Phils drop opener

By Eric Redner
The Phanatic Magazine

Jeff Francis worked six strong innings as the Colorado Rockies took Game 1 of the NLDS with a 4-2 win over the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park

Francis (1-0), who had been pounded by the Phillies in his two starts in the regular season, was solid in the start as he gave up just two runs on four hits with two walks and eight strikeouts. Francis had given up 14 runs and 20 hits in his two starts against the Phillies this season, going 0-1, with a 15.12 ERA. It was his first career postseason start.

Matt Holliday hit a solo home run while Garret Atkins hit an RBI double and scored a run for the Rockies, who are appearing in the playoffs for the first time since 1995 when the team reached the postseason as a wild card.

Cole Hamels (0-1), making his first postseason start, struggled early but calmed down and finished the game giving up three runs on three hits with four walks and seven strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings of work.

Aaron Rowand and Pat Burrell provided the only offense with back-to-back solo homers in the fifth inning for the Phillies, who are in the postseason for the first time since 1993 when the team captured the NL East. Chase Utley and Ryan Howard finished a combined 0-for-8 with seven strikeouts between the two. More >>