Minus the performances of Japan's Ichiro Suzuki in his debut as an American baseball player, the Philadelphia Phillies are by far the biggest surprise in the first half of the 2001 Major League Baseball season.
The Phils, hardly expected by baseball analysts in the preseason to even show up for 2001, have had ESPN making more statement adjustments than George W. Bush. At the All-Star Break, the Phillies boast a 50-37 record and are clinging to a one-game lead in the National League East over the Atlanta Braves.
The Phillies look to maintain that lead as the second half of their season gets underway tonight against Toronto at Veterans Stadium at 7:05 p.m.
*
The 72nd MLB All-Star Game was played last Tuesday at Safeco Field, the home of the Seattle Mariners.
The American League came out on top for the fifth straight year, winning by a score of 4-1.
The Phillies' lone delegate to the midsummer classic was 22-year-old Jimmy Rollins, who made his All-Star Game debut as a reserve shortstop for the NL.
The right-handed infielder stole second after drawing a walk in his only plate appearance against Anaheim Angels pitcher Troy Percival.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.