Philadelphia Phillies edge past San Diego Padres 3-2 at Citizens Bank Park - MLB Update
Starter Cole Hamels and relief pitcher Jonathan Papelbon help the Philadelphia Phillies win 3-2 against the San Diego Padres at Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in last game of three-match series on May 13, 2012.
Homer in first inning by shortstop Jimmy Rollins set the tone for the Phillies. Support of their offence was commendable. However what became the greatest reason behind their win was an ability of their pitchers to restrict runs.
Hamels threw seven innings and conceded just one run. He struck out five and gave up five hits. Getting such number of innings thrown from the starter was an ideal situation and that helped the team in the form of a lesser burden on the bullpen.
By the time Papelbon stepped on the mound, Padres needed just one run to tie the score. However the control he showed in his scoreless ninth inning was enough to ensure him his tenth save of the season.
Victory has however not made the Phillies’ manager, Charlie Manuel forget about their weak-areas.
On number of occasions in last few games, their hitters squandered chances during bases-loaded situations. This is something that has concerned the manager.
"I think we've got to add on when we score runs and we got to put some teams away especially when we got guys on base, especially in scoring position, we got to knock them in. We're having a lot of trouble doing that right now," Manuel said.
Hunter Pence was unable to replicate the momentum he had gained couple of games back. Taking his batting average down a bit, he went hitless in his four at-bats for the Phillies.
Centre fielder, Shane Victorino managed one hit in four at-bats.
Both Hamels and Victorino put up relatively better performance in the game.
Earlier reports were coming about a possible selling proposition of the Phillies, in case a situation arises. Hamels and Victorino are in line of being sold, as per the initial reports.
The Phillies cannot take the game anything more than just a consolation victory and cannot afford to lose sight of their loopholes in the midst.
As great as their pitching strength is, their offence will be looking to start putting up consistent shows if anything substantial has to come from the Phillies this season.
Tags: