Phillies Preview: World Series Game Three

2009 World Series
Philadelphia Phillies (1-1) v. New York Yankees (1-1)

Saturday October 31, 2009
Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA

55° F - Overcast

Andy Pettitte, LHP (0-0, 0.00) v. Cole Hamels, LHP (0-0, 0.00)

After splitting the first two games, the Philadelphia Phillies will return home to host the New York Yankees for the next three games of the 2009 World Series. Thus far, it has been an unexpectedly low-scoring series, between two great offensive teams in hitters parks. However, with game three featuring Cole Hamels of the Phillies and Andy Pettitte of the Yankees, both team will hope to continue the pitching-dominant trend. The weather will be seasonably mild with overcast skies and a slight chance of rain.

Starting Pitcher: Andy Pettitte, Yankees

Andy Pettitte is the veteran presence in the Yankees' rotation. The elder statesman of the group, Pettitte has seen and done almost everything as a starter in the postseason. His career 16 wins is first all-time in postseason play and the crafty lefty still has some juice left in the tank. Pettitte pitches primarily to contact at this point in his career, but controls the running game very well with a great pickoff move. The 37-year old won 14 games for the Yankees this season, while logging 194.2 innings.

This season against the Phillies, Andy Pettitte face the Phillies once, allowing four earned runs in seven innings while taking the no-decision in a Yankees win. Pettitte is succeptible to the long ball, but does create an unfavorable matchup for the Phillies, as he is left-handed and can control the running game with a great pickoff move. For his career against Phillies hitters, Pettitte has allowed a .230 batting average in 148 plate appearances, with four home runs. The veteran is one of the best postseason performers, with a major league record 16 postseason wins.

Starting Pitcher: Cole Hamels, Phillies

Cole Hamels struggled through a hangover season from 2008, in which he battled injuries and inconsistency all year long. Still, he is the Phillies' starter with the most playoff pedigree and was able to win 10 games. In 2009, Hamels' innings were down to 193.2 and his strikeout numbers were also down, though he has the ability to miss bats. Hamels' achilles heel has always been the long ball, so if he can keep the ball in the park, the 25-year old is very tough. Hamels will likely be the Phillies' second or third starter.

Despite having a rough postseason thus far, the Phillies are hopeful that Cole Hamels can regain his World Series MVP form from 2008. Hamels faced the Yankees once this season, going six innings allowing two runs and a homer, in an extra-inning win for the Phillies. In his career against the Yankees, Hamels has allowed a .290 batting average in 66 plate appearances. The key for the young lefty will be to keep the ball in the park and limit his pitch count as much as possible.

Starting Lineup: New York Yankees

Statistics versus Cole Hamels
1. Derek Jeter, SS (4/7, 0 HR, 1 K)

2. Johnny Damon, LF (3/5, 0 HR, 0 K)

3. Mark Teixeira, 1B (5/17, 2 HR, 3 K)

4. Alex Rodriguez, 3B (0/4, 0 HR, 4 K)

5. Jorge Posada, C (0/3, 0 HR, 1 K)

6. Robinson Cano, 2B (0/3, 0 HR, 0 K)

7. Jerry Hairston, Jr., RF (2/10, 1 HR, 1 K)

8. Melky Cabrera, CF (3/6, 0 HR, 0 K)

Starting Lineup: Philadelphia Phillies

Statistics versus Andy Pettitte
1. Jimmy Rollins, SS (4/18, 1 HR, 2 K)

2. Shane Victorino, CF (3/6, 0 HR, 1 K)

3. Chase Utley, 2B (1/7, 0 HR, 3 K)

4. Ryan Howard, 1B (1/9, 0 HR, 1 K)

5. Jayson Werth, RF (1/13, 1 HR, 5 K)

6. Raul Ibanez, LF (6/21, 1 HR, 5 K)

7. Pedro Feliz, 3B (2/7, 0 HR, 1 K)

8. Carlos Ruiz, C (2/3, 1 HR, 0 K)

Phillies World Series Previews

Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches
Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Recap: World Series Game Two

2009 World Series
Philadelphia Phillies , New York Yankees

W - A.J. Burnett (1-0, 1.29), L - Pedro Martinez (0-1, 4.50), S - Mariano Rivera (1)

Game two of the World Series was another very close, low-scoring game. The Philadelphia Phillies, behind Pedro Martinez, took an early lead. After dueling for several innings with A.J. Burnett, the Yankees used the long ball to surge ahead in the game. In what turned into a late game battle of the bullpens, the Yankees were able to hold on to a small lead and pull out a win by a final score of 3-1. The win evened the series at one as the teams head back to Philadelphia for the next three games.

Game Summary: Philadelphia Phillies

Pedro Martinez started the game for the Phillies, with many questions unanswered about his abilities at his age. However, the veteran pitcher showed that he still has something left in the tank, as he kept the Yankees hitters off balance and off the scoreboard for most of the night. Martinez was hurt by a pair of solo homers, but only allowed six hits and a pair of walks overall. In six plus solid innings, the future Hall of Famer struck out eight Yankee hitters, but left the game trailing, having allowed three earned runs. The Phillies' pen did a decent job, but it was in vain.

On offense, the Phillies didn't stir much. They seemed somewhat patient with Burnett early in the game, working his pitch count. But the right-hander settled in and held the Phillies in check, after an early Matt Stairs RBI single. The Phillies managed only five hits and three walks through the game. Ryan Howard had an especially tough night, as he struck out four times, thanks to some extremely generous strike calls. In the eighth, the Phils put a pair of runners on before a double play ended the threat. The offense was to blame as they could not get anything substantial going against Yankee pitching.

Game Summary: New York Yankees

A.J. Burnett was a wildcard coming into the game, with the Yankees uncertain what he would bring to the table. However, after a somewhat shaky start, Burnett settled in a dominated the Phillies' lineup for seven innings. The big righty added nine strikeouts and allowed just four hits. He walked two, one intentional, and gave up just one earned run. Mariano Rivera was brought in for a six-out save. He struggled through the eighth inning, throwing over 20 pitches, before completing the game in the ninth.

The Yankees offense really didn't do much against Pedro Martinez on the night. However, two mistake pitches were hit out of the park to give the Yankees the lead. In the seventh inning, they tacked on an important insurance run, but were unable to get more runs across. On the night, they didn't perform especially well and were not all that patient, but grinded out just enough to provide the final margin for the game.

Phillies World Series Previews
Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three
Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Preview: World Series Game Two

2009 World Series

Philadelphia Phillies (1-0) v. New York Yankees (0-1)
Thursday October 29, 2009

Yankee Stadium, New York, NY
52° F - Cool, Clear

Pedro Martinez, RHP (0-0, 0.00) v. A.J. Burnett, RHP (0-0, 0.00)

After a one-sided affair in the opener of the World Series, the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees will go right back at it one night later. The Phillies took the opener in a game that was never really in doubt. Now the pressure lies complete on the Yankees as they try to avoid going back to Philadelphia in an 0-2 hole. The weather will be much better this evening, as the skies have cleared and the field has dried. Pedro Martinez will make his return to the big stage for the Phillies, and he will be opposed by A.J. Burnett of the Yankees in a crucial game two.

Starting Pitcher: Pedro Martinez, Phillies

Pedro Martinez was another late-season acqusition for the Phillies, as they signed the free agent to finish the 2009 season with them. Martinez has shown signs of his former self, now that he is healthy. And not having pitched the first half of the season means he is fresh for the playoffs, with only 44.2 innings. Most importantly, the 37-year old veteran righty has a lot of post season experience and is known as a clutch performer. While it has not been determined when Pedro will start, he still has the ability to miss bats and shut down an opponent.

It will be the return to the Bronx for Pedro Martinez in game two. After facing the Yankees many times in the playoffs earlier in his career, Martinez has not seen them for several years. While he did not have much success against them, he does bring a renewed sense of confidence and a fresh arm to the game tonight. Lifetime against the Yankees hitters, Martinez has held them to a .242 batting average in 442 plate appearances. In those appearances, he allowed 11 homers while fanning nearly 25% of batters (116). Tonight, Martinez will need to get the calls on the corners and mix up his pitches against an aggressive Yankee lineup.

Starting Pitcher: A.J. Burnett, Yankees

A.J. Burnett was the second half of the Yankees' big off-season pitching enhancement, as he signed around the same time as Sabathia. Burnett's career has been wildly inconsistent, as he has shown flashes of brilliance and periods of ineffectiveness. He is a strike out pitcher but suffers from poor command and composure. The big righty won 13 games in his first season with the Yankees and tossed 207.0 innings for them. With nearly a strike out per inning, Burnett must limit contact in order to be successful.

