The Phillies got the job done yesterday like I anticipated they might and it was definitely a sight for sore eyes! Zack Wheeler struggled to get through five innings on the mound as he continues to be a bit subpar compared to what we are used to seeing from him. Nevertheless his subpar play is still pretty acceptable as he continues to show some strong mental toughness on the mound and get through some innings and give the squad a chance to win.
The game was 2-2 until the Phillies ripped off four runs in the seventh thanks to two of the team's bigger stars in Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper. The former Nationals hit back to back home runs! Kyle's was a three run shot, his 43rd, and Harper's was a solo shot, his 19th. Pretty awesome times! Who knows what the future holds and so watching these two players in their prime secure a good victory on an August night is simply awesome.
Later in the game there was a pretty scary moment as the team's new closer Jhoan Durán, who has seriously helped breathe new life into the season, was hit by a line drive into his foot. He literally had to be carted off the field. I was DEFINITELY worried big time. Losing another closer would be nuts and of course beyond sports, nobody likes seeing guys get hurt like that in general. Apparently x-rays came back negative so while this is very unfortunate, it seems mostly plausible he will be ok come October, if not earlier. He can take his time for all I care, at least be back for the post-season! José Alvarado should be back soon in his absence.
Definitely an eventful night but the season does indeed roll on. Taijuan Walker hits the mound this afternoon for the Phillies and I am pretty happy about that. His re-emergence has been great to watch.
Phillies are back up six games in the NL East! Let's keep it rolling.
