Well they all are but there is no doubt this is an essential homestand for the Phillies where losing is not an option. They had to win this one.
Utley scoerd on a throwing error in the 1st. Humberto Quintero had a very strong offensive night with a home run and three RBIs. Ryan Howard launched a solo blast in the third. And for six innings, Cliff Lee was in charge keeping a free swinging Braves line up off balance.
In the 7th, Lee unraveled. It was clear he was out of gas and Dan Uggla would make the game very interesting with a three run homer. J.C. Ramirez put out the fire after another run came home on a sacrifice fly but this was the bullpen's game. Antonio Bastardo was my player of the game. He needed a solid frame and pitched his best inning of the season. Papelbon closed out the 5-4 win.
A good ballgame all around. Every one of the next nine games is essential and it was important to take the first one. Tomorrow Kyle Kendrick faces Tim Hudson at 7:15.
