After blowing a lead in yesterday's loss to the Pirates, the Phillies (9-8-1) are back in Clearwater for a 1:05 matchup against the Blue Jays (10-8). With the Texas Rangers and Phillies in talks for a potential Cole Hamels deal, the ace left-hander will look to rebound today after a shaky outing in his last start. The Blue Jays will turn to veteran knuckleballer, R.A. Dickey.
Though Cole Hamels starting is sure to create some buzz, a more notable story in today's game for the Phillies is on defense. Manager Ryne Sandberg has opted to try Ben Revere in left field with Odubel Herrera manning center. Herrera has impressed in his play so far this spring, hitting .364 (12-for-33) with a double, two RBI's, four steals and six runs scored. Revere has struggled so far this spring, hitting .121 (4-for-33) with an RBI, a walk, a steal and six strikeouts. This outfield alignment, with the exception of Brian Bogusevic, could potentially be something we see become regular this season if Herrera continues to state his case with strong play.
Meanwhile, Cole Hamels has been in trade discussions all season, but the Phillies projected Opening Day starter is focused on finding success in Philadelphia until his is dealt. This afternoon, he looks to bounce back after a rough outing against the Orioles on March 16th. In two innings of work, Cole allowed five runs on six hits, raising his spring ERA to 9.00. His best start thus far was his first one, against the Yankees back on March 6th. He gave up just one hit in two innings while striking out two in that game. In another note, the Phillies sent catcher Tommy Joseph to minor league camp this morning.
For the Blue Jays, R.A. Dickey will take the mound for his third start. So far this spring for Toronto, he's tossed six innings and given up two runs while striking out five and walking one. In his last start against the Twins, he allowed two runs on four hits in four innings of work.
LINEUPS:
Today's #PhilliesST lineup vs the #BlueJay. Hamels vs Dickey. 1:05 PM game time on CSN/1210WPHT/94WIP. pic.twitter.com/d0t86sPcX9
— Phillies (@Phillies) March 21, 2015
Here is how the @BlueJays line up against the Phillies at 1:05 ET: pic.twitter.com/Xy0GrzE64b
— Blue Jays (@BlueJays) March 21, 2015
Gametime: 1:05pm
Location: Brighthouse Field, Clearwater, Florida
TV: CSN
Radio: 1210 WPHT, 94 WIP
