season is against the Giants (home), at Dallas, at New Orleans, and the Bills (home). I see them bouncing back and defeating the Giants after their first loss of the season. They'll head to Dallas and win. Then at that point they'll be 13-1. In week 16, they'll face a possible opponent in the NFC Championship in the Saints. They'll break their 2-game skid against the Saints and be 14-1 heading into the final week. I see them sitting their starters and losing to the Bills and wrapping up at 14-2.
Yep, call me crazy, but I think this team is that good. And, no I'm not getting paid off by the team to spew propaganda for them. They certainly don't need me for that.
They don't have the best defense right now, but then again they didn't heading into the 2004 season. The offense will carry them early on and the linebackers and D-line will come together by mid-season. I see Brodrick Bunkley as a serious force-a Pro Bowler. He is the key to the season. Make no mistake about it.
And, when they get to the playoffs they will make it to the Super Bowl. If you watched the Saints last night (their main competition) I wouldn’t be too frightened by anybody in the NFC. They looked like the Aints of season’s past.
And, I'll save the Super Bowl prediction until we get there. Lets sit on that for now.
My fingers are tired now!
Alright, we're done here.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Heartbreaker
Phillies lose a heartbreaking game, yielding 6 runs in final two innings to fall to the Braves 9-8
This one has to rank up there with the worst of them over the years.
Mitch Williams' home run ball served up to Joe Carter in '93.
The Astros in Philly in 2005 when Biggio hit that game-winner off Billy Wagner, which for all intents and purposes sealed a wild card bid for the 'Stros.
There are many more, too many more to name.
Yesterday with a 6-run lead the Phillies imploded like Vet's Stadium. If you watched the game either yesterday or the replay at night it was very hard to watch. I can't say much that hasn't already been said, but Tom Gordon and Brett Myers combined to give up 6 runs and the ball game.
And, Charlie Manuel was disgusted. Any fan could feel is frustration.
"It makes you sick," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said late yesterday afternoon. "Totally sick."
Pat Gillick deserves the blame along with Dave Montgomery. Yes, I've said it ad nauseam, but it's pretty tiring. They didn't provide him with the arsenal he needed heading into the season. The bullpen they gave him along with that pitching staff was 
the equivalent of this ship pictured (that was made of concrete) that you can see floating along the shore of Cape May New Jersey. Much like a concrete boat, this bullpen hasn’t gone very far this year and is sinking the team’s chances at winning.
Perhaps this is the way of things balancing out. The Phillies won some crazy games this season, and games much like this where everything just went there way. The Braves were getting some pretty lame hits against Myers (not that he was as great as he said he was after the game), but everything went their way. So it goes, the worm turned.
Just where the Phillies go from here is anybody's guess. I think they'll bounce back. Most people think they're done. I happen to think this team is unlike any other since '93.
I'm sticking by my guns much like fellow staffer Mike Santa Barbara is sticking by his.
The Phils are idle tonight and will look to regroup at home against the Marlins tomorrow night at The Bank.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Stepping Up
Kyle Lohse steps up with a big start for the Phils to give them a 5-2 victory
For somebody who was maligned like Kyle Lohse was (when he arrived here from Cincinatti) he certainly doesn't pitch like a number 4 starter. He's now provided the Phillies with quality starts in three of his last five starts. And, he has kept the Phillies in the game in five of his last six starts, thus going 4-2 along the way.
Compare that to the likes of Freddy Garcia-the $10 Million Bust who gave the Phils one win in 11 starts. And, the only thing the Phillies surrendered for the services of Lohse was the pitching coaches son who is an A-ball pitcher.
The Phillies stepped up big time with their backs against the wall as they have done for three months now. You can chalk this up to the reigning MVP Ryan Howard hitting his 37th home run-a 2-run shot, and a homer by Carlos Ruiz.
And, that's all that was needed against the Braves who now find themselves four games behind the Phillies in the loss column.
The win gives the Fightins a 5 game deficit to the Mets in the loss column.
Tonight should be a good matchup to decide this series; Kyle Kendrick goes up against Tim Hudson.
I'm betting on Double K to get the victory. Don't miss it-7:35, same time, same place.
---------------------------
Hamels uncertain about return
Will he, or won't he return? That is the question.
Cole Hamels acknowledged last night that a personal chiropractor would have helped him. And, it would have helped him avoid the elbow injury.
Added to that, Charlie Manuel wouldn't commit to whether or not Hamels would return this season.
"There's a chance he might not be," admitted manager Charlie Manuel. "It depends on how he feels when he tries to throw. He's a guy that, when he pitched, you expect to win the game. So if you go back and count at the end of the year and he's missed six, eight starts, those are games you think you would have won."
Now, with Hamels' demands for a personal back guy, does that make him a prima donna? Not necessarily. Most athletes are pampered; it comes with the territory. If you have the people and resources at your disposal, why not utilize them? I would do the same thing.
Chiropractor or no chiropractor, the Phillies had better hope his elbow is fine soon. Otherwise, they will have steep mountain to climb in order to reach the postseason.
Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
Today's News
Sliding
Phils open up Atlanta series with 5-1 loss
Ok, in case you were wondering if I died, or was kidnapped, or whatnot...nope I was just on vacation for the past few days in sunny Tempe, Arizona. And, boy it was hot! 110 to be exact, but it was great to get away nonetheless. I didn't have a laptop with me that enabled me to update the site, so I was SOL.
A lot of things happened since I left. The Phils had a hang-over series in Florida and lost two out of three. And, Sunday from what I heard they should have won, but there were two walks (and one run would have been walked in) that were called strikeouts. Not good.
The one thing the Phillies needed on Labor Day Monday after a hang-over series in Florida was a big time win. And, they looked a little exhausted.
Having spent the past few days on vacation in Arizona I didn't get a chance to watch their series against the Marlins, but since TBS is broadcast nationwide I had a chance to watch most of the game against the Braves yesterday. And, the Phils looked flat offensively.
Jamie Moyer was pitching pretty well (when they had a 1-0 lead) until it got to the bottom of the 4th when he was tagged for 3 runs.
Even third baseman Abraham Nunez admitted they were flat yesterday. "We came out flat", Nunez said.
Now that the Phils have lost 3 straight, having fallen 5 games behind the Mets tonight is a must win. Make no mistake about it. The Mets are back on a roll after been swept 4 games in South Philly last week.
And, this is when it would be nice to have Cole Hamels. The mark of a true ace is to stop a losing streak and he's not there to help them. He should be back soon, maybe at the end of this week.
Kyle Lohse will have to bring his A-game then to fill in. He goes up against Buddy Carlyle. I like those odds. Look for the Phils to get off the schnide tonight at 7:35.Contact Dennis Bakay at dennisbakay@phillypurge.com
