Preview of S.F. Series

With a 7.5 game divisional lead, which is as big as could conceivably be at this point in the season, the Phillies have an opportunity for playing with low stakes and a mind for fine tuning as they keep one eye on the field and the other on October. The Phils host a playoff atmosphere series against S.F., starting Tuesday:

Tuesday, 705 p.m. (ECT):

SF: Sanchez (6-10, 4.27 ERA) @ PHI: Hamels (7-8, 4.52 ERA)

Pitching key to game: Hamels looks to continue his return to form after 8 shutout innings in his last appearance.

The Giants altered their rotation for the series-- after suddenly acquiring Brad Penny on Tuesday-- and robbed fans of a Lincecum vs. Happ showdown:

Wednesday, 705 p.m. (ECT):

SF: Penny (7-8, 5.61 ERA) @ PHI: Happ (10-3, 2.63 ERA)

Pitching key to game: Brad Penny, whose notable abilities have been overwhelmed by injury during a 10-year Major League career, hasn't been effective for 2 years. The Phillies look to pound him out of the game early, as he allowed 17 HRs in 24 games before being released by Boston, including more than 1 per game in his last 7 starts.

Thursday, 705 p.m. (ECT)

SF: Lincecum (13-4, 2.33 ERA) @ PHI: Martinez (2-0, 4.50 ERA)

Pitching key to game: Pedro continues his bid for a playoff spot. So far, he hasn't earned one. Meanwhile, Timothy LeRoy Lincecum is trying to win back-to-back Cy Young Awards at age 25. Fans and players alike think he has the best 'pure stuff' in the game. However, he has appeared almost mortal of late, allowing a total of 8 runs in his past 3 starts. His dominance is as staggering as his salary: $650,000 (up from $405,000 in his 1st CY Young year, 2008). What a bargain!

That NoCal long, stringy hair can mean only one thing: reigning Cy Young Tim Lincecum is coming to town. He is 13-4 with a 2.33 ERA, a MLB-leading 222 S.O. and a chance to show (his senior) Cole Hamels in person how it's done.