Perfect night ruined

I was looking forward to tonight all week because the Phillies were off and MLB Network was showing the Red Sox-Rays game.

But I missed the beginning of the game because I decided to hustle and mow the grass because of a rainy weekend forecast. When I came inside, there was no score in the third, so I assumed Josh Beckett was in control. Oops. He soon lost it and gave up seven runs in 4 2/3 innings. His ERA is 7.22. Remember when I said Cole Hamels is reminding me of Josh Beckett in 2008? Well, the 2009 Beckett is making me long for the 2008 Beckett.

But he wasn't the story of the game. Matt Garza took a perfect game into the 7th inning. Jacoby Ellsbury led off that inning with a comebacker. Garza might have slowed it down, preventing the shortstop from making a play. It was a real disappointing end to a no-hit bid. There were only two other Sox baserunners, both walks. I was half-rooting for the no-hitter. The Sox lost, 13-0.

Some comic relief in the 8th: Terry Francona replaced Tuesday's goat (Javier Lopez) with Wednesday's hero (Jonathan Van Every). But not only did the outfielder pitch, the pitcher took his spot in right field.

A Red Sox fan 23 years and counting

Christine and I celebrated the 23rd anniversary of my becoming a Red Sox fan (and my birthday) with a fine dinner at one of our favorite restaurants. Among my goodies was one of the recent Roger Clemens biographies, which is appropriate since he's the reason I got hooked on the Sox in the first place.

She also said I can pick out a scrubby SoxandPhils player to sponsor on baseball-reference.com. I see that Mike Benjamin is available, but I want to see who else is out there before committing.

The Phillies couldn't win on my birthday, losing 4-1 to the Nationals. Stupid Julian Tavarez (Orange Julius, as I used to call him) got his first save since 2006.

The Red Sox bailed out Jon Lester's subpar performance (five runs in six innings) and are tied 5-5 with the Indians in the 9th inning.

Painful night

The 76ers pre-empted the Phillies again, so we watched the Phillies-Nationals game on the radio. Things were going well until the 5th inning when Joel Lannan bunted one back to Cole Hamels who twisted his ankle.

He left the game with a sprain. What's the over/under on five wins for the playoff MVP?

He was pitching pretty well, too: no runs, four hits and two walks in 4 1/3 innings. He lowered his ERA to 7.27. I keep thinking of Josh Beckett's struggles in 2008 after he pretty much single-handedly pitched the Red Sox to a championship in 2007.

The Phillies - riding a five-game winning streak - were tied for first for a few minutes until the Marlins finished off the Mets.

Red Sox: Brad Penny coughed up a 7-3 lead against the Indians in the third inning, hence the "painful night." It was tied at 7 when I started writing, but the red-hot Red Sox scored another in the 7th to reclaim the lead. If it holds, that would be 12 straight - their longest streak since June 2006 when they swept series against the Braves, Phillies, Nationals and Mets. I was convinced they were romping toward another World Series, but they wound up missing the playoffs.

Cowboy Summer

Shouldn't balmy April weather be called Cowboy Summer if unusually hot autumn weather is Indian Summer?

Anyhoo ... a combination of this gorgeous summery day (hittin' weather, eh Cholly?), a planned day off from work and the fact we had no obligations tonight placed Christine and I in front of the TV for the Phillies game to just watch and vege. Christine noted that it felt like the first normal game of the season.

Joe Blanton seemed to oblige in the first inning, looking dominant against the Nationals. But he quickly imploded. Ryan Howard and Raul Ibanez (Elvis who?) saved the day with grand slams in the 5th and 8th innings, covering up for what's turning out to be a glaring hole in this team: pitching.

Funny, Todd Zolecki in this morning's blog suggested that the Phillies pitching could be righted against the Nationals. Oops.

Red Sox: They can't stop winning. It's now 11 straight with a 3-1 win over the Indians. I'm starting to get nervous that they're peaking too soon. Tim Wakefield's complete game streak ended at two. He's got to do better: seven innings, no runs with four walks and a hit.

Stolen series: I got to watch the Red Sox-Yankees game Sunday, and I'm still amazed at what I saw. After watching the Yankees intentionally walk the bases loaded for J.D. Drew, he swung through the first pitch. I stared at the ESPN ticker trying to figure out why their scoreboard had the count at 1-0. I kept staring at it as Andy Pettitte began to pitch. Then, I couldn't figure out why the crowd was getting louder as he completed his motion, which seemed to be in slow motion. Then, Jacoby Ellsbury streaked home as the pitch arrived.

Unbelievable.

Christine was grumbling because she had stepped out of the room for a second and missed it. Pettitte, perhaps in a bit of roid rage, was grumbling even more. He was rattled and gave up a double to Drew to put the Sox up 4-1, which is how the game and three-game sweep ended.

Taking the night off

After a long day of walking and visiting with friends and family, I plan to watch tonight's Yankees-Red Sox game without worrying about doing a blog recap after it ends. I'm just going to watch it as a fan rooting for a sweep.

We had the Phillies game on in the background today as they easily beat the Marlins 13-2 to wrap up the sweep. I couldn't follow the game except when someone announced that Marlins outfielder Cody Ross was brought in to pitch the 9th inning.

