Phillies-Mets game does not disappoint
Wednesday, July 23rd, 2008Almost seems like déjà vu, doesn’t it? The Mets bullpen yet again gave up a big lead that Johan Santana got for them, blowing a 5-2 lead in the top of the ninth as the Phillies won 8-6 in New York. Santana, who pitched 8 strong innings, gave up 8 hits and 2 runs, while striking out 4 and walking none. Manager Jerry Manuel made a controversial decision to pull Santana in the 9th for Duaner Sánchez, which was obviously not a smart choice as he gave up three hits with no outs to load the bases for Joe Smith, who was called in to replace Sanchez.
Phils catcher Carlos Ruiz stepped to the plate and grounded into a fielders choice to Jose Reyes, who decided to try to get the force at second on Shane Victorino. Chalk up another mistake for the Mets as he didn’t reach second before the speedy Victorino, which brought in a run with the bases still loaded. Pedro Feliciano came in immediately after to replace Smith, which may have been another mistake. Feliciano gave up a double to So Taguchi, who was 0-16 in pinch-hit opportunities this year. The double drove in two runs and tied the game, moving Ruiz over to third as well.
Jimmy Rollins came up next and he hit a double as well which drove in two runs, Ruiz being the go ahead. Ryan Howard eventually drove Rollins home, which was the last of the Phillies 6 run inning. Brad Lidge, who has not blown a save this year, remained perfect in save opportunities. He did give up one run, but held onto the lead as the Phillies won 8-6 at Shea. Chad Durbin was given the win, while Joe Smith took the loss.
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