Moyer's gem salvages a win over Marlins

(AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

Tonight's game was all about Jamie Moyer. There is no need for my usual article that includes the 3 Up and 3 Down from the game, Moyer was the game. He pitched 5 and 1/3rds no-hit innings to help lead the Phillies to a 3-0 win over Florida. Moyer ended up giving up only 2 hits in his 8 total innings. The veteran lefty was at his craftiest, confusing the young Marlins hitters with his vast array of slow pitches. Brad Lidge also earned his 18th save of the season.

The win tonight was big because it means the 1st place Phillies avoided being swept by the 2nd place Marlins. The Phils now have a 3 game lead over the Marlins, a gap that seems huge compared to the meager one game lead the would have had if they lost. Even more impressive is the 7.5 game lead they have over the fading Braves and Mets.

The Phils have a tough stretch coming up. This weekend they go to St Louis to take on the surprising Cardinals, then they head home next week for interleague play against two first place teams: the Red Sox and Angels. This will be a tough stretch for the Phils, finishing it with a .500 or better record would have to be considered an accomplishment.