Notes on NLDS Game 2

Hitting
Our boys did not hit today. With the exception of Big Brown hitting a solo shot and roping a line drive to right field, the Phils were stymied. Contributing hits came only from Chase and the ever-increasingly clutch Chooch who had yet another good night.

Fielding
Fielding was at typical strength throughout Pedro's tenure even though he repeatedly opted for the easy out over the double play. However, for the second time in as many nights, Chase blew a routine double-play throw from second that allowed the tying run to score. Feliz also muffed a grounder in the 8th that was obstructed by the lattice shading of the field's lights and would allow a runner on base.

Pitching
STUNNING. Pedro, obviously inspired by my last post, threw 7 shutout innings allowing only 2 hits, no BB, and 3 K. For whatever reason Pedro was pulled leading into the 8th despite lacking any signs of struggle and with only 87 pitches thrown. Manuel's decision only led to...

Relieving
More problems. Not one reliever (out of 5) threw commandingly (saving Durbin who popped out Manny on one pitch) as they collectively allowed 2 R, 3 H, and 2 BB over a single inning.

Conclusion
Even though the boys weren't hitting tonight, responsibility for this loss clearly lies with Utley and Manuel. Utley's defense has been uncharacteristically bad, while Charlie's decision to sit Pedro is baffling. The bright spots of the team, other than Pedro, remain Howard and Ruiz who have remained clutch in the driver's seat. On the other hand, Rollins and Werth really need to generate more hits to help this team win.