Burnett will have the tough task of trying to shut down the Phillies tonight. If the good Burnett shows up, he will have a good chance to help his team win the game. However, the problem with the big righty has always been his inconsistency and wildness. In 184 career plate appearances, current Phillies are hitting .265 with eight homers off of Burnett. Being a strikeout pitcher, the Phillies will need to be patient against him and not swing at bad pitches. Burnett is a hard thrower but his presence on the mound means that Jorge Posada's bat will be out of the Yankee lineup, in favor of a defensive catcher.

Starting Lineup: Philadelphia Phillies

Statistics versus A.J. Burnett

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS (11/43, 1 HR, 12 K)
2. Shane Victorino, CF (1/6, 0 HR, 0 K)
3. Chase Utley, 2B (6/21, 1 HR, 7 K)
4. Ryan Howard, 1B (2/12, 2 HR, 6 K)
5. Jayson Werth, RF (1/7, 1 HR, 3 K)
6. Raul Ibanez, LF (4/15, 0 HR, 4 K)
7. Matt Stairs, DH (3/11, 2 HR, 4 K)
8. Pedro Feliz, 3B (2/15, 0 HR, 0 K)
9. Carlos Ruiz, C (3/3, 1 HR, 0 K)

Starting Lineup: New York Yankees

Statistics versus Pedro Martinez

1. Derek Jeter, SS (27/102, 4 HR, 27 K)
2. Johnny Damon, LF (5/25, 0 HR, 4 K)
3. Mark Teixeira, 1B (1/6, 0 HR, 3 K)
4. Alex Rodriguez, 3B (17/58, 1 HR, 20 K)
5. Hideki Matsui, DH (9/43, 1 HR, 8 K)
6. Robinson Cano, 2B (0/12, 0 HR, 1 K)
7. Jerry Hairston, Jr., RF (10/27, 0 HR, 6 K)
8. Melky Cabrera, CF (1/5, 0 HR, 2 K)

9. Jose Molina, C (2/10, 0 HR, 1 K)

Phillies World Series Previews
Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three
Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Recap: World Series Game One

2009 World Series

Philadelphia Phillies 6, New York Yankees 1

W - Cliff Lee (1-0, 0.00), L - CC Sabathia (0-1, 2.57)

The first game of the World Series was a highly exciting affair between two ace lefties. Cliff Lee took the ball for the Philadelphia Phillies in opposition of CC Sabathia for the New York Yankees. The game started as a pitcher's duel, but in the end, a pair of Chase Utley homers set the tone behind Cliff Lee's complete game. Sabathia pitched very well, but he was outdone by his counterpart. The Phillies were able to tack on runs against the Yankees' bullpen to finish with a 6-1 win and take a 1-0 lead in the World Series.

Game Summary: Philadelphia Phillies

From a pitching perspective, the game summary for the Phillies started and ended with Cliff Lee. The veteran southpaw was once again dominant, as he kept the Yankees off balance all night. In what was a very close game for the first seven innings, Lee was lights out, striking out hitters in almost every inning and never really getting into a jam. On the night, Lee went the distance, throwing 122 pitches in a complete game effort. A late error robbed Lee of a shutout, but he struck out 10 Yankees hitters, without allowing a walk, and holding them to just six hits.

Offensively, the Phillies were led by Chase Utley, who crushed a pair of solo homers off of CC Sabathia. The Phillies also worked Sabathia well, though they weren't able to muster much off of him. However, late in the game when the Yankees' bullpen came in, the Phils tacked on runs very well. Raul Ibanez drove in a pair of runs on a two-out two-strike single in the eighth. In the ninth, they tacked on a couple more runs, which concluded their night with six runs, nine hits, and seven walks.

Game Summary: New York Yankees

The Yankees sent their big-money ace to the mound, in CC Sabathia. Early on, Sabathia was very strong, but was forced to throw a lot of pitches, which may have affected him. In the third and sixth innings, Sabathia surrendered solo homers to Chase Utley. Other than that, Sabathia pitched very well and only allowed four hits in seven innings, while walking three and fanning six. The Yankees' bullpen let them down tonight, allowing four earned runs over the final two innings that allowed the game to get out of reach.

On offense, the Yankees couldn't do anything. They managed only six hits all night and were not especially patient against Cliff Lee. In their defense, they had no choice as Lee peppered the zone with strikes. Derek Jeter had three hits, including a double, but the team never had a real chance to score until the ninth inning. An error helped the Yankees push across a lone, unearned run, well after the outcome of the game had been decided. Tonight was really more about Lee's greatness than any Yankees slumping.

Phillies World Series Previews

Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches
Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Preview: World Series Game One

2009 World Series
Philadelphia Phillies (0-0) v. New York Yankees (0-0)

Wednesday October 28, 2009
Yankee Stadium, New York, NY

48° F - Overcast, Rainy

Cliff Lee, LHP (0-0, 0.00) v. CC Sabathia, LHP (0-0, 0.00)

The 2009 World Series opens up on a rainy night in the Bronx between the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Yankees. This game features two former Cleveland Indians' aces and Cy Young award winners in Cliff Lee and CC Sabathia. The two lefties will both aim to shut down strong opposing offenses and get their respective teams off to a solid start in the series. The field and playing conditions will be wet, which will add another dimension to this already intriguing matchup. Which ever team can get to the opposing starter and take advantage of opportunities, while limiting weather-related errors, will likely win this game.

Starting Pitcher: Cliff Lee, Phillies

Cliff Lee was a mid-season acquisition for the Phillies and he didn't disappoint. Since the Phillies acquired him, the 31-year old lefty won seven games and struck out nearly a batter per inning. Overall, Lee is a pitcher that can dominate and go deep into games, which will help the Phillies' bullpen. He tossed 231.2 innings, marking his fourth 200-inning campaign in the last six seasons. Still, Lee has no post season experience and has not proven whether he is a big-game pitcher or not. He has emerged as the clear ace of the Phillies staff in this postseason, with dominating performances against both of the Phillies' National League opponents.

Against the New York Yankees, Lee has done very well, going 1-1 with a 3.00 ERA this season. Lifetime against the Bronx Bombers hitters, Lee has allowed a high .285 opposing batting average in 224 plate appearances lifetime. Yankees hitters have victimized him for eight homers in that time, and clearly the key for Lee will be to keep the ball in the park tonight. Lee works well to both sides of the plate, and can neutralize the Yankees' hitters by keeping them off balance and mixing his pitches well. The Yankees will need to be aggressive against Lee, as he throws a lot of strikes and can put hitters away when he gets ahead.

Starting Pitcher: CC Sabathia, Yankees

CC Sabathia was a major free agent signing by the Yankees prior to the 2009 season. He earned his huge contract this season, winning 19 games and accumulating 230.0 innings. The big 28-year old has enjoyed his best post-season ever, carrying the Yankees team to another World Series appearance. Sabathia is a dominant left-handed pitcher with ace-caliber stuff and the ability to pitch deep into games and shut a team down. He is hands down the best pitcher that the Yankees have and will pitch on short rest if needed.

Sabathia will have an apparent advantage over the Phillies, being that he is left-handed. This season against the Phils, he took a no decision after pitching eight solid innings in a Yankees loss. Lifetime against the Phillies, Sabathia has allowed a .275 batting average in 118 plate appearances. He has only allowed three long balls against the Phillies, but famously allowed a grand slam to Shane Victorino in the playoffs last season. For Sabathia, pitch count will not be as important as effectiveness, so if he can throw strikes early in the count, it could be a long night for the Phillies.

Starting Lineup: Philadelphia Phillies

Statistics versus CC Sabathia

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS (5/13, 0 HR, 0 K)

2. Shane Victorino, CF (5/9, 1 HR, 0 K)

3. Chase Utley, 2B (0/5, 0 HR, 3 K)

4. Ryan Howard, 1B (3/9, 0 HR, 3 K)

5. Jayson Werth, RF (2/8, 0 HR, 2 K)

6. Raul Ibanez, DH (11/40, 2 HR, 10 K)

7. Ben Francisco, LF (1/5, 0 HR, 0 K)

8. Pedro Feliz, 3B (1/8, 0 HR, 3 K)

9. Carlos Ruiz, C (2/5, 0 HR, 0 K)

Starting Lineup: New York Yankees

Statistics versus Cliff Lee

1. Derek Jeter, SS (11/27, 0 HR, 3 K)

2. Johnny Damon, LF (2/22, 0 HR, 3 K)

3. Mark Teixeira, 1B (9/23, 1 HR, 2 K)

4. Alex Rodriguez, 3B (5/15, 2 HR, 3 K)

5. Jorge Posada, C (6/21, 2 HR, 2 K)

6. Hideki Matsui, DH (5/17, 0 HR, 4 K)

7. Robinson Cano, 2B (4/18, 0 HR, 3 K)

8. Nick Swisher, RF (6/18, 0 HR, 4 K)

9. Melky Cabrera, CF (3/11, 1 HR, 1 K)

Phillies World Series Previews
Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Preview: World Series Benches

2009 World Series

Philadelphia Phillies (93-69) v. New York Yankees (103-59)

The benches of both teams in the World Series will be extremely important. Considering that the Yankees will be forced to play without a designated hitter in Philadelphia, and the Phillies will need to add a DH in New York, both teams will need to make some adjustments. As a result of the configurations of the leagues, the teams' bench moves will be under a great deal of scrutiny. With pinch runners, defensive changes, and pinch hitting situations, look for the benches to play a big role in the outcome of the series.

