Philadelphia Phillies: Cole Hamels and the Top 5 Phillies in May
June 1, 2011 by Matt Goldberg
Filed under Fan News
The Philadelphia Phillies started and ended the month of May in first place in the NL East, and technically increased their lead over the Florida Marlins from one-and-a-half games to two.
For the month, the red-pinstriped gang played to a fairly good 16-13 record, which was a step down from their excellent 18-8 April. Still, their overall 34-21 record projects to 100 wins, which would be a three-game improvement over their MLB-best 97 win campaign of 2010.
As in April, injuries dominated a lot of the May headlines. Many players including catchers Carlos Ruiz and Brian Schneider, centerfielder Shane Victorino and starter Joe Blanton spent significant time on the Disabled List. All but Ruiz are still there, as is incumbent closer Brad Lidge.
On a more positive note, the Phillies heartily welcomed back second baseman Chase Utley, rightfielder Domonic Brown, starter Roy Oswalt and reliever Jose Contreras from the DL this month.
With so many moving parts on the MASH unit known as their 2011 active roster, it was not an easy task to choose and rank the top 5 Phillies of the month.
But even though I feel as if I am playing hurt, the (slide) show must go on. Please consider these players our Top 5 Phillies in May.