The Phillies were back in action following a blowout victory against the Nats yesterday. Today’s matchup didn’t have the same explosive start, but definitely ended on a high note. Jeremy Hellickson was on the mound for his second start of the young season, and would be supported by the following lineup:
Phillies lineup today vs. Nats and Strasburg pic.twitter.com/QlSRmyRwG8
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) April 9, 2017
The lineup would need to bring their A-game, as they took on one of the most dominant pitchers in the league-Stephen Strasburg. After a quiet first inning, Freddy Galvis scored Tommy Joseph on an RBI single in the second inning for the first score of the game.
A pitcher’s duel ensued following the RBI single, as both teams were held scoreless the next three innings. Hellickson was especially impressive. The right-hander pitched five innings of one-hit ball and continues to perform at a high level this season.
A special moment occurred at the top of the fifth inning, as Andrew Knapp recorded his first MLB hit with a double to left field. Knapp later came around to score on an infield single by Cesar Hernandez. Howie Kendrick followed that up with a RBI double- pushing the lead to 3-0.
Jeanmar Gomez entered to close the game out at the top of the ninth inning, and with his outing came a familiar tragedy. After allowing a single to Adam Lind and walking former Phillie Jayson Werth, Gomez gave up a three run bomb to Ryan Zimmerman. The shot erased the Phils lead and strengthened the case to replace Gomez’s role as closer.
Fortunately, the team was able to overcome the struggles of their de facto closer. Daniel Nava drew a walk to begin the inning, and later advanced to third on a one-out single by Galvis. After a Brock Stassi popout, Cesar Hernandez came up with the biggest hit of the game. With the winning run on third base and two outs already on the board, Hernandez delivered a sharp single to left field for a walk-off victory!
The Phils move back to .500 at 3-3 and takes the first series versus the Nationals. The team will stay in Philly to take on the rival Mets tomorrow night.
Be sure to stay tuned right here at Philly Sports Network as we cover every Phillies game this season!
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
