ATD: Bullpen, Rival, Injuries, Nats Tiff
Phillies (39-27, First):
Scott Lauber of the News Journal takes a look at the Phillies deep bullpen, who lead the Major League with a 2.58 ERA, and cites their success as the reason for the team’s fast start.
Balls, Stick & Stuff examines the Phillies ability to put teams away in the late innings.
Marlins (35-29, 2 LB):
Mike Berardino of the Sun-Sentinel gathered team reaction regarding their former teammate Dontrelle Willis, who was recently demoted by the Tigers to their Single-A affiliate.
At his blog for the Miami Herald, Greg Cote asks, “Who is the Marlins biggest rival?” Currently, the Phillies lead fan polling with 49.2%.
…that’s a tough question, but even though the Marlins have been a thorn in the Mets side for awhile i don’t think the Mets are their biggest rival…
Braves (32-33, 6 LB):
According to Thomas Stinson of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, John Smoltz underwent successful shoulder surgery on Tuesday. However, during the surgery it was discovered Smoltz has ‘significant deterioration’ of his labrum, which puts his career in serious jeopardy.
David O’Brien of the AJC also reports the Braves placed Tom Glavine on the 15-day disabled list with a strained elbow.
Nationals (26-40, 13 LB):
Mark Zuckerman of the Washington Times recaps the Nationals dramatic 7-6 victory over the Pirates last night and a in-dugout argument between manager Manny Acta and OF Elijah Dukes.
Video of the Acta/Dukes “discussion” can be seen here.
Over at Oleanders and Morning Glories, Harper Gordek wonders if the Nationals lineup is the worst ever.
