Mattingly's first win comes against the Washington Nationals in their home opener thanks to strong effort from the bullpen, most notably David Phelps.
Phelps threw four shutout innings after newly named starter, Adam Conley, struggled in his first inning of work this season, giving up two hits, two walks and three runs. A one hour, 25 minute rain delay did not allow Conley to continue his efforts and try to improve his stat line. The rest of the bullpen, Morris, Breslow and Ramos, went four innings, giving up only one run, a bomb to Bryce Harper.
With the bullpen being the biggest question entering the year, it is good to see them have early success. The offense has lived up to its potential thus far, and with Wei-Yin Chen and Jose Fernandez leading the rotation, it is likely only a matter of time before they improve.
News from around the NL East:
Phillies start 0-3, leading some to question if wins matter.
Braves sit at 0-2 after some costly mistakes.
Ben Revere finds himself on DL with oblique strain.
John Gant has the weirdest windup you have ever seen.
Mets' fans obsession of Bartolo Colon leads to a shirt of his famous at-bat.
Bill Maher think Bryce Harper is too arrogant.
Jim Thome named Phillies' Wall of Fame Inductee.