While entirely too many people debate the Eagles quarterback situation (save your breath, this is Michael Vick’s team), we’re intrigued by something else.
Anyone remember the Phillies?
Don’t look now, but, just one week before Labor Day, the Boys of Summer may not be done yet.
After a convincing weekend sweep of the first-place Washington Nationals, the Phils find themselves 9 1/2 games back in the race for that second National League Wild Card spot.
Yes, it would take a huge - some might say miraculous - effort. But it can be done. And the Phils need look no farther than the team in front of them. That would be the St. Louis Cardinals. Last year on Aug. 25 the Cards were 10 1/2 out. All they did was beat the Phillies in the divisional series and go on to win a World Series title.
The Phillies seem to have finally settled into a groove. They are getting solid starting pitching, and even getting sparkling outings from Kyle Kendrick. Yesterday Cliff Lee got just his second win of the season at Citizens Bank park.
Their much-maligned bullpen has now not allowed a run in about a week. Even Antonio Bastardo is getting into the act.
With Chase Utley and Ryan Howard back in the lineup, this is very much the team most fans expected to see back in April.
Bottom line? They’re probably still a longer shot than Nick Foles replacing Michael Vick as the Eagles starting QB. But the Phillies have a pulse. Don’t believe it? Just ask the Nats, who were heard grumbling loudly amongst themselves in the locker room after the game.
Weirder things have happened. The Phils witnessed that last year in watching the Cards come from nowhere to win it all.
Turns out there will be meaningful baseball in September after all.
Here’s the details on yesterday’s 4-1 and sweep over Washington.
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