Some things don't change.
In a season in which they have been frustrating beyond belief, the Phillies may have set a new standard last night.
They got a gem from Cole Hamels, who shut out the Giants for eight innings, harmlessly scattering eight hits along the way.
Unfortunately, skipper Charlie Manuel then called on his closer, Jonathan Papelbon, to slam the door. Instead it blew up in their faces. Papelbon gave up two runs in the top of the ninth to put the Phils in a 2-1 hole.
Incredibly, it would get worse.
The Phillies loaded the bases with no one out in the bottom of the 9th. And nothing happened. You guessed it. This offense, which has struggled most of the season, could not drive in the game-tying run. Laynce Nix popped out weakly ro shallow right, not deep enough for the runner at third to tag. Ditto for Carlos Ruiz, who lofted a fly ball to left. John McDonald decided not to test Roger Kieschnick's arm. That put the game in the hands of catcher Erik Kratz, who promptly grounded out to short.
Looking for a silver lining? There really isn't one. But a team - and a town full of frustrated fans - that desperately needs a feel-good moment is going to get a very special one this weekend.
The Phillies will be honoring their 1983 and '93 National League champion teams.
Among those who will be on the field will be one beloved catcher, the fulcrum of that scraggly band of players from 1993.
Darren 'Dutch' Daulton continues to recover at home in Florida after being diagnosed with malignant brain cancer. But he is planning to be on hand Saturday for the festivities.
Get your smart phones ready. It will be a very special, emotional moment.
And most likely the highlight of this sorry season.
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