Phils take over first place with big come-from-behind win over Mets

Charlie Manuel called out his hitters and their ability to hit in the clutch, and the Phillies responded. Down 5-2 entering the 9th inning, the Phils took advantage of some poor Mets fielding and got timely hits in a 6 run inning that gave them a 3-run lead that they hung onto for an 8-6 victory. The key hit in the 9th came from the most unlikely source: So Taguchi. Taguchi, who doesn't really have a role with the Phils and rarely sees any playing time, came up with the bases loaded and the Phillies down by 2 and delivered a clutch double that tied the game. Jimmy Rollins would then follow with a double of his own to score two more runs and put the Phillies ahead for good. Brad Lidge gave up a run in the 9th but held on to earn his 22nd save of the season.

Joe Blanton made his Phillie debut and failed to impress, going 6 innings and giving up 5 runs on 8 hits and 3 walks. I'll give Blanton a pass for now because he was put into a difficult situation in his first start with the Phils, but Adam Eaton could have done what he did. Johan Santana had a good start for the Mets that was wasted by the bullpen that was without closer Billy Wagner who is out with a shoulder injury. The Mets are talking about trying to acquire another bat before the trade deadline but after tonight it's clear they need some help in the pen.

Game Two in the series is tomorrow, with Brett Myers returning to take on John Maine. With Florida winning tonight against the Braves, the Mets have fallen back into a tie for second place, but the NL East is still tight all around.

Highlights from the game, including interviews with Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino: