Preview Game 69: Phillies @ Rays

After shelling the Rays for 10 runs last night, the offense probably can not wait to get back at it again tonight. The Phillies go for the road series win when they send Joe Blanton to the mound.

The Rays will go with starting pitcher Matt Garza, who has now recorded a win since May 16, despite pitching well. Garza enters the game with a 4-5 record but a 3.83 ERA and 1.20 WHIP. Garza has struck out 78 batters and walked 36. Perhaps not the greatest of ratios but it would appear to give Tampa Bay a slight edge on paper.

Blanton enters the game with a 4-3 record and a hefty 5.28 ERA that has been dropping. In Blanton’s game four appearance against the Rays in the World Series he went six innings, struck out seven batters and allowed two runs. Blanton has won his last three decisions but has not received a decision in his previous three outings.

Last night the Rays committed three errors, which lead to five unearned runs. Even if the Rays cut down on the errors they still need to find some momentum on offense. The Rays had eight base hits, but only crossed the plate once.

Phillies record: 37-31
Rays record: 37-35

NL East Standings (Team, record, games behind)

1. PHILLIES 37-31, –
2. Mets 35-34, 2.5
3. Marlins 36-36, 3.0
4. Braves 34-36, 4.0
5. Nationals 20-48, 17.0

Pitching probables: Blanton (4-3, 5.28 ERA) vs. Garza (4-5, 3.83 ERA)

TV: Comcast Sportsnet

First pitch: 7:08 p.m. EST

Season series: Phillies lead 1-0
6.23 @ Tampa Bay W 10-1 Preview/Open Thread/Recap

Game open thread will be posted at 6:30 p.m. Game recap will be up tomorrow morning.