The sweep puts the champs above .500 for just the second time this season. They're now in second place and in good shape heading into a homestand against the Nationals and Mets.

Saturday's game against the Mets will be the first game Christine and I will attend since Game 5 of the World Series.

Personal: Thanks to everyone who walked with me or supported my efforts. My team represented the Red Sox, the Phillies and even the Yankees - a united front for a good cause.

Craziness

Between adoption class and final preparation for our charity walk and little gathering, Christine and I had little time to sit and watch the games today. We missed two doozies.

The Red Sox outlasted the Yankees, 16-11. I finished cutting the grass just in time to see Mike Lowell's three-run home run in the 7th, which put the Red Sox up for good. This game looked like a painful one to watch.

We saw a little more of the Phillies' 6-4 10-inning win over the Marlins - the second straight night the Marlins took a lead into the top of the 9th but wound up losing to the champions.

Funny moment: Driving in the car, I was zoning out as I heard a home run call. Christine started laughing - it was Chan Ho Park.

Not-so-funny moment: Brad Lidge's 10th inning. He had three strikeouts. But he threw 34 pitches and loaded the bases.

Can we get a pair of sweeps tomorrow? If so, the Phils will be at .500 and the Red Sox will have run their winning streak to 10 and could be tied for first. In other words, the SoxandPhils 2009 World Series is back on!

Yooouk! and irony

After the Phillies finished their victory last night, but before Jason Bay cemented himself in Red Sox-Yankees lore, Christine teased me, "Maybe you'll have a 9th inning comeback, too."

"Yeah, right," I grumbled because I didn't get the feeling that Mariano Rivera was due for one of his Boston implosions.

-----

Earlier in the day I told my boss, a Red Sox fan, to not get overly excited or dejected because of an early season series. "We're not the Yankees," I said. "Our important games are played in October, not April."

-----

In the 11th, the Yankees were shut down on a beautiful play by Kevin Youkilis, who nailed the lead runner on a sacrifice bunt attempt. That preserved the double play, which Dustin Pedroia took advantage of to end the inning.

Christine predicted neither would be involved in the winning run ... walk-off homer Youkilis. What a game.

Oh sheet - times two

Many pooh-poohed the notion that Chase Utley's World Series potty mouth would be a bad influence on the youth of Philadelphia. Turns out they were right. But Utley didn't taint youngsters - he tainted Larry Andersen.

The Phillies were muddling through another zombie-like game. We listened on the radio because the television broadcast was pre-empted. Christine sighed a lot.

But in the 9th, trailing 3-0, the Phillies woke up and took the lead on Shane Victorino's grand slam. I had stepped out of the room, but Christine swears she heard L.A. say "oh shit" on the air before the ball landed in the seats. When I returned, I heard L.A. say "holy cow," but I bet Christine heard correctly. WWHS? (What would Harry say?) The 7-3 win gave Clay Condrey his team-leading third win of the season. Cole who?

Big comeback win over the first place Marlins. Let's hope this is the start of something.

I wonder if Jerry Remy echoed Andersen tonight when Jason Bay hit a two-run homer off Mariano Rivera to tie it in the bottom of the 9th. Manny who? I'm an old fogie, so I'm turning in before this one ends. Hope to have more good news tomorrow.

Another stumbling block

I had to do some midday driving this afternoon and turned on the Phillies game just in time to hear Prince Fielder crack one off of Cole Hamels' shoulder.

The broadcasters lamented that Hamels was pitching like Cole Hamels again. I'll take their word on it because other than the six strikeouts his line didn't impress me: two earned on four hits through 3 1/3 innings.

What's the over/under on Hamels first ace-like start of the year? I'll say May 20th. Over/under on 10 wins? I'm not ripping him, it's just that sometimes playoff heroes can't get it together for the encore.

Officially, Todd Zolecki reports Hamels has a bruised shoulder and expects to make his next start. We'll see.

All you need to now about the Phillies offense today is that Matt Stairs hit a mammoth pinch-hit home run in the 8th to ruin the shutout and no-hitter for Dave Bush in a 6-1 loss to the Brewers. The Phillies haven't been no-hit since 1978.

Red Sox: While the team had a day off preparing for its first showdown against last year's playoff runner-ups, the front office was busy with a bunch of little moves. Little-used Chris Carter was optioned to Pawtucket with no word on his replacement, and Kason Gabbard was re-aquired from the Rangers, probably for cash.

Gabbard's demotion from the Rangers made for an amusing story yesterday.

A season's series in one day

Assuming the Red Sox (currently up 7-3 in the 8th inning, thanks to just-called-up Jeff Bailey's three-run homer) finish off the Twins before midnight, then they would have swept their entire slate of home games against Minnesota in one day. This is the only time the Twinkies visit Boston, and the schedule makers made it a two-game set.

Rain cancelled Monday's game, shortened today's day game and has delayed the nightcap. I hope they get this one in so the red-hot Red Sox can keep their Thursday off day and rest up for the first meeting against the Yankees this weekend.

