Looking to Jo-Jo for some mojo

It's hard to argue that any game in May is "big." Tonight's series opener at the band box in Philly is by no means anything approaching a must-win. Yet it is significant, especially for the starting pitcher, Jo-Jo Reyes.

For himself, a good start would help solidify his tenuous place in the rotation. It would be not just a good start against a good team, obviously a plus for Jo-Jo. It will also be a chance to nurture the germ of momentum from yesterday's night cap, a chance to win consecutive road games for just the second time this season. A win tonight, of course, gives the club a good shot at winning the series against a contender at their yard.

Taking two or sweeping -- not to get ahead of myself, but just saying -- in corporate name park in Philly would be the ideal way to begin this 14-game gauntlet that next brings the A's, Mets and Diamondbacks to Hank Aaron Drive. There's the good news: those 11 games are at home.

Bad news is that Jo-Jo and Chucky will start two of the games against the Phillies. We face Kendrick tonight and Glavine duels Myers tomorrow night. Neither Kendrick nor Myers has pitched particularly well this season, so there's no huge pitching advantage tonight and the Braves probably get the edge in Game. 2 as Tommy's been throwing well. However, on Thursday the matchup tilts decidedly against us in James vs. Hamels. That is yet another reason a win tonight would be pivotal.

--CD

   

Comments

[rankin' rob]

It might be the end of the line for Chuckie if he doesn't last a few quality innings. It's a shame, because he's a likeable lad. I wish we hadn't traded Adam Wainwright for J. D. Drew. That one makes me a little sicker every time I think about it.

[CD]

Hey atlpaddy and clete fan, can y'all hit the "email me" link at the top of the site? I'd like to reply and ask you guys something.
Thanks