Key Reserve: New York Yankees

Hideki Matsui, L - Hideki Matsui is typically the starting designated hitter for the New York Yankees. When Matsui isn't DHing, he will be the likely pinch hitter in a key situation for the Yankees. The left-hander can still hit, despite having injuries and age slow him down, and has significant pop, especially against righties. The 35-year old will be a key player in this series and will need to produce, regardless of his role.

Key Reserve: Philadelphia Phillies

Matt Stairs, L - Matt Stairs is already a hitting legend in Philadelphia. He is primarily a pinch hitter at this point in his career, but the lefty could get the nod as the designated hitter in games in New York. Stairs packs a punch and makes no secret that power is his primary game. However, the 40-year old can also work walks and has patient power at the plate. More than likely, if Stairs isn't already in the game, he will have some key at bats late in games.

Bench Players: New York Yankees

DH - Hideki Matsui, L: 142 G, .274 BA, 28 HR, 90 RBI, 0 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 126 G, .271 BA, 15 HR, 44 RBI

2009 vs. LHP: 75 G, .282 BA, 13 HR, 46 RBI
Postseason Career: 50 G, .292 BA, 7 HR, 31 RBI, 0 SB

Career vs. PHI: 89 PA, .193 BA, .247 OBP, .337 SLG, 2 HR, 20 K

OF - Brett Gardner, L: 108 G, .270 BA, 3 HR, 23 RBI, 26 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 76 G, .264 BA, 3 HR, 16 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 38 G, .291 BA, 0 HR, 7 RBI

Postseason Career: 9 G, .667 BA, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 1 SB
Career vs. PHI: 11 PA, .400 BA, .400 OBP, .500 SLG, 0 HR, 0 K

IF - Jerry Hairston, Jr., R: 131 G, .251 BA, 10 HR, 39 RBI, 7 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 104 G, .255 BA, 4 HR, 28 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 61 G, .242 BA, 6 HR, 11 RBI

Postseason Career: 3 G, .500 BA, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. PHI: 76 PA, .286 BA, .333 OBP, .529 SLG, 2 HR, 14 K

OF - Eric Hinske, L: 93 G, .242 BA, 8 HR, 25 RBI, 1 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 81 G, .242 BA, 6 HR, 19 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 27 G, .244 BA, 2 HR, 6 RBI

Postseason Career: 5 G, .250 BA, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. PHI: 73 PA, .200 BA, .219 OBP, .371 SLG, 3 HR, 20 K

C - Jose Molina, R: 52 G, .217 BA, 1 HR, 11 RBI, 0 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 42 G, .216 BA, 1 HR, 9 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 24 G, .220 BA, 0 HR, 2 RBI

Postseason Career: 13 G, .333 BA, 0 HR, 1 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. PHI: 45 PA, .256 BA, .273 OBP, .349 SLG, 1 HR, 7 K

Bench Players: Philadelphia Phillies

OF - Matt Stairs, L: 99 G, .194 BA, 5 HR, 17 RBI, 0 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 92 G, .200 BA, 5 HR, 17 RBI

2009 vs. LHP: 4 G, .000 BA, 0 HR, 0 RBI
Postseason Career: 12 G, .125 BA, 1 HR, 2 RBI, 0 SB

Career vs. NYY: 70 PA, .180 BA, .271 OBP, .344 SLG, 3 HR, 15 K

OF - Ben Francisco, R: 126 G, .257 BA, 15 HR, 46 RBI, 14 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 111 G, .260 BA, 13 HR, 36 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 61 G, .247 BA, 2 HR, 10 RBI

Postseason Career: 7 G, .000 BA, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. NYY: 34 PA, .321 BA, .424 OBP, .429 SLG, 0 HR, 5 K

IF - Eric Bruntlett, R: 72 G, .171 BA, 0 HR, 7 RBI, 2 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 37 G, .123 BA, 0 HR, 5 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 35 G, .229 BA, 0 HR, 2 RBI

Postseason Career: 29 G, .188 BA, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 1 SB
Career vs. NYY: 5 PA, .200 BA, .200 OBP, .200 SLG, 0 HR, 1 K

IF - Greg Dobbs, L: 97 G, .247 BA, 5 HR, 20 RBI, 1 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 90 G, .238 BA, 5 HR, 18 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 6 G, .429 BA, 0 HR, 2 RBI

Postseason Career: 16 G, .333 BA, 0 HR, 0 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. NYY: 12 PA, .636 BA, .667 OBP, .818 SLG, 0 HR, 3 K

C - Paul Bako, L: 44 G, .224 BA, 3 HR, 9 RBI, 0 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 39 G, .245 BA, 3 HR, 9 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 9 G, .000 BA, 0 HR, 0 RBI

Postseason Career: 17 G, .194 BA, 1 HR, 4 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. NYY: 23 PA, .227 BA, .261 OBP, .227 SLG, 0 HR, 6 K

Phillies World Series Previews

Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Preview: World Series Hitters

2009 World Series
Philadelphia Phillies (93-69) v. New York Yankees (103-59)

The World Series will feature the two top offenses of the 2009 season, between the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Yankees. For the first time in Major League history, the top two home run hitting teams will square off in the Fall Classic. The teams have deep lineups that can drive in runs and produce scoring opportunities quickly. With both teams' ball parks being very hitter-friendly, the World Series promises to be high scoring.

Key Hitters: New York Yankees

Alex Rodriguez, R - Alex Rodriguez is arguably one of the best hitters in the game today. The slugging third baseman hits for high average and has power to all fields. The big righty was been surrounded in controversy for most of his career. However, the 33-year old will be making his first appearance in the World Series. Thus far this postseason, Rodriguez has been uncharacteristically productive, carrying the Yankees' offense to this point. How he performs against Phillies pitching will largely determine the Yankees' success.

Mark Teixeira, S - Mark Teixeira was an off-season signing for the New York Yankees. The switch-hitting first baseman is a solid hitter from both sides of the plate and can hit for some power too. Teixeira is playing for his fourth team in the last three seasons, and will also be making his first World Series appearance. He bats ahead of Rodriguez and will have a number of critical at bats in this series. If the 29-year old is able to perform better than he has to this point in the playoffs, he will take a lot of pressure off of Rodriguez.

Derek Jeter, R - Derek Jeter is the captain and emotional leader of the New York Yankees. Jeter is historically a clutch postseason performer and has led the Yankees to four championships in his career. The righty bats lead off and knows how to have a patient at bat and always seems to come up with key hits. The 35-year old shortstop has had another solid postseason and will need to be the spark plug for the Yankees offense if they are to win this series.

Key Hitters: Philadelphia Phillies

Ryan Howard, L - Ryan Howard is becoming one of the truly legendary power hitters of this generation. Howard put together his fourth consecutive 40-homer, 130-RBI season and simply produces runs at a prolific rate. The big lefty slugger once again got hot late in the season and helped carry the Phillies offense down the stretch. The 29-year old performed fairly well in his playoff experience and will lead the power charge for the Phillies offense. He has been the leader of the Phillies' offense this postseason, more than ever, and will be the most important hitter in their lineup this series.

Chase Utley, L - Chase Utley is the quiet leader of the Phillies squad and he does it predominantly with his bat. The slugging second baseman had another superb season, eclipsing 30 home runs and 20 stolen bases. However, the 30-year old Utley did wear down as the season progressed and entered a prolonged slump to finish the season with a subpar batting average by his standards. Utley will be key in the Phillies' offense, as he needs to produce against the Yankees' lefties and protect Ryan Howard.

Jayson Werth, R - Jayson Werth was an unheralded rising star coming into the 2009 season. The right-handed power hitter had a break out season and was named to the All-Star team. Werth will be of utmost importance in this series, as he is the biggest right-handed power threat for the Phillies. If the 30-year old can be a presence among all of the Phillies left-handed hitters, then their offense should be able to produce against all pitchers. Werth has been hitting the ball hard all postseason and will need a big series against the Yankees to help carry the Phillies' offense.

Starting Lineup: New York Yankees

SS - Derek Jeter, R: 153 G, .334 BA, 18 HR, 66 RBI, 30 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 146 G, .311 BA, 12 HR, 43 RBI

2009 vs. LHP: 80 G, .395 BA, 6 HR, 23 RBI

Postseason Career: 132 G, .308 BA, 20 HR, 54 RBI, 16 SB

Career vs. PHI: 202 PA, .288 BA, .370 OBP, .463 SLG, 7 HR, 37 K

LF - Johnny Damon, L: 143 G, .282 BA, 24 HR, 82 RBI, 12 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 133 G, .288 BA, 17 HR, 56 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 85 G, .269 BA, 7 HR, 26 RBI

Postseason Career: 49 G, .270 BA, 9 HR, 26 RBI, 10 SB
Career vs. PHI: 115 PA, .194 BA, .278 OBP, .252 SLG, 1 HR, 16 K

1B - Mark Teixeira, S: 156 G, .292 BA, 39 HR, 122 RBI, 2 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 149 G, .282 BA, 30 HR, 91 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 89 G, .305 BA, 9 HR, 31 RBI

Postseason Career: 13 G, .278 BA, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. PHI: 96 PA, .315 BA, .344 OBP, .576 SLG, 6 HR, 19 K

3B - Alex Rodriguez, R: 124 G, .286 BA, 30 HR, 100 RBI, 14 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 118 G, .289 BA, 22 HR, 79 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 61 G, .277 BA, 8 HR, 21 RBI

Postseason Career: 48 G, .307 BA, 12 HR, 29 RBI, 5 SB
Career vs. PHI: 142 PA, .284 BA, .408 OBP, .526 SLG, 8 HR, 36 K

C - Jorge Posada, S: 111 G, .285 BA, 22 HR, 81 RBI, 1 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 102 G, .282 BA, 17 HR, 57 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 60 G, .290 BA, 5 HR, 24 RBI

Postseason Career: 105 G, .238 BA, 11 HR, 34 RBI, 3 SB
Career vs. PHI: 140 PA, .213 BA, .307 OBP, .484 SLG, 8 HR, 46 K

2B - Robinson Cano, L: 161 G, .320 BA, 25 HR, 85 RBI, 5 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 144 G, .326 BA, 15 HR, 53 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 100 G, .335 BA, 10 HR, 32 RBI

Postseason Career: 22 G, .238 BA, 2 HR, 13 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. PHI: 59 PA, .196 BA, .220 OBP, .286 SLG, 1 HR, 4 K

RF - Nick Swisher, S: 150 G, .249 BA, 29 HR, 82 RBI, 0 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 133 G, .250 BA, 20 HR, 52 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 87 G, .244 BA, 9 HR, 30 RBI

Postseason Career: 19 G, .161 BA, 0 HR, 2 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. PHI: 45 PA, .222 BA, .356 OBP, .278 SLG, 0 HR, 10 K

CF - Melky Cabrera, S: 154 G, .274 BA, 13 HR, 68 RBI, 10 SB

2009 vs. RHP: 128 G, .277 BA, 8 HR, 48 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 85 G, .268 BA, 5 HR, 20 RBI

Postseason Career: 15 G, .259 BA, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. PHI: 42 PA, .308 BA, .341 OBP, .410 SLG, 1 HR, 4 K

Starting Lineup: Philadelphia Phillies

SS - Jimmy Rollins, S: 155 G, .250 BA, 21 HR, 77 RBI, 31 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 146 G, .257 BA, 14 HR, 55 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 80 G, .230 BA, 7 HR, 22 RBI

Postseason Career: 26 G, .234 BA, 3 HR, 9 RBI, 4 SB
Career vs. NYY: 92 PA, .262 BA, .315 OBP, .429 SLG, 2 HR, 15 K

CF - Shane Victorino, S: 156 G, .292 BA, 10 HR, 62 RBI, 25 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 146 G, .283 BA, 8 HR, 50 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 90 G, .314 BA, 2 HR, 12 RBI

Postseason Career: 26 G, .299 BA, 6 HR, 21 RBI, 6 SB
Career vs. NYY: 25 PA, .375 BA, .400 OBP, .625 SLG, 1 HR, 1 K

2B - Chase Utley, L: 156 G, .282 BA, 31 HR, 93 RBI, 23 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 143 G, .279 BA, 20 HR, 60 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 116 G, .288 BA, 11 HR, 33 RBI
Postseason Career: 26 G, .245 BA, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 5 SB

Career vs. NYY: 43 PA, .256 BA, .326 OBP, .385 SLG, 1 HR, 15 K

1B - Ryan Howard, L: 160 G, .279 BA, 45 HR, 141 RBI, 8 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 144 G, .319 BA, 39 HR, 108 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 124 G, .207 BA, 6 HR, 33 RBI

Postseason Career: 26 G, .295 BA, 6 HR, 24 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. NYY: 38 PA, .158 BA, .158 OBP, .342 SLG, 2 HR, 14 K

RF - Jayson Werth, R: 159 G, .268 BA, 36 HR, 99 RBI, 20 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 154 G, .256 BA, 22 HR, 62 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 89 G, .302 BA, 14 HR, 37 RBI

Postseason Career: 29 G, .288 BA, 9 HR, 17 RBI, 4 SB
Career vs. NYY: 34 PA, .129 BA, .206 OBP, .387 SLG, 2 HR, 13 K

LF - Raul Ibanez, L: 134 G, .272 BA, 34 HR, 93 RBI, 4 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 123 G, .267 BA, 21 HR, 53 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 86 G, .285 BA, 13 HR, 40 RBI

Postseason Career: 18 G, .208 BA, 1 HR, 9 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. NYY: 148 PA, .276 BA, .331 OBP, .463 SLG, 5 HR, 33 K

3B - Pedro Feliz, R: 158 G, .266 BA, 12 HR, 82 RBI, 0 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 149 G, .282 BA, 6 HR, 63 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 69 G, .208 BA, 6 HR, 19 RBI

Postseason Career: 31 G, .212 BA, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 0 SB
Career vs. NYY: 43 PA, .179 BA, .256 OBP, .231 SLG, 0 HR, 7 K

C - Carlos Ruiz, R: 107 G, .255 BA, 9 HR, 43 RBI, 3 SB
2009 vs. RHP: 97 G, .242 BA, 5 HR, 26 RBI
2009 vs. LHP: 41 G, .293 BA, 4 HR, 17 RBI

Postseason Career: 26 G, .296 BA, 2 HR, 11 RBI, 3 SB
Career vs. NYY: 12 PA, .583 BA, .583 OBP, 1.083 SLG, 2 HR, 0 K

Phillies World Series Previews
Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Preview: World Series Bullpens

2009 World Series

Philadelphia Phillies (93-69) v. New York Yankees (103-59)

The World Series will not feature overwhelmingly great bullpen pitching from either the New York Yankees or the Philadelphia Phillies. However, both teams rely on solid relievers to wrap up games, and this series will be no different. With arguably the best finisher in the game, the Yankees seem to have an edge with Mariano Rivera closing games. The rest of their bullpen, though, is no better than the Phillies' pen. As the two teams square off, the bullpens and the use of relievers will undoubtedly play a major role in the 2009 World Series.

Key Relievers: New York Yankees

Mariano Rivera, RHP - Mariano Rivera is widely regarded as one of the best closers of all time. Though he is in the twilight of his career, the 39-year old still has something to bring to the table. Featuring just a single, devastating pitch, the cutter, Rivera dominates hitters and breaks as many bats as anyone. He is an imposing force at the back end of the Yankees' bullpen that can come in for save situations as long as two innings or more. In 2009, Rivera logged 66.1 innings and recorded 44 saves, his most since 2004.

Phil Coke, LHP - Phil Coke is the Yankees' primary left-handed reliever out of their pen. In his second season as a pro, Coke enjoyed great success setting up Mariano Rivera. Coke, the 26-year old, threw a career high 60.0 innings and had excellent lefty platoon splits. Coke will certainly make some late inning appearances against the tough lefties in the Phillies' lineup. However, he is vulnerable to the long ball (10) and does not pitch especially well on the road.

Phil Hughes, RHP - Phil Hughes has thrived as the righty setup man in the Yankees' bullpen. After a few brief stints as a starter, Hughes settled in to the seventh and eighth inning role and excelled. The 23-year old recorded a career high 86.0 innings pitched and had a great ERA. If the Yankees have a lead, you can count on seeing Hughes late in the game to get the ball to Rivera. He is a strikeout pitcher, with more than one strikeout per inning, and can dominate righties and lefties alike.

Other Relievers - Alfredo Aceves, RHP, Damaso Marte, LHP, David Robertson, RHP

Key Relievers: Philadelphia Phillies

Brad Lidge, RHP - Brad Lidge is widely considered to be the pivitol player in this series. After a dominating 2008 season, Lidge has struggled with injuries and command all season long. The Phillies look for their 32-year old closer to pick up the pieces and have a solid postseason for them again. Lidge racked up 58.2 innings this season and saved 31 of 42 games on the season. Lidge was used as the Phillies' closer and looked sharp, recording two saves in two opportunities in the NLDS.

