Morning Phil Up – 5/9/2014 – Woe Canada: Philadelphia Phillies swept by Toronto Blue Jays

May 8, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Edwin Encarnacion connects for a single in the third inning against Philadelphia Phillies at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Yesterday’s Game

Blue Jays defeat Phillies 12-6

Quick Summary

The Phillies’ pitchers continued to struggle against the Blue Jays’ lineup. This time, A.J. Burnett couldn’t get the job done as the Blue Jays hit five home runs en route to a sweep of the four-game series.

Emotional reaction immediately after the game

Marcus Smith? Who the heck is Marcus Smith?

Less emotional reaction after thinking about it a bit

Even in their best years, the Phillies would struggle against American League teams. Let’s hope they fare better against National League competition. (And really, who the heck is Marcus Smith?)

Heroes

Edwin Encarnacion is going to be sad to see the Phillies go. He was a beast all series, and had another home run (His 200th) last night. Juan Francisco chipped in three hits including a homer.

Goats

After a spectacular stretch of starts, A.J. Burnett wasn’t at his best last night. Luis Garcia didn’t fare much better in relief.

Today’s Game

Philadelphia Phillies (15-18) at New York Mets (16-17)

Roberto Hernandez. Image Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

Game time: 7:10 PM

TV: CSN

Starting pitchers: Roberto Hernandez (2-1) vs. Jenrry Mejia (3-0)

Preview

In his last start, Roberto Hernandez was excellent. He’ll likely have to duplicate that excellence tonight if the Phillies want to end their four-game losing streak. Hernandez has never pitched at Citi Field before, but the park has a reputation as a pitcher-friendly stadium.

Jenrry Mejia will get the start for the Mets. Henrry got off to a good start this season, winning three of his first four starts. But he’s given up 14 earned runs in his last two starts sending his ERA skyrocketing up to 5.23. Then again, Phillies hitters have a habit of making struggling pitchers get well again.

Link of Interest

Philliedelphia – Kevin Frandsen upsets new teammates with comments

In attempting to give praise to teammate Anthony Rendon, former Phillie Kevin Frandsen has apparently annoyed several of his other teammates on the Nationals. When asked which young Nats player impressed him the most, Frandsen gave a shout out to Rendon. That would have been fine, but he seemed to disparage the other young Nats while doing so.

Tweet of Importance

God bless the Diamondbacks.