Atlanta has no time to hand their heads after being swept for the first time this season with a double header in New York immediately followed by a trip to St Louis.  Maybe it is a good thing because the Phillies series was filled with a lot of coulda, shoulda, woulda.  The twin bill is courtesy of hurricane Irene, but after three games in rain soaked Philadelphia, the Braves probably feel as if they took a direct hit from hurricane Phil.

Wednesday’s finale saw the Braves bullpen give up two runs, while the Phillies held steady.  This was supposed to be how the Phillies are beaten- get to their bullpen.  That was not the case.

Atlanta did not play badly, but they, as in most of their losses, had missed opportunities with 8 runners left on base.  Martin Prado of all people popped up a bunt!  Alex Gonzalez on the other hand laid down two bunts to advance runners.  At this point, it is not realistic to catch the Phillies, but that does not make a sweep easier to take.  Although Peter Moylan took the loss, it is promising to him on the mound throwing as well as he did after back surgery.

Atlanta is also hopeful that Tommy Hanson will be back for the playoffs after his pain free throwing session.  Hanson is key for the Braves to have any chance in the post season.  If both he and Jair Jurrjens are not available, a three man rotation would be Tim Hudson, Derek Lowe, and Brandon Beachy.

In a roller coaster teams go through times like Atlanta is experiencing, but time is ticking for them to hit the upswing!