The best thing about today's 4-1 win over the Cubs, other than that it was a win, is that it took Cole Hamels off the hook. Hamels had again pitched a gem, going seven strong innings, but the Cubs had scored the only run of the game (till the 9th) on a suicide squeeze that maybe should not have been. Once again the Phillies were conspicuous by their lack of offense, not to mention some peculiar base-running decisions. But in the 9th, things worked against the Cubs and for the Phillies, who took advantage of a Marmol closing meltdown, a misplay at home, and a couple of other dubious plays to put four on the board---all with two outs. Brad Lidge made it hold up. The win went to Chad Durbin, who pitched the 8th. A win is a win. On to tomorrow.
Placido Polanco, who singled in the tying run in the 9th, was activated before the game. To make room for him on the roster, utility man Juan Castro was released. Well, he'll always have that perfect game in May. Cody Ransom is, for now, staying with the big club.
