Howard Blast Backs Up Kendrick’s Gem As Phillies Beat Mets

After three brutal losses to Pittsburgh, Kyle Kendrick threw a beauty tonight in Citi Field. He kept the Mets off balance the whole game, allowing just three hits and one walk. Really can't emphasize how important it was. The bullpen needed to rest up, the offense has been shaky and they just needed a start like this. It was Kendrick's second complete game shut out.

The first five innings were a breeze for both pitchers. Kendrick and Dillon Gee just swapped scoreless frames. It was rather frustrating after they tagged Gee pretty good the last time they faced him. Then in the sixth, three straight singles including an RBI from Michael Young put the Phils up 1-0. Then up next, Ryan Howard went deep for a 3 run blast and that was more than enough for Kendrick as he was able to finish them off.

As stated, a much needed win with great pitching and a nice little offensive outburst.

Tomorrow is a 1:05 start with Jonathan Pettibone making his second big league start against Shaun Marcum making his Mets and season debut. Hopefully their final game for a while without Carlos Ruiz who is due back Sunday.