Preview: Phillies vs. Padres

The Phillies got back in the winning column yesterday with a walk-off home run by Raul Ibanez to defeat the San Diego Padres by a score of 5-4. Tonight the Phillies look to earn a series split with a win, weather pending.

Should the weather hold out the Phillies will send Jamie Moyer to the mound. Moyer's last outing came on the hours after Harry Kalas passed away in the booth. Today should be less of an emotional situation for the veteran, but it will still be difficult. The Padres have been having their way with the Phillies for the most part and have proven themselves to be a very fierce competitor.

The Padres have come from behind to win the first two games of this series, and failed to hold onto a lead yesterday when closer Heath Bell was deemed unavailable. The Padres will send Kevin Correia (0-1, 4.09 ERA) to face the Phillies batters.

The Phillies need a complete game on both sides of the ball. The offense has been sluggish at times and explosive at others. The pitching seems to falter from the starting position or the bullpen position on a game by game basis. The defense has had some mistakes, but has been the strong suit overall it seems. Ryan Howard's defense has been exceptional!

Phillies Record: 5-6
Padres Record: 9-4

NL East Standings (Team, record, games behind):

1. Marlins 11-1, -
   
2. Braves 6-6, 5
   
3. Mets 6-6, 5
4. PHILLIES 5-6, 5.5
5. Nationals 1-10, 9.5

Pitching probables: Moyer (1-1, 6.55 ERA) vs. Correia (0-1, 4.09 ERA)

TV: Comcast Sportsnet

First pitch: 7:05 p.m.

Game thread will be posted at 6:30 p.m. Game recap up tomorrow morning.

This was originally published on Macho Row.