NewsPhils tap Happ to start Thursday's game
Rookie moves up one day; club yet to name Friday starter
By Todd Zolecki / MLB.com
06/30/09 7:15 PM ET
ATLANTA -- The Phillies have named a starter for Thursday's series finale against the Braves at Turner Field.It's J.A. Happ.
The Phillies left Toronto on Sunday knowing they needed a starter Thursday to replace left-hander Antonio Bastardo, who went on the 15-day disabled list Monday with a strained left shoulder. The Phillies ultimately decided to move up Happ from Friday against the Mets at Citizens Bank Park to Thursday against the Braves.
"He pitched good against them last year here," Phillies manager Charlie Manuel said. "And he's on his regular day."
Happ, who threw a shutout Saturday against the Blue Jays, faced the Braves twice last season. He threw six scoreless innings against the Braves at Turner Field on Sept. 17 and allowed two runs in 6 2/3 innings against the Braves at Citizens Bank Park on Sept. 22.
The Phillies now need a pitcher to start Friday.
It is believed right-handers Andrew Carpenter and Carlos Carrasco are the favorites for that spot, with right-handers Kyle Kendrick and Rodrigo Lopez also candidates.
"We've got some options for Friday," Manuel said. "We don't know what we'll do yet."
Todd Zolecki is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
