'Doc' Halladay operates

This is why the Phillies went out and got Roy Halladay.

They had lost three in a row. They had gotten eight strong innings from Cole Hamels, only to have their bats go south. Then they got a great outing from Kyle Kendrick, only to have their bullpen implode.

They needed a stopper. Enter Halladay.

Halladay went the distance last night, shutting out the Braves on five hits. In the process he extended his record to 4-0 and lowered his ERA to an infinitesimal 0.82.

But Halladay wasn’t alone in the heroics department.

The Phils are known for their bats, but last night they flashed some serious leather.

You might say that they showed their new ace some serious “glove.”

Shane Victorino scaled the center-field wall to bring back a sure home run and turn it into an out.

When the Bravbes loaded the bases with the Phils nursing a 2-0 lead, Chase Utley dove for a hot grounder headed up the middle and turned it into an inning-ending double-play. Instead of a tie game, the Phils headed for the dugout. And Ryan Howard also made a stellar play at first.

Halladay continues to amaze.

Think he can skate? Maybe the Flyers could put him out there for injured Jeff Carter or Simon Gagne tonight.

Is he a draftnik? Maybe the Eagles brass should consult the hottest guy in town for his thoughts before they make their pick tonight.

The Sixers? Nah, they’re beyond help.

Halladay is the real deal. They don’t call him “Doc” for nothing. Last night he was operating, and the Phils were doing the same behind him.

End of losing streak.

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