Speaking of the evil empire, I had fun watching and listening to bits of their game with a co-worker who is a typical Yankee fan and apparently still believes in mystique and aura after all these losing years.

In the Red Sox day game, Tim Wakefield pitched his second consecutive complete game - even if the game was shortened to seven innings. He gave up a run on five hits and a walk with four strikeouts. Is it too late to change my Cy Young prediction?

Kevin Youkilis, my MVP pick, continued to click, joining Mike Lowell and Nick Green with two-run home runs in the first three innings of the 10-1 win.

***BREAKING NEWS*** The Phillies game wasn't on TV, so we were listening to the radio broadcast as we cleaned the house for a weekend party. They said every time the World Series trophy handlers make an appearance, they buy a plane ticket for the trophy so it can sit on a seat, not in the cargo area. OK, this looks stupid in print, but Christine and I were very amused by this. {Does the trophy ask for the window seat?}

In the game, Phillies wasted a serviceable Joe Blanton performance - three runs over six innings should be a winnable game, but despite putting the potential tying run on base in the 9th, the Phillies could only manage one run off Braden Looper and the crappy Brewers bullpen.

Busy night

A long day at work, voting and going to our free movie have left little time for blogging. But it looks like the Phillies have responded to Charlie Manuel's little "attitude adjustment." They were leading the Brewers 11-3 after six innings when the game was delayed to rain.

The Red Sox game was completely rained out.

Apple Pie, Mom and a Patriots' Day blowout

I like Patriots' Day. It's not like I get to see the game or anything, but there's just something appealing about checking the score on my lunch break and seeing the Red Sox are halfway to a win.

Today must have been cathartic for the Sox, who have now won five straight after stumbling a bit out of the gate. Justin Masterson, making his first start of the season, pitched into the 6th inning on 84 pitches - one earned, four hits, two walks and three strikeouts.

And the bats gave him plenty of support in the 12-1 win over the Orioles. Half the lineup had a multi-hit game, and every starter except Rocco Baldelli (who left with an injury) and Nick Green had a hit. Several Sox had big games: slumping David Ortiz (2-4 with a stand-up triple!), Jason Varitek (2-5 with a home run), and Jacoby Ellsbury and Dustin Pedroia set the table, going 7-13 with six runs. And there was even a little cherry on top: Hunter Jones, who took Daisuke Matsuzaka's spot on the roster, made his major league debut with an efficient 9th inning, allowing only one man to reach base via error.

Injuries: It wasn't all good news today. As I mentioned, Baldelli left the game with a mild hamstring sprain. Doesn't sound bad, but they're talking about the DL. And I've neglected to mention that we've been without our shortstop for more than a week, and now it's looking like Jed Lowrie is heading for surgery, but may be back midseason. I'm doubtful on that one.

The Phillies and Padres were rained out, and now it's really coming down here. Our movie was also postponed, but because of a scheduling mistake; we'll be attending tomorrow instead.

A little better

Today, the Phillies were the Phillies again and Jon Lester was Jon Lester again. For one day anyway. Hope both teams can build off it.

We watched bits and pieces of the Phillies game as we visited Christine's Mom. Christine was resigned to another loss before Jimmy Rollins (until today, 1-13 for his career as a pinch hitter) came off the bench to hit a home run, making it a one run game. With the Padres B closer on the mound, the Phillies best hitter, Rual Ibanez, hit a game-winning, two-run home run. A magical ending to a day in which the Phillies celebrated the Phanatic's birthday with a magician.

Clay Condrey got the win - he now leads the staff with two W's. And, Christine is reluctantly warming to Ibanez. She thinks he seems to get a hit whenever she's watching, almost as if he's trying to win her allegiance from Pat Burrell.

Red Sox: They mustered only two runs today, but when Jon Lester pitches like Jon Lester circa 2008, that's plenty. He shut down the Orioles for seven innings, giving up just four hits and two runs with nine strikeouts.

That's four in a row for the .500 Red Sox. It won't be long before their poor start is forgotten.

Little SoxandPhils nugget: Like in Philadelphia, Adam Eaton is proving to Orioles fans that he can't pitch. His first two starts: 10 earned runs, 17 hits and four walks in eight innings after winning a spot in the rotation with a stellar spring: 7.29 ERA, 1.95 WHIP in 21 innings.

He's so bad that even his opposing starting pitcher wanted to take some hacks at him on Saturday:

Josh Beckett wanted in as a hitter last night because he's 4 for 8 with three doubles against Adam Eaton, the Orioles' starter. With the way David Ortiz has been going, would Francona consider it? "No," said the manager.

Although Beckett has homered against the Phillies (we witnessed the blast off Brett Myers in 2006), none of his Eaton hits came in SoxandPhils competitions.

Beautiful day, ugly night

I've waited all winter for this day. The cold was finally replaced by a sunny day in the mid 70s.

I took my first bike ride of the season. I cut the grass and did other spring cleaning around the yard. Christine and I took a walk preparing for next week's charity walk. Then we grilled up a nice summery meal as the Phillies came on.

