Behind an amazing complete game performance from Cole Hamels the Phillies beat the Reds 2-0 Sunday night to sweep the NLDS and earn a spot in their third-straight NLCS and first playoff sweep in team history.
Hamels was magnificent while giving up just five hits and no walks while striking out nine (including former Phillie Scott Rolen for the last out) as he went the distance for the 2-0 shutout.
A game after four Cincinnati errors helped the Phillies to a come-from-behind 7-7 Friday night, the Reds again helped the Phillies out by making fielding gaffes.
In the first inning, shortstop Orlando Cabrera misfired what should have been the third out on a Jayson Werth’s grounder to allow Placido Polanco score what would be the series-winning run.
Chase Utley would add a controversial solo homer in the fifth to cap the scoring. The umpiring crew reviewed the homer after it bounced off a fan's glove -- they upheld the call.
The offense again took the backseat to the pitching. Hamels gem was just the latest great pitching performance from Phillies starters.
Roy Halladay opened the Reds series with the second no-hitter in postseason history. With Hamels and Roy Oswalt also rested and ready to go for the next round, look out.
“Having three starters definitely helps,” Hamels said. “The playoffs are all about pitching.”
Charlie Manuel's guys can now rest up and await either the Giants or the Braves in the NLCS, which starts Saturday night.
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