The Phillies began last week by splitting a four-game series with the Cubs. After being swept in a double-header last Friday, the Phillies proceeded to win the next two. The following series, however, featured Washington sweeping Philadelphia. The Phillies finished the week 2-5 and head into the final stretch of the season. Let’s take some time to analyze the calls from the dugout steps and manage Mackanin.
Williams in the Bullpen: Jerome Williams was moved to the bullpen on August 28 after starting 21 games for the Phillies this season. Last week, he made two relief appearances in which he threw two innings and did not allow a run or a hit. In his seven relief appearances this season, Williams has a 2.53 ERA with a 1.03 WHIP in 10.2 innings pitched. He has statistically been much more successful in this role than in his role as a starter.
Ruf Week: Darin Ruf has been a part of a platoon for most of the season, playing the majority of his games against left-handed starting pitchers. In fact, Ruf’s OPS against left-handed pitchers this year ranks fifth among all Major League players with at least 99 plate appearances. Last week, however, Ruf played three of his five games against a right-handed starter. He went 1-9 (.111) with his only hit coming in Wednesday’s game off lefty Gio Gonzalez.