We didn't go to Harry Kalas' services, mistakenly figuring the place would be jam-packed. Christine watched bits and pieces on TV, and I listened on the radio while putting up some stone edging around one of our flower beds.

Earlier in the day, I heard WIP's Anthony Gargano, while reminiscing about Harry and Richie Asburn, use the old cliche that baseball is life's soundtrack. He said you could walk in South Philly and listen to their broadcast from front porch to front porch, or at the shore from blanket to blanket. I got that vibe for some reason as I listened to speeches from Jamie Moyer, Mike Schmidt and assorted politicians float from my garage to the front of the yard where I hammered bricks into the ground.

Now, I'll probably always associate Harry with that flower bed.

Later, watching the Chase Utley hit in the 1st inning, I thought I should add a standing feature to the blog called "We miss Harry." Today's moment would be when Tom McCarthy felt the need to explain that they give out Silver Sluggers at the end of the year to the best hitter at each position - even the mound. I miss Harry.

Today's games: Not quite a beautiful day for SoxandPhils closers. Brad Lidge's save streak is over. Christine predicted it when he gave up the leadoff double. You know Harry would have sounded pained calling the Padres' four-run 9th inning off the formerly perfect Phillies closer. That's two consecutive awful losses for the defending world champions.

The Red Sox scored six runs off former Phil Adam Eaton in four innings, thanks to a big night by my MVP pick, Kevin Youkilis (4-5, four RBI, two runs, two doubles and a home run). Jonathan Papelbon came close to joining Lidge on the blown saves list, but he ended the 6-4 game with the potential tying run on first.

And congratulations to the Cleveland Indians for setting a record for the most runs (14) in a 2nd inning today in their 22-4 win.

All in all, we've had worse days

Despite the Phillies' worst loss of the season, a Brad Penny implosion and the Harry Kalas ceremony getting pre-empted for the Flyers game, it was still a pretty good day at SoxandPhils.

With the Phillies booted to Comcast Network (unavailable on Verizon FIOS), I called a sports bar Thursday to make sure it would be playing the game because Christine was upset about having to miss the pregame memorial for Harry. A convenient coincidence with my work schedule allowed me to get my normal Friday errands done in the morning and us seated in the bar by game time.

Unfortunately, there were just a few TVs showing the Phillies - I guess Flyers playoffs are more important than Harry - but we did get to see his sons throw the first pitches to Michael Jack Schmidt, John Kruk and Jimmy Rollins. Then, Harry's son Kane sang the national anthem. I got chills watching some of the players, such as Jamie Moyer, break up during the ceremonies.

The bar had sound for the Flyers game only, so we couldn't get the full effect of the Phillies' half-inning silent broadcast.

We had a nice meal and headed home to "watch" the game on the radio. Larry Andersen explained at length about the ugly tie he wore (Christine picked up on L.A.'s odd look when the TV broadcast showed him). In a nutshell, it was one of Harry's ties, and Andersen has a connection to his paisley ties.

As we listened at home, the Padres slowly chipped away at Cole Hamels and the Phils' 7-1 lead and wound up winning 8-7. Christine was a little vocal during the game. However, the Red Sox did the reverse to the Orioles. Brad Penny was awful tonight and put the Sox down by seven runs after two innings. But the Sox struck back and won 10-8.

Another game Christine won't see: Monday. That's because I won another prize from the Inquirer. It's not the tickets for suites at the 76ers or Flyers playoff games we'd been hoping for, or the Daily News Home Run Payoff, but something Christine has wanted: tickets to an advance screening of Earth.

It's not all-you-can eat wings and beer, but I'll take a free show featuring bears.

What a strange start

It has been different rooting for the Red Sox ever since Oct. 27, 2004. It was strange getting used to the fact that your players - whose history had been a mix of lovable losers and chokers - were champions.

Similarly, I knew 2009 would be a strange year for the Phillies, but I can't believe how odd it has been. A combination of pomp for the 2008 championship, memorializing Harry Kalas, a rainout and scheduling conflicts that have kept Christine and me from watching several games has given the start of the season such a disjointed feel.

I hope that after this weekend things can get back to normal, but I feel that it's just not going to happen for the Phils this year. (Christine, naturally disagrees.) I just have the sense that this is one of those seasons where they can't steady the cart after a rickety start. If that's the case, it would be a small price to pay for the great times we had in 2007 and 2008.

Phillies lost to the Nationals 8-2; Red Sox were off.

Catching up

Between Easter and Harry Kalas' unexpected death, a lot of happenings have slipped under the SoxandPhils radar this week.

Since the Red Sox game is over and the Phillies are rained out, tonight presents an opportunity to catch up.

First, when I was leaving work, a co-worker told me Tim Wakefield was working on a no-hitter. I had flashbacks to 2007 when Curt Schilling flirted with a no-hitter during a day game in Oakland. Just like then, I rushed to my car to listen to the radio. Unfortunately, I wasn't getting reception and couldn't listen as Wake gave up a hit in the 8th. He still pitched a great game, giving the bullpen a much needed day off after it went 11 innings on Tuesday.

