Hamels Master of his Domain, Phillies win 1-0

All seemed right Tuesday night. Cole Hamels pitched a complete game shut out and the Phillies' lone run ended up being enough to pick up a win against the San Francisco Giants. The Phillies won 1-0.

Hamels was absolutely dominant in his second complete game of the season. through nine full innings the Giants only managed two base hits, the second coming in the ninth inning on a pinch hit by Rich Aurillia. He struck out nine batters and walked just one batter. The only time the Giants found themselves in scoring position was in the second inning when Ryan Garko hit a lead off double down the left field line. But the Giants could not advance the runner as Juan Uribe flied out, Randy Winn fouled out and Ryan Rohlinger grounded out to end the inning.

The Phillies gave Hamels the lone run he would need on the night in the fourth inning. Shane Victorio had lead off with a base hit to shallow left center field and advanced to second base on his 22nd stolen base of the season. Victorino would reach third base on a ground out by Chase Utley.

Up stepped Mr. September, Ryan Howard. Entering the game as the reigning National League Player of the Week, Howard smacked a double to right field to score Victorino. For Howard it was his 3oth double of the season. Later in the game he would notch his 31st two bag base hit.

No need for the bullpen on this night. Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge each warmed up in the late innings if needed, but Hamels got the job done himself. Hamels even recorded his first career stolen base in the game, swiping second base in the bottom of the fifth. The stolen base perhaps made up for a bad grunt where Hamels was safe on a fielder's choice that forced Pedro Feliz out at second.

Next up is game two of the series. As I write this it appears that the Giants will send newcomer Brad Penny to the mound. Penny was just acquired through waivers and takes the spot that was originally scheduled for Tim Lincecum, who appears to be set for Thursday. In any event the Phillies will send JA Happ to the mound Wednesday night.