W - Bazardo (1-2), L - Hamels (10-10)
The Phillies didn't show up for their first game of four against the Astros. The Astros out-pitched, out-hit, and out-played the Phillies all night long. Cole Hamels started strong but began to wear down and find trouble in the middle innings. Meanwhile, Astros' rookie Yorman Bazardo dominated a punchless Phillies lineup that never really threatened much all night. By the time the disaster was over, the Astros had beaten the Phils 8-2.
The Phillies did not look impressive on the mound. Cole Hamels made it through the Astros order once before running into problems. Hamels went 6.2 innings, allowing six earned runs on nine hits and three walks. He did strike out five but overall, it was an ineffective night for the lefty. The Phillies bullpen came in and did just as poorly, allowing the game to get completely out of hand. It was a forgettable night for the Phils' pitchers.
The Phillies bats were equally bad against the rookie Yorman Bazardo. Coming in with an ERA near 10, Bazardo looked like an ace on the mound, allowing just two runs on two hits. He did walk four and strike out four over his 5.2 innings. It was his first career victory and came in an inexcusable fashion. No one in the Phillies lineup had particularly good at bats and they seemed anxious at the dish.
With the Braves winning again on Monday night, the Phillies' magic number remains three. The Phillies suddenly find themselves just four games ahead with six to play. They are dangerously close to making the NL East a race again. For now, it will be important to forget this loss and focus on tomorrow's game. The Phillies still control their own destiny and can clinch a playoff berth by Wednesday, so it's too soon to press the panic button.
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