Yesterday's game between the Phillies and Yankees will of course be overshadowed by Brad Lidge's allowance of a game-tying homer to Alex Rodriguez. But, before that, this had been a great game for the Phils.
John Mayberry Jr made his Major League debut, and he made his presence felt very quickly, smacking a three-run homer in his second at bat and adding a double. After the long ball, the Fox telecast—which featured technical difficulties all day—fell all over itself to show us John Mayberry Sr, a former Yankee, celebrating.
Only it wasn't him. Video of the gaffe and the excellent silent treatment the Phils gave Mayberry Jr, after the jump.
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Shortly after the footage rolled, Todd Zolecki posted to twitter that it wasn't Mayberry, it was just some guy. The random fan was also wearing Team Panama gear, which would be a surprise on the American-born Mayberry. They quickly came clean upon finding out about their embarrassing mistake, as you can see in this still, but the damage was done. Fans have yet another reason to dislike Joe Buck & Co.
Down in front!
Unfortunately, the loss overshadowed an outstanding first start of the year for JA Happ. If there's one thing we can take from this game (that is, aside from a continued total lack of confidence in our once untouchable closer), it's that the rotation is definitely looking up. After Brett Myers dominated the Yanks on Friday, Happ did the same. In six full innings, he struck out four batters, allowed just four hits, and didn't issue a single walk. So much for being intimidated by big bad Yankee Stadium. He also did it mostly on the strength of his fastball, which while not overpowering (90ish), was effective because of his placement and choices.
Raul Ibanez also went yard and continued to blow our minds. Unfortunately, a loss is a loss, and the back end of this otherwise solid bullpen is a major concern. Something is wrong with Lidge, and a DL trip isn't out of the question. Fortunately, the Phils have just about the best setup man in baseball, Ryan Madson, ready to assume the role if need be.
Video via Sharapova's Thigh.