Cole Hamels Looks to Play Stopper Against the Reds

The last few games have been very dreadful for the Phillies (24-34). Losing their last six games, the Phillies will open a three game series versus the Reds (27-31) at Great American Ball Park, where the Phillies have had strong record of success in the past. For the Phillies, Cole Hamels (1-3 4.01 ERA) will get the ball. The Phillies’ ace has yet to take off since coming off the DL, but has been constantly improving in velocity and command. In Hamels last start, he took the no decision versus the Mets on June 1^st. In the game, Hamels went seven innings, in which he gave up two runs, one earned.

The Reds will counter Hamels with fellow ace, Johnny Cueto (5-4 1.68 ERA). Cueto has been enjoying a career year. So far this season, Cueto left off where last season ended when he went 5-2 with 2.82 ERA. In his last start, he received the win going 7.1 innings giving up no runs on five hits. He will most definitely be a challenge for the struggling Phillies offense.

Game Notes:

• The Phillies selected the contract of Ronny Cedeno, designated lefty Cesar Jimenez for assignment. In his short time in the Bigs, Jimenez pitched two scoreless outings.
• The Phillies have announced that Tyson Gillies has been out righted to AAA after clearing waivers. The 25 year old was a member of the trade that was sent in return for Cliff Lee in 2009.
• Jimmy Rollins was asked about the Phillies struggles this season. He responded by say, “It’s getting out of control.”

Phillies Lineup:

1. Jimmy Rollins SS
2. Carlos Ruiz C
3. Chase Utley 2B
4. Ryan Howard 1B
5. Marlon Byrd RF
6. Domonic Brown LF
7. John Mayberry Jr. CF
8. Reid Brignac 3B
9. Cole Hamels P

Reds Lineup:

1. Billy Hamilton CF
2. Brayan Pena C
3. Brandon Phillips 2B
4. Todd Frazier 1B
5. Jay Bruce RF
6. Ryan Ludwick LF
7. Zach Cozart SS
8. Ramon Santiago 3B
9. Johnny Cueto P

First Pitch: 7:10 PM ET

Location: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OH

Weather: Low of 57^oF and Clear

TV: NBC 10

Radio: 1210 WPHT, 94 WIP

Andrew Shipotofsky is a writer for Philliedelphia Follow him on Twitter @AShipotofsky