Ryan Madson, RHP - Ryan Madson is the one, true flamethrower out of the bullpen for either squad. Madson, the 28-year old, throws a wicked fastball that often approaches triple digits on the radar gun. He had a moderately successful 2009, picking up 10 saves in 16 chances for the Phillies. The righty was a horse this year, throwing 77.1 innings and fanning a batter per frame. With Brad Lidge closing once again, Madson will serve as the primary setup man in the bullpen.

Scott Eyre, LHP - Scott Eyre's importance this series cannot be overstated. With an injury to J.C. Romero, Eyre is the Phillies' only reliable situational lefty in the bullpen. Eyre himself struggled through an injury-plagued 2009 season that has left the reliever pondering retirement. The Phillies will need one more playoff push out of the 37-year old veteran. He threw only 30.0 innings this year, so despite bone chips in his elbow, he hopes to be fresh. Eyre also sprained his ankle in the NLDS but pitched after the injury and seems to be okay.

Other Relievers - Chan Ho Park, RHP, Chad Durbin, RHP, Antonio Bastardo, LHP

Pitching Primer: New York Yankees

Mariano Rivera: (3-3) 66 G, 66.1 IP, 1.76 ERA, 72 K, 7 HR
2009 Home Splits: (3-2) 39 G, 39.2 IP, 1.82 ERA, 41 K, 4 HR
2009 Road Splits: (0-1) 27 G, 26.2 IP, 1.69 ERA, 31 K, 3 HR
2009 vs. Phillies: (0-0) 1 G, 1.0 IP, 0.00 ERA, 1 K, 0 HR
Postseason Career: (8-1) 84 G, 128.0 IP, 0.77 ERA, 104 K, 2 HR
Career vs. PHI: 60 PA, .158 BA, .200 OBP, .175 SLG, 0 HR, 13 K

Phil Coke: (4-3) 72 G, 60.0 IP, 4.50 ERA, 49 K, 10 HR

2009 Home Splits: (4-1) 42 G, 36.1 IP, 2.97 ERA, 26 K, 7 HR

2009 Road Splits: (0-2) 30 G, 23.2 IP, 6.85 ERA, 23 K, 3 HR

2009 vs. Phillies: (0-0) 1 G, 1.2 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0 K, 0 HR

Postseason Career: (0-0) 4 G, 1.1 IP, 0.00 ERA, 2 K, 0 HR

Career vs. PHI: 6 PA, .167 BA, .167 OBP, .167 SLG, 0 HR, 0 K

Phil Hughes: (8-3) 51 G, 86.0 IP, 3.03 ERA, 96 K, 8 HR

2009 Home Splits: (4-1) 27 G, 39.2 IP, 2.50 ERA, 44 K, 6 HR

2009 Road Splits: (4-2) 24 G, 46.1 IP, 3.50 ERA, 52 K, 2 HR

2009 vs. Phillies: n/a

Postseason Career: (1-1) 8 G, 10.1 IP, 3.48 ERA, 12 K, 1 HR

Career vs. PHI: 17 PA, .286 BA, .412 OBP, .500 SLG, 1 HR, 5 K

Alfredo Aceves: (10-1) 43 G, 84.0 IP, 3.54 ERA, 69 K, 10 HR

2009 Home Splits: (6-0) 26 G, 50.1 IP, 1.61 ERA, 41 K, 5 HR

2009 Road Splits: (4-1) 17 G, 33.2 IP, 6.42 ERA, 28 K, 5 HR

2009 vs. Phillies: n/a

Postseason Career: (0-1) 3 G, 2.1 IP, 7.71 ERA, 1 K, 0 HR

Career vs. PHI: 1 PA, 1.000 BA, 1.000 OBP, 1.000 SLG, 0 HR, 0 K

Damaso Marte: (1-3) 21 G, 13.1 IP, 9.45 ERA, 13 K, 3 HR

2009 Home Splits: (0-2) 11 G, 6.0 IP, 18.00 ERA, 6 K, 2 HR

2009 Road Splits: (1-1) 10 G, 7.1 IP, 2.45 ERA, 7 K, 1 HR

2009 vs. Phillies: n/a

Postseason Career: (1-0) 6 G, 3.0 IP, 0.00 ERA, 3 K, 0 HR

Career vs. PHI: 47 PA, .279 BA, .326 OBP, .349 SLG, 0 HR, 13 K

David Robertson: (2-1) 45 G, 43.2 IP, 3.30 ERA, 63 K, 4 HR

2009 Home Splits: (2-0) 21 G, 20.0 IP, 2.25 ERA, 27 K, 1 HR

2009 Road Splits: (0-1) 24 G, 23.2 IP, 4.18 ERA, 36 K, 3 HR

2009 vs. Phillies: n/a

Postseason Career: (2-0) 3 G, 3.0 IP, 0.00 ERA, 1 K, 0 HR

Career vs. PHI: 3 PA, .000 BA, .333 OBP, .000 SLG, 0 HR, 1 K

Pitching Primer: Philadelphia Phillies

Brad Lidge: (0-8) 67 G, 58.2 IP, 7.21 ERA, 61 K, 11 HR

2009 Home Splits: (0-2) 33 G, 31.0 IP, 6.10 ERA, 33 K, 5 HR

2009 Road Splits: (0-6) 34 G, 27.2 IP, 8.46 ERA, 28 K, 6 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: (0-1) 2 G, 1.1 IP, 27.00 ERA, 2 K, 1 HR
Postseason Career: (2-3) 31 G, 38.1 IP, 1.88 ERA, 55 K, 2 HR

Career vs. NYY: 33 PA, .276 BA, .364 OBP, .414 SLG, 1 HR, 11 K

Ryan Madson: (5-5) 79 G, 77.1 IP, 3.26 ERA, 78 K, 7 HR

2009 Home Splits: (1-4) 36 G, 36.1 IP, 3.72 ERA, 35 K, 4 HR

2009 Road Splits: (4-1) 43 G, 41.0 IP, 2.85 ERA, 43 K, 3 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: (0-0) 3 G, 2.2 IP, 0.00 ERA, 4 K, 0 HR

Postseason Career: (2-0) 18 G, 18.2 IP, 2.89 ERA, 20 K, 1 HR

Career vs. NYY: 19 PA, .211 BA, .211 OBP, .316 SLG, 0 HR, 7 K

Scott Eyre: (2-1) 42 G, 30.0 IP, 1.50 ERA, 22 K, 3 HR

2009 Home Splits: (0-0) 20 G, 13.2 IP, 2.63 ERA, 10 K, 2 HR

2009 Road Splits: (2-1) 22 G, 16.1 IP, 0.55 ERA, 12 K, 1 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: (0-0) 1 G, 0.1 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0 K, 0 HR

Postseason Career: (0-0) 22 G, 11.2 IP, 1.54 ERA, 5 K, 0 HR

Career vs. NYY: 54 PA, .217 BA, .333 OBP, .500 SLG, 3 HR, 13 K

Chan Ho Park: (3-3) 45 G, 83.1 IP, 4.43 ERA, 73 K, 5 HR

2009 Home Splits: (2-1) 22 G, 41.2 IP, 3.67 ERA, 38 K, 2 HR

2009 Road Splits: (1-2) 23 G, 41.2 IP, 5.18 ERA, 35 K, 3 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: n/a

Postseason Career: (0-1) 9 G, 7.0 IP, 3.86 ERA, 4 K, 0 HR

Career vs. NYY: 88 PA, .216 BA, .326 OBP, .432 SLG, 4 HR, 21 K

Chad Durbin: (2-2) 59 G, 69.2 IP, 4.39 ERA, 62 K, 8 HR
2009 Home Splits: (2-1) 28 G, 31.0 IP, 4.65 ERA, 30 K, 4 HR
2009 Road Splits: (0-1) 31 G, 38.2 IP, 4.19 ERA, 32 K, 4 HR
2009 vs. Yankees: (0-0) 2 G, 2.0 IP, 0.00 ERA, 1 K, 0 HR
Postseason Career: (2-0) 11 G, 7.1 IP, 1.23 ERA, 4 K, 1 HR
Career vs. NYY: 75 PA, .200 BA, .253 OBP, .314 SLG, 2 HR, 10 K

Antonio Bastardo: (2-3) 6 G, 23.2 IP, 6.46 ERA, 19 K, 4 HR
2009 Home Splits: (0-2) 3 G, 9.0 IP, 8.00 ERA, 6 K, 1 HR
2009 Road Splits: (2-1) 3 G, 14.2 IP, 5.52 ERA, 13 K, 3 HR
2009 vs. Yankees: n/a
Postseason Career: (0-0) 2 G, 0.1 IP, 0.00 ERA, 1 K, 0 HR
Career vs. NYY: n/a

Phillies World Series Previews

Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Preview: World Series Rotations

2009 World Series
Philadelphia Phillies (93-69) v. New York Yankees (103-59)

The pitching matchups in this World Series will be key to the success of both ball clubs. With the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees featuring the top offenses of their respective leagues, how deep the starters go will be pivotal. Both teams have toyed with the idea of having their ace pitchers go on three days rest in an effort to make them available for three starts, should the series go the full seven games. However, beyond the aces, both teams have question marks at the starting pitcher spot. It should be interesting to see how these starters compare to each other. It can be said that whichever team gets the best starts will win the 2009 World Series.

