Well, yesterday was a memorable one even though the Phillies lost. The Phillies' bullpen really blew it at an alarming level. Cristopher Sánchez had an excellent outing lasting seven innings, allowing ZERO runs. They had a 3-0 lead entering the eighth thanks to homers by Schwarber and Kemp. BUT throughout the 8th-11th innings, throughout a one hour and nine minute rain delay, the Marlins managed to score six runs and the Phillies just two. Through seven innings with Sánchez facing the Marlins, the Marlins had three hits, in the four that included Robertson, Durán and Kerkering they recorded seven hits. Banks and Trivino were the only Phillies' relievers to not record any earned runs or allow a hit. Despite the bullpen's collapse it was still overall a very respectable effort by the Phillies. I am still feeling ok about the team especially if guys can get healthy.
Some good news for the Phillies is, the Dodgers also lost yesterday. The Phillies magic number to clinch the #2 seed is now 1. It would be a decent consolation prize at least to see the Phillies clinch something in their home stadium with a win here tonight.
The NL Wild Card race is as strong as ever. The Marlins still are not mathematically eliminated so their effort is still going to be top notch. Jesús Luzardo is a former Marlin so maybe he will find some satisfaction at eliminating his former team from playoff contention if he can deliver a quality start.
The weather is still highly highly rainy in the Philadelphia area so it will be interesting to see how it all plays out.
September baseball is getting good!