Phils Win One for Harry

The Phillies faced some trying circumstances Monday, as they took on the Nationals. Playing a game less than three hours after the passing of their friend, broadcasting icon Harry Kalas. Facing a Washington team playing their home opener, desperate for a victory after starting the 2009 season with six straight losses. But the Phillies overcame these difficulties, in posting a 9-8 victory. Harry would have been pleased.

Phillies starter Jamie Moyer was largely ineffective, allowing four runs in six innings. He permitted eight hits and two walks, finishing with a WPA of -.100 for the day. Clay Condrey and Brad Lidge each gave up two-run homers. However, the Phillies offense (HRs by Shane Victorino, Ryan Howard, and Raul Ibanez) combined with the Nats defense (three errors, leading to three unearned runs) to give the Phils the win. Howard, Jayson Werth, and Ibanez each had two hits, with Howard (.284) and Pedro Feliz (.168) posting the highest WPAs. The Phillies' victory was almost secondary, considering the tragic events that transpired before the game.

The Phillies broadcasters paid tribute to their fallen colleague throughout the game, as they interspersed play-by-play with Kalas memories and anecdotes. Prior to the game, the Phillies players shared some cigarettes in the dugout, in memory of Kalas' fondness for a post-game (and a pregame, or two) smoke. When Victorino hit his home run, the Phillies' first since Kalas' passing, he pointed to the broadcaster's booth. It was fitting that Jamie Moyer, who grew up listening to Harry, as did so many of us, was the winning pitcher.

Tuesday's WFC visit to the White House has been canceled, so Barack, Bo, and Kumar will have to wait to meet the World Champs. Tuesday will be another day of tributes to Harry Kalas. A day to read other fans' thoughts, to reminisce about our favorite Harry calls, and to watch clips of his greatest moments. Harry had a lifetime of greatest moments. We were all very fortunate to be able to share them with him.