Game Three: The Comeback Phils

If you turned off the TV or radio or left CBP early today, you missed one hell of a game. We’ll look back at this game as one of the highlights of the 2009 season without a doubt.

The Phillies used an eight run 7th inning to beat the Braves 12-11 and save a game from this opening three game series. Most impressive, the Phils proved they can play small ball. They didn’t hit one homerun within that monster inning. In fact, they used a smattering of singles, walks and a hit batsman to churn out those eight runs. An inning likes this gives me confidence this team can find a way to score some runs even if the big bats aren’t clicking.

Three more quick thoughts after today’s big win:

• He still has a ways to go, but Raul Ibanez certainly has started to win over the extremely tough Philly fans. He contributed 2 hits, including a two-run homer, 3 RBIs and scored three runs in the win today. If he can come through like that on a consistent basis, he’ll surely serve as an adequate replacement for Pat the Bat.
  
• Not to take away from the big win, but for the third straight game the starting pitching turned in a subpar performance. Once again, the Phillies found themselves trailing 2-0 before they even took their first cuts at the plate. These pitchers need to figure out a way to get out of the first inning unscathed. Hopefully, Cole Hamels can jump start the rotation with a solid start Friday in Colorado.


• When did Ryan Howard learn to play defense? He’s played spectacular D through the first three games. Apparently, the Big Boy brought the leather this season.
  
• I might be in the minority here, but I didn’t really understand all of the hype about what the rings looked like. I loved the ceremony and I definitely I wish I was there to see it. However, why do I care how many diamonds the ring has? The Phillies aren’t giving me one. Maybe if the team decided to give me a ring, I’d care.

Now the Phillies head out to Colorado to take on the Rockies in a three game series. Early April baseball in Colorado should be quite the adventure. Colorado shouldn’t play a home game until June.