The Phillies were on a roll as they entered today's game against the Atlanta Braves. Winners of 7 of their last 10 games and hungry for a sweep, the Phillies jumped to an early 5-0 lead, and a win seemed almost in hand with Cole Hamels dealing from the hill.
Hamels even contributed with the bat, crushing a ground rule double with the bases loaded to stretch the Phillies lead to 7-1.
When Hamels gave way to Josh Lindblom in the 7th inning the Phillies still held a commanding 7-3 lead. Lindblom struck out two and then gave way to Jeremy Horst, who has been one of the few bright spots for the Phillies bullpen this year. Horst would give up two runs on two walks and hit.
Enter Jonathan Papelbon with a two run read and only two outs to record. He allows a hit and a walk before Chipper Jones unloads on a belt-high fastball to walk to off with a win.
This story is not new to the Philadelphia fans this year. They build you up and then they let you down. However, I gotta say I like what I've seen lately. They aren't the Phillies of old, but they are grinding out games. The bats seem to be back, and the issues that need to be addressed for next season are clear, and fixable. Put people in the bullpen who will hold onto a lead. It's simple.
The Phillies aren't yet mathematically out of the playoffs, but you'd be foolish to believe they have a serious shot at making it now. Better luck next year.
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