HOUSTON - Cole Hamels, the self-aware ace striving to mature, has encountered many issues during this frustrating season. 

--2B Chase Utley was back in the lineup after missing Saturday night's game with a bruised and badly swollen right foot. 

Thirteen weeks removed from right hip surgery, Brett Myers never thought his return to the Phillies would come with a one-run lead against the menacing middle of the Houston Astros' lineup. 

--CF Shane Victorino bruised his left knee on the turf while making a diving catch in center field on July 29 in Arizona. 

Soon, thePirates are going to make history. 

Rookie Bud Norris regrouped like a seasoned veteran after giving up Jimmy Rollins' leadoff homer Sunday. 

It's been almost 10 years to the day since the Houston Astros swept a four-game series from the Philadelphia Phillies. 

The New York Yankees' streak of 13 consecutive trips to the postseason ended last year, preventing them from giving their venerable former ballpark - you know, the one that Babe Ruth built - an October sendoff. 

HOUSTON - Your frustration is understandable. 

WASHINGTON - Brad Lidge, who is a Christian and attended the University of Notre Dame, said he was happy that President Obama was scheduled to speak at graduation today. 

The Philadelphia Phillies had lost three straight series coming into this weekend. 

Playing two after a 12-inning game the night before, the Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals both needed some solid starting pitching. 

Playing two after a 12-inning game the night before, the Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals both needed some solid starting pitching. 

Maybe someday, theWashingtonNationals will find the right combination of bargain relievers and young arms to fill out their bullpen, and assemble a group that won't stand in the way of the team's potent offense. 

Playing a doubleheader following a 12-inning game the night before, the Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals both needed some solid starting pitching.