Lilly Lays A Stinker

This was a stinker from the words ‘play ball.‘

A label which applies anytime you make more errors (2) than runs scored (1).

Lilly was behind in the count and left pitches up all night, which is never a good thing at little ‘ol Citizens Bank Ballpark.

Don’t know if the left knee was bothering Ted or not. Either way, it’s a forgettable outing.

Despite the two errors (Soriano’s dropped fly ball and Blanco’s errant throw) the Cubs are still ranked second in the majors in fielding efficiency according to Baseball Prospectus.

Only the Dodgers have a better fielding efficiency than Chicago’s 71-percent conversion rate. Who Knew?

A bit surprising considering the regular outfield of Soriano, Fukudome and Bradley. Not exactly a threesome known for Gold Glove caliber defense.

It’s easy to see the Phillies have all the right pieces to make another run at a World Championship, even without Pedro.

I don’t think there’s a better second base-shortstop tandem than Utley and J-Roll. They do all the little things on top of making game-changing plays both in the field and at the plate.

Ryan Howard speaks for himself and the pitching is for certain strong enough to win the East Division.

Often times it’s not about who you’re playing but when you’re playing them.

No one wants the Phillies right now. They’re playing their best baseball of the year, highlighted by its nine-game winning streak.

Chicago should be happy just to avoid a sweep at the hands of the hot-hitting Phils.

• The Cubs (47-44) are in second place.

• W: Lopez (2-0) L: Lilly (9-7) S: Durbin (1)

• Houston is tied with Milwaukee for third in the Central.

• Lilly is 0-3 in his last three starts against Philadelphia.

• Despite a team leading 14 QS Lilly is just 3-6 on the road this season.

• The Cubs are 5-11 all time at Citizens Bank Park (2004).