Potential Starters: New York Yankees

CC Sabathia, LHP - CC Sabathia was a major free agent signing by the Yankees prior to the 2009 season. He earned his huge contract this season, winning 19 games and accumulating 230.0 innings. The big 28-year old has enjoyed his best post-season ever, carrying the Yankees team to another World Series appearance. Sabathia is a dominant left-handed pitcher with ace-caliber stuff and the ability to pitch deep into games and shut a team down. He is hands down the best pitcher that the Yankees have and will pitch on short rest if needed.

A.J. Burnett, RHP - A.J. Burnett was the second half of the Yankees' big off-season pitching enhancement, as he signed around the same time as Sabathia. Burnett's career has been wildly inconsistent, as he has shown flashes of brilliance and periods of ineffectiveness. He is a strike out pitcher but suffers from poor command and composure. The big righty won 13 games in his first season with the Yankees and tossed 207.0 innings for them. With nearly a strike out per inning, Burnett must limit contact in order to be successful.

Andy Pettitte, LHP - Andy Pettitte is the veteran presence in the Yankees' rotation. The elder statesman of the group, Pettitte has seen and done almost everything as a starter in the postseason. His career 16 wins is first all-time in postseason play and the crafty lefty still has some juice left in the tank. Pettitte pitches primarily to contact at this point in his career, but controls the running game very well with a great pickoff move. The 37-year old won 14 games for the Yankees this season, while logging 194.2 innings.

Other Candidates - Chad Gaudin, RHP, Joba Chamberlain, RHP

Potential Starters: Philadelphia Phillies

Cliff Lee, LHP - Cliff Lee was a mid-season acquisition for the Phillies and he didn't disappoint. Since the Phillies acquired him, the 31-year old lefty won seven games and struck out nearly a batter per inning. Overall, Lee is a pitcher that can dominate and go deep into games, which will help the Phillies' bullpen. He tossed 231.2 innings, marking his fourth 200-inning campaign in the last six seasons. Still, Lee has no post season experience and has not proven whether he is a big-game pitcher or not. He has emerged as the clear ace of the Phillies staff in this postseason, with dominating performances against both of the Phillies' National League opponents.

Cole Hamels, LHP - Cole Hamels struggled through a hangover season from 2008, in which he battled injuries and inconsistency all year long. Still, he is the Phillies' starter with the most playoff pedigree and was able to win 10 games. In 2009, Hamels' innings were down to 193.2 and his strikeout numbers were also down, though he has the ability to miss bats. Hamels' achilles heel has always been the long ball, so if he can keep the ball in the park, the 25-year old is very tough. Hamels will likely be the Phillies' second or third starter.

Pedro Martinez, RHP - Pedro Martinez was another late-season acqusition for the Phillies, as they signed the free agent to finish the 2009 season with them. Martinez has shown signs of his former self, now that he is healthy. And not having pitched the first half of the season means he is fresh for the playoffs, with only 44.2 innings. Most importantly, the 37-year old veteran righty has a lot of post season experience and is known as a clutch performer. While it has not been determined when Pedro will start, he still has the ability to miss bats and shut down an opponent.

Other Candidates - J. A. Happ, LHP, Joe Blanton, RHP

Pitching Primer: New York Yankees

CC Sabathia: (19-8) 34 G, 230.0 IP, 3.37 ERA, 197 K, 18 HR

2009 Home Splits: (7-2) 15 G, 105.0 IP, 3.17 ERA, 83 K, 6 HR

2009 Road Splits: (12-6) 19 G, 125.0 IP, 3.53 ERA, 114 K, 12 HR

2009 vs. Phillies: (0-0) 1 G, 8.0 IP, 3.38 ERA, 4 K, 0 HR

Postseason Career: (5-3) 8 G, 47.2 IP, 4.72 ERA, 44 K, 5 HR

Career vs. PHI: 118 PA, .275 BA, .322 OBP, .495 SLG, 3 HR, 26 K

A. J. Burnett: (13-9) 33 G, 207.0 IP, 4.04 ERA, 195 K, 25 HR
2009 Home Splits: (5-3) 16 G, 105.0 IP, 3.51 ERA, 104 K, 13 HR
2009 Road Splits: (8-6) 17 G, 102.0 IP, 4.59 ERA, 91 K, 12 HR
2009 vs. Phillies: (0-1) 1 G, 6.0 IP, 7.50 ERA, 7 K, 3 HR
Postseason Career: (0-0) 3 G, 18.1 IP, 4.42 ERA, 13 K, 0 HR
Career vs. PHI: 184 PA, .265 BA, .326 OBP, .476 SLG, 8 HR, 41 K

Andy Pettitte: (14-8) 32 G, 194.2 IP, 4.16 ERA, 148 K, 20 HR
2009 Home Splits: (6-4) 16 G, 100.0 IP, 4.59 ERA, 74 K, 14 HR
2009 Road Splits: (8-4) 16 G, 94.2 IP, 3.71 ERA, 74 K, 6 HR
2009 vs. Phillies: (0-0) 1 G, 7.0 IP, 5.14 ERA, 5 K, 2 HR
Postseason Career: (16-9) 38 G, 237.1 IP, 3.83 ERA, 154 K, 26 HR
Career vs. PHI: 148 PA, .230 BA, .267 OBP, .353 SLG, 4 HR, 26 K

Chad Gaudin: (6-10) 31 G, 147.1 IP, 4.64 ERA, 139 K, 14 HR
2009 Home Splits: (3-6) 15 G, 66.2 IP, 5.00 ERA, 61 K, 7 HR
2009 Road Splits: (3-4) 16 G, 80.2 IP, 4.35 ERA, 78 K, 7 HR
2009 vs. Phillies: n/a
Postseason Career: (0-0) 4 G, 4.1 IP, 0.00 ERA, 1 K, 0 HR
Career vs. PHI: 51 PA, .372 BA, .451 OBP, .651 SLG, 2 HR, 9 K

Joba Chamberlain: (9-6) 32 G, 157.1 IP, 4.75 ERA, 133 K, 21 HR
2009 Home Splits: (4-3) 19 G, 90.1 IP, 5.28 ERA, 84 K, 14 HR
2009 Road Splits: (5-3) 13 G, 67.0 IP, 4.03 ERA, 49 K, 7 HR
2009 vs. Phillies: n/a

Postseason Career: (0-0) 9 G, 7.0 IP, 3.86 ERA, 7 K, 0 HR
Career vs. PHI: 13 PA, .273 BA, .385 OBP, .273 SLG, 0 HR, 3 K

Pitching Primer: Philadelphia Phillies

Cliff Lee: (14-13) 34 G, 231.2 IP, 3.22 ERA, 181 K, 17 HR

2009 Home Splits: (6-8) 16 G, 110.2 IP, 2.85 ERA, 96 K, 7 HR

2009 Road Splits: (8-5) 18 G, 121.0 IP, 3.57 ERA, 85 K, 10 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: (1-1) 2 G, 12.0 IP, 3.00 ERA, 9 K, 1 HR

Postseason Career: (2-0) 3 G, 24.1 IP, 0.74 ERA, 20 K, 0 HR

Career vs. NYY: 224 PA, .285 BA, .345 OBP, .475 SLG, 8 HR, 32 K

Cole Hamels: (10-11) 32 G, 193.2 IP, 4.32 ERA, 168 K, 24 HR

2009 Home Splits: (7-5) 17 G, 105.1 IP, 3.76 ERA, 103 K, 14 HR

2009 Road Splits: (3-6) 15 G, 88.1 IP, 4.99 ERA, 65 K, 10 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: (0-0) 1 G, 6.0 IP, 3.00 ERA, 5 K, 1 HR

Postseason Career: (5-2) 9 G, 56.1 IP, 3.36 ERA, 49 K, 8 HR

Career vs. NYY: 66 PA, .290 BA, .333 OBP, .500 SLG, 3 HR, 11 K

Pedro Martinez: (5-1) 9 G, 44.2 IP, 3.63 ERA, 37 K, 7 HR

2009 Home Splits: (2-0) 5 G, 24.0 IP, 1.88 ERA, 22 K, 4 HR

2009 Road Splits: (3-1) 4 G, 20.2 IP, 5.66 ERA, 15 K, 3 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: n/a

Postseason Career: (6-2) 14 G, 86.1 IP, 3.13 ERA, 83 K, 7 HR
Career vs. NYY: 442 PA, .242 BA, .319 OBP, .383 SLG, 11 HR, 116 K

