Phillies win 11-2; Will momentum be affected by Covid protocols?
The Phillies have been performing exceptionally well in terms of scoring runs. Interestingly, players and coaches credit this newfound aggressive offense to the recent bans on “sticky stuff.” Unfortunately, a series of positive Covid tests now pose a threat to this momentum. However, before that, let’s talk about some exciting news from Murph Magic, who announced a remarkable game ahead.
11-2 Against Red Sox
Despite the absence of sticky substances, Fenway Park witnessed an impressive game. On July 10th, the Phillies dominated with 11 runs while limiting the Red Sox to just two runs. The scoring began when Rhys Hoskins hit a two-run double in the eighth inning, setting the stage for a flurry of runs.
bump. https://t.co/MemXsp03xs
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 10, 2021
Jean Segura had an impressive performance, delivering three hits and driving in three runs from the leadoff spot. Additionally, five Phillies players had multiple hits in the game. Alec Bohm contributed with a two-run home run in the second inning. In his last 26 games, Bohm has been performing well, batting .310 with five doubles, two home runs, and 15 RBI. One of his hits cleared the Monster and hit a billboard near the left-field foul pole. However, in a surprising turn of events, he exited the game in the eighth inning due to a positive Covid test.
Monster B💣hm! #RingTheBell pic.twitter.com/z5mqXCvvnv
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 10, 2021
Segura hit his 10th career leadoff home run, sending the ball out of the ballpark. Additionally, Ronald Torreyes contributed with three hits, including a single that brought in a run in the eighth inning.
Jean Segura sends one to Lansdowne St!
What a start. #RingTheBell pic.twitter.com/Bbr7J15irC
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 10, 2021
The Phillies have had a successful road trip, going 4-2 and scoring a total of 55 runs, averaging 9.2 runs per game. They have hit 15 home runs and recorded 30 extra-base hits in these six games.
Post “Sticky Suff” Ban Baseball
Fans are aware of the ban on pitchers using foreign substances, also known as the “sticky stuff.” As anticipated, this has led to more offense in the game, with the ball flying out of the park.
In my opinion, the use of foreign substances is most noticeable on fastballs. Pitchers who have a strong slider or breaking ball are less affected by it. However, it does impact their ability to pitch effectively at the top of the strike zone, which has been emphasized in recent years. That’s where I see the most significant change.
-Rhys Hoskins
Alec Bohm & the Covid Positive test
MLB Philadelphia Phillies
Before the game, the Phillies released a statement regarding several players testing positive for Covid. It all began with a delayed positive test from Alec Bohm, highlighting MLB’s ongoing struggle with procedures and rule implementation during the pandemic. The screening process for players is not as effective as it should be, as seen in Bohm’s case where he played most of the game before discovering his positive test. Consequently, he was removed in the 8th inning, but by then, he had already been in close contact with his teammates throughout the day, posing a risk of exposure.
Moving on to the 7th to 11th, a game where Aaron Nola was supposed to start, an announcement was made. Aaron Nola, Alec Bohm (required to quarantine for a minimum of 10 days), Bailey Falter, and Connor Brogdon are now on the Covid IL. This unexpected development has disrupted the team’s momentum. Manager Girardi now faces the task of making decisions and adjustments. In the absence of Nola, Brandon Kintzler is designated to start, turning the game into a bullpen affair.
A Winning hand…Luck
Despite concerns about losing momentum, the Phillies continued to perform well. They scored the majority of their runs in the third and fourth innings, putting up five runs against former Phillie and current Red Sox starter Nick Pivetta. Torreyes contributed with a three-run homer, extending their lead to 5-1.
TOE MY GOODNESS!
Stay hot, Ronald! #RingTheBell pic.twitter.com/Hx6HkACabO
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 11, 2021
Pivetta ended the game with a 5-4 loss, conceding five runs (four earned) on four hits and two walks. Although it wasn’t as high-scoring as the previous game, where they scored 11 runs, it’s encouraging to witness the Phillies adjust and clinch another win. Despite facing challenges, the team maintains their determination.
Go Go Power Ranger. #RingTheBell pic.twitter.com/OzHb0f5PIQ
— Philadelphia Phillies (@Phillies) July 11, 2021
