Vance Worley Looks to Salvage a Win, Prevent Sweep In Series Finale

Photo: Philliedelphia/Lindsey Crew

This is the Phillies last game before headed into the All-Star break. Despite the break being just four days, it's the biggest break between games they've had all year and maybe they can figure something out. The Phillies have already dropped this series to Atlanta after losing the first two games, but they will try to salvage a win this afternoon. 

On the hill for the Phillies will be Vance Worley (4-5, 3.46 ERA), who is coming off of one of the worst starts in his career. On Tuesday against the Mets, Worley was lit up for six earned runs on 10 hits while walking just one over four innings. The righthander took the loss, his fifth of the season. In his past three starts, Worley has a 1-2 record and a 5.82 ERA. Worley has allowed 11 earned runs, five walks and has struck out 10 in that 17 inning span. Worley has not yet faced the Braves this season, but in two career starts he is 1-0 with a 1.38 ERA against them.

Opposing the Phils will be Jair Jurrjens (2-2, 5.19 ERA), who is making his fourth start back in the majors since being optioned to Triple-A back in April. The righthander struggled with his command, allowing 17 runs in his first 16 1/3 innings this season. Since being recalled from Triple-A, Jurrjens is 2-0 with a 1.47 ERA in three starts. In his last start, Jurrjens tossed five scoreless innings against the Cubs. Although he threw five scoreless, he did allow 9 hits and only struck out two batters in the win. In seven starts this season, Jurrjens has only 14 strike outs. In his career against the Phillies, Jurrjens is 5-3 with a 2.45 ERA.

With this being the last game in the first half, it is a relief to get a break from this team's horrible play. The Phils are 12 games under .500 as they sit 37-49 and sit 14 games out of first place. It's not rock bottom yet for the Phils, but if they can't get their act together by the end of July they will be hosting auctions for their players sooner than you know it. Roy Halladay is expected to be back shortly after the break after a few rehab appearances, so that is good news. Otherwise, the only way this team can start winning games is if they work on their bullpen.

Today's lineup vs Atlanta:

1. Rollins, SS
2. Pierre, LF
3. Utley, 2B
4. Howard 1B
5. Ruiz, C
6. Pence, RF
7. Victorino, CF
8. Fontenot, 3B
9. Worley, P

TV: myPHL, TBS ; Radio: 1210 WPHT, 94 WIP.

Follow Erik on Twitter @ErikSeyboldPHI.