Cole Hamels took the mound Saturday night looking to build off his first outing of the year and hoping to get the run support needed to put it away. Likewise, the Phillies were trying to get themselves back to .500, and attempting to win their first series of the year. Hamels came out strong and managed to allow only one hit through seven strong innings while striking out 5.
The Phils offense came out strong as well striking early in the second with a 2 run home run by Pedro Feliz. The Phillies tacked on 3 more in the 5th including a two run shot by Ryan Howard for his third of the year.
It wasn't until Ryan Madson came on in the 8th, that the Cubs managed to strike for a run, but their efforts were quickly diminished only managed that sole run in the game.
It looks as though the Phils are faring well without their MVP shortstop who remains day-to-day on the Phillies roster with a sprained ankle. Despite an abismal first game with the club, Eric Bruntlett is proving to be a solid defensive back up shortstop. Although he doesn't appear to be getting the job done at the plate, his defensive skills are keeping the Phillies where they need to be until Rollins can rejoin the team.
The Phils send Jamie Moyer to the mound on Sunday in hopes of their first sweep of the season against Jason Marque. Hopefully the back to back change up pitchers doesn't give the Cubs an edge and the Phils can put this series away and look towards the Astros to continue their solid homestand.
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