The Magical Number 10

With the gem of a game pitched by Cole Hamels and the sweep of the Washington Nationals, the Phillies reduced their magic number to clinch the National League East to 10 games. How significant is the number 10 you ask?

Well to start, the Cole Hamels, Joe Blanton, and JA Happ all have 10 wins this year. The Phillies starting pitchers have consistently gotten them through tough starts, but none of them has had a breakout streak that the bullpen can close the deal with. Next you have this year's #10, Ben Francisco that helped complete part of the Cliff Lee deal with the Indians. He has been a good righty to bring off the bench and has added a little spark to the outfield as well. Last night, Cole Hamels struck 10 batters while winning his 10th game of the season. Hamels retired 10 batters on three or fewer pitches last night as well. The Phillies start a 10 game road trip which pits them against the Braves (7.5 games back) and the Marlins (8 games back) that could seal the deal on the NL East early next week.

How about some blasts from the past? Darren "Dutch" Daulton wore #10 for the National League Champion Phillies of 1993.

And oddly enough, the Phillies and Eagles have both won 10 postseason games over the past 10 years. Chew on that!!!