Fish Phry

Kevin Millwood gave the Phillies the kind of start they're paying him for, Ricky Ledee saved a homer with a great catch in left and then lined a solo shot into the first row of the rightfield seats, and Billy Wagner went an inning and a third, all of them combining to help the Phils, finally, beat the Marlins. The 2-1 victory was as important psychologically as it was in terms of standings, as the Phillies hadn't beaten Florida since last September.

Larry Bowa's use of Wagner lately has been especially noteworthy. It's as if he's been checking out the blogosphere, which has been much more critical than the print media of his (and others') typical limiting of closers to ninth-inning appearances only. New blogger Tom G. of Balls, Sticks, & Stuff has already checked in with a brief thought on Wagner's four-out save tonight. Frankly, after watching Billy labor through the ninth last night, I was surprised that Bowa brought him in so early tonight, especially with Tim Worrell throwing well. All's well that ends well, as the poet says, but it would be nice for the offense to show up Thursday and give Wags a break.