2009 SP Legendary Cuts #6 Ryan Howard

Phillies 6, Mets 2

Despite my busy schedule today, and my inability to fully concentrate on this afternoon’s game, the Phillies and Mets decided to play anyway. I did get to hear a few innings of Scott Franzke and Larry Andersen’s broadcast, so I’m grateful for that.

I heard Ryan Howard’s first home run in the 1st inning (his 33rd), but I missed his second home run in the 3rd inning (his 34th). I also heard the Mets score their only two runs of the game – an unearned pair in the 1st inning. Scott and Larry spent some time recapping the events from the day before, and both were still trying to grasp the reality of Eric Bruntlett’s unassisted triple play to end the game. (As am I.) Bruntlett's jersey from the game is on its way to the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.

I got to listen to Cliff Lee’s last inning of work (the 7th) as the broadcasters spoke with reverence about just how amazing he's pitched. The win improved his record as a Phillie to 5-0, and his ERA is now 0.68 in the NL, which is pretty darn good. Finally, I heard Brad Lidge pitch an uneventful 9th inning to close out the game, although it was a non-save situation.

The Phils leave New York having taken 3 of 4 from the plummeting Metropolitans. With both the Braves and Marlins idle today, the Phillies were able to increase their NL East lead to 7 and 8 games, respectively, over the two trailing teams. It’s an unfamiliar sensation to be almost to September and not be actively worrying about the Phillies place in the standings. I could get used to this.