These guys all actually scored runs. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-US PRESSWIRE

There was a time when the Phillies could erase a early deficit by socking a bunch of dingers and demoralizing the other team’s pitcher.  The lead off guy hit thirty homers one year for Christ’s sake.  This year, there will be a lot of Juan Pierre.  No one is scared.  One run leads seem to be insurmountable and the offense has been rendered listless by the like of Eric Bedard and R.A. Dickey.

After Cole Hamels surrendered a first inning home run to Ike Davis, it looked like the offense was going to fail miserably in producing anything against Mike Pelfrey.  Pelfrey is terrible.  He allowed ten base-runners in his six innings of work and was constantly forced to work out of trouble.  The surprising part about today’s game was that Pelfrey actually did work out of trouble.  We are used to Pelfrey melting down and getting the living hell pounded out of him.  (more…)

Charlie Manuel is really pissed.

I know what I’m talking about. I’ve been in the game for 50 years. I know exactly what I’m talking about. I preach about it every day. People hear it, but they look at me like I’m stupid or crazy. Maybe I am.

Maybe irrationally insane is a more apt description.  Hopefully the ax that he keeps sharpened in his office for the off chance that he will have to use it will stay in its protective sheath as the Phillies pounded out nineteen hits in their victory today.   (more…)

This series shaped up exactly like we all thought it would.  The best left handed starter in the National League was shelled for seven earned runs and the duo of Vance Worley/Kyle Kendrick gave up a combined two earned runs.  Seldom passable utility player starred offensively today hitting a three run home run and collecting four RBI.  I can almost hear Whitey, “Hard to believe Harry.”   (more…)