Phillies Recap: September 23, 2009

Florida Marlins 7, Philadelphia Phillies 6

W - Meyer (3-1), L - Lidge (0-8)

The Phillies built a lead in the finale of the three-game set with the Fish, but the bullpen was unable to hold on. Behind the strength of Cole Hamels' start and Ryan Howard's four RBI, the Phillies led late in the game. But out of the pen, the Phillies gave up three runs, including the game-winning runs off of Brad Lidge. In the end, the Marlins had a walk-off win by the final of 7-6.

Cole Hamels pitched well and kept the Phillies in the game, as they built their lead. He did get touched up a bit for some runs, but left with the lead. Hamels went seven innings, allowing four earned runs on eight hits, including two long balls. He did strike out four but failed to pick up his 11th win of the season. Brad Lidge was called on to hold a one-run lead and gave up a ninth inning rally for his 11th blown save of the season.

For the Marlins, their young hurler, Rick VandenHurk started shaky but settled in nicely to keep the Marlins in the game. The Phillies had chances to blow the game wide open, but did not execute well on offense early. Ryan Howard drove in four runs, though, including his 42nd home run of the season. VandenHurk went six innings, allowing four earned runs on seven hits and a walk. He fanned five Phillies. The Marlin bullpen gave up just a couple of runs, but locked down the win.

This was another infuriating loss for the Phillies. They are on the doorstep of another playoff berth but have stumbled of late. The NL East race still seems comfortable for the defending champs, but the play of the bullpen has been horrifying. With the closer's role up in the air, the Phillies really need to get strong starts and solid offensive performances down the stretch.