Shane Victorino’s Home Run Powers Phillies In Win Over Reds
Shane Victorino launched a tiebreaking, two-run homer in the eighth inning as Philadelphia edged Cincinnati, 3-2, in the opener of a four- game series.
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Shane Victorino seems to enjoy playing at Great American Ball Park. The Phillies center fielder launched a tie-breaking, two-run homer in the eighth inning as Philadelphia edged Cincinnati, 3-2, in the opener of a four- game series.
Victorino pushed his hitting streak at the Reds' venue to eight games.
Wilson Valdez added an RBI double for the Phillies, who played for the first time since Friday in the wake of Hurricane Irene. The NL East leaders avoided a third straight loss and increased their advantage in the division over idle Atlanta to 6-1/2 games.
It had been a longer stretch between outings for Philadelphia's Cole Hamels. Activated from the disabled list before the game, Hamels limited Cincinnati to one run on two hits with no walks and seven strikeouts over six innings, in his first start since August 12 because of left shoulder inflammation.
Victorino's blast made a winner out of Antonio Bastardo (6-0), who struck out the side in the seventh after issuing a leadoff walk.
Homer Bailey (7-6) gave up three runs on six hits in eight frames for Cincinnati, which was seeking a season best-tying fifth straight win. Bailey recorded a season-high nine strikeouts and did not walk a batter.
For more on the Phillies, visit The Good Phight. For more on the Reds, visit Reds Reporter.
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