Phils Take Two From Yankees, Ruiz Is Series MVP

The Phillies finish a great interleague series with the New York Yankees on a very positive note, winning the game in the extra innings. Clay Condrey the reliever came up big, getting out of a big jam in the 10th inning.

Carlos Ruiz had six hits in the only two games he played this series. The Phillies however, got it done with pitching and defense, Carlos Ruiz threw out a man at second late in the game, blocked Johnny Damon at the plate and tagged him out again, as he did in game one of the series, and he came through in the clutch when he hit a double near the third base line right past Alex Rodriguez allowing Chase Utley to score—the potential game winner.

Clay Condrey pitched very well after Brad Lidge blew the lead in the bottom of the ninth. Lidge’s struggles continue, giving him four blown saves. Condrey however, pitched great in relief of Lidge, getting out of a big jam in which Derek Jeter and Johnny Damon both hit singles to start the 10th. He later got Teixeira to ground out into a double play, allowing Jeter to advance to third base.

Alex Rodriguez came up with two outs and Jeter on third, Condrey walked him and got Ramiro Pena to fly out to Shane Victorino in center.  Later in the 11th with two outs, Chase Utley walked and stole second and Ruiz, in a long at bat, doubled allowing Utley to score.

With the Mets losing to the Red Sox, the Phillies now hold a game and a half lead over the Atlanta Braves for first place. They will come back home to take on the Florida Marlins tomorrow—Memorial Day.