This is what makes the National League so intriguing - and why I hope the DH never comes to the Senior Circuit.
The adventures of Gabe Kaplan and his bullpen continued last night, as another strong effort from starter - and a Phils' lead - went up in smoke as the Phils' bullpen imploded again.
The result? Another gut-wrenching 7-6 loss to the Cardinals, courtesy of a Matt Carpenter home run off Seranthony Dominguez in the 9th inning.
Velasquez pitching into the 7th holding a 4-2 lead, but Tommy Hunter surrendered two two-run doubles and the Phils trailed 6-4.
The Phils actually rallied on the strength of a Rhys Hoskins double to knot the game at 6, before Dominguez failed to slam the door in the 9th.
Our Back Page says it best: Poison 'Pen.
The Phils remain in the hunt at 5 games over .500 with a 38-33 mark, 4 1/2 games behind the first-place Braves.
I'm not going to jump on Kapler for this. Setting up a bullpen rotation is probably one of the most deft traits an NL manager must develop. And the expected return of Pat Neshek should help.
Columnist Rob Parent offers his take on the Phils' bullpen struggles.
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