I of course fell asleep before the Phillies beat the Nationals the second time to win last night's game in 12 innings. They had gone into the 9th up 6-4 on the strength of a Ryan Howard 3-run blast but Brad Lidge gave up two and sent the game into extra innings. After the Nats walked the bases full in the 12th, Raul Ibanez singled in two. Add two more for a cushion and a win for J.A. Happ.
Starter Joe Blanton did not eat his innings, going just five. Not good. Pedro Feliz had four hits and was on base six times. Carlos Ruiz continues to be on fire and Raul Ibanez to be clutch. Were it not for the three, the team batting average would be totally anemic. As for Mr. Lidge, he says he's fine and still working on it. Believe!
Happ got the win but lost his chance to start in today's doubleheader. Andrew Carpenter has been called up from Triple-A to take his place. Miguel Cairo has been designated for assignment.
