Before the Phillies snapped their five-game losing streak with a win over the Padres, 9-6, the news about Andrew McCuthen was confirmed. He did tear his ACL on Monday night and is lost for the season.
It's a huge loss for the team. McCuthen was excellent on defense, playing both left and center field. He was a top-notch lead-off hitter, hit 10 home runs, and was a veteran leader in the clubhouse.
There is still rumblings about Jean Segura not hustling which led to McCuthen's injury. Manager Gabe Kapler continues to catch heat for not disciplining Segura for his lack of effort.
Adam Heasley went hitless in his major league debut. He was robbed of a sure double when he slashed a ball down the first base line which San Diego's first baseman snagged. Heasley patrolled center field flawlessly.
Also in his first game with the Phillies, veteran Jay Bruce had a monster game. Bruce hit two homers and a double, knocking in six runs. He will give the team power off the bench but may start his fair share of games with McCuthen out.
Roman Quinn remains an option to man center field down the road, but he is still a few weeks from returning form an injury. Jarad Eichoff pitched well to go 3-3 on the year. Hector Neris bounced back from his meltdown in Dodger Stadium to earn his 11th save.
Big game this afternoon as the Phillies' six-game West Coast swing comes to an end. A win gives the club a 2-4 record on the trip and a little momentum coming home to play Cincinnati and Arizona. 2-4 looks a lot better than 1-5. Jake Arrieta goes for the Phillies.
Hopefully the Phils get closer Craig Kimbrel or someone similar in the months ahead. They need bullpen help but also adding another reliever would add depth and force a bum like Juan Nicosio to exit the team. Nicosio, Alverez and Garcia are stiffs and should be the first to be released when guys return from the Injury List soon.
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