There will be plenty of interest in the Monday night game featuring the Philadelphia Phillies and San Francisco Giants, but not in the way one team was hoping. As the Giants ride high atop the National League standings, the Philadelphia Phillies are beginning to focus on next season and the upcoming MLB trade deadline. Interest is high in the two team's matchup, but only because Cliff Lee is returning to the mound and teams are ready to make a trade for the starting pitcher.
Lee return against the Giants after sitting on the disabled list since May. There is plenty of trade interest surrounding him as many teams want to see where his health stands before striking a deal. Prior to getting injured, Lee was 4-4 with a 3.18 ERA. His rehab assignment did not go as well as some hoped. In his most recent start, he gave up eight runs in four innings last Monday. The Phillies are hopeful that the veteran turns things around against San Francisco, a team he has done well against in the past.
Against the Giants, Lee has exceled. He is 5-0 in six starts with a 0.88 ERA, his best against any team. Lee admits he has heard the trade talk around his name, but is determined to remain focused, playing for the roster he is currently signed to. The Phillies need a good performance after dropping their last four of five games, including the last two to the Atlanta Braves.
San Francisco will start Ryan Vogelsong who is 5-7 with a 3.86 ERA. He has been pitching well, but is not getting the backing for it. He has received zero runs of support in his last four starts while putting up a 2.92 ERA. San Francisco also needs a good game after falling 3-2 to the Miami Marlins. The team is expected to be without first baseman Brandon Belt who will be placed on the disabled list after suffering a concussion during practice.