Phillies Take Game 1

Maybe the Phillies should start doing split starts with Joe Blanton and Vance Worley. Baltnton can pitch the first few innings and Worley can come in and finish the rest of the game. It may be a bit unconventional but if it works you have to at least give it a try.

Last night the Phillies executed the split start to perfection. Joe Blanton pitched the first 5 innings and gave up 3 runs. Behind Blanton the defense turned 4 double plays and helped him get out of difficult spots.

The Phils jumped all over Marlins' starter Javier Vazquez and posted 4 runs within the first 3 innings. The Phils then tacked on 2 more runs in the 5th for a total of 6 runs off of 12 hits.

In relief Vance Worley pitched a scoreless 6th and 7th and only surrendered a solo home run in the 8th inning. Madson then pitched a scoreless 9th and secured a 6-4 Phillies victory.

Last night was a big game and a game that the Marlins definitely wanted. The Phils did a good job of winning a tough division match up and taking the first game of the series. Now the Phils are in great position to sweep after taking the opener and will send Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee to the mound in the final 2 games.