Philadelphia Phillies slug their way to a 7-2 victory over the Washington Nationals
By Mike Lacy
May 3, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins (11) and second baseman Chase Utley (26) celebrate win against the Washington Nationals at Citizens Bank Park. The Phillies defeated the Nationals, 7-2. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
One night after their bullpen blew another late lead, the Phillies’ offense made sure that there wouldn’t be a repeat performance.
Much like on Friday, the Phillies opened the scoring with a three-run first inning home run; This time, it was courtesy of Ryan Howard. But unlike on Friday, the Phillies continued to add runs after the big blast.
Nationals starter Tanner Roark had been off to a strong start this season, but the Phillies had his number tonight. He surrendered seven runs in four innings.
The Phillies had a 7-0 lead, and that held up mostly due to A.J. Burnett who turned in another strong start. He pitched six innings, giving up only one run.
After a rain delay forced Burnett’s departure, Mario Hollands, Mike Adams, and Antonio Bastardo closed things out, with the only damage being a solo home run by Nats’ shortstop Zach Walters.
I question why the Phillies used both Adams and Bastardo when the team had a five-run lead. Both pitchers were also used on Friday, meaning they’ll probably be unavailable tomorrow. So who do the Phillies turn to if they have a small lead in the late innings of Sunday’s game?
I can understand wanting to give Adams another chance after his poor outing on Friday. But instead of Bastardo, why not go with Jeff Manship or one of the other less-used relievers?
Perhaps Ryne Sandberg figured that with Roberto Hernandez set to replace flu-ridden scheduled starter Cole Hamels, the Phillies won’t have the need for a setup man?
I suppose that’s something to worry about tomorrow. For now, I’ll just savor the fact that the Phillies played an all-around good game to defeat the Nationals.