Game 94 - Sunday Afternoon, July 17th in Flushing
One Sentence Summary: Michael Martinez and Kyle Kendrick were the unlikely duo leading the Phils to victory over the Mets, 8-5.
What It Means: The Phils improve to 59-35 and since the Braves won too, they maintained a 3 1/2 game lead in the East. They now head to Chicago to open a three-game set tomorrow night.
What Went Right: Kendrick (5-4) pitched seven innings, allowing just a run on six hits and three walks. It seemed as if he was in trouble all afternoon, but he managed to escape each time. The recently reliable bullpen didn't fare so well, allowing the Mets to creep back within reach with five runs in the last three innings. Antonio Bastardo recorded a four-out save, his sixth, to close it out.
The big hit was Martinez' three-run home run in the fifth. It was the first of his big league career and he'd finish the day with four RBIs. Martinez, who can play all infield and outfield positions, has been seeing increased playing time with both Shane Victorino and Placido Polanco on the disabled list. Jimmy Rollins enjoyed a three-hit day as well.
Featured Card: I'd love to feature Martinez' first Topps card in this post, card #524 in Series 2, but I don't have it yet. In fact, I haven't even gotten around to updating my 2011 Topps wantlist to feature the Phillies base card and inserts I need from Series 2. Which of course means I have no idea about the Phillies cards contained within the just released, hysteria-inducing Topps Allen and Ginter set. In short, I need to get on the ball. This is Martinez' card from the Phillies Team Issue set, Series 2. At least I have that under control.
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