The Phillies are now 4-14 for a 285 winning pct. since 2004 against the Red Sox. Perhaps someone much smater than me can explain why the Phillies get their asses kicked so badly by the Red Sox. It’s not like the Phillies have sucked at any point since 2004.

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In 2008, the Phillies scored 10 or more runs 10 times during the regular season. The Phils have already equaled that mark this year in just 61 games. In 2008, the Phils gave up 10 or more runs 7 times. They done that 4 times in 2009 so far.

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The Phillies win today helped tie Charlie Manuel with Eddie Sawyer of Whiz Kids fame for 6th all-time in franchise wins by a manager (390). Manuel should pass Sawyer and Red Dooin (392 career wins) this week to take over 5th place. Next up is Jim Fregosi, with 431 wins. Only a total collapse by the Phils in 2009 would prevent Charlie from getting there this year.

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Ryan Howard is hitting for better average this year than last year without sacrificing any of his power and is playing better defense than ever before. But one thing Howard has not shaken is his penchant for striking out at an alarming rate. Howard has 76 Ks through 60 games, 2nd in the National League behind the Diamondbacks’ Mark Reynolds.

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Raul Ibanez is killing it right now. We all know that. He is near the top of nearly every offensive statistical category out there. There is no other player over the age of 35 that is in the top 25 in the National League in RBI (a category Ibanez leads with 59). Raaaauuuuuullllllll!