Shades of last season were looming at Citizens Bank Park today.
With Roy Halladay dealing, the Mets held a 1-0 lead heading into the 7th. For sure it appeared the Phillies would have to life the right-hander with only 78 pitches under his belt.
But a big blast and some small ball scored two for the Phils and Halladay was able to finish the game, beating New York 2-1.
It was the 60th career complete game for Halladay. He allowed a run on seven hits and a walk while striking out eight in the win. Halladay improved to 4-1 and lowered his ERA 2.14.
Halladay started out the game with 18 strikes, the most since Sid Fernandez did it for the Mets in 1991.
He got the only run support he needed in the 7th when John Mayberry, Jr. hit a solo home run to left field. Wilson Valdez followed up with a hit and Dane Sardinha walked.
After Halladay failed to bunt the runners over, Shane Victorino loaded the bases with a single. Then Placido Polanco, known for hitting, hit a sacrifice fly to score Valdez and give the Phillies the lead.
The Mets spoiled a great start by left-hander Jon Niese, who was chased with one out in the 7th. He allowed two runs on six hits and two walks in 6 1/3 innings of work.
The Phillies improved to 18-8, their best start in franchise history.
2B: Polanco (7). HR: Mayberry (1).
WP: Halladay (4-1). LP: Niese (1-4).
TTB 