Game 82 - 2018 Topps Now #396 Andrew Knapp (and More #LetsGoPadres)

Phillies 4, Nationals 3 (13)
Game 82 - Sunday Afternoon, July 1st in Philadelphia
Record - 45-37, 2nd place, 3 games behind the Braves

Massive, Meandering Post-Vacation Catch-Up, Part 3 of 11

One Sentence Summary:  Andrew Knapp launched an absolute bomb of a home run to give the Phillies a 4-3 win over the Nationals in 13 innings.

What It Means:  The Phillies won the four-game series from the floundering Nationals before heading home for a quick, two-game set with the Orioles.  With the trade deadline approaching, all eyes are on the Orioles' Manny Machado and the possibility of his being dealt for a boatload of prospects.

What Happened:  The Phillies tied it at three in the 5th inning with a bases loaded walk to Cesar Hernandez, a sacrifice fly from Rhys Hoskins and a single from Odubel Herrera.  Jake Arrieta lasted just five innings, and eight Phillies relievers held the Nationals scoreless following his departure.  Jake Thompson threw three scoreless innings and Nick Pivetta pitched the 13th to pick up the win.

Featured Card:  Since I'm late with these game summary posts, I can actually feature the Topps Now card that Knapp received for his big hit.

Transaction:  As expected, Vince Velasquez landed on the 10-day disabled list with a right forearm contusion and Pat Neshek was activated.  Neshek had been on the disabled list since opening day.  Zac Curtis was also sent to the IronPigs and Thompson took his place in the bullpen.

Field Report:  After an extremely enjoyable morning at the San Diego Zoo, we attended our second Padres game on Sunday afternoon where the game time temperature was a cool 72 degrees.  He didn't get any autographs, but Doug can now officially recommend the Hodad's cheeseburger.

2018 Chachi Ballpark Visits #5

2018 Chachi Ballpark Visits #6

The Pirates took this game against the Padres, 7-5, with the big hit being a fifth inning grand slam from Pirates third baseman Colin Moran.  Hunter Renfroe homered for the Padres and old friend Freddy Galvis went a combined 0 for 7 with 4 strikeouts over the two games we saw.  We loved our time in San Diego and I wouldn't be surprised if we made a return visit one day.  It would be great to root for the Phillies in this gorgeous setting.

Petco Park scoreboard shows the Phillies and Nationals tied at 3 in the 12th