I’m not a betting man (that’s not true), but if forced to make a choice, I’d say Cole Hamels just pitched his last inning. The good thing about that for the lefty was that he is in position to win his second straight playoff game after retiring the side in order with a pair of strikeouts and a ground ball.
Due to hit second in the inning, Charlie Manuel often likes to take his pitchers out feeling good about their performance. For Hamels, it would be difficult not to feel good about this one – even though his curve wasn’t there and he got into an early hole, all he has to do is sit back and watch the bullpen nail it down for him.
That’s nice work if you can get it.
Ryan Madson was warming up quickly for the eighth when Manuel sent So Taguchi to hit for Hamels with Carlos Ruiz on first (a single) and no outs.
Hamels’ line:
7 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 2 BB, 8 K – 105 pitches, 69 strikes.
Here’s one: Greg Maddux came on in relief in the eighth. It was the second time this post-season that Maddux pitched out of the ‘pen and fourth time dating back to 1999. Meanwhile, Maddux has not pitched in relief during the regular season since 1987.
End of 7: Phillies 3, Dodgers 2