
If only Chase Utley managed to hit that three-run homer Sunday night in the bottom of the fifth, the Phillies may be on their way to New York right now looking to wrap up a title. Instead, Utley's first inning blast of A.J. Burnett gave the Phillies a much needed lift in Game 5 of the 2009 World Series, spearheading a comeback and hanging on to an 8-6 victory. By doing so, the Phillies are taking the series back to New York Wednesday for Game 6. Utley later tied Reggie Jackson's World Series record of five home runs set in 1977 when he drilled a seventh inning blast. The Phillies may have won the game, but even when they win, they seem to lose in some capacity these days.
Shane Victorino was drilled in the right hand by Burnett prior to Utley's homer in the first inning. Victorino's effectiveness is a cause for concern, especially his throwing arm. Due to the recent number of beanings of A-Fraud, Burnett may have been seeking some retribution again the Phillies. It was unlikely however, that he may have been trying to hit the hand of Victorino, who showed a last-second bunt attempt.
While Utley currently has the hot hand, and Raul Ibanez added a home run, Ryan Howard continues to have a horrible series. Tonight, Howard tied Willie Wilson's record of 12 strikeouts in a World Series set in 1980 (ironically, it was against the Phillies).
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