Roy Oswalt didn’t have his best start as the Phillies returned to Citizens Bank Park for the On Deck Series. He was hit around heavily but the team still edged the Pirates 8-5.
Oswalt allowed five runs on five hits while striking out four and walking four in four innings tonight. This brings Oswalt’s final spring ERA to 6.11.
Ben Francisco continued his stellar spring play as he hit a solo home run off Ross Ohlendorf. Jimmy Rollins also had a pair of RBIs in the win.
Ryan Howard, Raul Ibanez, Ross Gload, and Luis Castillo all added an RBI as well. Castillo is developing a strong case to make the Opening Day roster.
Reliever Michael Stutes continued to impress as he struck out the side in a save opportunity in the ninth inning. Stutes was arguably the most impressive Phillie in camp and should definitely be called up at some point this summer.
The Phillies face the Pirates one more time at Citizens Bank Park tomorrow at 4:05.
2B: Orr (4). HR: Francisco (5).
WP: Oswalt (1-2). LP: Ohlendorf (0-5). S: Stutes (1).
TTB 