The only consistent thing the Phillies have going 15 games into the season? They've stayed away from streaks - both good and bad.

Charlie Manuel's crew hasn't endured more than two losses in a row; but they also haven't won more than two in a row.

What's the main reason for both? Surprisingly, pitching has kept them from a skid. Nine quality starts in 15 games and a team ERA of 3.55 (8th best in baseball) has been a bright spot.

Meanwhile, and similarly surprising, the offense hasn't been great. The Phillies team batting average of .249 is 21st best in baseball. And although they led the National League in runs last year, they rank 10th so far this year.

The defense is another culprit - only the Pirates have made more than the Phillies 16 errors this year.

So you can say the Phillies (7-8) have been wasting good pitching. And if last year is any indication, the pitching might not hold up... so the offense and defense better come around if they want to start a win streak, and stay away from a losing streak, any time soon.

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The Archive Files

I apologize for getting behind yesterday and failing to post links. So here goes:

On Wednesday night, a former Phillies prospect haunts his former teammates.

In the notebook, Jimmy Rollins won't be back until this Saturday at the earliest, along with updates on Steve Kline and Kris Benson.


On Tuesday, late-inning dramatics produced arguable the most exciting win of the season, and you daily dose of notes from the park.