McCutchen is struggling for the Phillies
A major flaw that has become evident over the first three weeks of the season is the final two slots in the Phillies' starting rotation. Including Sunday's 12-2 loss in Colorado, the club is 1-7 in games started by Chase Anderson, Matt Moore, and Vince Velasquez. 

Anderson took Sunday's loss, surrendering six runs in 3 2/3 innings. His ERA on the year now sits at 6.48. 

"That is frustrating because I signed here because I wanted to win," Anderson said. "That was No. 1. I know I can pitch at this level and continue to for a long time. It just comes down to execution and making pitches and trying to get deeper in ballgames. When we get a [2-0] lead like [Sunday], we need to go out there and hold that lead and continue to pitch good to the fifth and sixth innings, like I know I can do. It just goes back to executing pitches and getting guys out that you know you can get out."


There are no easy fixes for the Phillies right now, aside from Anderson, Moore, and Velasquez getting things figured out on the mound. Combined, the trio has a 7.11 ERA and a 1.83 WHIP. 

"For our No. 4 and 5 starters, when they get in those long innings, it’s really tough," manager Joe Girardi said. "We need more out of them. And I think they’re more than capable of giving us more."

The Phillies now move on to St. Louis where they will play a four-game set with the Cardinals. Zack Wheeler will start the series opener, facing veteran Adam Wainwright. The Phillies took two-of-three when the clubs met for a weekend series last week at Citizens Bank Park. 

The road has not been kind to the Phils to open the season as the club is just 2-7 away from home. 

"We prepare the same way every day," Bryce Harper said. "As individuals, we have to look in the mirror. We all miss our families but it doesn’t matter, this is what we signed up for. Can’t have excuses, can’t say this or say that. You’ve got to cowboy up and play the game no matter where you’re at, home or road." 

Struggles Continue
Andrew McCutchen finished 1-for-10 over the weekend is now hitting just .154. He's just one of several players in the Phillies' lineup that is struggling to put the ball in play and reach base. 
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Follow Patrick on Twitter: @PGordonPBR

BY PATRICK GORDON
Managing Editor
pgordon@philadelphiabaseballreview.com

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