Mar 31st, 2008
Myers set for opening-day start for Phillies against Nationals
PHILADELPHIA (AP) -Brett Myers would rather throw the last pitch than first one. He has to go the distance to do both in the season opener.
The starter-turned-closer-turned-starter will make his second consecutive opening-day start when the Philadelphia Phillies host the Washington Nationals on Monday at Citizens Bank Park.
Myers was picked over All-Star Cole Hamels by manager Charlie Manuel last month for the assignment. In a way, it was a reward for his willingness to move to the bullpen for the first time in his career last year.
“I came in thinking I was the No. 2 guy,” Myers said. “The way Hamels pitched last year, I figured he was the No. 1 guy.”
Myers paused a bit, then offered his scenario in a perfect world.
“Hamels is going to do it for a long time, especially when I go back to the bullpen,” he said.
Maybe next year. For now, Myers and Hamels are the 1-2 punch the Phillies hope can match up to the New York Mets’ duo of Johan Santana and Pedro Martinez.
The Phillies overcame a poor start and a slew of injuries to surpass the Mets in the final weekend last season. They clinched their first division title in 14 years with a victory over the Nationals on the final day of the regular season.
It was Myers striking out Wily Mo Pena to end the game and set off a wild celebration. Then the Fightin’ Phils promptly got swept by Colorado in a first-round series.
Myers thrived in the bullpen, finishing with 21 saves in 24 chances. He made no secret that he loved the closer’s role. But the Phillies put him back in the rotation after acquiring Brad Lidge from Houston. Lidge will start the season on the disabled list, giving Tom Gordon a chance to finish games again.
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