J.A. Happ: (12-4) 35 G, 166.0 IP, 2.93 ERA, 119 K, 20 HR

2009 Home Splits: (5-2) 17 G, 71.0 IP, 4.18 ERA, 61 K, 11 HR

2009 Road Splits: (7-2) 18 G, 95.0 IP, 1.99 ERA, 58 K, 9 HR

2009 vs. Yankees: (0-0) 1 G, 6.0 IP, 3.00 ERA, 4 K, 1 HR

Postseason Career: (0-0) 6 G, 6.2 IP, 5.40 ERA, 6 K, 0 HR

Career vs. NYY: 22 PA, .238 BA, .238 OBP, .429 SLG, 1 HR, 2 K

Joe Blanton: (12-8) 31 G, 195.1 IP, 4.05 ERA, 163 K, 30 HR
2009 Home Splits: (7-4) 16 G, 105.0 IP, 3.77 ERA, 87 K, 16 HR
2009 Road Splits: (5-4) 15 G, 90.1 IP, 4.38 ERA, 76 K, 14 HR
2009 vs. Yankees: n/a
Postseason Career: (2-0) 7 G, 28.2 IP, 3.45 ERA, 23 K, 5 HR
Career vs. NYY: 128 PA, .269 BA, .320 OBP, .546 SLG, 9 HR, 13 K

Phillies World Series Previews
Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Preview: World Series Overview

2009 World Series

Philadelphia Phillies (93-69) v. New York Yankees (103-59)

World Series Schedule

October 28, 2009, 7:57pm ET - Yankee Stadium

October 29, 2009, 7:57pm ET - Yankee Stadium

October 31, 2009, 7:57pm ET - Citizens Bank Park

November 1, 2009, 8:20pm ET - Citizens Bank Park

November 2, 2009, 7:57pm ET - Citizens Bank Park

November 4, 2009, 7:57pm ET - Yankee Stadium

November 5, 2009, 7:57pm ET - Yankee Stadium (If Necessary)

Playoff History: New York Yankees

Playoff Appearances: 48

American League Pennants: 39

World Championships: 26

Last Appearance: Lost 2007 LDS

Playoff History: Philadelphia Phillies

Playoff Appearances: 12

National League Pennants: 7

World Championships: 2

Last Appearance: Won 2008 World Series

How They Got Here: New York Yankees

The New York Yankees missed the playoffs in 2008 for the first time in 14 seasons, so they stockpiled talent over the offseason. The methodology worked as they won a Major League-leading 103 games in 2009. The Yankees played ahead in their division all season long, locking up the division title in early September and never really being challenged. This was in no small part because the Yankees were the best home team in the league this year, posting a 57-24 mark at the new Yankee Stadium. On the road, they were also effective, going 46-35. In close games, the Yankees went 22-16, a solid winning record in one-run affairs. They shut out their opponents eight times while only being shut out five times. The Yankees swept the Minnesota Twins in the ALDS and defeated the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in six games.

How They Got Here: Philadelphia Phillies
After winning the World Series in 2008, the Philadelphia Phillies started slow this season. However, as the weather warmed up, they did too. The team got especially hot through June, July, and August, helping to put away the National League East title. After the All-Star Break, the Phillies' lead in the East never dipped below four games. They finished with a mediocre September and October, going 18-16 in that time. The Phils were 45-36 at home and a Major League-best 48-33 on the road. During the season, they had streaks of 10 straight wins and six straight losses at various points. The Phillies were 24-21 in one-run games, while they shut out their opponents on nine different occasions, and were shut out themselves seven times. The Phillies defeated the Colorado Rockies in four games in the NLDS and beat the Los Angeles Dodgers in five games in the NLCS.

Team Statistics: New York Yankees

Offense: .283 BA, 915 R, 244 HR, 1,014 K, 111 SB

Defense: .985 FP, 86 E, 131 DP, 52 CS

Pitching: 4.28 ERA, 753 RA, 181 HR, 1,260 K, 51 SV

Team Statistics: Philadelphia Phillies

Offense: .258 BA, 820 R, 224 HR, 1,155 K, 119 SB

Defense: .987 FP, 76 E, 132 DP, 36 CS

Pitching: 4.16 ERA, 709 RA, 189 HR, 1,153 K, 44 SV

Phillies World Series Previews

Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters, Benches

Game Previews: One, Two, Three

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three

Phillies Recap: NLCS Game Five

National League Championship Series - Game Five

Philadelphia Phillies 10, Los Angeles Dodgers 4

W - Chad Durbin (1-0, 0.00), L - Vicente Padilla (1-1, 6.10)

Philadelphia Phillies Win National League Pennant

After an exciting National League Championship Series, the Philadelphia Phillies defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers four games to one. In tonight's clinching game, the Phillies bats came alive again, as they posted ten runs on the Dodgers. Cole Hamels was not sharp but their bullpen picked him up and the Dodgers had pitching issues from top to bottom on the night. With an LCS record-tying seven home runs in the game, the scoring came early and often. In the end, the Phillies came away with a 10-4 victory and advance to their second consecutive World Series.

Game Summary: Los Angeles Dodgers

Vicente Padilla was spotted a quick lead and promptly gave it right back to the Phillies. Padilla did not have the great command he demonstrated in game two of the series. As a result, he was pounded for six earned runs over three innings, including a pair of homers. The Dodger bullpen came in but was equally ineffective. Game one starter Clayton Kershaw came in and surrendered a homer and two earned runs which helped ice the game away. As a unit, the Dodgers' pitchers were not good all series.

On offense, the Dodgers pelted Cole Hamels with three home runs. However, part of their trouble in this game was the fact that all three long balls were solo shots. When the Dodgers had runners on base, they lacked the one big hit that would have moved them back in the game. Andre Ethier had a pair of hits, including a first inning homer to give the Dodgers a brief lead. After that, it was all down hill for their offense, as the Dodgers squandered prime scoring opportunities in the fifth and eighth innings.

Game Summary: Philadelphia Phillies

Cole Hamels did not have the strong start that the Phillies were looking for. Fortunately, they were able to out-hit their counterparts and get Hamels off of the hook. Hamels surrendered three homers and was not sharp at all, as his pitch count grew quickly through three innings. Hamels did not make it through the fifth inning, but the Phillies bullpen came in and shut down the Dodgers. The pen went 4.2 innings and allowed just one earned run. Chad Durbin recorded the win, and got Manny Ramirez out in a key situation in the fifth inning.

The Phillies' offense came to play in this clinching game, despite the heart of their order going hitless. Jayson Werth picked up the slack with a pair of homers and four RBI on the night. Shane Victorino added a two-run shot and the offense was really propelled by key extra-base hits. Patience at the plate led to three walks and three hit batters, and compensated for only eight Philadelphia hits. As a unit, however, the Phillies really put on an offensive show, and kept the game out of reach for the Dodgers.

Phillies NLCS Previews
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Game Previews: One, Two, Three, Four, Five

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three, Four, Five

Phillies Preview: NLCS Game Five

National League Championship Series - Game Five
Los Angeles Dodgers (1-3) v. Philadelphia Phillies (3-1)
Wednesday October 21, 2009 - 8:07pm ET
Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
60° F - Clear

Vicente Padilla, RHP (1-0, 1.23) v. Cole Hamels, LHP (1-0, 6.75)

Game five of the National League Championship Series will give the Philadelphia Phillies a chance to close out the Los Angeles Dodgers and advance to the World Series. After an emotional win on Monday night, the Phillies will look to wrap things up at home and prevent the series from returning to Los Angeles. Cole Hamels, the Phillies' game one starter takes the ball against the Dodgers' game two starter, Vicente Padilla. The teams had a day off yesterday, and with the weather improving, tonight's matchup promises to be another close, exciting game.

Starting Pitcher: Vicente Padilla

Vicente Padilla will get the nod for the Dodgers and will try to send the series back to California. Padilla, a former Phillie, will likely get a cold welcome back to Citizens Bank Park tonight. He went 7.1 innings allowing just a solo homer to Ryan Howard in his game two start. In 119 total plate appearances, current Phillies hitters are batting .257 against him. Raul Ibanez has the most appearances against Padilla and has homered twice off of the 31-year old. The big lefties in the Philadelphia lineup will need to get to Padilla early, before he settles in and gets the ball to the Dodger bullpen.

Starting Pitcher: Cole Hamels

Cole Hamels will take the mound for the Phillies in a familiar situation, as he tries to close out the Dodgers in the second consecutive NLCS. Hamels is looking to find some of his recent success against the Los Angeles Dodgers' batting order. Last season, Hamels dominated the Dodgers and in 2009, his good fortunes continued, as he went 2-0 in 16.0 innings with a 0.56 ERA. However, in his game one start, the 25-year old was knocked around a bit, allowing four earned runs in 5.1 innings. Current Dodgers are now hitting .251 off of him in 219 career plate appearances. The key for Hamels will be to maintain his composure, and keep the Dodgers' scoring opportunities limited.