Why did our relievers go 11 innings? Because Daisuke Matsuzaka left the game after an ineffective inning and has been placed on the DL because he's tired from the World Baseball Classic. Great - is it too early to claim a prediction win for the question about the team most hurt by this stupid tournament? Of course it is because we will survive this blow. But we do have a winner for "this year's Rays" question - Joe Wolf's Vertical Jump for predicting the Marlins.

Preoccupied with Harry's passing (I'm going to miss him too), we neglected to pay our respects to Mark Fidrych - a New England resident who played for the Red Sox in the minor leagues in an unsuccessful comeback attempt. I knew him just from replays of old broadcasts, but it's sad.

Awkward transition: Josh Beckett was suspended for throwing a ball at Bobby Abreu on Sunday. He's appealing, but even if he loses, it's just six days, or an extra day of rest to keep him fresh for October when he will be needed the most.

An irreplaceable loss

It's no secret that Greg is the writer in the family. In addition to his job, he's also recruited by friends and family to write speeches for weddings and eulogies for funerals. But tonight I'm going to try to muddle together a few thoughts about Harry Kalas.

There have been many stories told about Harry over the past day; I especially liked this one by Paul Hagen, about his life pre-Phillies. But I don't have a personal story to share. I never met him at the ballpark or spring training, at a restaurant or an event in the city.

And unlike some, I didn't see him as a surrogate grandfather. He was my baseball announcer. It may sound selfish, but I keep coming back to the same thought - what are Phillies games going to sound like now? And if Harry Kalas hadn't been there my whole life, would I enjoy baseball as much as I do now?

Harry had a good, long life. He was happy and loved what he did every day. And last year, the Phillies gave him the greatest gift they could, another World Series victory.

So while I shed some tears watching TV tributes last night, it wasn't just for his death. It was also for us, the fans. It was knowing that I'll never hear him call another "long drive, outta here;" reminisce about his favorite players and teams; get excited when the Phils make an unexpected comeback; sing High Hopes when the team succeeds again this year.

Like everyone else my age who grew up in the area, I've never known another baseball announcer. Harry Kalas was a constant; from March to September or October of every year, I would listen to him for nearly three hours every day. Who's going to fill that void?

I love the Phillies. Always have, always will. But sadly, the team, and the game, will never be the same.

[Photo: Some of our mementos from Harry Kalas appreciation day, Aug. 18, 2002]

RIP, Harry

There's nothing to write about tonight. Phillies games will never be the same.

[Photo credit: Associated Press]

Happy Easter - rock out

So it's another holiday, which means four hours in the car and not much time for blogging.

If your holiday allows for a few minutes of nonsense, here's a video of Sammy Hagar playing Heavy Metal in concert. For some reason - this blog would love to know why - Jayson Werth uses this song for his intro music before his at-bats. For even more mysterious reasons, people are curious to find out information about the tune.

I never mind an odd cross-promotion - such as SoxandPhils - and I love combining my interests in baseball and 1980s metal.

Rock on:


[YouTube credit: HelioRodarte]

Seems like old times

We got to watch both SoxandPhils games today. With the Red Sox beating the Angels and the Phillies winning out West, it was a little reminiscent of last year's playoffs.

Red Sox: Forget about Jon Lester and Daisuke Matsuzaka - Josh Beckett's No. 2 will be Brad Penny this year, just like it's the Florida Marlins from 2001 to 2004. OK, Penny's days of dominance are over, but I'll take three runs over six innings every time from him.

The bats showed some life with two homers from Jason Bay and one from Mike Lowell, which accounted for all the runs in the 5-4 win.

Jonathan Papelbon was summoned for a four-out save. He made it a little too nerve-wracking in the 9th, giving up a run and walking the bases loaded before ending the much-needed win. Let's hope Josh Beckett makes like the Easter Bunny tomorrow afternoon and hops out of Anaheim with the Sox back at .500.

Phillies: Brett Myers was shaky, but the Phils managed an 8-4 win over the Rockies. Christine thinks he needs to gain back the weight to start pitching better. In his first game as a starter, Chris Coste nearly got Charlie Manuel to blow a gasket by dropping a pop-up, but he recovered to bare hand the ball before it hit the ground.

They're alive: All the starting position players had a hit - hopefully not just a Coors Field mirage.

Sox don't ruin Nick Adenhart memorial

Even though the Red Sox fell to 1-3 and now have sole possession of last place, last night's 6-3 loss wasn't one I mind terribly because it was the first game for the Angels since Nick Adenhart was killed.

Jered Weaver, who probably figured on pitching alongside Adenhart for the next several years, paid tribute to his fallen comrade with a brilliant 6 2/3 innings, giving up an unearned run and striking out eight.

The new Red Sox battery of Tim Wakefield and George Kottaras struggled for a bit before settling down to keep it a 3-1 game until I turned in. I expected a comeback, but I gather the bats stayed dormant and Justin Masterson got shelled.

Today: The Sox are on Fox. Brad Penny makes his debut with hopes of turning around what has been a poor first week for the SoxandPhils. The Phillies play tonight in Colorado. They still haven't officially DL'd Carlos Ruiz, and it looks like we'll be wondering for awhile whether Cole Hamels arm is right. I have a feeling that unfortunately this could be a season-long debate.

