NLDS Coverage: Philly’s Role Reversal

Game 2 of the National League Division Series (NLDS) clearly did not go as well as Philadelphia had hoped it would. However, if one positive is to be taken away from the game it would be that the offense is getting on-base with a sprinkling of walks and 23 hits in two games.

The 28 runners left on base, though, is highly unacceptable. Leadoff hitter Jimmy Rollins has left five men on base, while No. 2 hitter Shane Victorino has stranded four. Rollins has yet to score a run and Victorino has plated once.

Ryan Howard, Jayson Werth, and Raul Ibanez have been the hottest hitters through two games. Ibanez has driven in four runs, Werth has scored three runs, while Howard has two runs scored and two RBI. The big first base in hitting the ball well – and with authority. Of his six balls put into play in the series, four have gone for line drives. Interestingly, Ibanez has been succeeding in the series by hitting ground balls. The left-fielder has put eight balls in play and six of those have come on the ground. Werth has been a mixed bag.

If Philly is going to have success against the Rockies, the club needs to find away to get players like Rollins and Victorino into scoring position so the hot hitters (and those that are paid to drive in runs) can bring them home. Right now, Howard, Werth and Ibanez are getting on base, while Rollins and Victorino are being asked to bring them in.

What we know: They’re expecting snow for Game 3 (seriously). What we don’t know: Who is pitching for the Phillies. Jason Hammel will be on the mound for Colorado. Philly will send either Joe Blanton or Pedro Martinez to the hill. Rookie starter J.A. Happ, who has been dealing with an injured shin, is expected to be available out of the bullpen. The third game of the NLDS is scheduled for 9:37 p.m. eastern time on Saturday. We’ll have more on Game 3 on Saturday morning.