2011 Grandstand Clearwater Threshers Joe Savery

Nationals 4, Phillies 3 (Game 1 - 10 Innings)
Game 153 - Tuesday Afternoon, September 20th in Philadelphia

One Sentence Summary:  The Nationals defeated a line-up consisting of C-List Phillies in the opening game of a day-night double header.

What It Means:  The Phillies drop to 98-55.

What Went Wrong:  Other than a pinch-hit three-run home run from Raul Ibanez in the seventh inning, the offense was completely lethargic once again.  With John Bowker, Brandon Moss, Erik Kratz and Pete Orr getting some playing time, the Phils managed 10 hits - Ibanez' homer, a double from Kratz and eight singles.

Starter Kyle Kendrick turned in a decent outing, throwing six strong shutout innings while allowing just four hits and striking out four.  Most of the damage came off reliever Michael Schwimer, who allowed three runs in the seventh.  Michael Stutes (6-2) was tagged with the loss as he continues to struggle with his command.

Featured Card:  Lefty reliever Joe Savery made his Major League debut in the eighth inning.  He allowed a single to Chris Marrero and a sacrifice bunt from Brian Bixler before being lifted for Brad Lidge.  Savery's long and winding road to the Majors is an impressive study in perseverance and endurance, as the former first-round draft pick started the 2011 season as the starting first baseman for the Class-A Clearwater Threshers.  This is his cards from the Threshers team set, and it's not often you'll see a player's position on a card listed as "1B/LHP".