[Photo credit: Associated Press]

Other than the weather, not a very good day for baseball

Where to start?

I guess with the biggest name: Cole Hamels made his 2009 debut. He got shelled - seven runs on 11 hits and a walk in 3 2/2 innings in a 10-3 loss to the Rockies. The beat writers are debating where this ranks among his worst starts ever. Sports talk mused whether it's officially time to panic in Philly. All I can say is that the title defense isn't off to a smooth start.

And oh yeah, Lou Marson may be called up because Carlos Ruiz left the game with an oblique strain.

Christine and I had Good Friday off, but we couldn't catch the game because of car troubles. Not sure it was so bad of a thing.

Rings: In case you forgot, these Phillies were champions a year ago. Our friend, Joe Wolf's Vertical Jump, took some time from watching a muppet talk about soccer to attend the ring ceremony this week. Here are his videos, and here are his pictures.

Red Sox: The team is preparing for a tougher than usual game - the first game for the Angels since the death of Nick Adenhart. Terry Francona said, "We'll be very respectful and we'll try to compete." We just found out MLB Extra Innings is having a free preview so I may be able to catch some of what will be a very emotional night.

Dice-K picks up where he left off

I told myself I would be more patient with Daisuke Matsuzaka this year. His overall work is better than it seems despite his inconsistent performances that are usually accompanied by lots of walks, high pitch counts and early exits.

I also convinced myself that this would be the year he pulls it all together and dominates the league to the point that even critics wouldn't question the $100 million the Sox spent for his services.

That lasted until about 2:45 today when I checked the score and saw 3-0 Rays in the 3rd. Dice ended up surrendering four runs on nine hits and three walks in 5 1/3 innings. The Sox scored a run in each of the 6th, 8th and 9th innings, making a game of it, but ultimately falling to the AL East champs, 4-3.

Christine's kicking herself for picking the Red Sox over the Rays. I think she knows better than to judge in April how teams will finish in October.

Moment of silence: Angels uber prospect Nick Adenhart was killed after a car accident this morning. The Angels canceled today's game; no word about their impending series with the Red Sox. Nick Cafardo struggled to find a local connection to the tragedy:

It was hard to find a link with Adenhart from any members of the Rays or Red Sox. One was Sox first base coach Tim Bogar, who was a coach on the 2006 Futures Game team that Adenhart pitched for.

"What a tragedy," said Rays senior adviser Don Zimmer. "It's just hits you hard when you hear a young man with so much talent being taken away from us. I hadn't seen much of him but I was told he was a young kid who had a tremendous future. I feel so badly for his family."

Finally: We bought a Sunday subscription to the Philadelphia Inquirer because the paper had a promotion offering Phillies newspaper covers commemorating the '80 and '08 World Championships. After more than a month, they finally arrived today.

From champs to chumps and back to champs

When I left work, the Phillies were losing 7-3. When Greg got home from work, I informed him that they were losing 10-3. But as I was making dinner, I heard an unfamiliar sound coming from the TV - what's that? Cheering? Harry sounds excited? The Phillies have closed the gap?

Soon enough, they had the lead. And then, finally, they had a win. 12-11, Phillies over the Braves.

What a relief. I was afraid I was going to have to write a grumpy post conceding the season tonight.

I'm not sure what sparked the collapse of the Braves bullpen or the Phillies sudden patience at the plate. My working theory is that Charlie Manuel threatened to take away the World Series rings the players were presented with before this afternoon's game if they didn't start playing better.

Well, I don't really care how it happened; I'm just glad it did. And like last year, I'm thrilled that the Phillies are opening the season at 1-2 instead of 0-3.

Ring ceremony: The final 2008 World Series celebration took place before the game, and I watched it quickly on DVR before the Rays-Red Sox game came on tonight. ... Pat Burrell looked quite dapper; I think he wore the sunglasses so we couldn't see if he teared up. ... Adam Eaton acknowledged the showers of boos he received, but seemed a little too cocky accepting his ring. Yeah, you may have won four games for the team last year, but you also lost eight. But all in all, I'm amused that he showed up. So did Geoff Jenkins, but he was cheered. ... Greg and I were surprised that J.C. Romero was allowed to wear his uniform. ... Pat Gillick was crying as he greeted each player. ... I would love to know how many rings the Phillies are giving out and who's getting them.

I expect to watch several more ring ceremonies in Philadelphia over the next few years, but Greg's right. I'm just ready for this season to kick into gear.

Rays-Sox: Tampa Bay is also playing like a champ tonight. They're currently up 5-1 in the 6th. DH Burrell is 0-2 with a walk. Jon Lester gave up five runs in five innings.

[After watching their performance in the World Series, I forgot what a tough opponent they can be.]

[Image: The Zo Zone]

We're under way

Riding a dominant performance by Josh Beckett and home runs by injured World Baseball Classic participant Dustin Pedroia and has-been Jason Varitek, the Sox beat the Rays 5-3 today, forcing a ninth game of the ALCS.

OK, I know 2008 is over.

