Yardwork: Brewers Can't Lose and the Angels Can't Win
By Tim Ryan
Rangers 4, Angels 3 — Ian Kinsler hit a soul crushing two-out single in the eighth that brought in two runs to break a 2-2 tie. Perhaps Ervin Santana was in the game too long? I commend him for honoring Al Leiter and throwing 129 pitches, but I’m guessing his best stuff was well behind him at that point. This four-game set at home was a ripe opportunity for the Angels to do some damage, but it’s been a disaster. They turn to Scooby-Doo character Jered Weaver tonight to stop the carnage, avoid an embarrassing sweep, and most importantly keep his team from falling eight games back.
Rays 4, Red Sox 0 — Holding the Red Sox to three hits at Fenway Park is next to impossible, but the Rays have done it for the last three games. Kyle Farnsworth pitched a flawless ninth. Looking at his numbers is quite the numbing experience. Truly stunning. BJ Upton was 2-for-4 with a home run. I would say he loves playing in Boston, but I’m probably just thinking of the 2008 ALCS when he basically owned the joint.
Phils 9, D-Backs 2 — Just another day at the park for Cliffy: 7 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 2 BB, 7 K. Did anyone catch him busting it up the line to try and beat out a throw, which he nearly did? It’s very difficult not to enjoy the way this guy operates in all facets of the game. Awesome player. On that very play, ESPN’s Pedro Gomez was creepin’ in the camera pit. Haunting:
Giants 7, Braves 5 — Remember when Jar Jar Jurrjens was not only an NL Cy Young candidate, but deemed a leading NL Cy Young candidate by overeager Braves fans? Hilarious. He gave up five runs on eight hits. Four of his last five starts have been abysmal. Meanwhile, Giants closer Brian Wilson has an “ailing” right elbow and flew to Florida to have it checked out by… eh, you already know his name. He’s the doctor to every pitching elbow in the entire world. Right here is where I say it’s all falling apart for the defending World Champs.
A’s 6, O’s 5 — Wearing the dunce cap today for the Orioles is starting pitcher Alfredo Simon. That was one hell of a start, Alfie. But onto more important things like… when Michael earned Marlo’s respect:
Impressive Stats: Justin Verlander is 14-2 with a 1.60 ERA and 130 strikeouts to just 21 walks over his last 16 starts. The only pitchers since 1970 to reach 18 wins, 200 innings pitched, and 200 strikeouts by August 16 are Curt Schilling, Steve Carlton, Vida Blue, Fergie Jenkins, Mickey Lolich, and now Mr. Verlander.