Scouting Report: Nationals at Phillies (4/29)

No time for chit chat. Here's my look at the Phillies' game three starter and prediction. You can check out my preview of the series here for breakdowns on their hitters and bullpen.

On the Mound
Brett Myers: The Phillies pitchers have been victimized by the gopherball all year with Myers leading the way. He's given up 8 already in just 4 starts.

He has a 4.91 ERA in the early going, but he's actually been much worse than that would suggest. Hitters have a low .267 BABIP against him, and he's stranded almost 90% of runners allowed. He's striking out a solid 8.06 per 9, but he's walking more than ever before, 4.21 per 9, which is too many. Basically it's your standard issue Brett Myers head-case start to the season.

At his best he's an ace with strong groundball and strikeout rates. His best pitch is his curveball, and he also throws a fastball, slider, and change.

Fearless Prediction
Season record: 14-6
It's quite a study in character tonight, with Scott Olsen facing Brett Myers in a battle of knuckleheads. Phillies get the sweep, 7-3.