Phillies 4, Pirates 1 (10 Innings)The man whom Charlie Manuel has taken to calling "The Big Piece" came through again tonight. Ryan Howard's 3-run home run in the top of the 10th inning gave the Phils the win against the Pirates. Ryan now has 35 home runs and 107 RBI for the season.
If not for a second blown save in as many nights, Ryan's extra inning heroics wouldn't have been needed. This time, it was Ryan Madson who did the honors, giving up a one-out solo home run to the Pirates' Brandon Moss in the bottom of the ninth as he blew his 5th game of the year. (Madson hasn't replaced Brad Lidge; Lidge had just pitched in four consecutive games.)
Madson's relief work spoiled a stellar start from Cole Hamels (finally), as Cole pitched eight shutout innings, striking out seven. It wasn't a crisp performance, but he managed to get out of trouble in several innings, ultimately stranding nine Pirates' runners.
I love August Ryan Howard. His swing is a sight to behold right now.
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