Raul Valdes Makes Spot Start Against Pirates; Chase Utley Starts at Second Base for the First Time All Season

Photo: Philliedelphia/Frank Klose

The Phillies are looking to take this four-game set tonight as they look to win their third straight game. The Phils' offense has been heating up during the end of this homestand, especially behind the bats of Jimmy Rollins and Carlos Ruiz. 

Tonight's starter for the Phillies will be Raul Valdes. Valdes, a relief pitcher coming out of the bullpen, has started two games in his career. He made 13 relief appearances last year with the Cardinals and the Yankees. This year, he has pitched 14 & 2/3 innings, allowing three earned runs on eight hits, walking one and striking out seventeen. He looks excellent this season, which is why he's more eligible to start a game over Joe Savery or Jake Diekman.

For the Pirates tonight, James McDonald will be coming off a complete game that he tossed against the Twins last week. McDonald is 6-3 this season with a 2.19 ERA. He hasn't allowed more than three earned runs in any of his 14 starts this season, so the Phillies will certainly need the help of Chooch, Rollins, and Utley tonight.

Tonight's lineup vs. Pittsburgh

1. Jimmy Rollins, SS

2. Juan Pierre, LF

3. CHASE UTLEY! 2B

4. Carlos Ruiz, C

5. Hunter Pence, RF

6. Shane Victorino, CF

7. Ty Wigginton, 1B

8. Mike Fontenot, 3B

9. Raul Valdes, P

TV: CSN; Radio: 1210 PHT, 94 WIP