Howard powers Phillies over Red Sox

(AP Photo/Tom Mihalek)

Ryan Howard was the story in tonight's win, hitting a pair of homers and a triple to lead the Phillies over the Red Sox, 8-2.

3 Up
1. Howard's big night Ryan Howard went 3 for 5, driving in 4 runs and scoring twice. He hit two homers, which was enough to make it a special night, but he also added a rare triple:

It was Howard's second triple of the season. He also struck out twice in the game, but I doubt anyone is going to complain.

2. Hamels goes 7 strong Cole Hamels looked dominant at times in going 7 innings and giving up only two runs on a pair of back to back homers. Hamels changed speeds effectively and seemed to frustrate the Boston hitters who couldn't figure out what pitch was coming next. Chad Durbin also pitched in two scoreless innings out of the bullpen.

3. Burrell's triple Not to be outdone by Ryan Howard's triple, Pat Burrell added a triple of his own:

It was Burrell's first triple of the season and his first since August of 2006. I can honestly say I have never seen Burrell run that fast, I am surprised he didn't get hurt rounding second. So the Phillies ended up with two triples in the game, one by Howard and the other by Burrell. Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino should be ashamed that the two big guys got three baggers and they didn't!

3 More Ups, because they weren't any Downs tonight for the Phillies!

1. The Phillie Phaithful For continuing to boo J.D. Drew whenever he comes to town. Unfortunately he did connect for a homer, but he deserves everything we Phillie fans can give him for spurning the team more than ten years ago.

2. J-Roll's power surge Jimmy Rollins might finally be finding his power stroke again. He hit a homer tonight to lead off the game, just his sixth home run of the season but his third in his last nine games.

3. Hamels' quote In the write-up on ESPN.com about the game, Cole Hamels gave the quote of the night when asked about the Red Sox:

"I believe we're destined to play each other in the World Series," Hamels said. "We can compete with them any day of the week."

Phillies vs. Red Sox in the World Series would make for a great match-up. While Cole would be ready for it, I just hope the rest of the Phillies starting pitchers are, too. I'm looking at you, Myers.