Carlos Ruiz is behind the plate tonight to catch Jake Thompson for the first time. Thompson worked with Cameron Rupp in each of his first two starts, when he went 1-1 with an 8.68 ERA.
Phillies pitchers have been more effective pitching to Ruiz this season. They have a 4.12 ERA with Ruiz compared to a 4.76 ERA with Rupp. Some of that may be randomness, but some of it may also be a result of Ruiz being more willing to call breaking balls in important spots.
Thompson last week was able to command his slider for strikes, racking up six K's against the Rockies. Tonight's game against the Dodgers will be an even stiffer test (see game notes).
The rest of the Phillies' lineup is standard, with Cesar Hernandez (.352 OBP) and Odubel Herrera (.364) batting one and two. Tommy Joseph plays first base against left-hander Scott Kazmir.
Maikel Franco, 7 for 45 in his last 11 games with one extra-base hit, moves down to the five-hole. He had batted third or fourth in 46 of his last 47 starts.
1. Cesar Hernandez, 2B
2. Odubel Herrera, CF
3. Aaron Altherr, LF
4. Tommy Joseph, 1B
5. Maikel Franco, 3B
6. Carlos Ruiz, C
7. Freddy Galvis, SS
8. Peter Bourjos, RF
9. Jake Thompson, P
The Dodgers are using the same lineup. Why not? They scored 15 runs last night.
Philadelphia Phillies
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1. Chase Utley, 2B
2. Corey Seager, SS
3. Justin Turner, 3B
4. Josh Reddick, RF
5. Adrian Gonzalez, 1B
6. Yasmani Grandal, C
7. Joc Pederson, CF
8. Howie Kendrick, LF
9. Scott Kazmir, P
