The Braves scored two runs in the top of the first inning off of Phillies starter Brett Myers. In the top of the second, Atlanta added two more runs. All four of the runs were via the home run. Brian McCann hit a two-run dinger, while Jordan Schafer and Jeff Francoeur added solo shots.

Brian McCann, Atlanta Braves

However, the best player for the Braves on the day was starting pitcher Derek Lowe. Signed in the offseason, Lowe showed why the Braves gave him big money. Over eight innings, Lowe gave up only two hits and no walks while striking out four batters.

The Phillies were able to score off of Mike Gonzalez in the bottom of the ninth but when the final out was recorded, the Braves had a 4-1 victory.

Post from: EveryJoe

Braves Beat Phillies in 2009 Season Opener

The first pitch of the 2009 baseball season will be thrown by Phillies starter Brett Myers. At that point, the 2009 season will officially be underway.

2009 Baseball Opening Day - Brett Myers, Phillies (Image: Newscom)

The goal for the Phillies this season is simple — to win the World Series once again. However, that is obviously easier said than done. The last team to win back-to-back World Series titles was the New York Yankees, who won the World Series in 1998, 1999 and 2000. A National League team hasn’t accomplished that feat since the 1970s Cincinnati Reds.

For the Braves, their goals aren’t quite as grand. After finishing last season with a 72-90 record, the Braves will be looking to find their way back to the top of the National League. While many experts expect the Braves to struggle once again in 2009, manager Bobby Cox has a long history of being able to keep his teams in the hunt.

Post from: EveryJoe

2009 Baseball Opening Day Preview

Cole Hamels, Philadelphia Phillies (Image: Newscom)

Last season, Hamels was 14-10 with a 3.09 ERA as the Phillies won the 2008 World Series championship. The left-hander was 4-0 in the playoffs with a 1.80 ERA. In 35 postseason innings, Hamels had 30 strikeouts while only giving up 23 hits.

In the middle of March, the Phillies opted to give Hamels an anti-inflammatory shot in an attempt to reduce the swelling in and around his elbow. Over the last week, he has started to show improvement. Earlier in the spring, his fastball was in the low 80s. In a recent start, his fastball nearly hit 90 on the radar gun.

For the Phillies to win another World Series title in 2009, they will definitely need Hamels healthy and carrying the load down the stretch of the season. Although they have a number of good bats, Hamels is the team’s only elite starting pitcher.

Post from: EveryJoe

Cole Hamels Won’t Start Phillies Opener