Starting Lineup: Los Angeles Dodgers

Statistics versus Cole Hamels
1. Rafael Furcal, SS (2/17, 0 HR, 2 K)
2. Ronnie Belliard, 2B (8/29, 2 HR, 8 K)

3. Andre Ethier, RF (4/19, 0 HR, 5 K)

4. Manny Ramirez, LF (6/16, 2 HR, 2 K)

5. Matt Kemp, CF (8/20, 0 HR, 5 K)

6. James Loney, 1B (7/20, 2 HR, 4 K)
7. Russell Martin, C (4/18, 1 HR, 5 K)
8. Casey Blake, 3B (5/23, 0 HR, 3 K)

Starting Lineup: Philadelphia Phillies

Statistics versus Vicente Padilla
1. Jimmy Rollins, SS (1/7, 0 HR, 1 K)

2. Shane Victorino, CF (0/6, 0 HR, 1 K)

3. Chase Utley, 2B (2/6, 1 HR, 0 K)

4. Ryan Howard, 1B (3/5, 2 HR, 1 K)

5. Jayson Werth, RF (1/5, 0 HR, 2 K)

6. Raul Ibanez, LF (9/31, 2 HR, 7 K)

7. Pedro Feliz, 3B (2/12, 0 HR, 3 K)

8. Carlos Ruiz, C (1/2, 0 HR, 0 K)

Phillies NLCS Previews

Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters
Game Previews: One, Two, Three, Four, Five
Game Recaps: One, Two, Three, Four, Five

Phillies Recap: NLCS Game Four

National League Championship Series - Game Four
Philadelphia Phillies 5, Los Angeles Dodgers 4
W - Brad Lidge (1-0, 0.00), L - Jonathan Broxton (0-1, 6.00)

Game four of the National League Championship series was an exciting and close affair all night long. Joe Blanton started off very strong and then got shaky, while Randy Wolf did the opposite in his start. The Philadelphia Phillies took an early lead, but the Los Angeles Dodgers battled back and carried a late lead into the ninth inning. However, late inning heroics from Jimmy Rollins helped the Phillies defeat Jonathan Broxton and the Dodgers by a final of 5-4. The walk-off win has already become the Phillies' signature win this postseason. With the win, the Phillies take a commanding 3-1 series lead and are one game from reaching their second consecutive World Series.

Game Summary: Los Angeles Dodgers

Randy Wolf got off to a slow start as he allowed two hits and a pair of runs on a Ryan Howard home run in the first inning. However, after the Phillies took the early lead, Wolf was brilliant, shutting down their offense for almost five innings. In the sixth inning, working with a lead, Wolf allowed one more run, but departed the game after 5.1 innings with a lead in tact. The Dodgers' bullpen was sharp in relief of Wolf, keeping the Phillies hitless and preserving Wolf's lead. That was, all until the ninth inning. Jonathan Broxton, on for a four-out save, allowed a walk, hit batter, and game-winning double in the ninth inning to blow the save and take the loss.

The Dodger offense was sluggish out of the gate against Blanton, as he retired the first 10 batters in a row. However, they came alive, putting up a pair of runs to tie the game in the fourth inning, then scored in the next two innings to take a 4-2 lead. However, as the game wound down, they squandered several key scoring opportunities which could have iced the game away. James Loney had a pair of hits and an RBI, while Matt Kemp homered and scored a pair of runs.

Game Summary: Philadelphia Phillies

Joe Blanton had a great start to his night, as he was very efficient and retired the Dodgers in order for the first three innings. However, trouble came quickly in the fourth inning, as the Dodgers strung some hits together off of Blanton to tie the game. Blanton seemed to lose his command after that point, allowing a run to score in the next two innings. Blanton finished his night tossing six innings, while allowing three earned runs and four overall. The Phillies' bullpen came in and tossed three masterful innings of shut out ball, highlighted by Brad Lidge's pair of strike outs in the ninth which earned him the win.

The Phillies offense was once again all about Ryan Howard. Howard homered in the first inning for an early lead, which also set a new major league record for most consecutive postseason games with an RBI (in one season) at eight. However, after the homer, the Phillies' offense fell asleep and barely stirred over the next seven innings. They did tack on an important run in the sixth inning. But the real story came in the ninth inning, when they found themselves down to their last out with a pair of runners on. Jimmy Rollins lined a ball deep into the right field gap to plate a pair and win the ball game in dramatic fashion.

Phillies NLCS Previews
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Game Previews: One, Two, Three, Four, Five

Game Recaps: One, Two, Three, Four, Five

Phillies Preview: NLCS Game Four

National League Championship Series - Game Four

Los Angeles Dodgers (1-2) v. Philadelphia Phillies (2-1)

Monday October 19, 2009 - 8:07pm ET

Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA

48° F - Clear

Randy Wolf, LHP (0-0, 0.00) v. Joe Blanton, RHP (0-0, 0.00)

After a blow out in game three, the Philadelphia Phillies can put a strangle hold on the National League Championship Series on Monday night with a win in game four over the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers will need to win to even the series and guarantee a trip back to Los Angeles later in the NLCS. In the important game four, former Phillie Randy Wolf will face off with righty Joe Blanton. It will be considerably warmer than last night, picture perfect October baseball weather.

Starting Pitcher: Randy Wolf, Dodgers

Randy Wolf, the former Phillies pitcher earlier this decade, will make the start for the Dodgers in the crucial fourth game. Wolf will be pitching in familiar territory, but with an unfriendly crowd. The crafty lefty veteran mixes a low 90s fastball with breaking pitches and a changeup. He will need to locate the fastball to build his arsenal of "junkballs" to be effective. The 32-year old had a very effective season with that methodology, winning 11 games and posting a very impressive 3.23 ERA. Wolf was especially good on the road this season and though he pitches to contact, he posted solid strikeout rates.

Against the Phillies, Wolf was not great. He split two decisions with his former team, posting a very high 5.11 ERA. In his career against Phillies hitters, Wolf has allowed a .243 batting average against in 119 plate appearances. The newer Phillies have the most appearances against Wolf and have also posted the best numbers against him. Pedro Feliz has a .294 batting average with three home runs off of him. Meanwhile, Raul Ibanez (.273 BA) and Carlos Ruiz (.667 BA) also have solid numbers against Wolf. Clearly, tonight's matchup will hinge on how Wolf fares with the big lefties in the Phillies order.

Starting Pitcher: Joe Blanton, Phillies

Joe Blanton will be making the first start of this postseason tonight. Though he did appear in several games earlier in the playoffs, the big righty will make a very important start against the Dodgers. This season, Blanton was one of the Phillies' most consistent starters, winning 12 games and posting a respectable ERA. Blanton works with a low 90s fastball and a couple of breaking pitches and must have pinpoint location to be effective. Blanton typically gets about one strikeout per inning, but he is at his best when he pitches to contact and keeps the ball down in the zone.

This season against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Blanton took a no decision after tossing six solid innings of one-run ball against them. Lifetime against their hitters, Blanton has weaker numbers, allowing a .295 batting average against in 154 plate appearances. Especially dangerous to Blanton are the hitters in the heart of the lineup. Manny Ramirez (.560 BA, 1 HR) and Andre Ethier (.455 BA, 2 HR) have especially good numbers against him. The 28-year old will need to mix speeds and hit the lower corners against a free-swining Dodgers team.

Starting Lineup: Los Angeles Dodgers

Statistics versus Joe Blanton

1. Rafael Furcal, SS (0/4, 0 HR, 1 K)

2. Matt Kemp, CF (2/11, 0 HR, 3 K)

3. Andre Ethier, RF (5/11, 2 HR, 4 K)
4. Manny Ramirez, LF (14/25, 1 HR, 4 K)
5. James Loney, 1B (5/8, 0 HR, 0 K)

6. Ronnie Belliard, 2B (3/8, 0 HR, 0 K)

7. Russell Martin, C (2/7, 0 HR, 2 K)

8. Casey Blake, 3B (1/21, 0 HR, 7 K)

Starting Lineup: Philadelphia Phillies

Statistics versus Randy Wolf

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS (3/6, 1 HR, 0 K)
2. Shane Victorino, CF (3/9, 1 HR, 1 K)
3. Chase Utley, 2B (1/8, 0 HR, 4 K)
4. Ryan Howard, 1B (1/9, 0 HR, 4 K)
5. Jayson Werth, RF (1/9, 1 HR, 3 K)
6. Raul Ibanez, LF (3/11, 0 HR, 3 K)
7. Pedro Feliz, 3B (5/17, 3 HR, 4 K)
8. Carlos Ruiz, C (4/6, 1 HR, 0 K)

Phillies NLCS Previews

Overview, Rotations, Bullpens, Hitters
Game Previews: One, Two, Three, Four, Five
Game Recaps: One, Two, Three, Four, Five