Phillies Preview: August 7th, 2009

Florida Marlins (55-53) at Philadelphia Phillies (61-45)

7:35pm - Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA

Ricky Nolasco, RHP (7-7, 5.00) v. Joe Blanton, RHP (7-5, 4.02)

The opener of the three game series between the Phillies and Marlins looks to be a pitcher's duel as Joe Blanton takes on Ricky Nolasco. Despite mediocre peripherals, both starters have been stellar lately, posting low ERAs and giving their teams excellent chances to win ballgames. The Phillies will look to extend their NL East lead to eight games over the Marlins tonight.

Blanton has a 2-1 record with a 1.84 ERA in his last four starts, and he beat the Marlins earlier this season. He has been one of the most consistent starters for the Phillies, after overcoming some early-season inconsistency. However, current Marlins are hitting a lifetime .275 against the Phillies' righty in 80 plate appearances. Blanton has a career 3-0 record against the Fish with a 3.17 ERA in 17.0 innings pitched. If he can keep the ball in the yard tonight, he has a good chance to improve on those numbers.

Ricky Nolasco was sent down to the minors this season to get back on track. The move appears to have worked, as Nolasco has been red hot, especially lately with a 1-0 record and a miniscule 1.39 ERA in his last three starts. Nolasco is lifetime 4-3 against the Phillies, and he earned a no decision in a 6-5 loss to them earlier this year. Current Phillies are hitting just .240 in 137 plate appearances against the big right-hander.

With a patient approach to a familiar pitcher, the Phillies can extend their winning streak and their NL East lead. They will need to take advantage of every opportunity, as the Marlins will be looking to get back into the playoff picture. On another typically warm evening in Philly, keeping the ball down will be especially key in keeping tonight's game a pitcher's duel rather than a slugfest.