Morning Phil Up – 5/13/2014 – Mike Trout and the Los Angeles Angels come to town

Mike Trout. Image Credit: Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports

Yesterday’s Game

The Phillies had a scheduled off day.

Off Day News

The Phillies designated infielder Jayson Nix for assignment. Nix was acquired right before the season when the team needed a backup shortstop. Unfortunately, Nix’s offense was poor (.154 batting average), and his defense wasn’t strong enough to justify a roster spot.

The Phillies have yet to announce who will replace him on the roster. Darin Ruf is a possibility, but he may need more minor league at bats before he is ready. Cesar Hernandez is another possibility. Hernandez has a major league quality bat, but he had been sent to the minors so he could work on playing shortstop.

Today’s Game

Los Angeles Angels (19-18) at Philadelphia Phillies (17-19)

Cliff Lee. Image Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

TV: CSN

Game time: 7:05 PM

Starting pitchers: Matt Shoemaker (0-1) vs. Cliff Lee (3-3)

Preview

The Los Angeles Angels pay a rare visit to Philadelphia. The two teams haven’t played since 2008 when the Angels swept the Phillies in a three-game series.

Phillies starter Cliff Lee will have his hands full, as the Angels bring along plenty of offense, featuring stars like Albert Pujols and Mike Trout. Trout seems to have seized the unofficial title of “best player in baseball,” and Phillies fans should all be very nice to him in case he ever decides he wants to play closer to home later in his career.

The Angels will send Matt Shoemaker to the mound. This will be Shoemaker’s first start of the season. His three previous appearances have come in relief.

Link of Interest

Rant Sports – Promotion of Ken Giles means he’s on the fast track to Philadelphia

The Phillies have had some trouble developing quality relief pitchers in recent years, but many believe that Ken Giles may reverse that trend. The young flame thrower was recently promoted to Triple A, meaning it may be only a matter of time before he’s (hopefully) providing the Phillies bullpen with a solid late inning option.

Tweet of Importance

I imagine there might be a pretty good crowd there tonight.