Akinori Iwamura, Second Baseman
This weekend, Akinori Iwamura was when trying to turn a double-play. Tests showed that he tore an ACL and the native of Japan will be forced to miss the rest of the season.

Troy Percival, Closer
Due to tendinitis, Troy Percival could very well have thrown his final pitch in the major leagues. While he hasn’t made an announcement, many sources close to the team think that he could be at the end of the line.

Scott Kazmir, Starting Pitcher
Scott Kazmir is currently on the 15-day DL with a right quadriceps strain. While he’s scheduled to be available to come off the DL soon, the team seems to think that Kazmir will need a while longer to get his arm right.

Pat Burrell, Designated Hitter
Dealing with a stiff neck, Pat Burrell will likely be out at least another week. If his neck doesn’t start to loosen, he may have to get further tests to see if there are more reasons for his pain.

Jason Bartlett, Shortstop
After getting off to an amazing start this season, Jason Bartlett is the latest casualty for the Rays. The shortstop who is hitting .373 with seven homers and 30 RBIs sprained his ankle and was placed on the disabled list.

Post from: Knuckle Curve

The Philadelphia Phillies left the Tampa Bay Rays baffled in Game 1.

Although the Tampa Bay Rays were favored to not only win the game but win the series, the Philadelphia Phillies were able to draw first blood in the 2008 World Series. With a 3-2 victory, the Phillies need just three more victories to be crowned the 2008 baseball champions.

The star for the Phillies on Wednesday night was starting pitcher Cole Hamels. In seven very solid innings, Hamels gave up only two earned runs while striking out five Rays. Brad Lidge notched the save to remain perfect in save opportunities this year.

At the plate, the big hit for the Phillies was provided by Chase Utley. His two-run homer in the first inning gave the Phillies a lead they would never relinquish. On the game, Utley was 2-4 with a walk.

On the other side of the diamond, the favored Rays just couldn’t get a rally going against Hamels and the Phillies bullpen. The only batter who had success was Akinori Iwamura, who was 3-4 with an RBI.

Game 2 on the World Series schedule is to be played at 8PM Eastern in Tampa Bay.

Post from: Knuckle Curve