Ryan Howard's return doesn't net a win, but could be very costly for the Nationals.
The pitching sucked last night. You knew Kyle Kendrick was not going to get the job done since he pitched well last game. The loss drops his record to 8-6 on the year. However, Jose Contreras did pitch a good 9th and looks to have gotten back on track. After seeing his ERA inflate to 4.25 on June 15th, he has only given up 2 earned runs in his last 14 appearances and his seen his ERA drop down to a more respectable 3.43. This game, however, could have proven to be disasterous for the Nationals. The biggest chip they have, Stephen Strasburgh, left when he felt a sharp pain through his elbow when throwing a changeup to Domonic Brown. I would say he's a lock to go on the 15 day DL and most likely be shut down for the year. If he need Tommy John, see you in 2012.
At the dish, there weren't many chances, but the ones they did have, they blew, most notably a second and third with 1 out when Utley and Howard were up. The fact that Howard is back though is best news of the day. They will finally have their full lineup for the first time since Jimmy got hurt the second week of the year.
Roy Oswalt will take on Scott Olsen in today's finale at 1:35. The Phils will begin the day with a 1 game wild card lead and a 2.5 game deficit in the division.
Wow, a stationary sign must be tough to avoid:
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