Since Sunday, the Phillies starting pitchers have been on fire. They have given up 8 runs in the last 7 games. They all seem to be getting into the groove just in time to roll into the season. The only starter to not pitch in the last 6 games (including today’s canceled game against the Tigers) was Brett Myers. Chad Durbin looked very good to start the game this afternoon against his old team. I was watching until the 4th inning when I left to go get lunch and came back to see that the game was canceled. The Tigers’ power hitters could not get to Durbin’s sinker. In his three innings that he pitched, Durbin did not allow a single baserunner.
On Monday, Durbin pitched 5 innings giving up 3 runs.
Tuesday, Cole Hamels pitched 6 innings giving up 1 earned run while striking out 3 and walking 3.
Wednesday, Jamie Moyer pitched 5 2/3 innings giving up 3 runs (1 earned) while fanning 4 and walking 3.
Thursday, Kyle Kendrick got it going giving up 2 hits and 0 runs in 5 innings. JD. Durbin came in to pitch 2 innings of relief and continued the trend of not giving up hits and struck out 3.
Friday, Adam Eaton struck out 4 batters in 5 1/3 innings of scoreless baseball.
Not only have the starters been pitching much better, but the guys in the bullpen have been pulling their weight as well. They have given up 6 earned runs in the last 18 innings pitched.
In today’s game, pitching coach Rich Dubee said that he likes what he has been seeing in the last week, and that it seems like a lot of the guys are getting both their control and confidence back. He also said that he doesn’t ever expect guys to be throwing full strength until May because it takes that long to get back into the feel of throwing 100 pitches every 5 days. Perhaps the best news came about closer Brad Lidge. His knee is doing very well, and he has been pitching in minor league games. He is scheduled to pitch in the game tomorrow against the Bluejays.
With only a week left until opening day, it is time for the hitters to follow the example of the pitching staff and to turn on the gas.
