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Blanton and Phillies Aim To Take Series From Miami

Erik Seybold Sports Editor

Published12 Apr 2012

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(Photo: Philliedelphia/Steve Trapani)

After last night's offensive outbreak in a 7-1 win over the Marlins, the Phillies are looking to take the series tonight as Joe Blanton (0-1, 13.50 ERA) makes his first start of the season.

The Phillies skipped over Blanton the first time through the rotation, deciding to go Halladay, Lee, Worley, Hamels, and Halladay. The Phillies didn't need their fifth starter until Sunday the 15th, but they didn't want to have Blanton on ice so he'll make his first start tonight. Blanton made his first appearance of the season on Saturday in the 10th inning. In 2/3 of an inning, Blanton allowed two hits and the Pirates' game-winning run. Blanton will be aiming to maintain a healthy season after missing most of last season with an elbow injury. In Blanton's career, he is 0-2 with a 3.33 ERA against the Marlins.

The Phillies will take on the task of Marlins' lefty Mark Buehrle (0-1, 3.00 ERA), who will be making his second start of the season. In his first start of the season and his first NL start, Buehrle allowed two earned runs on seven hits while walking two and striking out five Reds over six innings. Buehrle is no stranger to the Phillies, however. In 21.1 innings pitched, Buehrle has a 3-0 record and a 5.06 ERA.

With the Phils' offensive outbreak last night, there's hope that the bats can finally turn around and start producing runs consistently. Last night, the Phillies owned Marlins' ace Josh Johnson, managing 5 earned runs on 11 hits (a career high hits allowed for Johnson). Behind the arm of their ace, the Phillies were able to beat the Marlins by a deficite bigger than two runs. Hopefully, the bats can come back to the park tonight to pull the Phils to 3-3 (.500) on the year.

Tonight's lineup vs Miami: