Must Win Weekend

Phillies kick off their series against the Angels tonight



The Phillies are a paltry 3-6 in their past 9 games, having lost three series' in a row. It's been well documented now that they are in a slump.

Chase Utley is in the worst slump of his career.

Brett Myers has been in the worst slump of his career since opening day.

In order for this team to hang with the big boys they need to pass their test this weekend with flying colors; the test being against the LA Angels.

Today the surging Adam Eaton goes up against Ervin Santana. Eaton sports a 2-4 record and a 4.57 ERA, while Santana has been pitching better than Johan Santana, going 8-3 with a 3.40 ERA.

What's really disheartening about the Phillies' recent skid is that they have been getting more breaks than you'll find broken beer bottles on hotdog night. In the St. Louis series Pujols and Wainwright were out. So, the Phillies promptly dropped 2 of 3. In the Boston series they didn't face Beckett or Dice K, and Ortiz was out. And, Manny sat out the 3rd game. They catch another break this weekend by not having to face the Angels' ace John Lackey.

It's absolutely inexcusable for this team to lay down like this. The offense has been chronically hot and cold, displaying the ineptitude that hung over this team during the Bowa era and early on in Manuel's tenure.

The Phillies might be in 1st place for now, but if they fail this weekend then it's about time to panic.

You had better panic when Adam Eaton is out-pitching your so-called opening day starter.

Maybe the day off will help Chase Utley and the entire team. After all, they've been at it every day this month so far with the exception of June 9th and yesterday. Utley, who has played like he has mono needed a rest. I'd go so far as to say he should be rested tonight.

The Phils open up their series with the Angels tonight at 7:05. To say this is a big series is an understatement. It's a must-win series. Anything less than 2 out of 3 puts this team in a bad spot, because it's World Series or bust.

Raise your hand if you're not satisfied with just making the playoffs.