Phillies vs. Cubs

Thursday, May 20th 1:10 p.m. EST

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW: The Phillies try to get back on the right track and split a two-game set with the Cubs.

In the last two games, the Phils have mustered a total of two runs.

Joe Blanton (1-2, 5.49) takes the hill for his third start of the year. Big Joe has been somewhat consistent, pitching at least six innings in all three starts, but he allowed five runs in a win over the Brewers last week. He was hurt by a three-run homer in the seventh inning of a 10-6 win.

Ryan Dempster (2-2, 3.49) has very good overall numbers for the year, but he has struggled mightily in May. The right-hander is 0-3 with a 4.71 ERA in the month.  He has pedestrian numbers (4-4, 4.99) lifetime against the Phils.

Phun Fact: Jayson Werth turns 31 today. 

NL East Update

With their mini two-game slide, the Phils have lost two games on their lead in the division over the Marlins, who are 3.0 back. The Nationals (4.0) have fallen back to earth, while the Braves (4.5) have won 11 of 17 and are playing well. Sadly, the Mets (6.0) are in a major funk.