Philly 2 Boston 1...Jenks Pitches Scoreless Inning, Wheeler, Too.

The Philadelphia Phillies and the Boston Red Sox are the odds-on favorites to meet in the World Series this fall, at least on paper and barring injuries. Yesterday in the Sunshine State, it was all pitching for Cole Hamels and the rest of the Philly staff as well as that team from New England. They limited a decent Sox lineup to only one solo hit and won the game by a score of 2-0. The Red Sox had a chance in the ninth with the bases loaded one out situation but they couldn't do it. Let's look on the bright side...many Boston pitchers got their work in and pitched well. The two Philly runs were surrendered by spot starter Stolmy Pimentel, who was subbing for Josh Beckett. The BB (Boston bullpen) was immaculate with Bobby Jenks and Dan Wheeler pitching a scoreless inning apiece. Here's the Red Sox skipper, Terry Francona....

"Jenks' stuff, I don't care what inning he pitches, his stuff is plenty good. He's going to be a big part of our bullpen. Hopefully the word successful will be in that sentence, too. We're looking forward to it."

With Paps closing, Danny Bard as first choice to handle the eighth and Wheels and Jenks adding to the excellence, my goodness, this bullpen could be killer. The starting pitcher only has to go six strong and then that 'pen will take over. Of course, seven or eight innings from the starter would be better but some nights, that just ain't going to happen. Here's the skipper...

"There's no secret -- when the game is on the line and he's rested, we want Daniel Bard to pitch (the eighth). That's a weapon, but you can't do that every day."

That a wrap for this Friday but I DO want to leave you with a feel good moment. Put your sound on and click on this post's title. Prepare to smile. I mean it! I was in tears, happy delighted tears. As always, BE WELL. Now click on that title. Thanks.