Today marked a monumental win for the Phillies. But not just because they swept the San Diego Padres and not just because it marked their 16th win in 21 games..but it saw the Phils move up a vital position in a certain statistic. The Phillies no longer have the worst record in the MLB.
Jerome Williams came into the game 0-6 on the road before pitching his best game this year. He let up just one run and five hits whilst striking out three times.
Herrera continued his hot streak by adding one more game to his hitting streak, which now stands at 12. A homer in the sixth was the difference whilst a single, later converted by Ryan Howard lay down the early foundations for a win as the Phils scored two runs in the first inning.
The base-running demonstrated by the Phils was nothing short of exhilarating. Quick, effective and even fun to watch, the Phillies had great presence when on base, it’s evident that the recent run of good form has impacted the teams confidence and morale. They look like they’re enjoying the game, playing for fun and playing with smiles..that’s what baseball is about.
Cesar Hernandez got his name on the board with a run and two singles before Chase Utley made an appearance with a two-run double in the eighth. Utley has returned from injury looking like the Chase of old. Gone are the early season woes and back are the dominant pinch hitting scenes in every game. It’s as though he has been completely dispelling trade rumours with a huge comeback, hitting three doubles in his last five appearances at the plate.
Ken Giles closed the game pitching his fifth save and leaves the team in high spirits as they travel to Arizona for the next series of games in their 9 game road series.
