10,000 Ways Not to Win

It's pretty rare to see a standing ovation at a Phillies game, so I was pretty surprised to see the remainder of the crowd on its feet, applauding the Phillies' 10-2 loss to St. Louis last night.

The Phillies lost their 10,000th game, thanks to poor pitching, courtesy of Adam Eaton and the bullpen (well really just Brian Sanches, who is the worst pitcher the Phillies have used this year, which is saying something), and untimely hitting. Their only runs came by way of Michael Bourn's first career home run and a Chase Utley RBI double, both in the ninth inning, after the game was effectively over.

While I was rooting for the Phillies to complete the sweep, in some ways I'm glad they lost that particular game. It was on national TV, so at least their dubious accomplishment received appropriate publicity. Of course that also meant a slightly nauseating montage of Phillies incompetence. (Just for the record, the Joe Carter home run from the '93 series was uncalled for, since playoff losses don't count. I've seen that more than enough already ESPN, thanks.) Also, the Phillies set out on a road trip today. Ten thousand really had to take place in Philadelphia. I think I would've been sick if it had been in another stadium and the opposing fans gave the Phillies a sarcastic standing ovation. (Not that they would have, but...well I would have if I were in that position. Too funny to pass up.)

Maybe now that the 10,000th loss is over and done with, the Phillies can focus on increasing their franchise winning percentage, starting with this road trip. One thing I will say is that it is finally nice to know that the Phillies are the best at something.