Phils-Rays Game 1

Notes on Game 1:

Last night's game was a microcosm of the Phillies' season. The announcers expressed amazement over the 11 men left on base after 6 innings. But this was standard procedure throughout the year. It was very common for the Phils to score early and subsequently squander numerous opportunities to blow a game open. Then it became a question of whether the pitching could hold on, or more specifically. if they could hold on for Brad Lidge. The one difference now, and it is a major one, is that Ryan Madson makes holding on a lot easier.

Likewise, there is no reason to be shocked at the futility of Rollins, Howard and Burrell. This futility has been on display off and on throughout the season, in some cases for months at a time. That the Phillies were able to be win the National League championship with the inconsistent offensive output of this threesome is what is remarkable.

Right now Ryan Howard is reprising his performance of the first part of the regular season. He is combining anemic hitting and sloppy fielding. To put it bluntly, he is a liability. You play him of course with the expection that one day he will explode, kind of like what many of us are doing with the stock market these days, and so far that hasn't exactly been a winning strategy. Would Manuel at least consider DHing Howard? Not likely.

Pedro Feliz was a quiet star last night. Impeccable defense and a couple of intelligent at bats.

The Phillies' defense has been a key to their success and it is probably underappreciated. Outside of Ryan Howard, and with Feliz and Ruize in the lineup, it is rock solid. Yes, Pat Burrell has limitations, but he doesn't make a lot of mistakes. And to Jimmy Rollins' credit, he hasn't let his hitting struggles influence his glove work.