Ryan Howard, Chase Utley and Chris Coste each hit home runs, and the Philadelphia Phillies pounded Greg Maddux in his first start for the Dodgers in an 8-1 victory over Los Angeles on Friday night. 

Kyle Kendrick outpitched Greg Maddux on Friday night - and Maddux probably deserves some of the credit. 

If you go by the numbers, the Phils look like an offensive juggernaut. 

If you go by the numbers, the Phils look like an offensive juggernaut. 

For 30 minutes after Thursday night's 4-3 loss to the lowly Nationals, the Phillies' clubhouse remained quieter than their bats. 

--RHP Kyle Kendrick has allowed 13 runs on 15 hits in seven innings over his last two starts. 

MEDICAL WATCH: RHP Tom Gordon (right elbow pain) went on the 15-day disabled list July 5. 

Two years ago, the late-season acquisition of Greg Maddux helped propel the Los Angeles Dodgers into the playoffs after a strong stretch run from the future Hall of Famer. 

It's been a while since the Washington Nationals blared loud music in their clubhouse. 

It's been a while since the Washington Nationals blared loud music in their clubhouse. 

The Rays have the toughest schedule in MLB — and it's not getting easier. 

MEDICAL WATCH: 3B Pedro Feliz (bulging disk in lower back) went on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to July 25. 

Brett Myers found a good way to replicate being a closer. 

--3B Pedro Feliz was activated from the disabled list before Wednesday night's game against the Nationals at Citizens Bank Park. 

The Red Sox, adding catching help for the stretch drive, have signed David Ross to a minor-league contract, according to major-league sources.