Game 4 of 162: Cole Train Derailed

Oof, that was definitely not the start this team wanted, or needed from Cole Hamels. According to Phillies beat writer Todd Zolecki, it was Cole's worst statistical start of his Phillies career.

Offensively, the Phils did not fair much better, but there were a few bright spots. Phillies star of the game was Jayson Werth who went 4-4 and scored all 3 Phillies runs, including a solo home run in the ninth. Chase Utley also went 2-3 for the Phils.

The offense continues to struggle this season. Call it what you will, but they're killing worms more than they're killing baseballs. Ryan Howard produced 7 outs in 5 at-bats. Yes, that does mean that Ryan Howard grounded into not one, not two, but three double-plays. It was a rough day all-around for the Phillies and despite a walk-happy 7th by the Braves, it has been a rough start to the season for the Phillies. The bats will come around, they always do, but let's hope it happens sooner than later.

Back to pitching, Cole Hamels main problem was the fact that he left the ball up in the zone. Hitters, especially in Coors Field are going to hit those balls very far. Yes, he only allowed one home-run, but he was yielding gappers left and right. J.A. Happ pitched well in his second-sting of long relief, but it was Chad Durbin who fell apart in the 7th. He gave up 3 earned on a walk and 2 hits.

Fans should have had lowered expectations for Cole Hamels. He's still not at 100% for the season and I'd even expect his next start to be a little iffy. Let's hope he was not rushed.

Injury News: Carlos Ruiz left the game in the 7th inning because a strained right oblique. He is listed as day-to-day. Lehigh Valley catcher, Lou Marson, was scratched from his start last night and is in Denver in case Ruiz is moved to the DL.