I'm pleased with the first effort of 2009. Beckett pitched really well - one run, two hits, three walks with 10 strikeouts over seven innings on just 93 pitches. Hideki Okajima got hit (two runs in a third of an inning), but Justin Masterson and Jonathan Papelbon picked him up.

It was good to see the offense clicking (everyone except for Jacoby Ellsbury had a hit). I know not to overreact to the season's first game, but I like that most of our injury-related question marks seemed to pull through. Magic number = 162.

Phillies: Jamie Moyer, starting his 23rd big-league season, wasn't so hot against the Braves tonight. He gave up four runs in five innings. Christine is not happy.

Observationally: Myphl17, the Phillies other channel this year when they're not on Comcast SportsNet, keeps showing incessant fan shots, as if this is the first time anyone has seen Citizens Bank Park. ... Gary Matthews was all bundled up with a sweater, fleece and jacket but no hat. Sarge is known for hats and wears them throughout the summer. With a new line of hats coming out, he really botched a perfect marketing opportunity. ... I hate Wheels. After Raul Ibanez got thrown out at third in the 2nd inning, Chris Wheeler spent the next two batters ripping the shortstop for throwing to third because something bad might have happened.

Opening Duds

This morning I checked into work, eagerly expecting Red Sox opening day.

My Red Sox Christmas tree lights draped my cubicle. I had my sharp blue Red Sox tie contrasting my bright red shirt. I was thinking of reasons why I needed to see my boss (he's a Red Sox fan with the only TV in the office).

But spirits, already a bit low because of the Phillies lackluster loss the night before, were dampened when I saw the Red Sox were rained out. Not a big deal, I guess, except for the fact I'll be in less of a position to monitor the score tomorrow.

Funny, reading Boston's weather prediction this morning reminded me of the type of weather predicted for a certain World Series game we recently attended:

"We're looking at heavy rain headed our way as we head toward the evening hours," (meteorologist Sarah) Wroblewski said during her Sunday morning weather report. "We are expecting to see lots of rain. So Opening Day forecast? It doesn't look too great. Unfortunately, rain will be nearby by the midday hours. It may be light to start but it's going to come down. And once it does in the afternoon, it will be raining pretty hard and it will also be very windy."

At least Bud Selig didn't make the fans sit through that.

So two days into the schedule, the Red Sox are 0-0 and the Phillies are 0-1, trailing three teams in the NL East. In Philadelphia, fans couldn't last one inning, let alone the five-year grace period after a championship, before letting out the boos:

"My goodness," Jimmy Rollins said last night. "I am so heartbroken that we lost a game."

Christine and I wondered how she would handle her champions' first game - would she grumble as usual or watch with a new calmness that a title brings? She was grumbling as soon as Brian McCann crushed the first home run off Brett Myers. In the post-game, Mitch Williams said the Phillies are proud of their 2008 accomplishment and are enjoying the pomp of Opening Day and Wednesday's ring ceremony, but are probably looking forward to settling in and just playing ball.

Similarly, Christine is looking forward to watching the ceremonies, but probably more eager for what the next 161 games bring as her Phillies knock the Mets out of first place for the third year in a row.

[Photo credit: Boston Globe]

Get ready for a repeat

What an odd feeling for Opening Day. No more blind optimism that this is the year my team wins it all because the Phillies are already proven winners. I still grumble that they don't get the respect that they deserve - and they don't. But that's OK. A dynasty is getting under way. (OK, maybe I'm still a little overly optimistic. But they will win two or three of the next four championships.)

NL East: Phillies
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Diamondbacks
Wild Card: Dodgers

AL East: Red Sox
AL Central: Indians
AL West: Angels
Wild Card: Rays

World Series: Phillies over Angels (This is the year they finally overcome the Sox in the playoffs. Greg is not happy with my pick.)

NL MVP: Ryan Howard
NL ROY: Pablo Sandoval
NL Cy Young: Cole Hamels

AL MVP: Grady Sizemore
AL ROY: Elvis Andrus
AL Cy Young: Felix Hernandez

Who will be the next player revealed from the list of 104 who tested positive for steroids in 2003? I'm torn between two Davids: one irrelevant - David Bell - or one who would bring down a nation - David Ortiz.

First manager fired? Ozzie Guillen

Who's the first team to be called "this year’s Rays?" Royals

Which team's disappointing season will be attributed to players participating in the World Baseball Classic? Mets, of course.

Who says the Nationals won't win? (Their fans)

Today we have picks from Joe Wolf's Vertical Jump, a Nationals fan whose counsel got me through the 2004 ALCS and his brother, a Mets fan, through New York's disastrous 21st century (so far).

NL East: Mets
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Arizona
Wild Card: Florida

(Phillies World Series run last year took a ton out of them.)

AL East: Red Sox
AL Central: Twins
AL West: Angles
Wild Card: Yankees

World Series: Red Sox over Mets

NL MVP: Hanley Ramirez, Florida
NL ROY: Cameron Maybin, Florida
NL Cy Young: K-Rod, Mets, he might even get a lot of votes for the MVP award.

AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
AL ROY:Travis Snider, OF, Blue Jays
AL Cy Young: Roy Halladay, Blue Jays

Who will be the next player revealed from the list of 104 who tested positive for steroids in 2003? Bill Mueller

First manager fired? Joe Girardi. Hey, after spending the Gross National Product of Belize on three all-stars, it can mean only one thing - a slow start and the end of the road.

Who's the first team to be called "this year’s Rays?" Marlins

Which team's disappointing season will be attributed to players participating in the World Baseball Classic? Nationals, cause our best player Adam Dunn gave his all for the United States.

Tomorrow: Opening Day for Brett Myers and the Phils, and the closing of SoxandPhils second annual preseason picks. Game on.

My predictions - earlier than usual

Because the Phillies took the crown from the Red Sox last year, I will let Christine have the honor of posting her picks last, so here are my predictions for how we will take back the championship.

NL East: Phillies
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Dodgers
Wild Card: Reds

AL East: Red Sox
AL Central: Royals
AL West: Angels
Wild Card: Rays

World Series: Red Sox over Phillies. Jason Bay hits a walkoff home run in Game 7 - the first blown save in three years for Brad Lidge.

NL MVP: Ryan Howard - even though he's on a playoff team again, Mr. Pujols.
NL ROY: Cameron Maybin
NL Cy Young: Tim Lincecum

AL MVP: Youk
AL ROY: Matt Wieters
AL Cy Young: Jon Lester

Who will be the next player revealed from the list of 104 who tested positive for steroids in 2003? Papi - sorry big guy, I hope you're clean.

First manager fired? Joe Girardi - after Alex Rodriguez blames him for his steroid use.

Who's the first team to be called "this year’s Rays?" Royals

Which team's disappointing season will be attributed to players participating in the World Baseball Classic? While Mets fans will be tempted to use this as an excuse for yet another collapse, I have a bad feeling when our team's two most valuable position players (Kevin Youkilis and Dustin Pedroia) left the tournament with injuries.

Some news today: There was a union of two big losers: Gary Sheffield and the Mets. We here at SoxandPhils prefer to root against him as a Met than for him as a Phillie. Tomorrow, we'll have picks from someone who won't be rooting particularly hard for either Shef or the Phillies because he's a Nationals fan looking for his first playoff appearance since 1981. (Yes, I had to look that up.)

A change from yesterday's hysterics

Yesterday was good for a laugh with Sports Illustrated and a Mets fan picking the sport's biggest chokers the past three years to win the World Series. Today, we'll hear from a fan of the team most responsible for the Mets' poor finishes the last two regular seasons. Here's Phillies fan Brian with his picks. He still picks up change even though he no longer writes about it every day.

NL East: Phillies
NL Central: Cubs
NL West: Dodgers
Wild Card: Reds

AL East: Rays
AL Central: Twins
AL West: A's
Wild Card: Angels

World Series: Phillies

NL MVP: Chase Utley
NL ROY: Carlos Carrasco
NL Cy Young: Cole Hamels

AL MVP: Justin Morneau
AL ROY: David Price
AL Cy Young: Francisco Liriano

Who will be the next player revealed from the list of 104 who tested positive for steroids in 2003? David Ortiz

First manager fired? Jim Leyland

Who's the first team to be called "this year’s Rays?" Kansas City Royals

Which team's disappointing season will be attributed to players participating in the World Baseball Classic? Mets

Tomorrow: I'll post my picks and rebut that David Ortiz reference. (Actually, I can't disagree with that one.)

April Fool-ish prediction from SI

Heard any good ones lately?

Well, today, Sports Illustrated pulled its greatest April Fool's prank since George Plimpton introduced Sidd Finch to the world in 1985, picking the Mets to win the World Series.

I can't even type that with a straight face.

After three straight years, it's getting painful to watch the Mets fans get crushed at the last possible minute. Shouldn't we temper their expectations?

Here's one Mets fan, Endy in the Outfield, from Only Time Will Tell, who hasn't given up hope after three harsh years. He leads off the SoxandPhils annual preseason predictions.

NL East: New York Mets
NL Central: Milwaukee Brewers
NL West: Los Angeles Dodgers
Wild Card: Chicago Cubs

AL East: Boston Red Sox
AL Central: Cleveland Indians
AL West: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Wild Card: Minnesota Twins

World Series: New York Mets vs. Boston Red Sox

[I assume if he's crazy enough to pick the Mets over the Phillies, he's picking them to win it all against the Red Sox.]

NL MVP: David Wright, New York Mets
NL ROY: Todd Frazier, Cincinnati Reds
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana, New York Mets

AL MVP: Grady Sizemore, Cleveland Indians
AL ROY: David Price, Tampa Bay Rays
AL Cy Young: Josh Beckett, Boston Red Sox

Who will be the next player revealed from the list of 104 who tested positive for steroids in 2003? I'm not interested in talking about the past.

First manager fired? Ozzie Gullien

Who's the first team to be called "this year’s Rays?" Cleveland Indians

Which team's disappointing season will be attributed to players participating in the World Baseball Classic? It will affect every team. I am against the WBC 100%.

Tomorrow: Predictions from someone whose team has a chance to still be alive after 162 regular season games.